Welcome to the fourth episode of Magazine St. Kitchen x Swiggy presents Speak Greasy with Gauri Devidayal Season 4. This episode brings together two powerhouse women in India’s bartending scene: Aashi Bhatnagar and Shatbhi Basu.

Aashi Bhatnagar, also known as Pocket Dynamyte, is an award-winning mixologist from Pune, known for her innovative approach to cocktail-making and for representing India at the prestigious World Class by Diageo competition. Shatbhi Basu is a legend in the Indian bar industry, celebrated as the country’s first female bartender, the founder of STIR Academy of Bartending, and the author of India’s first comprehensive beverage books.

In this conversation, Gauri delves into the unexpected career paths of both guests. Shatbhi originally wanted to be a Chinese chef before finding herself behind the bar, where she discovered a passion for mixology and the hospitality industry. Her journey took her from working extra shifts in Bombay bars to launching STIR Academy, designing bars, curating cocktail menus, and becoming a leading voice in India’s beverage space. Aashi, on the other hand, initially aspired to be a fashion designer, but a twist of fate led her to bartending, where she now designs cocktails instead of dresses.

The discussion explores the challenges and triumphs of women in the male-dominated bartending world. Shatbhi shares her experience of being one of only 12 women in a class of 100, while Aashi recounts how she was one of just two female students in her class of 40. Both speak about pushing boundaries, proving their skills, and earning respect in a field that often underestimated them.

The episode also touches on the evolution of the Indian cocktail scene, with insights into how global trends are influencing local bars. Shatbhi, who has been educating consumers and industry professionals for decades, discusses the importance of understanding spirits, flavour profiles, and the art of cocktail-making. Aashi shares how she infuses culinary elements into her cocktails, creating unique drinks that blend tradition with modern techniques.

From the early days of faxing drink recipes to newspapers to winning international bartending competitions, this conversation highlights the persistence, creativity, and passion that have driven both women to the top of their industry. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, an aspiring bartender, or someone who enjoys a good story about breaking barriers, this episode is packed with inspiring anecdotes, industry insights, and plenty of laughs.

Tune in to hear how these two women are shaking up the bar world—one cocktail at a time.

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