In a vibrant showcase of global flavors and friendship, the SRM Institute of Hotel Management (SRM IHM), in association with the Taiwan Education Centre at SRMIST and the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), Chennai, hosted the Taiwan–India Culinary Exchange Program at the Kattankulathur campus. The event marked 30 years of diplomatic and cultural collaboration between Taiwan and India.
The occasion was inaugurated with an enthusiastic opening ceremony in the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Mr. Hsu Shu-Chih, Director General of TECC, Mr. Dennis Tsai, Counsellor and First Secretary of TECC, and renowned Taiwanese chefs LI Chia Chi, Culinary Director, and LIAO Tai Chun. From SRMIST, Dr. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, and Dr. D. Antony Ashok Kumar, Director of SRM IHM and Director of the Taiwan Education Centre, extended a warm welcome to the guests and participants.
The program featured live culinary demonstrations by the visiting chefs, who prepared authentic Taiwanese dishes such as Crispy Tofu Fresh Fish, Taiwanese Stir-fried Lamb with Scallions, Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs (Veg), and the internationally loved Taiwan Bubble Tea. These sessions captivated the audience and opened up vibrant discussions on food culture, cooking techniques, and international hospitality trends.
Adding to the cultural immersion, Ms. Theresa Hu, Managing Director of Taiwan Maami, conducted a special interactive demonstration and tasting session on the preparation of Taiwan’s iconic Bubble Tea, much to the delight of students and faculty.
A dedicated cultural exchange segment encouraged dialogue between Indian and Taiwanese culinary traditions, reinforcing the spirit of academic and gastronomic collaboration. The event also provided students a unique opportunity to engage with global culinary experts and gain insights into Taiwan’s rich food heritage.
The day concluded with a closing ceremony where certificates of appreciation were presented to the visiting chefs, followed by a commemorative group photograph capturing the shared spirit of friendship and cultural celebration.
The Taiwan–India Culinary Exchange Program not only honored a 30-year milestone in bilateral ties but also exemplified SRM IHM’s commitment to fostering global exposure, cross-cultural learning, and culinary excellence in hospitality education.
