Culinary Art India 2025 Kicks Off with Unparalleled Culinary Excellence

New Delhi, March 4, 2025: The 17th edition of Culinary Art India, a prestigious culinary competition organized by the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) in collaboration with ITPO and Hospitality First, commenced today at the Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Running alongside the 39th AAHAR International Fair from March 4 to 8, this much-anticipated event is set to showcase unparalleled culinary talent from across the country.

 
Culinary Art India 2025 has expanded its competition categories to 18, attracting over 600 talented chefs, both senior and apprentice, to compete on an internationally-modeled stage. Day One set the tone for an exhilarating competition, with 100 participants showcasing their artistry and precision in various categories, including 3-Tier Wedding Cake, Authentic Indian Regional Cuisine, Contemporary Sushi Platter, Live competition rice dish and Live Cooking CDP & Above. The gold winners of the day included Chef kashvi Jain in the 3-Tier Wedding Cake category, Chef. Sandeep Singh Mahar  in Authentic Indian Regional Cuisine.

"Culinary Art India is a platform that not only recognizes talent but also nurtures the next generation of chefs. The competition provides a space for professionals and aspiring chefs to push their creative boundaries and celebrate the art of cooking. It is heartening to see the passion and dedication displayed by all participants."

Chef Davinder Kumar, President of the Indian Culinary Forum,

A major highlight of the event is the Live Chef Masterclasses, which commenced today. These interactive sessions will continue throughout the event, featuring some of India's top culinary experts. The lineup of esteemed chefs participating in the Live Chef Masterclasses on March 4 includes Chef Sehaj, Chef Dhawal, Chef Pramod, Chef Vaibhav Bhargava, and Chef Guntas Sethi. Attendees had the opportunity to witness these seasoned chefs showcase their signature techniques and innovative dishes, enriching the culinary knowledge of aspiring chefs and industry professionals alike.

"This event is a celebration of the evolving culinary landscape in India. Each year, we see innovation and excellence reaching new heights, and this year is no different. The level of skill displayed at this event is a testament to the bright future of the Indian culinary industry."

Chef Vivek Saggar, General Secretary of the Indian Culinary Forum,

These competitions will be judged by a distinguished panel of World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS)-certified jury members from India and abroad. Malaysian Culinary Legend Billy Lee Chan Hoong will serve as the Chairperson of this year’s jury, while Chef Sireesh Saxena and Chef Arvind Rai will oversee the competition as Organizing Secretaries.

 "Culinary Art India is more than just a competition; it is a movement that fosters excellence and creativity in Indian gastronomy. The talent displayed here is truly remarkable, and it is exciting to witness the future of Indian cuisine being shaped at this event."

Chef Bharat Alagh, Vice President of the Indian Culinary Forum,

Looking ahead, Day Two will feature an exciting lineup of competitions, including Artistic Pastry Showpiece, Artistic Bakery Showpiece, Petit Fours or Pralines, Three-Course Set Dinner Menu, and Live Competition Rice Dish. These categories will challenge participants to push their culinary boundaries and exhibit extraordinary craftsmanship.

 
Additionally, the Live Chef Masterclasses on March 5 will feature esteemed chefs such as Chef Vaibhav Soni, Chef Gautam Chaudhry, Chef Balendra, Chef Vaibhav Bhargava, and Chef Domenico, who will demonstrate their expertise and share invaluable insights with attendees.

About the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF)
Established in 1987 in New Delhi, the Indian Culinary Forum is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing culinary arts in India. The forum serves as a vital link for the national community of chefs, fostering skill development and international collaboration through various competitions, seminars, and events. The ICF is affiliated with the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), a global network representing over 110 countries and more than 9 million chefs worldwide.
 
About Hospitality First: Hospitality First, with over 50 years of combined expertise in events and publishing, specializes in curating leading industry gatherings in hospitality, foodservice, and tourism. The team has executed premier trade shows, business conferences, international culinary challenges, awards programs, and buyer-seller meets, making it a trusted partner for top hospitality associations and trade show organizers in India.