PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH
Rakshit N Jagdale, Managing Director of Amrut
Distilleries, is a visionary entrepreneur and
third-generation leader who pioneered Indian
Single Malts globally. An MBA from University of
Newcastle, he’s also a former international
swimmer and active sports patron. His leadership
blends innovation, community service, and
excellence in both business and athletics.
Can you elaborate on how your professional
endeavours contribute to your overall sense of
fulfilment and happiness?
I completed my Bachelors in Business Management from Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain College, followed by two years of hands-on experience under my father. I then pursued an MBA from the University of Newcastle, UK. A key milestone in my career was launching Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky in the UK on August 24, 2004.
I completed my Bachelors in Business Management from Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain College, followed by two years of hands-on experience under my father. I then pursued an MBA from the University of Newcastle, UK. A key milestone in my career was launching Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky in the UK on August 24, 2004.
Reflecting on your career trajectory, what
pivotal moment or decision stands out as a
defining factor in your success?
Two pivotal moments in my career were deciding to join the family business in 1999 and pursuing my MBA at the University of Newcastle. Conducting market research in the UK for Amrut, launching India’s first single malt whisky in 2004 and the introduction of Amrut Fusion in 2009 were defining milestones.
Two pivotal moments in my career were deciding to join the family business in 1999 and pursuing my MBA at the University of Newcastle. Conducting market research in the UK for Amrut, launching India’s first single malt whisky in 2004 and the introduction of Amrut Fusion in 2009 were defining milestones.
Which alcoholic beverage holds a special place
as your favourite indulgence?
Amrut Fusion holds a special place for me, as it was crafted by my father, Mr. Neelakanth Rao Jagdale, in Ooty in 2009. It became the cornerstone of our single malt range, catapulted Amrut onto the global stage and helped establish the Indian Single Malt Whisky category.
Amrut Fusion holds a special place for me, as it was crafted by my father, Mr. Neelakanth Rao Jagdale, in Ooty in 2009. It became the cornerstone of our single malt range, catapulted Amrut onto the global stage and helped establish the Indian Single Malt Whisky category.
Share a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a
memorable project or collaboration that
brought together your passion for both
beverages and another interest or field.
One of my most memorable projects was a
practical study guided by my father to test the
market potential for an Indian Single Malt in UK Indian restaurants. This idea laid the foundation
for Amrut’s global journey. We also received early
technical support from Tatlock and Thomson in
Scotland in the 1980s.
Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to
leave behind in the industry, both personally
and professionally?
My goal is to build on the strong brand value and legacy created by our founder and my father. They’ve set high benchmarks and carrying that legacy forward, both personally and professionally is an honour as well as a challenge.
My goal is to build on the strong brand value and legacy created by our founder and my father. They’ve set high benchmarks and carrying that legacy forward, both personally and professionally is an honour as well as a challenge.
You have been nominated as a personality of
the month at the esteemed WSCI magazine.
Your thoughts on that.
I’m truly honoured and grateful to WSCI for recognizing me as Personality of the Month. It’s a privilege to be acknowledged as a small contributor to India’s alco-bev space. This recognition is both humbling and encouraging.
I’m truly honoured and grateful to WSCI for recognizing me as Personality of the Month. It’s a privilege to be acknowledged as a small contributor to India’s alco-bev space. This recognition is both humbling and encouraging.