Chef Vivek Saggar, General Secretary of the Indian Culinary Forum, has been honoured by the Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality (CTH), UK for his participation in a record-setting culinary event featuring 500 varieties of raita prepared by 100 chefs.
In a celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage and gastronomic diversity, Chef Vivek Saggar has been recognised for his participation in the world’s largest raita showcase, a culinary initiative that brought together 100 chefs to create 500 varieties of the iconic Indian yoghurt-based accompaniment. The achievement has been formally acknowledged by the London Book of World Records, which awarded participating chefs a Certificate of Participation for their contribution to the event.
The event, titled “The World’s Largest Raita Mahotsav: 500 Varieties Prepared by 100 Chefs,” was held on September 21, 2026, at Hotel Omega in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. Designed to showcase the vast regional diversity of Indian cuisine, the initiative highlighted how a seemingly simple dish such as raita can be transformed through local ingredients, flavours, traditions, and culinary techniques from across the country.
Chef Vivek Saggar, who currently serves as General Secretary of the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF), Brand Ambassador for CTH UK, and Mentor to the International Institute of Gastronomy, Government of Nepal, was among the culinary professionals whose contribution was recognised through Certification No. LBOWRE6050561E issued by the London Book of World Records.
Commenting on the recognition, the Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality (CTH), UK congratulated Chef Vivek Saggar for contributing to an initiative that celebrates India’s culinary traditions and brings together professionals from across the hospitality industry. The organisation noted that the achievement reflects the growing global appreciation of Indian gastronomy and the efforts of culinary leaders in promoting professional excellence.
The event also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting India’s food heritage. Raita, a staple accompaniment served across Indian households and restaurants, varies significantly from region to region, incorporating local fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and preparation styles. Showcasing 500 varieties in a single event offered a unique platform to highlight this diversity and demonstrate the creativity of India’s culinary community.
Over the years, Chef Vivek Saggar has been actively involved in culinary education, chef development programmes, hospitality training, and international collaborations. Through his work with the Indian Culinary Forum and global hospitality organisations, he has contributed to building stronger professional networks and creating opportunities for Indian chefs on international platforms.
The record-setting event was organised by Kavita Master Cookery Classes, with Catch serving as the powered-by partner and Madhusudan as co-powered partner. Beyond setting a record, the initiative highlighted the growing role of culinary festivals and food events in promoting regional cuisine, professional exchange, and gastronomic tourism in India.
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