The dream of winning the world in the hands of tradition, organized by ‘Better Kitchen’ magazine, chefs’ conference in Kolkata.

Is the aroma of Indian spices being lost in the rush of modernity? Or is it reaching the world court by the hands of the young generation? The seventh season of ‘Everest Better Kitchen Culinary Challenge’ (BKCC) concluded recently at Guru Nanak Institute of Hotel Management (GNIHM), Kolkata. The main attraction of this event by Better Kitchen magazine was the diversity of Indian regional cuisines. Keeping the theme ‘Flavors of India’ in front, the emerging chefs of Bengal brought out a unique form of the country’s cuisine.

The main aim of this competition was to match regional flavor with modern presentation. According to the organizers, the main objective of the initiative is to establish Indian cuisine on the international stage while maintaining its nutritional value and originality. Many talented students of the city showcased their creativity and culinary charisma in the Kolkata phase. Apart from the main cooking, there were also departmental competitions like Bakery Champion, F&B Young Masters Challenge and Enzo Housekeeping Olympiad. All in all it was a great platform for hotel management students.

Better Kitchen publisher Ekta Bhargava is very optimistic about this arrangement. He said that it is important to create interest in regional cuisine among young chefs. This amalgamation of tradition and innovation will take Indian taste even higher in the world in the days to come. Through this competition, the door of international opportunities is opened for the winners. Participants have the possibility of receiving higher education or internship opportunities in America and Europe, starting with scholarships of US$500.

There are also surprises in terms of financial rewards. Cash prizes of Tk 51,000, 21,000 and 11,000 have been announced for the national level winners. Apart from this, the educational institutions of the winning students will also be awarded with financial honors. The event is sponsored by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Incredible India), Bharatgas, Gujarat Tourism and Everest. After this successful phase in Kolkata, all eyes are now on the final fight at the national level.