This star bartender just claimed Diageo’s World Class India 2025 title—and now he’s ready for the global stage

Let’s be real—cocktail culture is having a major moment. Whether you’re a martini loyalist or a mezcal adventurer, there’s something undeniably cool about the person behind the bar—the one who shakes, stirs, and serves with effortless flair. And if you’ve ever wondered what it takes to be the best in the biz, we’ve got your answer—served with style and a slice of lime.

On April 12, Diageo’s World Class India Finale 2025 took over Le Méridien Gurgaon—and trust us, it was nothing like your average bartender face-off. Think high-stakes mixology meets fashion-week energy. A room full of India’s top cocktail geniuses, pouring heart, soul, and some seriously good spirits into every glass. And when the final shaker was set down, Navjot Singh from Lair, New Delhi, claimed the coveted title of World Class India Bartender of the Year 2025.

Yep, it’s a big deal. Not only did Singh win the title, but he’s now all set to represent India at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto, Canada, happening later this year.

What is World Class anyway?

Think of it as the Oscars of the bartending world. It's where creativity, precision, and next-level flavour profiles collide—celebrating the artistry of cocktail-making at its finest. But it’s not just about killer drinks. It’s about pushing boundaries through sustainable ingredients, bold reinventions, and storytelling in every pour. Over the years, World Class has become a global phenomenon, supporting over 400,000 bartenders across 60 countries. And winning it is a big flex.

This year, 16 of India’s most innovative bartenders battled it out for the top spot. The challenges were intense, the judging panel even more so (we’re talking global brand ambassadors and industry legends), and the energy? Electric. From technical finesse to flavour genius, these mixologists didn’t just bring their A-game—they redefined it.

But it wasn’t just about cocktails. The World Class Festival 2025 was a full-on experience with tasting sessions that spotlighted India’s hottest cocktail trends—from local flavour infusions and sustainable ingredients, to bold, unexpected combinations. And the vibes? Immaculate. A killer music lineup kept the energy high with performances by Sage, Sheral b2b Bombie, Elsewhere in India, Nash b2b Nida, and Tech Panda x Kenzani. 

The man of the moment: Navjot Singh

Navjot Singh’s win was the cherry on the cake. His journey wasn’t just about perfecting a pour; it was months of prep, innovation, and a whole lot of heart. Singh’s final performance was equal parts precise and passionate—and clearly, the judges were shook (pun intended). 

“Winning the World Class India Bartender of the Year 2025 title is a moment of immense pride for me as this platform gives a chance to the most dynamic and inspiring mixologists in India,” Singh said about his win. “Competitions like these help us push boundaries, spark innovation, and create memorable experiences. I worked tirelessly for the India finals, and now, I’m looking forward to representing India on the global stage.”

The next stop? Toronto, where Singh will compete in the World Class Global Finals from September 28 to October 2, 2025. And we’ll definitely be cheering him on.

Raise your glass—India just served up a star.

All images: Diageo 

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