Kavita hails from a small town in Karnataka and is a professional flair and mixology bartender, internationally recognized as a World Record holder by the World Book of Records, London. Her journey into bartending has been shaped by resilience, discipline, and a strong desire to challenge conventions.
Trained in Pune, Kavita developed her expertise through years of focused practice, transforming challenges into confidence and skill. Today, she represents what becomes possible when talent is met with opportunity and belief.
Kavita’s story closely reflects the values of Women Raise the Bar, MONIN’s CSR initiative dedicated to empowering women in hospitality. By sharing her experience and supporting other women entering the industry, she contributes to redefining the role of women behind the bar and inspiring the next generation.
Your Journey Begins
Q1: How did you first step into the world of bartending or hospitality?
I grew up in a small village in the Hubli district and spoke only Kannada. After finishing my 12th standard, a relative who ran a bartending academy in Pune suggested I try learning bartending. I moved to Pune and joined the course with excitement and curiosity. That decision changed my life.
Q2: Was there a moment early in your journey when you thought: I have found my calling?
In the beginning, everything felt new and overwhelming. I was shy, scared and unsure. But as I started learning cocktails, techniques and flair bartending, something clicked. I realised how few women were in this field, especially from small towns like mine. That thought motivated me and helped me understand that I had found something meaningful to pursue.
Challenges and Turning Points
Q3: What has been the hardest part of your path in this industry, something that nearly made you give up?
The toughest part was the language barrier. I could not speak English or Hindi well, and that made me doubt whether I belonged in this industry. But instead of giving up, I pushed myself. I practiced speaking every day, worked on my confidence and kept improving.
A turning point came when my mentor, Raj Medar, believed in me and gave me the chance to perform in events. His trust changed everything. It made me realise that hard work never fails.
Milestones That Matter
Q4: What is a moment or achievement in your career that you are especially proud of?
During the lockdown, I set a goal to break a national record. I decided to become the fastest female Indian bartender to do one handed bottle flips. My target was 122 flips in one minute. I trained 12 to 14 hours every day. My hands were swollen, I had injuries and many failures, but I never stopped. The day I achieved the record became one of the proudest moments of my career.
Q5: How do you define success today? Has that definition changed over time?
Earlier, I thought success meant winning awards or being on stage. Today, success feels different. Success is when you do not give up even when everything is against you. Success is when your hard work inspires others.
Shifting the Narrative
Q6: In your eyes, how has the role of women behind the bar changed in recent years?
More women are stepping behind the bar and proving that skill, creativity and passion belong to everyone. There are no roles based on gender. Women today are raising standards, not just matching them.
Q7: What does inclusion in hospitality really mean to you beyond words or token gestures?
Inclusion is when women are given equal opportunities, equal respect and equal recognition. It is not about showcasing women in a brochure. It is about real representation. When guests smile because of our service, that is our victory.
Q8: What is one industry practice or mindset you believe needs to change now, not tomorrow?
The mindset toward women behind the bar. Women should not be questioned, judged or underestimated. The industry must ensure safe workplaces, respectful treatment and fair growth opportunities. Talent should be the only measure that matters.
On Women Raise the Bar
Q9: What does the Women Raise the Bar movement mean to you personally?
Women Raise the Bar reminds me that I am not alone. It gives confidence to women from small towns and different backgrounds to dream big. The movement tells us that every woman who steps behind the bar is part of something much bigger than herself.
Q10: How do we ensure that this movement does not stop at conversation but leads to real opportunities for women?
We need action. Skill training, real job opportunities, fair promotions and safe workplaces are essential. Mentorship from leaders can change lives. If each of us helps one woman rise, the movement will never stop.
Quick Pour
• Favourite drink to make: Passionate Sour with MONIN Passion Fruit Syrup
• Current ingredient obsession: Passion fruit
• What “raising the bar” means to you: Pushing past limits and inspiring more women to step behind the bar with confidence
Kavita’s journey shows what is possible when passion meets persistence. Her story reflects the spirit of the Women Raise the Bar movement, which stands for real opportunity, visibility and equality for every woman in hospitality.
Feeling inspired? Join the Women Raise the Bar community and be part of a movement where every voice matters. Come raise yours.
