Discovering the Historical Link Between Gin and Tonic and Colonial India

The connection between your weekend gin and tonic and the fight against malaria in colonial India is quite significant. The gin and tonic, a beloved cocktail today, has roots tied to the battle against malaria during the British Raj in the 19th century.

The Surprising Indian Roots of Gin & Tonic

In the 1800s, malaria was a serious threat to British soldiers and officials in India. The only effective treatment was quinine, derived from the cinchona tree’s bark. Even though it was bitter, quinine played a crucial role in preventing the disease. To mask its unpleasant taste, the British mixed quinine with water and sugar, which formed what is now known as tonic water. Yet, the bitterness remained. British officers started adding their rationed gin, lime, and sometimes sugar or soda, creating a more enjoyable beverage.

This mixture not only made quinine easier to drink but also had important medicinal benefits. As British influences spread worldwide, so did the popularity of the gin and tonic. By the 20th century, it evolved from its medicinal origins to symbolize summer evenings, refined tastes, and colonial reminiscences. Over time, gin and tonic transformed into a cherished ritual and social drink, especially appealing during the hot summers in India.

The Growth of India’s Gin Market

By 2025, India’s gin market is expected to reach about $1.79 billion and is anticipated to grow to nearly $2.95 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.4%, as per Coherent Market Insights. This growth is largely attributed to rising disposable incomes, changing preferences among younger consumers, and the flourishing cocktail culture in India’s urban centres. Shekhar Swarup, Jt. Managing Director of Globus Spirits, noted that “India’s gin renaissance is no longer about just catching up, but about establishing a new global identity. With projections indicating the gin category will approach nearly $3 billion by 2032, it’s particularly exciting that Indian distillers are now leading the way instead of merely following global trends.”

The burgeoning craft gin movement in India is further driving this growth. Local brands such as Jaisalmer, TERAI, Stranger & Sons, Greater Than, Samsara, and Jin Jiji are innovatively utilising native botanicals like tulsi, gondhoraj lemons, mulberries, and tea leaves. This exploration of uniquely Indian flavours resonates with an expanding consumer base that seeks artisanal, locally produced spirits, aligning with global trends towards authenticity, sustainability, and cultural pride.

Unique Offerings in Indian Gin

In the realm of flavoured gins, the inaugural Limited Edition release from ‘TERAI – The BAAGH Explorations’ series is ‘Expression 01: Fresh Litchis & Mulberries’. This vibrant spirit captures the freshness of ripe litchis combined with the deep flavours of mulberries, complemented by subtle hints of rose and lavender for a well-rounded taste experience.

Regarding this latest addition, Swarup stated, “At TERAI India Dry Gin, the vision is to enhance India’s rich agricultural diversity and botanical wealth into craft expressions that extend beyond borders. The new Limited Editions, The BAAGH Explorations, embody this concept. It is a journey from the farms of the SWARUP family in Jarauda, Uttar Pradesh, expressed through these splendid small-batch distillates. This journey celebrates the land, the craft, and the bond within the family. More than just a flavoured gin, Terai India Craft Gin – Litchi & Mulberries invites drinkers to experience India’s seasons, scents, and stories. Globally, consumers are moving past neutral profiles; they desire boldness, provenance, and meaningful experiences with every sip.”

What began as a colonial remedy has evolved into a vibrant lifestyle trend in modern India. Each gin and tonic served on World Gin Day 2025 will represent more than just a refreshing drink; it will also celebrate India’s creative spirit and its intriguing historical journey. With local brands earning international recognition and a surge in the domestic market, the future of Indian gin appears bright, both locally and on the global stage.