The Epic Tale of the Patiala Peg: When Maharaja Outsmarted the Brits!

"Patiala peg laga ke nachunga nachunga", the whole sings along when this Akshay Kumar banger plays. But did you know that the Patiala Peg isn’t just a drink? It's a piece of Indian history, full of royal flair and British rivalry. It’s a tale that combines cricket, cocktails, and a Maharaja’s sharp wit, offering a true taste of royal mischief. But how did this iconic measure of whisky come to be? Well, grab your glass and settle in, because the story of the Patiala Peg is one worth toasting to.

The Birth of the Patiala Peg: A Royal Game of One-Upmanship

The story begins in the early 20th century at the grand court of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, Punjab. Known for his larger-than-life personality and remarkable generosity, the Maharaja was also an avid cricket enthusiast. At the time, British colonial officials and military personnel were frequent guests at his palace. 

One fateful day, during a cricket match between British officers and Indian royals, Bhupinder Singh decided to put his own spin on a typical game of cricket — but not with bat and ball. Instead, he took to the drinks table. The Maharaja, with his characteristic sense of humour, challenged the British cricketers with a drink he called the “Patiala Peg.” The catch? This wasn’t just any ordinary drink.

What Is a Patiala Peg?

A “peg” is a unit of measurement for liquor, most commonly whisky. A standard peg in India is around 30ml, but the Patiala Peg is a whole different beast. It’s a far more generous pour — around 120ml, four times the usual size. The measure itself became notorious for being strong and potent. Some say it was designed to ensure the drinkers would feel the effects quickly.

The legend goes that Bhupinder Singh slyly increased the alcohol content in his pegs, serving British officers with a measure that was significantly larger than what they were accustomed to. The Maharaja knew that his guests, not used to such heavy pours, would quickly be out of their element, resulting in a lighthearted but competitive victory for his team.

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh: The Mastermind Behind the Peg

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh wasn’t just a ruler; he was a man of strategy, charm, and wit. He was aware of the British officers’ fondness for whisky, and it was a tool he used to his advantage. As the story goes, the Patiala Peg was served to the British cricketers during a match at his palace. The large pegs, packed with more whisky than they were used to, left the British players a little too merry, resulting in their defeat. Some even suggest that Singh had planned this all along to beat them at their own game. 

His move wasn't just a masterstroke in the game of cricket; it became part of Patiala’s cultural fabric. The Patiala Peg went on to be immortalised as a royal signature drink, symbolising the Maharaja’s cleverness and ability to outwit the British.

The Popularity of the Patiala Peg: From Royals to Commoners

Over the years, the Patiala Peg grew in fame, becoming more than just a local legend. As time went on, it became a beloved drink for people across India, especially in Punjab. The term “Patiala Peg” spread, and the large measure of whisky symbolised a celebration of opulence, style, and a generous pour. 

It wasn't long before the Patiala Peg became synonymous with leisure and indulgence. It’s now often served in both high-end bars and casual gatherings, a tribute to the Maharaja’s playfulness and penchant for drama. However, despite its widespread popularity, the drink still carries with it a hint of the royal mischief that Bhupinder Singh instilled into it.

The Patiala Peg in Modern Times

In today’s world, the Patiala Peg is a standard order in many bars, especially in Punjab and other parts of northern India. While its historical significance may have faded in some quarters, the drink remains a celebration of the royal indulgence and cheekiness of the Maharaja. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or after a long day, it continues to represent a grand tradition.

In a way, the drink's legacy lives on as a reminder of a time when a Maharaja’s clever trickery made history — and left the British cricketers with more than they bargained for.

A Toast to the Maharaja

Next time you order a Patiala Peg, remember the story behind it. As you sip that generous pour, think of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh’s wit, his cricket games, and his knack for pulling off the ultimate royal trick. Whether you're raising a glass in celebration or simply enjoying a well-earned break, you're not just drinking whisky — you're partaking in a legacy that has stood the test of time. 

In the end, the Patiala Peg isn’t just a measure of alcohol; it’s a measure of royal genius, cricketing history, and the enduring spirit of Patiala.

Excessive alcohol can be injurious to health, please drink responsibly!