In the world of Indian literature, where fiction and fact often fight for attention, The Romance of Indian Coffee by veteran journalist P.T. Bopanna offers something refreshingly different — a blend of storytelling, history, culture, and sustainability, all grounded in one of India’s most loved beverages: coffee.

A Journey into the Heart of Indian Coffee

This book isn’t just about coffee beans — it’s about the people who grow them, the landscapes that nurture them, and the history that shaped their journey. Focusing largely on the Coorg (Kodagu) region of Karnataka — known for its sprawling plantations and rich biodiversity — Bopanna paints a vivid picture of how coffee is deeply woven into the life, economy, and environment of the area.

With simple, clear language and genuine admiration, he shows us that coffee in India is not just a drink; it’s a lifestyle, a legacy, and a livelihood.

☕ Themes That Brew Beneath the Surface

Here’s what makes this book so captivating:

1. The Beauty of Indian Coffee Landscapes

Through Bopanna’s words, you can almost feel the morning mist rolling over coffee estates, hear the rustling of silver oaks, and breathe in the earthy aroma of freshly picked beans. The book captures the scenic beauty of India’s coffee belt like a slow walk through nature.

2. The British Legacy in Coffee Cultivation

The book also reflects on the role of British planters in establishing commercial coffee estates in India. It’s a history that’s both colonial and agricultural — where British efforts, local labor, and environmental factors came together to shape what is now a thriving industry.

3. Sustainability and the Soul of Coffee

One of the most important themes Bopanna touches on is sustainability. The Indian coffee sector, especially in regions like Coorg, is known for its shade-grown coffee, where native trees and biodiversity are preserved. The author gently raises awareness about the environmental challenges facing the coffee-growing community and the need for eco-friendly practices.

4. Coffee and Wildlife: A Delicate Balance

An unexpected, but beautiful, theme in the book is the co-existence of coffee plantations and wildlife. From elephants to leopards, many species share space with these estates. The book highlights how responsible coffee farming can support both livelihoods and wildlife conservation — a harmony that is rare in agriculture today.

Writing Style: Honest, Simple, and Soulful

P.T. Bopanna’s journalistic background shines through — the writing is clean, informative, and heartfelt. It reads like a conversation over a cup of freshly brewed filter coffee, with personal interviews, farmer insights, and vivid anecdotes that make each chapter feel warm and real.

One particularly memorable quote is:

“In Coorg, coffee is not just a crop, it’s a way of life.”

And another that captures the spirit of the book beautifully:

“Every coffee estate has its own story, just like every cup of coffee has its own flavour.”

These lines stay with you, reminding you that behind every cup is a farmer’s toil, a forest’s rhythm, and a culture’s heartbeat.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Coffee Lovers

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur, a sustainability enthusiast, or someone curious about Indian culture, The Romance of Indian Coffee offers a meaningful and eye-opening read. It’s not a technical manual, nor is it a dry history lesson. Instead, it’s a celebration of everything that makes Indian coffee rich — in flavour, in spirit, and in heritage.

☕ Recommended For:

• Coffee lovers
  
• Nature and wildlife enthusiasts
  
• Readers interested in Indian heritage and sustainable agriculture
  
• Anyone who enjoys a quiet, insightful nonfiction read
  

📚 Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

A warm, insightful, and sensory journey into the soul of Indian coffee.

The Romance of Indian Coffee is a gentle but powerful tribute to Indian coffee. It’s educational without being preachy, emotional without being heavy, and inspiring without being over-the-top.

For anyone curious about what goes into a great cup of Indian coffee — this book is your perfect start.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you read The Romance of Indian Coffee? What’s your favorite quote or takeaway? Drop a comment below or tag us on Instagram @curlybreww with your coffee and book moments!