Onam Festivities Drive Record Sales
Kerala's state-owned liquor distributor, the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco), has reported impressive sales figures during the initial phase of the 2026 Onam festival. In the first eight days of the 10-day festive period, from August 18 to August 25, liquor sales across Bevco outlets reached a staggering Rs 771.29 crore. This substantial sum positions the corporation to potentially surpass previous Onam sales records, according to Excise Department officials cited by news agency PTI.
This year's performance marks a significant increase compared to the corresponding eight-day period of the 2025 Onam season, which saw sales of Rs 694.96 crore. The robust sales reflect the festive spirit and increased consumer spending during one of Kerala's most important cultural celebrations.
Peak Sales Day and Annual Outlook
While the overall trend points upward, sales on Uthradam, the day immediately preceding Thiruvonam (the main day of Onam), saw a slight dip compared to the previous year. On Uthradam, Bevco recorded sales of Rs 126.31 crore. In contrast, the same day last year generated Rs 137.64 crore in sales. Despite this single-day decrease, officials remain optimistic that the total liquor sales for the entire 10-day Onam season will exceed last year's aggregate of Rs 826.38 crore.
Understanding Bevco's Role
The Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco) operates as a fully government-owned entity, holding the exclusive rights for the wholesale and retail distribution of alcoholic beverages within the state. Its diverse portfolio includes Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), beer, wine, and imported foreign liquor and wines, playing a crucial role in the state's revenue generation, particularly during festive periods like Onam.