Google CEO Sundar Pichai created an unexpected buzz during his visit to India for the AI Summit, not just for his remarks on artificial intelligence, but for his enthusiastic appreciation of Indian coffee.
A Malabar brew moment
During a brief break at the summit, Pichai reportedly stopped to savour a cup of Malabar coffee — a brew known for its distinctive aroma and smooth flavour. The light-hearted moment quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights of the event.
Sharing his appreciation for India’s rich, GI-tagged coffee varieties, Pichai praised the depth of flavour and unique character of Malabar beans, which are cultivated along the Western Ghats and processed using the traditional monsooning method.
India’s Malabar coffee holds Geographical Indication (GI) status, recognised for its low acidity, full body and earthy notes. The endorsement from the CEO of Google added fresh global attention to the country’s premium coffee culture.
Beyond AI discussions
While the summit primarily focused on advancements in artificial intelligence and global collaboration, the coffee moment added a relatable and distinctly Indian flavour to the high-profile event.
Social media users quickly picked up on the interaction, celebrating Pichai’s connection to Indian roots and his open admiration for local produce. Many described the gesture as a proud moment for India’s coffee growers and small-scale producers.
As discussions around AI innovation dominated formal sessions, it was a simple cup of Malabar brew that warmed hearts online — reminding many that sometimes, the most memorable summit moments happen over coffee.