A Seasonal Welcome
The grand dinner hosted for global leaders at the Bharat Mandapam for the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 was a culinary representation of India's agricultural
ethos, designed by the ITC Group. The menu was thoughtfully curated around 'Shishir Ritu,' the traditional Indian winter season, embodying the principle of "Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi" – acknowledging both development and heritage. This theme underscored the importance of indigenous millets and uniquely tagged produce, aiming to nourish and refresh the distinguished guests. Among the attendees were prominent figures like French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, alongside influential tech innovators and policymakers, all gathered to experience India's vision for an AI-driven future.
Street Food Reimagined
The culinary journey commenced with 'Varnila,' a starter that artfully reinvented Indian street food. This vibrant chaat was a delightful explosion of colors and textures, featuring delicate baby spinach crisps and spheres of creamy yogurt. The dish offered a perfectly balanced interplay of sweet and tangy notes from tamarind-date chutney and a refreshing cilantro relish. It was seasoned with a signature Old Delhi masala, and crowned with a crisp made from multifloral Jowar, or Sorghum, millet. This opening course provided a delightful 213 kcal per 100g, setting an innovative tone for the meal.
Flavors from the Mountains
The main course, named 'Sasya' meaning 'The Harvest,' transported diners to the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, showcasing the distinct 'Pahadi' mountain flavors. Central to this dish was 'Rajma Gilawat,' featuring the renowned GI-tagged Munsyari Rajma, celebrated for its exceptionally creamy consistency and subtle nutty taste. Accompanying this were grains prepared as a fragrant pulao, a delightful blend of Pahadi rice and Jhangora, also known as Barnyard Millet. The ensemble was completed with 'Kumaoni Aloo Gutke,' tender potato chunks seasoned with the aromatic Himalayan spice Jakhya, and served alongside a smooth, rich tomato-anari (pomegranate) sauce. This hearty main course contributed 331 kcal per 100g, embodying the essence of Uttarakhand's culinary traditions.
Artisanal Breads Showcase
To complement the main course, a selection of artisanal breads highlighted India's diverse and rich baking heritage, spanning from Uttar Pradesh to Kashmir. Among these was 'Taftaan,' a leavened flatbread originating from Uttar Pradesh, delicately infused with saffron and known for its exceptionally light and flaky texture. Representing the spirit of the Kashmir Valley, 'Kashmiri Girda' was presented – a traditional round bread characterized by its distinctive dimpled center, baked to perfection. These breads offered a delicious and authentic taste of India's regional craftsmanship, prepared fresh to enhance the dining experience.
Modern Sweet Fusion
The dessert course, intriguingly titled 'Nisarga' or 'Nature’s Creation,' masterfully merged classic Indian sweets with contemporary global pastry techniques. The star of this section was a unique 'Rasmalai Tres Leches,' a rich chena cake sponge lovingly soaked in sweetened milk, offering a delightful twist on the beloved Indian dessert. This creation was elegantly presented on a base of Bajra, or Pearl Millet, streusel, complemented by a vibrant winter berry preserve. Accompanying this sweet finale were beverage choices including traditional Kashmiri Kahwa, aromatic South Indian Filter Coffee, and classic Darjeeling Tea. The evening concluded with an exquisite Indian Rose and Mishri Gulkand Chocolate Leaf, a delightful nod to the traditional paan, providing a perfect end to the gastronomic experience.
Strategic Culinary Message
Beyond the delightful flavors, the dinner's menu carried a significant strategic message for 2026, powerfully supporting India's "Millet Mission." The deliberate and prominent inclusion of various millets—such as Jowar, Jhangora, and Bajra—served as a clear demonstration to the international leaders present. It underscored India's commitment to cultivating sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices. This culinary diplomacy showcased how these ancient grains are integral to India's modern, AI-driven food security strategy, highlighting innovation rooted in tradition for a healthier planet and populace.
