Rice is not only a staple food on the plate but also a cultural mainstay in India. Rice makes a number of appearances in Indian culture, weddings, prayers and scriptures as a symbol of well-being and prosperity. The annual calendar of festivals has many celebrations based on the harvest cycle of rice. Café Delhi Heights is known for its innovative Food festivals from time to time, but this time they have designed a new concept in the form of ‘Rice above the Rest’. Vikrant Batra, Founder of Café Delhi Heights gives his insights about the importance of rice and food festival ‘Rice above the Rest’.
EXCERPTS
Q. What is the concept and the idea behind this innovative food festival ‘Rice above the Rest’? A. The basic concept behind ‘Rice above the Rest’ was to showcase the versatility of rice, which makes it the most loved grain all over the world. In Indian Culture as well, rice holds great spiritual and ritual significance. It is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Rice is a must at any major Indian cultural event, be it a morsel of kheer (rice pudding) or boiled rice being fed as the first solid food a child ever eats.
Q. What are the main delicacies and variety of rice which will be available during this food festival?
A. The menu has been designed keeping in mind the rice acceptance in different states in different forms. We have introduced many rice delicacies like Hyderabadi Biryani from Andhra Pradesh, Curd Rice from Karnataka, Pongal from Tamil Nadu, Bisi Bele Bath from Karnataka, Tehri from Lucknow, Zarda Rice from Kashmir, Yakhni Pulao from Kashmir, Goan Pilaf from Goa, Masale Bhaat from Maharashtra, Khichudi from West Bengal, Payesh from Assam and Jadoh from Meghalaya. We have also introduced international rice cuisines like Risotto from Italy, Paella from Spain, Jasmine Rice from China and Chipotle Burrito Bowl from Mexico
Q. What is the reason behind rice centric food festival?
A. The reason behind “Rice above the Rest” was to highlight rice’s versatility, which makes it the most much-loved grain in the entire globe. Also, we aim to show how beneficial rice is, to our bodies. It is a rich source of carbohydrates, easy on the digestive system, natural anti-inflammatory, controls blood sugar levels and protects body against the chronic diseases.
Q. What is the response and footfall you are witnessing at your various outlets after organising this food festival?
A. We are already getting great responses from the customers. Since rice can be eaten as a side dish, customers are having fun eating it with the dishes that are already on our menu. Through our specially curated “Rice above the Rest” booklet, the customers are coming to know about the benefits of rice and how it is no less than any other grain.
Q. What are the other initiatives Cafe Delhi Heights is planning to organise in 2023?
A. For the coming months, we are planning to do Valentine’s and Fish Trap menus and many more menus keeping up with the food trends and choices of our guests. Other than this we plan to introduce various offers and fun activities for the customers to enjoy.