New Delhi, February 18 – In a significant leadership shift, Amar Sinha, the Chief Operating Officer of leading spirits maker Radico Khaitan, has stepped down from his position citing personal reasons. The executive has already taken up the role of Managing Director at Allied Blenders and Distillers, marking a return to his former stomping grounds.
Sinha, who previously served as Executive Director and CEO at BDA (now Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited), joined Radico Khaitan in March 2017 as COO. In his resignation letter, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the company’s growth journey. ‘Serving in this capacity and being part of Radico Khaitan’s development has been a privilege,’ Sinha stated, thanking the board and colleagues for their unwavering support.
His departure comes at a time when Radico Khaitan is navigating its premium portfolio strategy. Last May, the company faced backlash over its new whiskey brand ‘Trikal’, which was withdrawn amid accusations of hurting religious sentiments. Critics pointed to the label’s imagery – a simple line drawing of a face with closed eyes and a circular mark on the forehead – resembling Lord Shiva’s third eye.
Radico Khaitan, renowned for brands like 8PM, Magic Moments, and Rampur Indian Single Malt, had launched Trikal as a premium offering priced between ₹3,500 and ₹4,500. The company clarified that ‘Trikal’ was meant to pay homage to India’s eternal spirit, drawing from Sanskrit roots referencing past, present, and future. Following an internal review and respecting public sentiment, the brand was shelved.
Sinha’s exit underscores the dynamic nature of India’s competitive alcohol industry, where top talent frequently moves between key players. As he assumes his new responsibilities by March 31, Radico Khaitan will need to swiftly appoint a successor to maintain its growth momentum in the premium segment.