![The festival's aim is to honour the rich culinary spectrum of India](http://media.assettype.com/outlooktraveller%2F2023-08%2Fe4b78dc7-0122-4b41-bcac-ec36ea2023fe%2Fshutterstock_2152516457.jpg?rect=0%2C148%2C4400%2C2475&w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with various states and Union Territories, is set to kick off a vibrant three-day food festival from Friday, August 18, to Sunday, August 20, 2023. This event, known as the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav & Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat Food Festival," serves as a delightful showcase of diverse regional cuisines, aiming to illuminate the distinctive culinary delights each state brings to the table.
Taking place within the premises of State Sadans or Bhawans of the participating states in New Delhi, this festival embodies the spirit of unity and shared heritage. The primary goal is to honour the rich culinary spectrum of India, casting a spotlight on the unique gastronomic offerings that define each region. By doing so, the festival fosters a sense of togetherness and pride in our country's varied heritage.
With the participation of 23 states and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Gujarat, Assam, Mizoram, Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Goa, Meghalaya, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Nagaland, the festival embodies the essence of unity in diversity. It resonates with the wider initiative of promoting domestic tourism and cultivating a deep appreciation for our roots.
Complementing the delectable spread of cuisines, select states will also display their traditional handicrafts, further enhancing the sensory experience. This exhibition is not merely an exploration of tastes and textures; it is a voyage into the heart of our nation's rich cultural legacy.
Beyond celebrating India's culinary heritage, the food festival embraces the ethos of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat. It stands as a tribute to the country's journey and the integration of its diverse cultures. By encouraging citizens to engage in the "Dekho Apna Desh" initiative, the festival calls on us to explore the hidden gems within our homeland. This food festival will serve as an invitation to go on cultural exploration, savour the flavours of India's diverse regions, and cherish the beauty of our collective heritage.
(With inputs from PTI)