Festival Fiesta

The festive season, every year, is an occasion where people celebrate every festival with gaiety and galore. And food is an essential element for every festival!

- Ashok Malkani

To make every moment memorable, delectable sweets have become a norm at all festivals. Ashok Malkani delves on several aspects of the food served during the festivals and the changes that are taking place to elevate the experience of the diners. The festive season, in India, has just begun and will continue for the next few months. Ganpathy festival has just got over and everyone is eagerly looking forward to the celebrations for Navratri, Dussehra, Diwali, Christmas and finally the New Year. This time of the year, besides bringing in a lot of light, laughter, fun, togetherness and an ever-present celebrity mood also it is the time when food is spread all over the tables. Food is an inseparable part of all celebrations. It has always played an important role in festivals. For, as all say: “Food is the language of love.”

Dinkar Sardesai, Executive Chef, ITC Windsor Bengaluru, claims, “Food has always been at the heart of celebrations, acting as a symbol of togetherness, culture and memory. In festive traditions, it is much more than just a meal - it is an expression of heritage, hospitality and shared joy. Each dish carries stories of customs passed down through generations, reflecting regional flavours and community spirit. For ITC Windsor, festive food is not only about recreating these classics but also about elevating them with thoughtful presentation, healthier ingredients and innovative twists. It becomes a way to connect guests with the authenticity of tradition while offering a memorable dining experience that captures the warmth and essence of the celebration.”