Meet Kapil Mohan, a teetotaler and brigadier behind the success of the iconic rum ‘Old Monk’

May 12, 2024

Anita Santosh

In the world of spirits, few names resonate as deeply as Old Monk. This vatted Indian dark rum, known for its distinct vanilla flavor and smoothness, has captured the hearts of millions around the globe.

Behind the success of this iconic brand stands Kapil Mohan, a retired brigadier who steered Old Monk towards international acclaim.

Not only did he created Old Monk but is also behind the creation of famous brands Solan No. 1 and Golden Eagle.

Old Monk is the third-largest selling rum in the world and for many years remained in the list of the biggest Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) brand for many years.

He was the Chairperson and managing director of Mohan Meakin.

Mohan was also a director of other group companies such as Arthos Breweries Limited, Mohan Rocky Springwater Breweries Limited, Sagar Sugars and Allied Products Limited, R. R. B. Energy Limited and Solchrome Systems India Limited. He was a PhD and a former managing director of Trade Links Private Limited (1956-1966).

While Kapil Mohan sadly passed away in 2018 due to a cardiac arrest, his legacy and the spirit of Old Monk continue to thrive. The day-to-day operations of the company now rest in the capable hands of his nephews, Hemant and Vinay Mohan.

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