New Delhi: For many wealthy Indians, drinking water is no longer just a basic need. It is becoming a new sign of luxury and lifestyle. Expensive bottled water, both imported and locally produced, is now being served at high end restaurants, hotels and private events.
Premium water brands are marketed like fine wine. They highlight their source, mineral content and taste. Some companies even organize water tasting sessions for elite customers. Imported brands such as Evian and Perrier are popular, along with Indian premium brands that claim to come from natural springs.
This trend is growing because many rich families do not trust tap water. In several parts of India, water is polluted or unsafe to drink. Studies show large areas of groundwater are contaminated, and treatment systems are often weak. Because of this, people with money prefer to pay more for bottled water they believe is cleaner and healthier.
India’s bottled water market is already worth billions of dollars each year. The premium segment is small but growing fast. It now makes up a much larger share than it did a few years ago. Companies see this as a business opportunity and are launching new luxury water products aimed at wealthy consumers.
Celebrities and business groups are also entering the market. Some film stars have started their own designer water brands, adding to the idea that water can be a lifestyle product.
But the trend also shows a sharp contrast in the country. While the rich buy costly water for taste and image, millions of people still struggle to get safe drinking water for daily use. In many cities and villages, families rely on boiled water, basic filters or cheap bottled water because tap water is not reliable.
Experts say the rise of luxury water highlights deeper problems. It reflects poor water quality, weak public systems and growing inequality. Water, which should be a basic right, is slowly becoming a symbol of class difference.
As premium water sales rise, the larger challenge remains unchanged. India still needs better water management, stronger treatment plants and cleaner rivers and groundwater. Until then, safe water will remain a privilege for some and a daily struggle for many.