Bhubaneswar, March 25: Odisha's rich culinary heritage is set to captivate a national audience as Celebrity MasterChef India prepares to feature the State’s authentic and age-old dishes. For the first time, Odisha’s iconic Pakhala platter and sacred temple cuisine will take center stage, offering a unique opportunity to introduce the depth of Odia food traditions to a broader audience.
This initiative, led by the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, seeks to establish Odisha as a top culinary destination in India. It aims to highlight the State’s diverse food culture, distinctive ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques. Odisha’s participation in Celebrity MasterChef India aligns with its vision to elevate its gastronomic identity beyond its borders and win the hearts of food enthusiasts across the nation.
As part of the show’s Odisha Cuisine Challenge, celebrity chefs will take on the exciting task of reimagining two of the State’s most cherished food traditions: the Odisha Pakhala Platter and the Odisha Prasad Culture.
Odisha Pakhala Platter – This challenge celebrates Odisha’s beloved fermented rice dish, Pakhala. It will feature variations such as Dahi Pakhala, Chunka Pakhala, and Ghia Pakhala, accompanied by traditional sides like Chingudi Chechha, Kakharu Phula Bhaja, Badi Chura, and Machha Bhaja. The chefs will be challenged to balance the dish’s flavours and textures while maintaining cultural authenticity, all while presenting it in a modern culinary style.
Odisha Prasad Culture – Inspired by the Mahaprasad of the Jagannath Temple, this challenge will see chefs recreating sacred temple offerings like Kanika, Dalma, Ambula Khata, Mohura, and Kheera Gaentha, adhering to the sattvic principles of temple cuisine. The goal is to honor the divine simplicity of Odia temple food, while presenting it as a fine-dining experience.
The news of Odisha’s inclusion in Celebrity MasterChef India has already sparked a wave of excitement on social media, with food enthusiasts, chefs, and supporters of Odia culture rallying behind the initiative. The official hashtag #OdishaInCelebrityMasterChef has gained significant traction, with users sharing personal stories, recipes, and favourite Odia dishes—fueling an online conversation about the State’s rich food heritage.
The Department of Tourism has actively promoted the campaign across digital platforms, inviting people to explore and celebrate the richness of Odisha’s culinary traditions. As the show’s premiere approaches, anticipation continues to build.
Additionally, home cooks and netizens are encouraged to join the conversation with the hashtag #MyOdiaKitchenTales, where they can share their personal takes on traditional recipes, cooking methods, and cherished family dishes. By tagging @odishatourismofficial, participants can showcase how they bring Odia cuisine to life in their own kitchens, whether in Odisha, elsewhere in India, or abroad.
In a special effort to make the campaign more interactive, Odisha Tourism will feature selected stories and personal anecdotes, shining a spotlight on the individuals behind the dishes and the love they have for Odia food. From cherished heirloom recipes to everyday innovations, each story will reflect the warmth, pride, and cultural depth that define Odisha’s culinary spirit.
