Almora: The third phase of the Almora Literature Festival 2025, organized under the aegis of Green Hills Trust, was inaugurated with much enthusiasm through a traditional cuisine competition and a cultural poster exhibition. The main objective of the event was to preserve the local culture and reconnect the younger generation with their cultural roots.
The event began with a traditional food competition exclusively for women, featuring a total of 25 participating teams. Each team was required to prepare and bring two dishes – one traditional Kumaoni recipe and one creative dish. Participants were encouraged to follow the taste and cooking style of their grandmothers’ traditional recipes, bringing back the lost flavors of the region.
The judging panel included culinary experts Mrs. Meera Joshi, Prof. Ila Sah, and Mrs. Parveen Hamid. The traditional dishes presented included Bhatiya, Bhat ka Jhola, Maas ka Chais, Sundar Kala (Jauhari), and Ras-Bhaat, while the creative category featured innovative items like Banana Cutlets, Bhat Cutlets, and Soybean Halwa.
This event was successfully hosted at the Shikhar Hotel Auditorium, with sponsorship from Hotel Shikhar & Restaurant. The event was graced by Chief Guest Lajja Pant, and special guests Vinita Lakhchaura, Lata Bora, Anjali Sharma, Shobha Joshi, and Dr. Durgapal, whose presence added to the grandeur of the occasion.
The results of the competition will be announced during the main Almora Literature Festival scheduled from October 10–12 at Malla Mahal (Old Collectorate), Almora. The top teams will be honored with titles – ‘Kitchen Queen’ (First), ‘Master Chef Grihalaxmi’ (Second), and ‘Thali Ki Rani’ (Third), while all participants will be felicitated with the title of ‘Swaad Sangini’. Winners will also receive prizes sponsored by Hotel Shikhar.
In continuation of the festival, a poster exhibition competition on the theme “Cultural Heritage of Almora” was held at the auditorium of Ramsay Inter College. A total of 175 students from various schools across the city participated in the event. Through colors and creativity, the students depicted Almora’s folk art, traditional attire, architecture, customs, festivals, handicrafts, and folk music in vibrant forms.
Renowned painter Khurram Ameer was the chief guest for the exhibition. While observing the display, he remarked, “These paintings reflect not just artistic talent, but also serve as vibrant cultural documents.” The judging panel included Jeet Upadhyay, Jagmohan Agri, and Harsh Sah.
The competition was divided into Junior, Sub-Junior, and Senior categories, and participants also presented thoughts behind their artwork, explaining the themes and inspiration behind their posters.
Special guests present on the occasion included Meeta Upadhyay, Madanmohan Verma, Girish Malhotra, Vinay Wilson, Neeraj Pant, Shobha Joshi, Leela Bora, and Dr. Durgapal.
The entire program was successfully conducted with the support of Anokhe Lal & Sons and Himalaya Dental Care.
