Award to honour chefs spreading aroma of Indian cuisine

New Delhi, Oct 10: They are the cultural ambassadors of the country who have spread the aroma of the Indian cuisine far and wide.

Seeking to recognize the contribution of various experts in culinary art, the 'Awards for Excellence in Culinary Art' will felicitate and recognise achievers in the chefs profession.

A host of culinary artists from across the country who may not necessarily be in the public eye or may not be well recognised Celebrities but who have excelled in the field of ''satiating the Taste buds'' of the public would be honoured during the third edition of the annual awards, to be held in the capital on October 18.

Being organised by the PHDCCI in collaboration with the Indian culinary forum and the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations, the awards are an attempt to encourage large number of talented and aspiring youth in this profession as also to recognise the contribution of the profession in the promotion of tourism in India, head Chef of the Le Meridien Devender Kumar said at a press conference here last evening to announce the awards.

''Lauding the contribution of chefs is pertinent in the present times when the taste and aroma of Indian cuisine is wowing people across the country. For, unlike earlier, when Indian cuisine was only identified with curry, today it is known for its wide variety comprising chicken tikka, barbecue, Chinese as well as South Indian dishes,''Mr Kumar said at the press meet, where executive chefs of premier five star hotels were present.

Among those present on the occasion were Manisha Bhasin of the ITC Welcomhotel, Gilles Favre of the ITC Maurya Sheraton and Francis Luzinier of Intercontinental, the Grand.

A high level jury comprising eminent personalities and experts would selec the awardees. The awards will be presented at a special ceremony in the capital on October 18, where Union Minister for Tourism and Culture will be the Chief Guest. As a build up to the event, a week prior to the Inetrnational Chefs day, Executive chefs of the various hotels will be organising a 'Gourmet Speciality week' which will be opened to public for participation.

The various category of awards to be presented at the event include the 'Golden Hat Chef award', 'Chef of the Year Award', 'Lady Chef of the year Award', 'Master Chef International Cuisine Award', 'Master Chef Orientel Cuisine Award', 'Master Chefs Kebabs Award', 'Master Chef Indian Sweets Award', 'Master Chef International Confectionary Award', 'Kitchen Artist Award' and 'Best food Critics Award'.

Incidentally this year the International Chefs Day will also be celebrated as Thanksgiving Day for chefs under the 'attitude to Gratitude' programme. The objective is to thank all the chefs of the country for their wonderful contribution to society.

UNI