Saras food fest: Celebrating Indian flavours, women power

Anshita Mehra

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 4

The Saras Food Festival being held at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, is not just a feast for the senses but a vibrant tribute to India’s rich culinary heritage and the remarkable role women play in preserving and promoting traditional food. Organised by the Ministry of Rural Development, this one-of-a-kind festival, on till December 17, has turned Connaught Place into a bustling hub where more than 300 authentic dishes from 25 states are being served.

From the crispy Dal Baati Churma of Rajasthan to the flavourful Hilsa of Bengal, the festival offers a delicious taste of India’s regional cuisines. Visitors have been relishing Telangana’s Dum Biryani, Odisha’s Mughlai Chicken and Punjab’s Sarson Ka Saag with Makki Ki Roti, to name just a few.

Besides being a gastronomic delight, what makes the Saras Food Festival truly special is its focus on women empowerment. Nearly 150 women entrepreneurs and members of self-help groups from across the country are showcasing their culinary skills at the festival.

The presence of Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at the festival on Wednesday added to the celebratory atmosphere. “The Saras Mela has become a beacon of cultural unity. The aroma of traditional dishes made by our sisters is attracting people from all corners of Delhi.”

Chouhan went on to share stories of similar initiatives he came across during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, where he launched the Didi Cafe initiative to promote women. “The Didi Cafe, even today, is run by the women of the Ajeevika Mission. These women put their heart and soul into their work. They are dedicated, and they take their responsibilities seriously,” he explained.

As the Saras Food Festival continues to draw crowds, it is clear that it is not just a celebration of food but of resilience, culture, and the undeniable strength of women. The vibrant aromas, the lively conversations, and the smiles of women entrepreneurs are proof that when women rise, society flourishes. For anyone seeking to experience the diversity of Indian culture through food while supporting women’s empowerment, the Saras Food Festival is an unmissable event.