In the heart of India's coffee-growing regions, Kelachandra Coffee is forging a path that honors its rich heritage while embracing modern trends. As the head of people and culture at Kelachandra Coffee, Ryana Kuruvilla represents the seventh generation of her family involved in this agricultural legacy. Her journey from studying economics and real estate to leading sustainable coffee initiatives reflects both her personal growth and the company's evolution. Spanning over 6,300 acres across multiple estates, Kelachandra Coffee combines traditional cultivation methods with cutting-edge sustainability practices, aiming to elevate Indian specialty coffee on the global stage.
Ryana Kuruvilla's Vision for Kelachandra Coffee
During the golden hues of autumn, Ryana Kuruvilla finds herself immersed in the vibrant world of coffee production, rooted deeply in her family's history. Born into the prestigious Kelachandra Group, which dates back to 1786, she now leads the coffee division that has grown exponentially since its establishment 30 years ago. With operations spread across Karnataka and Kerala, Kelachandra Coffee manages more than 6,300 acres dedicated to coffee cultivation, a testament to its commitment and success.
Kuruvilla's journey into the coffee industry was not straightforward. After pursuing an education in economics at UCLA and earning a master’s degree in real estate development in London, she returned to her roots during the COVID-19 pandemic. This period allowed her to reconnect with the coffee estates where she spent much of her childhood. Her hands-on experience—from nurturing saplings to processing green beans—has deepened her understanding and passion for coffee cultivation.
Under Kuruvilla's guidance, Kelachandra Coffee is navigating the delicate balance between preserving tradition and adopting innovative practices. The company has achieved Rainforest Alliance certification for all its estates and complies with the European Union deforestation-free law (EUDR). Moreover, they have increased investments in their workforce and processing technologies to enhance direct trade relationships. Her vision includes promoting Indian specialty coffee globally, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between nature and cultivation.
Despite these achievements, Kuruvilla acknowledges the challenges posed by climate change, such as unpredictable weather patterns affecting harvest quality. To combat these issues, Kelachandra Coffee focuses on research and development, implementing shade-grown methods, improving soil health, and experimenting with water-efficient processing techniques.
From a journalist's perspective, Ryana Kuruvilla's story serves as an inspiring example of how tradition and innovation can coexist in the modern coffee industry. Her dedication to sustainable practices and global promotion of Indian coffee highlights the potential for local producers to thrive on an international scale. It reminds us that the future of coffee lies not only in technological advancements but also in preserving the stories and cultures intertwined with its cultivation. Kuruvilla's leadership demonstrates that with passion and perseverance, one can bridge the past and future, creating a legacy that benefits both people and the planet.