Culinary Art India to return at Aahar next month

The Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) has announced the 18th edition of Culinary Art India (CAI), scheduled from March 10–14, 2026 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, alongside the 40th edition of Aahar – The International Food & Hospitality Fair. Marking a significant milestone, this year’s competition has received official endorsement from the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS), aligning it with internationally benchmarked culinary sport standards.

Organised by ICF in collaboration with India Trade Promotion Organisation and Hospitality First with Spiritz Magazine as media partner, CAI 2026 is expected to attract over 600 professional chefs, apprentices and culinary students from across India. Over 18 categories will feature, including artistic pastry showpieces, wedding cakes, regional Indian cuisine, live cooking contests, millet-based dishes and chocolate artistry. The competition will follow a structured 100-point marking system assessing technique, hygiene, HACCP compliance, creativity and presentation.

Speaking about the upcoming edition, Chef Davinder Kumar, President, ICF, said, “Culinary Art India has always been a platform to elevate professional standards in our kitchens. With WACS endorsement this year, CAI 2026 places Indian chefs firmly on the global culinary sport map. It is our responsibility to nurture disciplined, skilled and confident professionals who can represent India with credibility and excellence worldwide.”

ICF General Secretary Chef Vivek Saggar added, “CAI 2026 is not just a competition; it is a learning arena. These competitions will be judged by a distinguished panel of World Association of Chefs’ Societies-certified jury members from India and abroad.”

Emphasising the broader vision, Chef Bharat Alagh, Vice President, ICF, shared, “Culinary Art India has consistently encouraged chefs to move beyond routine kitchen operations and embrace structured competition. With global standards now formally aligned through WACS endorsement, CAI 2026 will further strengthen India’s position in the international culinary arena.”

The jury will include WACS-certified members from India and abroad, chaired by Chef Rick Stephen, Certified Master Chef from Tasmania. ICF leaders emphasised that CAI 2026 will serve as both a competitive platform and a learning arena, strengthening professional credentials and enhancing India’s growing global culinary reputation.