Mangaluru: The Department of Hospitality Science at Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management (YIASCM) successfully hosted the grand award ceremony of its culinary reality competition “ChampYen Chef – Season 2 Grand Finale” on May 3, 2026, at the YIASCM Auditorium in Balmatta.
The grand finale witnessed enthusiastic participation from culinary enthusiasts, hospitality professionals, celebrities, students, and invited guests, transforming the evening into a vibrant celebration of culinary innovation, creativity, and hospitality excellence.
After several competitive rounds showcasing technical expertise, creativity, and presentation skills, Ms. Uzma Sadiya emerged as the winner of ChampYen Chef – Season 2, while Dr. Prajwal N. D secured the First Runner-Up position and Mr. Ibrahim Khaleel was declared Second Runner-Up.
Grand ceremony attended by dignitaries and celebrities
The programme commenced at 4 pm with a ceremonial welcome for dignitaries, celebrities, participants, and guests. A vibrant band troupe escorted the invitees, creating a festive atmosphere at the venue.
The event was graced by Dr. Aswini Dutt R., Registrar of Yenepoya Deemed to be University, who attended as the Chief Guest.
Several distinguished personalities from the hospitality, entertainment, media, and corporate sectors were also present, including Mohd. Ashiq, Brand Ambassador of ChampYen Chef Season 2 and winner of MasterChef India Season 8; Chef Komal S. Prabhu, Managing Director of Maharaja Family Restaurant; Mr. Alexis Ronald Castelino, Director of Daijiworld Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Arvind Shrivastav, Senior Centre Director of Fiza by Nexus Mall; Ms. Nisha, Marketing Head of Fiza by Nexus Mall; and Dr. Krishna Shenoy, Director and CEO of The Sea View, Mangalore.
The grand finale also witnessed the presence of several celebrities and influencers from the entertainment and social media sectors, including Ms. Remona Evette Pereira, Golden Book of Records holder; actor and director Mr. Eltton Jeff; social media influencer Mr. Sharan Chilimbi; actress and model Ms. Wencita Dias; dancer and actress Ms. Advika Shetty; and actress Ms. Shailashree Mulki.
Cultural performances add glamour to the finale
The event featured a variety of cultural performances and entertainment segments alongside the culinary competition.
The programme began with a prayer song titled “Ek Tuhi Barosa,” followed by a traditional Yakshagana welcome dance presented by hospitality students Raksha and Umavathi.
The event was anchored by Ms. Shreya.
Highlights of the evening included felicitation ceremonies, a classical dance performance by Ms. Remona Evette Pereira, semi-classical dance performances by hospitality students Gayathri and Srilakshmi, a traditional Tulu song by Ananya Narayan, special dance performances by celebrity guests, and the presentation of trailers for “Dev Das na Leela” and “Kajja.”
A special pageant walk by Ms. Wencita Dias also drew appreciation from the audience.
Several dignitaries and celebrities were felicitated during the programme for their contributions and support towards the success of ChampYen Chef Season 2.
Winners across multiple categories honoured
Apart from the grand finale winners, awards were presented to winners across various competition categories.
The Budding Chef Category was won by Ms. Sanika K, while Ms. Vidya V. Shetty secured the Housewife Category title. Ms. Vimala Raju Poojary won the Geriatric Category, and Ms. Sahana S. Nirmal emerged victorious in the Faculty Category.
Mr. Madhav S. Mallya won the Food Vlogger Category, while Ms. Nurah Sheikh secured the General Category title.
Each category winner received a Chef Cap and Apron, framed certificate, trophy, cash prize of ₹5,000, and a gift hamper sponsored by Aruna Masala.
Uzma Sadiya crowned winner of Season 2
The final results were officially announced by Mr. Mervin Jaison Vas, Head of the Department of Hospitality Science at YIASCM and organiser of the event.
Mr. Ibrahim Khaleel was declared the Second Runner-Up and received a Chef Cap and Apron, framed certificate, runner-up trophy, cash prize of ₹10,000, and a gift hamper from Aruna Masala.
Dr. Prajwal N. D was announced as the First Runner-Up and received a Chef Cap and Apron, framed certificate, runner-up trophy, cash prize of ₹20,000, and a gift hamper.
Ms. Uzma Sadiya was crowned the winner of ChampYen Chef – Season 2 and was awarded the prestigious Golden Chef Coat, Chef Cap and Apron, framed certificate, winner’s trophy, cash prize of ₹40,000, and a gift hamper from Aruna Masala.
Event promotes hospitality excellence and experiential learning
The event received extensive media coverage through Daijiworld TV 24×7 and official social media platforms, which showcased behind-the-scenes moments and highlights from the grand finale.
The programme was organised under the guidance of Dr. Jeevan Raj, Principal; Dr. Shareena P., Vice Principal and Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management; Mr. Narayan Sukumara, Vice Principal; and Mr. Mervin Jaison Vas, Head of the Department of Hospitality Science.
The organisers also acknowledged the support of sponsors including Sham Institute, Mangalore; JoJo International, Mumbai; Stylewear Tailors, Mangalore; Maharaja Family Restaurant; Aruna Masala; and Mangalore Days.
Officials stated that ChampYen Chef – Season 2 successfully promoted culinary innovation, hospitality excellence, experiential learning, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry.
The programme concluded with the National Anthem.
