Brewing a New Legacy: How Kerehaklu’s Pranoy Thipaiah is Rethinking Coffee, Culture, and Climate

Indian specialty coffee is at a turning point—gaining global recognition, yet deeply rooted in tradition. In this episode, we sit down with Pranoy Thipaiah, fifth-generation steward of Kerehaklu Estate, to explore how coffee, climate, and culture are evolving in India’s Western Ghats.

At his 250-acre estate, coffee plants grow under ancient fig trees, local microbes fuel experimental fermentations, and leopards roam the same paths as farmers. But Pranoy’s work goes beyond cultivation—it’s about balancing ecology with innovation, protecting biodiversity, and challenging industry norms.

We dive into:

• The global perception of Indian coffee—and the myths that need breaking
• The future of farming in a changing climate—and how Kerehaklu is leading by example
• What India can learn from global coffee cultures—from Colombia to Australia
• The challenges of legacy, colonial narratives, and global trade inequalities
• The business of coffee—building a brand that blends storytelling with sustainability

Pranoy also shares his perspective as a consultant, educator, and entrepreneur, offering insight into what it takes to grow not just great coffee, but a movement.

This is a conversation about coffee’s future, India’s role in the global market, and what it means to build a truly sustainable coffee culture.