Diageo India's Durbar Event Doubles Down on Conservation and Cultural Heritage

Event summary

  • Diageo India's Durbar by Godawan Estuary Water held its second edition on January 9–10, 2026, at Abheygarh, a hilltop palace in Khetri, Rajasthan.
  • The event focused on conservation, particularly the Great Indian Bustard, with the population increasing from 96 to 173 birds through Godawan's conservation program.
  • Durbar featured curated music, food, and craft installations, emphasizing cultural heritage and mindful luxury.
  • Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer of Diageo India, highlighted the event's focus on conservation, craftsmanship, and Rajasthan's spirit.
  • Praveen Someshwar, CEO and MD of Diageo India, noted the growing appetite for culturally immersive experiences.

The big picture

Diageo India's Durbar event aligns with the growing trend of brands leveraging cultural and ecological narratives to create immersive experiences. By focusing on conservation and heritage, the company positions itself as a leader in sustainable luxury, appealing to a discerning audience seeking meaningful engagement. This strategy reflects a broader industry shift towards experiential marketing that combines entertainment with social responsibility.

What we're watching

Conservation Impact
How Diageo India's conservation efforts will affect the Great Indian Bustard population and broader ecological initiatives.
Cultural Engagement
Whether the event's focus on cultural heritage can sustain long-term audience engagement and brand loyalty.
Strategic Partnerships
The pace at which Diageo India expands its partnerships with local artisans, musicians, and conservationists to enhance future editions.