Random Musings of a Technocrat

If there's one thing that defines the soul of Odisha, it’s the symphony of flavors in its cuisine—earthy, hearty, and deeply rooted in tradition. And this week, Hyderabad gets to taste that soul. From 29th April to 4th May 2025 , Radisson Hyderabad Hitech City , in collaboration with its all-day dining restaurant Cascade , is hosting a celebration of culinary heritage — the Odisha Food Festival . I had the opportunity to dine there, and let me tell you: it was a journey worth every bite. First Impressions The ambiance is warm and inviting, decked with subtle Odia cultural motifs and soft traditional music that sets the tone for the evening. The aroma that hits you right at the entrance is a tease — smoky, spicy, and nostalgic. What’s on the Plate? Let’s break down Menu , the lineup I devoured, and I promise — you’ll want to bookmark this! Starters That Spark Joy Aloo Chop and Rasi Baigan Fry : Crispy, flavorful, and perfect with a glass of chilled sarbat . Bhubaneswar Style C...

In Bangladesh, massive crowds join Poila Boishakh processions carrying vibrant masks and motifs, showcasing the festival’s artistic flair and unity. For Bengalis living far from home—like those in Hyderabad—such scenes evoke nostalgia and pride. Poila Boishakh , the Bengali New Year, is a time of new beginnings and cultural celebration. Every year around April 14th or 15th, Bengalis across the world mark the first day of the Bengali calendar with joy. In Hyderabad, a city known for its diversity, the Bengali community comes together on this day to recreate the warmth of their homeland. They greet each other with “Shubho Noboborsho” (Happy New Year) and celebrate with food, music, and festivities that make them feel “a home away from home.” Cultural Importance of Poila Boishakh Poila Boishakh (also spelled Pohela Boishakh ) carries deep cultural and historical significance for Bengalis. It heralds the month of Boishakh and thus the start of a new year in the traditional Bengali sola...

The cake-mixing ceremony is a festive ritual that ushers in the Christmas season, celebrated with joy and enthusiasm in various parts of the world. Originating centuries ago in Europe, this tradition revolves around preparing the mixture for the classic Christmas fruitcake. Families and friends gather to blend together dried fruits, nuts, and fragrant spices, soaking them in spirits that enhance the cake’s flavors as they age. What makes the cake-mixing ceremony unique is that it’s not just about the final product—the cake itself—but rather about the memories created, the wishes made, and the anticipation of something special. The Essence of the Cake-Mixing Ceremony Traditionally, the cake-mixing ceremony symbolized prosperity, good fortune, and joy for the coming year. The ritual usually starts in November, as people begin to look forward to the holiday season. A variety of ingredients like raisins, apricots, cranberries, walnuts, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg are mixed with ...