Telangana Tourism Development Corporation CEO Kranthi Valluru with budding chefs from seven countries competing in the regional round of the 12th International Junior Chef Olympiad in Hyderabad. | Photo credit: NAGARA GOPAL
The state’s culinary heritage has the potential to become a major driver of global tourism, Telangana Tourism Development Corporation (TGTDC) CEO Kranthi Valluru said on Tuesday.
Speaking at the 12th International Young Chef Olympiad 2026 held at the International Institute of Hotel Management campus in Hyderabad, she said the diverse food traditions could put Telangana prominently on the global culinary map. “Telangana has great potential for culinary tourism,” she said.
Referring to the recently launched Culinary Experiential Tourism Accelerator, Ms Valluru said the initiative aims to groom rural entrepreneurs and connect them with global investors, chefs and innovation networks.
The participants prepared a number of dishes, which were evaluated by a jury of culinary experts. After completing the remaining regional rounds, the finalists will compete in Kolkata, where the winner will receive a cash prize of ₹15 lakh.
The competition is being held in five cities — Kolkata, Goa, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune — from February 1 to 6. The grand finale is scheduled for February 6 in Kolkata.
Published – 03 Feb 2026 20:55 IST
