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I studied mixology out of passion - Benu Kundra

Asian Arena

Mixologist Benu Kundra

No success is achieved without a little bit of sweat. This mantra is what has driven Benu Kundra to be where he is today. At only 25, he has proved to the world that being an Indian is not a stumbling block to achieving great things in life. He shares his story with Chandni Khan.  Tell us a little about yourself...  I was born and brought up in India, but later relocated to Kenya. I consider this place my second home and I love it. I am a bartender by profession. You recently graduated with a degree in mixology. Is that not strange? Well, I get that a lot. I hold a degree in mixology from Institute of Bar Operations and Management (IBOM) in Mumbai, India. I also done a few courses in bartending. It is something I did out of passion and I enjoy. So what exactly does your job entail? Basically, I have specialised in bartending, which involves mixing drinks in clubs. I am clocking my seventh year in the industry.  Currently, I am based at Brew Bistro on Ngong’ Road.  To qualify, does one need any special skills? The trick to being a good bartender is know what you are mixing. Knowledge of the different types of alcohol is very important. I can tell why one type of whisky is pricier than the other. Or what makes a certain kind of vodka better than the other. Once you have this knowledge, you will create the perfect drink to serve your clients. You recently won an award. Tell us more... Yes. I won the Best Bartender Award during the Absolut Mixology Challenge and I was awarded Sh100,000. I have been nominated for an international bartender competition to be held in Sweden, next year. Being an Indian, did your family support your career move? It was a challenge trying to convince my family to accept my passion. However, they finally accepted and are now my biggest fans. Is the bartender business lucrative in Kenya? Compared to India, we still have a long way to go. However, it is promising. It is unfortunate that there is no institution or facility to offer lessons on mixology Which is your favourite drink? I have many, but the best is masala martini. I love spicy drinks. To make it, you need ginger, garlic, coriander, tomato juice, salt, black pepper and a good vodka. Muddle the ingredients and mix them with ice and vodka and there you have it. Future plans?  I hope to start a college a bartending and mixology college.  

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