By Mewati Sitaram
The Western India Culinary Association (WICA), in collaboration with Morde Foods Pvt. Ltd., hosted the much-anticipated Chef’s Connect 2025, celebrating twelve years of culinary excellence and innovation. This year’s theme, “Chef Reimagined”, brought together over 275 influential chefs and culinary professionals from across India, fostering inspiration, creativity, and industry camaraderie.
It will be held at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, the event will begin with a ceremonial Ganesh Vandana, followed by addresses from Chef Salil Fadnis, President of WICA, and Chef Manjit Singh Gill, President of IFCA. Participants would immerse themselves in a dynamic agenda of workshops, product showcases, and awards ceremonies, designed to highlight trends and achievements in the culinary world.
Notable sessions included “The Art of Food Styling and Photography” by Chef Nitin Tandon, “Entrepreneurship in the Culinary World” by Chef Avinash Martins, “New Age Drinks” led by Ajit Balgi, and “Pastry Reimagined” by Chef Vikas Bagul. Attendees also explored over 50 innovative products from more than 15 leading culinary brands, experiencing firsthand the evolving landscape of India’s gastronomic industry.
The highlight of the evening was the WICA Annual Awards Ceremony, recognizing excellence across categories such as the Chef Vernon Coelho Lifetime Achievement Award, Morde Pastry Chef of the Year, Young Chef Achiever, Nestlé Young Star Chef, Lady Chef of the Year, and Chef Educator of the Year. A special culinary showcase by Chef Rahul Wali celebrated authentic Kashmiri Pandit cuisine, adding a sensory journey of regional flavors to the event.
In the days preceding, a Certificate of Excellence Ceremony at Sheila Raheja Institute of Hotel Management recognized emerging culinary talent. Supported by industry leaders like Nestlé Professional, Amul, Bridor, Delta Nutritives, and Corman, Chef’s Connect 2025 reinforced its status as India’s premier culinary networking platform, concluding with cocktails, dinner, and a spirit of celebration, leaving participants inspired and energized.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
