Indian Coffee House

Indian Coffee House is a chain of coffee houses across India, run by a series of worker co-operative societies. It has a significant place in the history and culture of India, particularly in the context of the Indian independence movement and the post-independence era.

History

The Indian Coffee House was started by the Coffee Board of India during the British Raj in the early 20th century. The first outlet was opened in 1936 in Bombay (now Mumbai). The concept was to promote the sale of coffee and provide a meeting place for intellectuals, artists, and freedom fighters.

In the 1950s, the Coffee Board decided to close down the Coffee Houses due to financial losses. This decision was met with resistance from the workers and patrons. Under the leadership of A. K. Gopalan, a prominent Communist Party of India leader, the workers formed co-operative societies and took over the management of the Coffee Houses. The first Indian Coffee House under the co-operative model was opened in 1958 in Delhi.

Locations

Indian Coffee Houses are spread across various cities in India, including Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Trivandrum, Kochi, Jabalpur, Allahabad, and Shimla. Each location has its unique charm and historical significance.

Notable Outlets

• College Street Coffee House, Kolkata: Known for its association with the Bengali Renaissance and the Naxalite movement.
• Mysore Coffee House, Bangalore: A popular spot for students and intellectuals.
• Connaught Place Coffee House, Delhi: A historic venue for political discussions and literary gatherings.

Cultural Significance

Indian Coffee Houses have been a hub for intellectual and political discussions. They have played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement and have been frequented by notable personalities such as Rabindranath Tagore, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Mahatma Gandhi. In the post-independence era, they continued to be a meeting place for writers, artists, and political activists.

Menu

The menu at Indian Coffee Houses is known for its simplicity and affordability. It typically includes a variety of coffee, tea, snacks, and light meals. Popular items include masala dosa, samosa, cutlet, and omelette.

Management

The Indian Coffee House is managed by worker co-operative societies. Each society is responsible for the operation and management of the Coffee Houses in its region. The workers are members of the co-operative and share in the profits and decision-making processes.

Challenges

Despite their historical and cultural significance, Indian Coffee Houses face several challenges, including competition from modern coffee chains, financial constraints, and the need for modernization. Efforts are being made to preserve their legacy while adapting to contemporary demands.

See Also

• Coffee culture in India
• Co-operative movement in India
• Indian independence movement
• List of coffeehouse chains