When one thinks of entrepreneurship, the images that come to mind often involve tech start-ups, innovative gadgets, or disruptive digital platforms. But for Chandramohan Nallur, an Indian entrepreneur and social activist based in Warsaw, Poland, entrepreneurship was brewed—literally. His journey is one of turning challenges into opportunities, blending cultures, and creating impact far beyond business.
Chandramohan Nallur: The Birth of Malayali Beer – A Serendipitous Beginning
The story of Malayali Beer—a brand that has quickly gained recognition in Europe and Asia—began unexpectedly during a global crisis. In 2022, when the Russia-Ukraine war disrupted trade flows, a large shipment of rice flakes imported by KS Global in Uttar Pradesh was left stranded without buyers. What could have been a financial disaster sparked a brilliant idea.
Chandramohan, who describes himself as a teetotaler, saw potential in transforming the unused rice flakes into something extraordinary. Inspired by other Indian brewers overseas, he teamed up with his friend Sargheve Sukumaran, an expert in product design. After several failed attempts and countless refinements with the help of a master brewer, they finally struck gold—or rather, liquid amber.
On November 13, 2022—Chandramohan’s 38th birthday—the duo tasted success. The hybrid beer, brewed with Indian rice flakes and European hops, was smooth, light, and refreshing, with a unique aftertaste. And so, Malayali Beer was born.
The brand name was chosen as a tribute to the global Malayali community, especially the Keralites who helped stranded Indian students during the Ukraine crisis. The logo, featuring a Kathakali headgear with aviator sunglasses and a Mohanlal-inspired moustache, symbolized both tradition and modernity. Within just two months of its launch, over 50,000 bottles had been sold, with distribution expanding across Europe and Asia.
A Visionary Entrepreneur Expanding Horizons
For Chandramohan Nallur, Malayali Beer was not just a beverage; it was a symbol of resilience and cross-cultural connection. From personalized bottles for weddings in Poland to partnerships with major Asian grocery suppliers, he innovated marketing strategies that resonated with both Indian and international customers.
Under his leadership, Malayali Spirits adopted a licensing model, allowing local brewers to use the recipe and brand name. This approach not only ensured scalability but also helped the brand root itself in different cultural contexts. Plans to expand to India, especially Kerala, highlighted his deep connection to his homeland. “If a beer called Malayali is not sold in Kerala, then what is the point?” he once remarked.
Chandramohan Nallur: Leadership at the Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Chandramohan’s entrepreneurial journey is only one side of his multifaceted identity. In 2025, he was appointed as the youngest Director of Business Relations at the Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IPCCI). In this role, he has been instrumental in building bridges between Indian businesses and Polish clients, empowering entrepreneurs from both countries to collaborate and grow. His leadership reflects a rare blend of youthful energy and strategic vision.
Social Activism: Championing Justice and Diaspora Rights
Beyond business, Chandramohan Nallur is widely respected as a social activist. His activism was most visible during Operation Ganga, India’s mission to evacuate citizens stranded in Ukraine during the war. His tireless efforts on the ground earned him personal recognition from the Prime Minister of India.
But his activism extends far beyond emergency situations. Over the years, he has fought for the labor rights of Indian workers in Europe, helping more than 400 exploited laborers secure justice. For many migrants facing exploitation, he has been a voice of strength and reassurance.
Recognition and Global Impact
In 2025, Chandramohan’s contributions as both an entrepreneur and a social activist were formally recognized when he was named among the EuropeIndia40 Leaders by the Europe India Centre for Business & Industry (EICBI). This honor placed him among the most influential voices shaping Indo-European relations and highlighted his commitment to bridging cultures through business and social work.
Education, Early Career, and Personal Life
Originally from Kerala, Chandramohan Nallur’s journey to global recognition was anything but conventional. After earning his MBA in Barcelona, Spain, he gained valuable experience managing an Irish bar and later working at Leica Mobile, a virtual mobile network operator. These experiences broadened his worldview and prepared him for the diverse challenges of entrepreneurship.
On a personal note, he lives in Poland with his Polish wife, whom he met during his time in Spain. He often speaks about his journey with dyslexia, describing it not as a limitation but as a unique perspective that enables him to assess risks differently. Instead of focusing on failure, he has learned to recognize opportunities, a mindset that has fueled his success.
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