On Thursday evening, Johnnie Walker Blue Label hosted members of Uganda’s Indian community to an elegant celebration of Diwali – the Festival of Lights – at Mediterraneo Rooftop in Kampala. The exclusive evening, curated under the Johnnie Walker Blue Club platform, brought together distinguished guests, business leaders, and tastemakers for a night of fine dining, mentorship, and cultural connection.
Hosted by Abinash Kunjappan and Dean Munene, the evening also marked a special moment, as Johnnie Walker Blue Label unveiled the Johnnie Walker Blue Label x Rahul Mishra Limited Edition Bottle, a stunning design collaboration between the Scotch whisky house and celebrated Indian couturier Rahul Mishra. The limited-edition bottle, inspired by the brilliance and energy of Diwali, weaves together two icons of craftsmanship, haute couture and fine whisky, in a shared celebration of artistry and light.
Speaking at the event, Félicité Nson, Managing Director of Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL), noted that the celebration was a reflection of the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion:
“At UBL, we take immense pride in being part of a community as diverse and vibrant as Uganda’s. Celebrations like Diwali remind us of the beauty of unity in diversity, of the light that shines when people from different cultures come together in appreciation, connection, and progress. Through the Johnnie Walker Blue Club, we continue to create spaces that honour excellence, craftsmanship, and shared experiences.”
Jane Karuku, the Group Managing Director and CEO of East African Breweries (EABL) PLC, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, defining it as a perfect tribute to the timeless connection between art and craftsmanship:
“The partnership between Johnnie Walker Blue Label and Rahul Mishra is a tribute to the timeless connection between art and craftsmanship. Both worlds, fashion and whisky, share a commitment to mastery, detail, and legacy. This collaboration beautifully captures that spirit, and what better time to celebrate it than during Diwali, a festival that embodies hope, renewal, and progress.”
Johnnie Walker Blue Club patron, Jimmy D. Mugerwa, who is also the Board Chairman of Uganda Breweries Limited, officiated the unveiling of the limited-edition bottle, emphasising its symbolism as a beacon of creativity and excellence:
“Johnnie Walker Blue Label has always stood as a testament to the pursuit of perfection, a blend of rare whiskies crafted with intention and care. This Diwali limited-edition bottle, designed by Rahul Mishra, brings that story to life in an extraordinary way. It celebrates not only the artistry of whisky, but also the shared light of cultures and communities around the world.”
Also in attendance were members of the Uganda Breweries Limited Board, Rachel Dumba and Felix Okoboi, who joined guests in toasting to an evening of craftsmanship, connection, and celebration. Their presence underscored the company’s continued support for cultural experiences that bring people together through shared values and appreciation of excellence.
Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager, Johnnie Walker, Uganda Breweries Limited, also spoke about the exclusive perks of the Johnnie Walker Blue Club, highlighting the sense of community and privilege it offers members.
“The Johnnie Walker Blue Club is more than just a membership; it’s an invitation to an extraordinary world of craftsmanship and connection,” said Christine Kyokunda. “Members enjoy access to private tastings, limited-edition releases like this beautiful Diwali bottle, and bespoke experiences that celebrate refinement and progress. We welcome those who appreciate life’s finer moments to be part of this exclusive circle.”
Guests were treated to a curated mentorship and tasting experience of Johnnie Walker Blue Label by Roy Ronald Tumwizere, the National Advocacy Manager at UBL, and Melanie Abwoli, the Reserve Brand Ambassador.
Together, they took guests on a sensory journey through the world of luxury Scotch, pairing it with a carefully selected menu of delicacies.
The night was crowned with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the Kampala skyline in true Diwali fashion and adding a layer of excitement to the celebration. All this unfolded against a backdrop of soulful music by Songs of Eli, perfectly capturing the evening’s theme of Blue Elegance and Celebration.
It was, without a doubt, a unique evening, one that beautifully embodied the Johnnie Walker spirit of progress, craftsmanship, and connection.
As we enter the season of giving, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label x Rahul Mishra Limited Edition stands out as the ultimate statement gift, a true symbol of elegance, artistry, and appreciation. It’s more than a bottle of whisky; it’s a collector’s piece that celebrates the joy of gifting and the spirit of festivity. The Johnnie Walker Blue Label x Rahul Mishra Limited Edition Bottle is now available at select distributor points across Kampala, offering whisky enthusiasts a collector’s piece that blends artistry, heritage, and the festive spirit of Diwali.
