From Bean to Brew: The Coffee Journey of India's Barista Champion
From cultivating beans to perfecting roasting techniques, mastering brewing methods, and educating others, coffee permeates every aspect of Suhas Dwarkanath's existence. "This keeps my family happy and gives me purpose. I'm just thankful this beverage exists — it has given me the life I have today," declares India's reigning Barista Champion. He has not only established Benki Coffee as a globally recognized specialty coffee brand but has also boldly challenged Bengaluru's deeply entrenched filter coffee culture, demonstrating that tradition and innovation can harmoniously coexist.
The South Bengaluru Boy Who Dreamed of Coffee
Beneath the championship titles and gleaming trophies, Suhas remains fundamentally the same South Bengaluru boy who once pedaled past trendy cafés on his bicycle, dressing up just to sit among what he perceived as the 'cool kids,' dreaming of belonging to that world. "I've always been a South Bengaluru boy. My parents are here, my memories are here, and I understand the people here," he affirms. His entry into the coffee industry was neither inherited nor meticulously planned.
After completing a double degree, he informed his parents of his desire to open a café. They encouraged him to pursue a more stable career path instead — advice that led him to Dubai. "My exposure to global coffee culture there made me realize there was so much more to coffee than just running a coffee shop," he recalls. Upon returning home, however, he faced skepticism. "Everyone said specialty coffee won't work here because filter coffee is too strong a tradition. But I've always believed that where people say something won't work, that's where the opportunity lies."
Building a Coffee Empire Through Craft and Competition
Driven by this conviction, Suhas immersed himself in studying the craft, earning a professional diploma, becoming a certified trainer, judging prestigious competitions, and eventually returning to India to build his vision. Fifteen years later, coffee has transcended mere profession to become his entire world.
"Competition is essential for growth," Suhas emphasizes, reflecting on lessons that extend far beyond brewing techniques. "There are three things I've learned: let go of jealousy, hatred and greed. If you focus only on money, your creativity will suffer." This philosophy was tested recently when two of his own team members competed against him in the national championships. "I won, but I was proud of them. At the same time, they scare me. If I don't keep learning, they'll beat me next year," he admits with a mix of pride and healthy apprehension.
The Art and Storytelling of Specialty Coffee
On a more creative note, Suhas describes coffee brewing as an artistic endeavor that goes beyond technical precision. "When a barista blends flavours, they create a unique taste. You're painting a picture on someone's palate," he poetically explains. This artistic approach extends to championship preparation, which he describes as a year-long storytelling process.
"Barista championships are not just about coffee — they're about storytelling," he reveals. "Preparing demands far more than perfecting a brew. You need the right coffee, a strong concept and a compelling story. The competition is 15 minutes of storytelling while serving 12 beverages — four espressos, four milk drinks and four signature drinks. It's about your story, your idea and how you connect everything."
Family Support and Personal Balance
Behind every successful venture stands a steadfast support system. "My wife, Divya, has been a huge part of this journey," Suhas acknowledges gratefully. "When we started the business, money was tight. She quit her job in 2019 to work with me full-time. At one point, I was travelling nearly 280 days a year. She held everything together back home." Today, with Benki Coffee employing 70 people, Divya focuses more on financial management while their three-year-old son adds new meaning to their lives. "He comes to the office after school and spends the day with us. He's given me a new purpose," Suhas shares warmly.
For personal balance amidst his demanding career, Suhas turns to motorcycle riding. "I love riding bikes. Whenever I'm stressed, I just pick up my helmet and ride. No plans, no maps, no destination. I go wherever the road takes me. That clears my head," he describes, highlighting the importance of finding mental clarity outside work.
Embracing Social Media Responsibility
Suhas has also evolved in his approach to social media, recognizing its power and responsibility. "I used to think it was a waste of time. But I realized how wrong I was," he confesses. "If you don't showcase what you do, people won't know about it and that brings recognition — but also responsibility. If you're doing something meaningful, you should put it out there."
Through specialty coffee, Suhas Dwarkanath has not only built a successful business but has created a bridge between Bengaluru's cherished filter coffee traditions and global specialty coffee innovations, proving that passion, perseverance, and storytelling can transform both beans and lives.
