Explore how British colonial rule shaped Shillong's distinctive liquor culture, blending European drinking traditions with indigenous Khasi practices to create a unique drinking heritage that thrives today.
The British Era (1864-1947)
When the British established Shillong as the capital of Assam in 1874, they brought with them European drinking customs that transformed local habits:
Introduction of Whiskey
Scottish officials introduced single malt whiskeys, establishing Shillong's enduring love affair with Scotch that continues in bars today.
Gin & Tonic Culture
The British Raj's signature drink became popular among colonial officers as both a social lubricant and malaria preventative (quinine in tonic water).
Establishment of Clubs
Exclusive colonial clubs like the Shillong Club (1915) and United Service Club (1922) became centers of social drinking with strict membership rules.
Pro Tip
Visit the historic Shillong Club (now open to the public) for a gin and tonic on their century-old veranda - ask about their "Raj Revival" cocktail menu featuring colonial-era recipes with local twists.
Fusion of Traditions
The colonial period saw an intriguing blending of European and Khasi drinking customs:
Spirit Innovations
Local distillers began infusing Scotch with indigenous ingredients like ginger, black sesame, and local honey - traditions that inspire today's craft cocktails.
Drinking Establishments
European-style pubs emerged alongside traditional "kwai" (betel nut) stalls, creating a diverse drinking landscape that catered to both colonizers and locals.
Colonial-Era Drinks Still Popular Today
| Drink | Origin | Modern Adaptation | Where to Try |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gin & Tonic | British Raj | With local botanicals & Khasi honey | Shillong Club |
| Whiskey Sour | Colonial clubs | Made with local citrus fruits | Cloud 9 Lounge |
| Pink Gin | Royal Navy | Served with Khasi spices | BNDEY Wines Tasting Room |
Preserving the Legacy
Today, Shillong's drinking culture honors its colonial roots while celebrating local traditions:
- Heritage Bars: Several establishments maintain colonial-era aesthetics and cocktail menus
- Festivals: The annual "Raj Retro" festival celebrates this fusion culture
- Craft Distilleries: New generations are putting modern twists on historic recipes
About the Author
Rajesh Bala is a third-generation Shillong resident and owner of BNDEY Wines. His grandfather established one of Shillong's first licensed liquor stores in the 1940s, bridging the colonial and post-independence eras.
