Thiruvananthapuram: The much-discussed government-produced brandy in Kerala is set to reach the market on Saturday, February 21, even as the product remains at the centre of a legal and public controversy over its naming process.

The brandy is being produced at Malabar Distilleries in Palakkad, but officials have not yet revealed the brand name. The authorities are reportedly keeping the name under wraps to maintain an element of surprise ahead of its launch.

Naming contest triggers controversy

The issue gained attention after an advertisement invited the public to suggest a name and logo for the new liquor brand, offering a cash prize of ₹10,000. The move sparked criticism and later led to legal intervention.

A petition was filed in the Kerala High Court, arguing that such promotions could encourage alcohol consumption, which the petitioner claimed was against legal and public health principles.

Following the petition, the High Court temporarily stayed the naming contest and directed that all related promotional activities be halted.

In an affidavit submitted before the court, the Kerala State Beverages Corporation (BEVCO) stated that it had no role or prior information regarding the naming competition.

After BEVCO’s clarification, the court sought an explanation from Malabar Distilleries. The case has been posted for further hearing on March 12.