As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2025, a new trend emerged in Belagavi, defying long-held winter traditions. The district, wrapped in a biting chill, witnessed a significant cultural shift in its celebratory habits. Expensive whisky, once the undisputed king of winter toasts, was quietly dethroned by beer as the preferred drink for ushering in the New Year.
Chilled Beer Defies Winter Chill
Despite the sharp drop in temperatures across the district in the closing days of December, revellers were determined to celebrate. Bundled up in jackets, mufflers, and caps, their shivering hands held a surprising companion: chilled beer bottles. The scene was consistent across Belagavi on New Year's Eve, as people opted to sip beer leisurely with friends, braving the cold with a cooler drink.
Official data from the excise department confirms this notable change in drinking preferences. On December 31, 2025, a staggering 1,62,344 bottles of beer were consumed throughout the Belagavi district. This figure marks an increase of 7,525 bottles compared to the same day the previous year, highlighting beer's surging popularity even during peak winter conditions.
Whisky's Winter Reign Falters
The data reveals a contrasting story for the traditional winter warmer—whisky. The adage 'winter means whisky' seemed to lose its grip in Belagavi this festive season. Overall whisky consumption in the district witnessed a clear decline, dropping from 75,904 bottles in 2024 to 70,865 bottles in 2025. This represents a significant decrease of 5,039 bottles, underscoring a changing palate among consumers.
The trend was most pronounced in specific taluks. Savadatti saw whisky sales drop by 1,693 bottles, Ramdurg by 1,399 bottles, and Bailhongal by 1,387 bottles compared to the previous New Year's Eve.
Beer Takes Centre Stage Across Taluks
While whisky receded, beer consumption surged ahead, led by Belagavi taluk itself. This area alone accounted for a massive 77,351 bottles of beer, far outpacing consumption in other regions. Other taluks also showed marked increases in beer popularity.
In Savadatti, beer sales rose from 26,507 to 28,773 bottles. Ramdurg witnessed an increase from 17,969 to 18,312 bottles. Bailhongal registered a marginal rise, while Khanapur was the only taluk to note a slight dip in beer consumption on New Year's Eve.
This collective shift indicates a broader change in social and celebratory norms within the district. The preference for a lighter, more sessionable drink like beer over stronger spirits suggests an evolution in how residents choose to socialize and ring in the new beginning, prioritizing prolonged camaraderie over quick warmth. The steady hands popping open beer bottles in the cold became the defining image of Belagavi's transition into 2026.
