Christmas festivities begin with traditional cake-mixing ceremony

CT Institute of Hospitality Management (CTIHM), Shahpur Campus, celebrated the traditional cake-mixing ceremony with festive spirit. The institute follows this age-old culinary tradition every year to give students hands-on exposure to classical bakery practices that are an integral part of the global hospitality industry.

The ceremony not only marks the onset of the Christmas season but also reflects CTIHM’s commitment to preserving culinary heritage while training students in authentic, industry-relevant techniques.

As part of the ceremony, students, along with faculty members, prepared the special Christmas cake mix combining almonds, cashews, walnuts, candied ginger, prunes, raisins, tutti-frutti, and glazed cherries. These ingredients were blended and soaked in wine, brandy, and rum for a fortnight. The rich mixture will later be used to bake traditional Christmas plum cakes, symbolising the joy and warmth associated with the birth of Lord Jesus Christ. The décor and ambience reflected a vibrant Christmas theme, adding to the festive cheer.

The event was graced by guests Harkiran Janeja, Founder, Joy of Cooking Culinary Academy; MManya, Renowned Baker; Vikas, Human Resource Manager; and Chef Manoj Kumar Dalai, Sous Chef, Park Inn Jalandhar, who joined the students and faculty in the festive preparations.

Divoy Chhabra, Principal, CTIHM, addressed the students, highlighting the significance of the cake mixing tradition and its relevance in the hospitality sector. He emphasised how such hands-on activities help students become industry-ready professionals.

On this occasion, Dr Manbir Singh, Managing Director, and Tanika Singh, Joint Managing Director, CT Group, motivated the students to continue nurturing their talents by participating in such interactive and skill-enhancing events. Adding his thoughts, Dr Manbir Singh shared, “Cake mixing is more than a festive ritual. It is a celebration of teamwork, creativity, and craftsmanship.”