The Telangana government has refuted reports suggesting that Neera Café, a prominent establishment set up by the previous BRS administration on Hyderabad’s Necklace Road, is being removed to make way for a hotel.
Former minister Srinivas Goud, during a recent visit to Neera Café, criticized the state government, alleging that it had downgraded the café to a mere roadside food stall similar to those in Sultan Bazaar. He demanded that the government reconsider any move to remove the café.
Amidst the controversy, the Telangana Excise Department issued an official statement on Sunday, categorically denying any such plans. The department clarified that Neera Café continues to operate as usual under Dr. Vinod Goud’s Messrs. Taneera Palm Products Development Society. It also stated that food courts have always been an integral part of the café and dismissed any proposals to replace it with hotels.
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Established by the previous government at an estimated cost of Rs12 crore, Neera Café was designed with modern facilities to highlight Telangana’s toddy and palm heritage. The café features traditional seating arrangements crafted from palm and date trunks and offers authentic Telangana non-vegetarian dishes such as Talakaya Kura, Boti, and Paya, making it a popular attraction for visitors.
Neera, recognized for its health benefits, was promoted as a symbol of support for toddy tappers. Reports of its removal have sparked strong opposition from the Goud community, who regard the café as a representation of their cultural identity.