This year, the visitors to ‘Dasara Aahara Mela’ (Food Mela) can enjoy a variety of foreign dishes. The district administration and Dasara Food sub-committee have planned to rope in foreign students to participate in the food mela, to introduce international dishes to the local population.
Food Mela, is a major attraction during Dasara from the past several years and ‘Bamboo Biryani’, prepared by tribal people, was in great demand the previous Dasara. Owing to the huge response from the people, the food mela was organised at two venues last year. This time, the mela will be organised at multiple venues – Scouts and Guides Grounds and on a ground near Lalitha Mahal Palace.
Deputy Commissioner Abhiram G Sankar said, a large number of foreign students are pursuing education in the city and it is an opportunity for them to introduce their country’s food habits. Besides, foreign students, Tibetans, residing in Bylakuppe settlement, will also be part of the mela, he said.
With international participants this time, the mela will be different from the previous ones. A few stalls will be reserved for foreign participants and the authorities will make all necessary arrangements. According to sources, the authorities have approached a few chefs, who are professional in preparing foreign dishes.
150 stalls planned
The authorities have planned to open a total of 150 stalls at both the venues. Each venue may have 75 stalls, depending on the availability of space. The stalls offer a wide range of food items, including, traditional and organic food dishes, Mysuru style, coastal food and North Karnataka delicacies among others.
Besides, a variety of activities have been planned to enthrall the visitors. Activities such as cooking competition, eating competition have been organised. The authorities have planned to invite celebrities to be part of the mela to popularise the event. Actor couple Sihi Kahi Chandru and Geetha has been invited to participate. The couple would organise a few events and will also prepare some delicious dishes.
