TCA’s Conclave Unites Tradition, Tech, Talent In Culinary Celebration

Hyderabad: The Telangana Chefs Association (TCA) celebrated its 6th anniversary with the grand Culinary Conclave 2025, held at The Park, Hyderabad. Inaugurated by Chef Manjit Singh Gill, president of the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA), the event embraced the theme “Roots to Robots – The Evolution of Culinary Craft”, highlighting the journey of Indian gastronomy from tradition to technology.

The conclave drew a distinguished gathering of leading chefs, international dignitaries, academicians, industry stakeholders, and budding culinary talent. Among the Guests of Honor were Chef Vijayabaskaran (General Secretary, IFCA), Chef MS Gupta, Chef Sudhir Sibal, Chef Dharmendra Lamba (President, TCA), Chef Vimal Dhar, Chef Nimish Bhatia, Kamal Krishnan, and Maud Miquau (Director, Alliance Française).

A key highlight was a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “AI – Ruin or Rule the Kitchen?” exploring the role of artificial intelligence and robotics in the culinary arts, while underscoring the importance of preserving culinary heritage.

Celebrating emerging talent, TCA hosted the Telangana Culinary League 2.0, a state-wide competition aimed at empowering future chefs. Regency College of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management clinched the title of Overall Champion for their innovation and culinary excellence.

The conclave featured an inspiring lineup of keynote sessions, including:

“Future Kitchens” – Chef Nimish Bhatia; “Rise of Regional Cuisine” – Chef Mandaar; “Beyond Biryani” – Begum Fatima Shahanaaz; “Food from Telangana Homes” – Radamma; “Social Media & Chef Branding” – Chef Jerson Fernandez; “Chef Wellness & Mindfulness” – Jiteesh Mogli

In his keynote address, Chef Manjit Singh Gill emphasised, “This association was formed to preserve our culinary roots and elevate them through innovation. Our kitchens are more than just workspaces—they are classrooms, temples of tradition, and crucibles of creativity.”

TCA President Chef Dharmendra Lamba remarked, “This celebration is not just about our journey so far but a commitment to building a future-ready culinary ecosystem—deeply rooted in culture yet open to innovation.”

In a gesture of social responsibility, TCA honored Youngistan Organisation and Regency College for their impactful life skills training programs for children in government safe homes, demonstrating the powerful role of hospitality in community upliftment.