Have Pizza with Pizazz

Mention Pizza and you set mouths drooling, irrespective of age and gender. Like someone commented: Pizza is love at first bite! Yes, the only thing better than pizza is another pizza! This Italian fast-food has become extremely popular in India. And, with the country's zest for converting different cuisines to satisfy Indian tastes and palette, there have been several Indian twists to Pizza too! In fact, some of the twists, it is believed, are being adopted by other countries too! Ashok Malkani views the history of this delicacy, its entry in the country, the Indian Pizza scenario and what are the new twists that are likely to occur in the near future.

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Pizza, a dish originating from Naples, Italy, has taken the world by storm. It has gained significant popularity in India too, with a market value of $5.3 billion in 2024. This is expected to be nearly double by 2033. Popular chains like Domino's and Pizza hut have, to an extent, made it a staple fast-food option, particularly for the millennials. Several outlets, offering Indian-inspired toppings and flavours to cater to local tastes, over the last few years, could be credited for the pizza renaissance. One may ask how popular is this fast food in India and with which age group?

Kailash Gundupalli, Executive Chef, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, declares, “Pizza is immensely popular in India, cutting across various demographics. However, it is most popular among young age. Due to increasing western influences, urbanization, and the rise of fast-food restaurants. The customization options, and availability of vegetarian choices have made it a favourite among Indian consumers.”

Altamsh Patel Executive Chef at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, claims, “Pizza has become a staple comfort food in India, particularly beloved by the younger generation. Kids and young adults, aged 15-30, now enjoy pizza at least once a week, turning it into a celebratory dish. Its popularity can be attributed to its convenience, diverse range of flavours, and adaptability to various tastes.

As a quick, satisfying meal, pizza's appeal is amplified by its role in social gatherings and its association with modern fast-food culture, particularly in urban settings.”