Mangaluru: The Department of Hospitality Science at Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management, under Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), organised a unique culinary event titled “28 States – Chefs, Dishes, Bartenders, Beverages in 28 Minutes” to mark National Tourism Day.
Held at the YIASCM campus in Balmatta, the event was presented as the Fastest Culinary and Beverage Marathon representing each Indian state, showcasing India’s culinary diversity through a time-bound cooking challenge.
Culinary cadets represent 28 Indian states
The event featured 28 culinary cadets, each representing one of India’s 28 states. Within a strict time frame of 28 minutes, participants prepared an authentic regional dish along with a traditional signature beverage from their respective states.
The kitchen arena transformed into a vibrant culinary showcase reflecting India’s cultural diversity. Each preparation highlighted the rich heritage, ingredients, traditions and flavours associated with different regions of the country.
The event demonstrated not only culinary creativity but also discipline, teamwork and professional time management skills among students.
Guidance and coordination
The initiative was organised under the guidance of Prof. Jeevan Raj, Principal; Prof. Shareena P., Vice Principal and Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management; and Mr Narayan Sukumar, Vice Principal.
The event was spearheaded by Mr Mervin Jaison Vas, Head of the Department of Hospitality Science. Faculty conveners Mr Nitesh Someshwar and Mr Vinyas B coordinated the programme.
Documentation and reporting of the event were managed by Dr Anna and Ms Lakshmi B. M., while student leaders Ms Fathima Rifa, Ms Sanam and Mr Melroy supported the event’s execution.
Experiential learning through gastronomy
Organisers highlighted that the culinary marathon was more than a competitive cooking activity. Each dish represented a story of geography, culture and tradition, reinforcing the idea that gastronomy plays an important role in promoting tourism and cultural understanding.
The initiative provided students with an opportunity for experiential learning, enabling them to combine academic knowledge with practical industry-oriented skills.
By integrating culinary creativity with tourism awareness, the Department of Hospitality Science aimed to strengthen appreciation for India’s diverse culinary heritage.
Felicitation ceremony scheduled
To commemorate the achievement and recognise the participants, a felicitation and certificate distribution ceremony has been scheduled.
The ceremony will be held on March 7, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the YIASCM campus in Kulur, Mangaluru, where participants will be honoured for their contribution to the special culinary attempt.
Through this innovative event, Yenepoya University reaffirmed its commitment to promoting industry-oriented education, cultural engagement and professional skill development among hospitality students.