Bhubaneswar: Ace Administrator Balwant Singh, Vice Chairman Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) is ensuring “Hearty Meals” for the visitors to Ekamra Utsav, which has been drawing an increasing crowd to Ama Byanjan, where food stalls are becoming a major attraction.
Shri Singh, an avid foddie has flooded the Ekamra Utsav arena with Odia Cusines, which was appreciated by the visitors, who enjoyed varieties of delicacy.
Within the chain of four stalls, the first stall features a rotating menu of Odisha cuisine, tailored to match the ongoing festivals. With Odisha boasting thirteen festivals in twelve months, the stalls offer a diverse culinary experience reflecting the festive spirit.
Each day of the seven-day event is themed around festivals like Makar Sankranti, Raja, Kartik Purnima, Nuakhai, Kumar Purnami, Manavasa Gurubaar and Bali Yatra. For instance, Wednesday’s menu, coinciding with Kumar Purnami, showcased dishes such as Bhushimishri Pana, Dalma Chop with Tomatoes, Dates, Khata Yam, Chanda Chakata, Choco Caramel Muan, and Chaula Khiri, with prices starting at Rs 50.
Today, patrons can indulge in a variety of cakes. Notably, Master Chef Avinash graced the stall, engaging with visitors and sharing insights on the culinary delights offered.
One of the highlights is the wild food stall nestled, where daily gatherings indulge in tribal cuisine delights. From kanbora baha paired with khaseri pakodi (chickpea pakoka) to kai chutney, the menu offers a rich array of flavors including, Khaseri Pakudi served with Kawnra Baha (Roselle Flower), Simjil Pakudi (Chicken) served with Kawnra Baha (Roselle Flower), Jil Rappah (Chicken) served with Haw Chutney, Kahnda sala Iccha Rappah Pumpkin Flower with Prawn Served with Haw Chutney, Uuch Raaph (Mushroom) Served with Haw Chutney.
Also, the menu includes Simjil Soley (Chicken with Palwa Chutney (Tamarind Leaves) and Ghantal Soley (Jackfruit) with Palwa Chutney (Tamarind Leaves).
Quenching thirsts are Handi Sarbat, Tonka Torani, and refreshing national drinks infused with Orange, Lemon, and Mint.
At the helm of this culinary adventure is Master Chef Madhusmita Soren, renowned for crafting the iconic Kai Chutney, recently bestowed with the prestigious GI tag during her participation in the MasterChef program.
The demand for her kai chutney is palpable, with patrons even bringing their own tins from home to savor its unique flavors. However, the red rice khechudi and patra poda items also hold their own as popular choices among festival-goers.
As the clock strikes 9, the stalls witness a flurry of activity, with all the delectable offerings sold out, leaving satisfied palates and eager anticipation for the next day’s culinary adventures.