Mysore Royal Descendants Jayapalashri and Dhushyant Anil Launch Berunda Coffee

Rajkumari Jayapalashri Anil, granddaughter of Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, and her 23-year-old son Dhushyant Anil have launched Berunda Coffee, a heritage-inspired coffee venture rooted in the traditions and legacy of the Mysore royal family.

The brand takes its name from the mythical Gandaberunda, the double-headed eagle that long served as the symbol of the Wadiyar dynasty. Through the venture, the mother-and-son duo aims to preserve the stories, traditions, and culture of Mysore through everyday coffee.

The brand has introduced blends named after famous Dasara elephants, including Dhrona, Arjuna, and Gajendra. Among these, Dhrona, described as a slow-roasted and full-bodied brew, has become the most sought-after blend. Jayapalashri noted that the elephant was a major part of childhood memories during Dasara celebrations when the ambari was mounted on him.

The idea for the business began during a holiday in Taiwan, when Dhushyant and his mother were dissatisfied with hotel coffee. Jayapalashri brewed a cup using drip bags from a convenience store, prompting serious discussions about starting their own label. Initially conceived under the name 'Brew & Bond', the project evolved into Berunda Coffee.

Dhushyant, who is currently studying in London, stated that the brand is intended to help bridge awareness about Mysore's history and South Indian culture among younger generations. The packaging and visual identity draw inspiration from the painted ceilings of the Mysore Palace, developed alongside a creative team that researched the history of the Wadiyars.

Berunda Coffee is currently sold directly through the company's website. The founders plan to expand cautiously into select cafes rather than mass delivery platforms to maintain control over the heritage-focused brand.