Araku
Supported by the Naandi Foundation, ARAKU proudly holds the distinction of being the first fair-trade certified indigenous coffee brand, bypassing any intermediaries to establish an equitable system known as Arakunomics. This innovative model has garnered accolades, including recognition from The Rockefeller Foundation’s ‘Food System Vision 2050 Prize’. In 2018, the World Economic Forum highlighted ARAKU's journey, commending how indigenous Indian farmers are combating deforestation through the cultivation of gourmet coffee.
Additionally, ARAKU Coffee has garnered praise from independent, professional cuppers affiliated with the esteemed Specialty Coffee Association, achieving impressive scores as high as 90 out of 100. This accomplishment further solidifies its position as a trailblazer in the Indian coffee industry.
"Naandi" translates to "new beginning" in Sanskrit, reflecting the organisation's commitment to catalysing positive change. Headquartered in Hyderabad, the foundation is driven by two primary objectives: empowering Indian girls and women through education and professional support to ensure gender equality in opportunities, and spearheading soil regeneration initiatives to transform large-scale agriculture in India towards a regenerative model.
For two decades, Araku has been intricately woven into the fabric of these dual missions. Positioned at the intersection of social empowerment and environmental sustainability, Araku's initiatives resonate deeply with the core values and objectives of the Naandi Foundation. Through concerted efforts in education, women's empowerment, and regenerative agriculture, both entities strive to uplift communities, enhance food quality and regenerate ecosystems.
With flagship stores in Paris and Bangalore, ARAKU stands as a pioneering brand. They are recognised for being the first terroir-mapped coffee that also champions the world’s largest certified organic plantation in the Eastern Ghats of India. The Araku Valley, nestled in Andhra Pradesh, has emerged as an exceptional highland region for cultivating 100% Arabica coffee.
Supported by the Naandi Foundation, ARAKU proudly holds the distinction of being the first fair-trade certified indigenous coffee brand, bypassing any intermediaries to establish an equitable system known as Arakunomics. This innovative model has garnered accolades, including recognition from The Rockefeller Foundation’s ‘Food System Vision 2050 Prize’. In 2018, the World Economic Forum highlighted ARAKU's journey, commending how indigenous Indian farmers are combating deforestation through the cultivation of gourmet coffee.
Cultivated with a strong focus on regenerative agriculture, ARAKU Coffee thrives in meticulously tended micro plots. This ensures each harvest fully captures the richness of its distinctive character. In a milestone achievement in 2018, it made history as the first Indian specialty coffee to earn international recognition, clinching the prestigious Epicure D’or at the Prix Épicures De L’Épicerie Fine Awards held in France.
Additionally, ARAKU Coffee has garnered praise from independent, professional cuppers affiliated with the esteemed Specialty Coffee Association, achieving impressive scores as high as 90 out of 100. This accomplishment further solidifies its position as a trailblazer in the Indian coffee industry.
Originally hailing from the southern state of Kerala in India, Manoj Kumar, a former banker turned activist, currently serves as the Managing Director of the Naandi Foundation.
"Naandi" translates to "new beginning" in Sanskrit, reflecting the organisation's commitment to catalysing positive change. Headquartered in Hyderabad, the foundation is driven by two primary objectives: empowering Indian girls and women through education and professional support to ensure gender equality in opportunities, and spearheading soil regeneration initiatives to transform large-scale agriculture in India towards a regenerative model.
For two decades, Araku has been intricately woven into the fabric of these dual missions. Positioned at the intersection of social empowerment and environmental sustainability, Araku's initiatives resonate deeply with the core values and objectives of the Naandi Foundation. Through concerted efforts in education, women's empowerment, and regenerative agriculture, both entities strive to uplift communities, enhance food quality and regenerate ecosystems.
