As India stepped into 2026, the celebrations weren’t just marked by fireworks and midnight countdowns; they were measured in record-breaking liquor sales. From Hyderabad’s pulsating parties to Bengaluru’s buzzing pubs and Delhi’s glittering hotel soirées, states across the country shattered previous records. The numbers tell a fascinating story of how millions chose to toast the arrival of the New Year, turning December’s final nights into a staggering showcase of revelry, revenue, and culture. (Image: Pexels)
Telangana: The Unchallenged Leader: Telangana stole the spotlight with liquor sales crossing ₹800 crore on December 30 and 31, nearly eight times its daily average. Hyderabad was the epicenter, with hundreds of parties driving demand, followed by Ranga Reddy and Medchal districts. Compared to ₹700 crore last year, this year’s figures were phenomenal. December alone brought in ₹3,523 crore in excise revenue, setting the tone for 2026. (Image: Pexels)
Uttar Pradesh: A Close Contender: Uttar Pradesh came next, recording nearly ₹600 crore in sales, breaking its own previous records. With its vast population and growing urban nightlife in cities like Lucknow and Noida, the state proved that celebrations here are as grand as anywhere else in the country. (Image: Pexels)
Karnataka: Bengaluru’s Roaring Spirit: Karnataka, led by Bengaluru’s vibrant pub and brewery culture, saw liquor sales touch ₹409 crore in a single day on December 28. On New Year’s Eve, the state sold liquor worth ₹308 crore, surpassing its target. In total, 4.83 lakh boxes of Indian-made liquor and 2.92 lakh boxes of beer were consumed, making December one of the most profitable months for the Karnataka State Beverages Corporation. (Image: Pexels)
Andhra Pradesh: Doubling the Festive Cheer: Andhra Pradesh registered nearly ₹300 crore in sales on New Year’s Eve, double the previous year’s ₹147 crore. Extended retail hours until midnight and bar service until 1 am fueled the surge. Visakhapatnam alone contributed ₹11 crore, with liquor outlets, bars, hotels, and clubs all reporting strong figures. (Image: Pexels)
Delhi: Capital of Celebration: Delhi joined the revelry with liquor sales worth ₹400 crore. Hotels, bars, and private parties drove consumption, while Noida added another ₹16 crore over December 31 and January 1. The capital’s cosmopolitan crowd ensured that alcohol flowed freely as 2026 arrived. (Image: Pexels)
Kerala: Christmas Outshines New Year: Kerala’s peak came during Christmas, with sales of ₹152 crore on December 24-25, compared to ₹108 crore on New Year’s Eve. Still, this was ₹13 crore higher than the previous year. The Kerala State Beverages Corporation reported total liquor and beer sales of ₹19,088 crore in 2023-24, underscoring the state’s consistent consumption patterns. (Image: Pexels)
