This International Women’s Day, Celebrate Modern Indian Flavours with a South Indian Accent Over ‘Shefs At The Leela’ at The Leela Palace Jaipur

In a pioneering step towards enhancing diversity and inclusion in the culinary realm, The Leela proudly unveils the fifth edition of ‘Shefs at The Leela,’ a forward-thinking culinary diversity initiative developed in partnership with ‘Dean With Us’. 

Scheduled for the 9th of March, 2024, this program will witness three accomplished chefs collaborating to craft a remarkable dining experience at Mohan Mahal, the esteemed restaurant of The Leela Palace Jaipur. 

Designed to amplify the presence of women in the culinary domain, this initiative will feature meticulously curated dinners, insightful panel discussions, and exclusive masterclasses, cultivating an environment that nurtures and champions talented individuals. The pinnacle of this initiative will be the #ShefsAtTheLeela gala dinner at The Leela Palace Jaipur, bringing together three globally acclaimed female chefs to not only showcase their culinary prowess but also champion a resolute commitment to reshaping the narrative and setting new standards in the culinary arena. 

Over the past couple of years, more than 10 of India's leading female chefs have united to deliver exceptional culinary experiences. This year’s lineup comprises three internationally renowned women chefs: Chef Rasika Mythily Venkatesa, Chef Tashyaa Mehrotra, and Chef Tejasvi Chandela, whose inspiring journeys not only tantalize taste buds but also ignite a passion for culinary finesse. The Leela is on a mission to inspire others to acknowledge and value the significance of women's participation in the industry, promoting a culture of inclusivity, relevance, and empowerment. Together, they are dedicated to fostering a more diverse and equitable culinary landscape.

Chef Rasika Mythily Venkatesa, distinguished as one of the youngest CDCs in the industry after earning the title of Chef de Cuisine at Mourad in 2022 under Chef Mourad Lahlou’s tutelage, also holds the prestigious Star Chefs - Rising Star Award in San Francisco.

Chef Tashyaa Mehrotra leads the kitchen at Delhi's sole 100% vegan restaurant, People of Tomorrow, focusing on sustainable cooking to redefine vegan cuisine’s boundaries and showcase its depth and richness.

Chef Tejasvi Chandela, a Le Cordon Bleu alumna, made history by being the first Indian pastry chef to win the esteemed ‘Pastry Talent of The Year Award’ in Paris by La Liste.

Launched in 2022 in partnership with Dean With Us, ‘Shefs at The Leela’ strives to champion women chefs, fostering equity within the culinary realm. This innovative platform provides established female chefs a stage to share their journeys and showcase their talents through curated dinners, panel discussions, and specialized masterclasses, inspiring the next generation of aspiring women chefs. Having successfully hosted four editions across various Leela properties, including The Leela Palace Bengaluru, The Leela Ambience Gurugram, The Leela Palace Chennai, and The Leela Bhartiya City, the forthcoming event is poised to uphold the tradition of excellence set by its predecessors.

Abhishek Sharma, General Manager of The Leela Palace Jaipur, lauded ‘Shefs at The Leela’ as a homage to talent and expertise, evolving into a platform that celebrates the achievements of women chefs. He emphasized its role in fostering a community that inspires, supports, and enriches diversity within culinary spheres. The enthusiastic response to past events has been heartening, and the upcoming installment at The Leela Palace Jaipur is eagerly anticipated. Scheduled across two days, the event will kick off with interactive sessions and engaging discussions over high tea with the Shefs on 8th March, culminating in a splendid sit-down dinner on 9th March meticulously prepared by an all-female team.