5-6 JULY, 2025
CONFERENCE AGENDA
NATIONAL CONFERENCE & EXCELLENCE AWARDS

5 JULY 2025
DAY 1
FUTURE OF FOOD & MATERIALS
MAIN STAGE
09:00
AM
.
Registrations
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.
10:00
AM
.
Inaugural Address
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
Lamp Lighting Ceremony followed by introduction to Vegan India Conference 2025.
10:25
AM
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Keynote Address
Hon'ble Dr. Justice D.Y.
Chandrachud,
Former Chief Justice of India
Our esteemed keynote speaker will explore the transformative potential of the Vegan Revolution in India, highlighting how plant-based innovations are shaping the nation’s sustainable future. From food systems to ethical fashion, this talk will inspire actionable steps toward a more compassionate and eco-conscious India
10:45
AM
FIRESIDE
CHAT
Woven Differently: The EORI Story and the Future of Vegan Materials
Manish Pareek,
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer at Eori™
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
This fireside chat explores the evolution of vegan materials in fashion through the lens of EORI’s pioneering journey. From plant-based innovation to ethical design, discover how emerging brands are challenging norms, creating alternatives to leather, and shaping a more conscious future for fashion.
11:10
AM
PANEL
From Niche to Nation: Scaling Dairy Alternatives for the Indian Market
Rohit Bhagat,
General Manager and Business Head, Life Health Foods
Harshad Parekh,
Co-Founder of Plantacious
Sonal,
CEO, WhiteCub Vegan Foods
Rishu Sharma,
Plant-based chef, Entrepreneur, and Co-founder, Plan B Foods
Moderated by
Abhay Rangan,
Chief Business Officer, Senara GmbH, Founder and Former CEO of One Good (acquired)
From almond milk in morning chai to cashew-based butters and cheeses on dinner plates, the landscape of dairy consumption in India is rapidly evolving.
This panel dives into the heart of India’s dairy-free shift—unpacking who today’s consumers are, what innovations are redefining taste and texture, and how brands can meet the unique cultural and culinary demands of the Indian market.
Are we ready to move beyond early adopters and into the mainstream? What are the real barriers to scale—price, availability, or perception? And what will it truly take to make plant-based dairy a staple in Indian households?
11:50
AM
PRESENTATION
Democratizing Access to Complete Protein for 8 Billion
Dr. Gaurav Sharma,
Advisor at Shandi Global.
Complete protein shouldn’t be expensive, exclusive, or unsustainable. Shandi Global is turning that belief into action, using food science, innovation, and a plant-based approach to make high-quality protein accessible to all.
12:00
PM
PANEL
Building for Bharat: Raising the Right Capital for the Right Growth
Manish Pareek,
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer at Eori™
Siddharth Kothari,
Partner, Ahimsa VC
Rishabh Mariwala,
Managing Partner- Sharrp Ventures, Director - Marico Ltd. & Kaya Ltd., Investor
Karan Mehta,
Venture Principal and Director, India – Green Frontier Capital
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder of Vegan India Conference, Vegan First, and Ekatva Festival
In India’s rapidly evolving landscape, building for Bharat means solving real problems with bold innovation—not just chasing metrics. This session explores how founders and investors can align on long-term impact, realistic expectations, and sustainable scale. From identifying your startup’s stage to choosing the right kind of capital—VCs, family offices, HNIs, or seed funds—our panel will break down the pros, cons, and strategic considerations behind raising the right kind of money for the right kind of growth.
12:40
PM
PRESENTATION
Plant-Powered Growth: Unlocking the Vegan Market in the Middle East
Wasim Khan,
Managing Director, UNBX Global Impex & Trade PVT LTD
Come explore the emerging opportunities of the vegan product market in the Middle East, and how to enter, market and scale your business there with simple one point contact with UNBX Global’s - Global Market Entry and Acceleration Program (GMEA Program)
01:00
PM
.
LUNCH
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01:55
PM
PANEL
Global Consumption Reimagined: Voices from the Global Plant-Based Movement
Matthew Glover,
Co-Founder of Veganuary. Managing Director at Veg Capital
Dr. Sailesh Rao,
Founder and Executive Director of Climate Healers
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder of Vegan India Conference, Vegan First, and Ekatva Festival
In the face of climate, health, and ethical challenges, how we consume has never mattered more. Join Matthew Glover, Co-founder of Veganuary, and
Dr. Sailesh Rao, founder of Climate Healers, for a fireside chat exploring the global shift toward plant-based living. Through advocacy, innovation, and systems change, they reveal how rethinking consumption can drive a more just and sustainable future
02:25
PM
PANEL
Strategic Levers in Plant-Based Meat: What Drives Consumer Adoption and Market Growth
Abhinav Sinha,
CEO & VP Strategy, GoodDot
Sairaj Dhondh,
Founder & CEO, Wakao Foods - India’s first Jackfruit Company
Roma Roy Choudhury,
Founder & COO, Evolved Foods
Dr. Gaurav Sharma,
Advisor at Shandi Global
Dr. Prabodh Halde,
Head Global Regulatory , Public Policy and Advocacy at Marico Ltd | Chairman for Advancement of Small & Medium Businesses
Moderated by
Sandeep Sibal,
CEO, Demolish Foods
The plant-based meat industry stands at a critical inflection point—facing challenges around consumer adoption, scalability, and market viability. This panel explores the strategic and economic levers driving growth, from pricing and product design to investment dynamics and regulatory shifts. A must-attend for anyone tracking the future of food innovation.
03:10
PM
DEMO
Brewed Better: A Barista Demo with SoGood
Ashwini Om,
Founder, Kali Coffee
Watch a culinary expert craft delicious, dairy-free coffee creations using SoGood’s plant-based goodness. Discover how sustainable ingredients can elevate your daily brew—one cup at a time.
03:30
PM
FIRESIDE CHAT
Becoming Vegan: Zahrah S. Khan’s Journey of Conscious Living
Zahrah Khan,
Actress and Singer
Manish Pareek,
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer at Eori™
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder of Vegan India Conference, Vegan First, and Ekatva Festival
In this heartfelt conversation, actress, artist and changemaker Zahrah S. Khan opens up about her personal journey toward veganism. From moments of quiet reflection to powerful realizations about health, compassion, and sustainability, Zahrah shares what inspired her shift and how it has shaped her values, lifestyle, and voice. Join us for an intimate fireside chat exploring conscious living, cultural context, and the courage to live in alignment with one's beliefs.
04:00
PM
.
TEA BREAK
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04:10
PM
TALK
How ProVeg Is Powering Vegan Business Through Public Engagement & Institutional Change
Karthik Pulugurtha,
Country Director, ProVeg India
Join Karthik, Country Director for ProVeg India, as he outlines the role of ProVeg in identifying scalable & evidence based pathways for the plant based movement. Furthermore, he will outline how plant-based companies can support ProVeg projects in early stages. These projects are aimed at creating demand in the Health Care, Education and HoReCa segments for plant-based brands to thrive.
Join us to explore how ProVeg's initiatives are exploring new pathways for change and to know more about how your brand can get involved.
04:30
PM
PANEL
Achieving Scale with Biomaterials: Building the Future of Ethical Fashion
Manish Pareek,
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer at Eori™
Ashima Kukreja,
Director Corporate Affairs, PETA India
Muskaan Mundhra,
Founder and CEO of House of Serein
Dr. K. C. Mohite,
Ex-Dean Faculty of Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University Pune
Moderated by
Shreya Ghodawat,
Podcast Host- Sustainable Tea with Shreya
This session dives into the exciting world of bioleathers and next-gen material innovation, spotlighting the challenges and opportunities in scaling these alternatives across Indian and global markets. From product development to pricing, supply chains, and consumer perception, discover what it truly takes to bring ethical fashion into the mainstream.
05:10
PM
PANEL
Optimizing Sales Channels for Plant-based Brands: Quick Commerce, Omni-channel, or Walk-ins?
Pummy Singh,
Head of Sales, Life Health Food
Aravind R
Category Head, BigBasket
Khushi Agarwal,
CEO and Co-founder of EarthBased
Amy Aela,
Founder of Kindness Media, Co-Founder Pause Mumbai, Actor & Influencer
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder of Vegan India Conference, Vegan First, and Ekatva Festival
As consumer habits shift toward speed and convenience, quick commerce platforms are reshaping how plant-based products are discovered, marketed, and sold. This session will explore how digital storefronts and delivery models are redefining product visibility, brand storytelling, and purchase behavior. Learn what vegan brands need to do to thrive and stay ahead in a scroll-and-click economy.
05:50
PM
PANEL
HORECA as a Catalyst: Driving Consumption of Plant-Based Alternatives Through Restaurants & caterings
Nitin Dixit,
Co-founder, Greenr Café
Chirag Chhajer,
Co-founder, Burma Burma
Aman Singh Rajput,
Founder, Four A Hospitality
Rohit Dadlani,
Founder & Director - Eutierria Ventures Pvt. Ltd.
Dhwani Veera,
Founder, EnvAiroH
Moderated by
Sonica,
Founder, Tralata - Wholesome Food
From thoughtful branding, the elevated menu, and the inviting energy—learn from leading restaurateurs who offer a masterclass in how to do plant-based hospitality right. In an industry as competitive as F&B, and in a niche as nuanced as vegan dining, getting it right is no small feat.
—a conversation dedicated to what it really takes to build and scale a successful vegan restaurant in India.
06:30
PM
CLOSING REMARKS
Day 1 Wrap-Up: Reflections and What’s Next at the Vegan India Conference 2025
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
.
GRASSROOTS BOOTCAMP
PARALLEL SESSIONS
11:15
AM
TALK
What is Satvic Veganism?
A talk on the principles and philosophy of Satvic Veganism—living a life of purity, compassion, and non-violence through a plant-based lifestyle.
Shankar Narayan,
Founder, Satvic Vegan Society
11:30
AM
TALK
Rethinking the Movement: A New Strategy for Animal Freedom
What will it take to truly scale the vegan movement?
Join Matthew Glover as he reflects on lessons from a decade of high-impact campaigns, venture investing, and alt protein innovation. In this session, he’ll share why the movement must radically rethink its approach - and unveil bold ideas for a new phase of global action focused on ending factory farming.
Matthew Glover,
Co-Founder of Veganuary. Managing Director at Veg Capital
12:15
PM
WORKSHOP
Animal Protection Laws Every Indian Must Know
Have you ever witnessed animal abuse and felt powerless to act? Or come across disturbing animal abuse videos online and wish you could do something? This workshop is designed to empower you with practical knowledge and skills, regardless of your location in India.
Meet Ashar,
Legal Advisor and Director of Cruelty Response, PETA India
01:15
PM
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LUNCH
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.
02:00
PM
WORKSHOP
AI for Animal Advocacy: Driving Impact with Tech
Discover how AI empowers advocates and social innovators to amplify their impact. Learn practical strategies for using AI to streamline workflows, optimize campaigns, and create scalable solutions that address pressing social challenges.
Sam Tucker- Davis,
Founder, Open Paws
04:15
PM
TALK
Behind the System: Unpacking Industrial Animal Agriculture and the Way Forward
Industrial animal agriculture in India is a growing concern with widespread impacts on animals, people, and the planet. This session takes a closer look at the realities of factory farming across the four major species—chickens, cows, pigs, and fish. From animal welfare violations and environmental degradation to public health risks and socio-economic implications, we’ll examine the key issues at play.
Gauri Maulekhi,
Trustee, People For Animals
05:15
PM
WORKSHOP
From Conversations to Movements: How to Frame Veganism in a Way That Builds Power
You’re already doing the work-talking to people about animals, organizing events, creating content, showing up at stalls and protests. But what if your conversations could do more than raise awareness? What if they could build real, lasting power?
This hands-on workshop is for vegan advocates who want to go beyond individual persuasion and help grow a grassroots movement. We’ll explore how to frame veganism in ways that connect across class, culture, and geography-without guilt or overwhelm. You’ll learn how to use a practical 3-layer strategy (Action–Culture–Systems) to assess your campaigns, spot what’s missing, and go deeper without burning out.
We’ll look at real examples from Indian advocacy to explore how we move from ‘saying the right thing’ to building movements rooted in care, clarity, and courage.
Varda Mehrotra,
Co-Founder, A Just World
05:45
PM
WORKSHOP
Pathways with Purpose: Building a Career in Animal Advocacy & Speed Mentoring Session
Curious about working in animal advocacy but unsure where to start? This session unpacks the diverse landscape of animal-focused work in India—from rescue, welfare, and cruelty response to policy, public awareness, legal reform, corporate outreach, education, plant-based promotion, and more. It explores the advocacy ecosystem, the guiding principles behind different organizations, and how to align your skills with the right cause. Ideal for anyone looking to turn compassion into meaningful impact.
Gauri Maulekhi,
Trustee, People For Animals
Niharika Kapoor,
Policy Specialist, Mercy For Animals India Foundation
Manish Pareek,
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer at Eori™
Mehak Ahal,
Senior Manager at Bharat Initiative for Accountability
Sai Vignesh,
Animal Rights Activist, Founder
Almighty Animal Care Trust
6 JULY 2025
DAY 2
RETHINK HEALTH
MAIN STAGE
10:30
AM
.
Inaugural Address and Recap of Day 1
A warm welcome to all attendees, followed by a concise reflection on the key moments and memorable highlights from Day 1.
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
11:00
AM
KEYNOTE
ADDRESS
Chief Guest Facilitation Followed by Keynote Address
Focusing on the intersection of health, sustainability, and ethics, the keynote will articulate the challenges and opportunities in advancing plant-based lifestyles. The address aims to inspire collaboration among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and advocates to drive transformative change.
Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi,
Former Member Of Parliament
Founder & Chairperson, People For Animals
11:30
AM
TALK
Mohanji on Ahimsa and Communication with Animals
Rooted in the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), this session explores the deep, often unspoken connection between humans and animals. It reflects on the compassion we must cultivate, recognizing that animals communicate in ways that transcend words.
Sheetal Salgaonkar,
Mohanji Bharat Council Member
11:45
AM
TALK
Living Green: Practical Tips for a Sustainable Lifestyle
Learn how to make everyday choices that contribute to a more sustainable world. This session offers simple, impactful tips to help you reduce your environmental footprint—covering areas like food, fashion, waste reduction, and resource conservation. Whether you're just beginning your sustainability journey or looking to strengthen your habits, you'll walk away with practical tools and inspiration to lead a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
Nayana Premnath,
Sustainability Advocate
12:00
PM
TALK
An Introduction to the Satvic Diet: Healing Through Plant-Based Living
In this session, wellness educator Subah & Harshvardhan Saraf offers a deep dive into the Satvic approach to plant-based living—grounded in ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern health consciousness. Discover how food can be a powerful tool for preventive health, holistic healing, and lifestyle transformation. Ideal for those looking to understand the growing intersection of nutrition, wellness, and the conscious consumer movement.
Subah Saraf & Harshvardhan Saraf,
Founders, Satvic Movement
01:00
PM
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LUNCH
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01:45
PM
TALK
Regenerative Living: Creating Food Forests for Lasting,
Plant-Based Food Sustainability
Aviram Rozin will share the process of creating food forests, starting with water conservation, natural regeneration, and tree planting. He will discuss specific water conservation techniques such as on-contour swales, gabions, earth dams, and more, along with different planting and watering methods. The selection of appropriate species for creating food forests will also be explored.
Aviram Rozin,
Founder and International Director of Sadhana Forest, Author of the book "Humanity 2.0
02:15
PM
TALK
Veganism as a Systems Solution: Inspiring Transformation at the Grassroots
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Dr. Sailesh Rao,
Founder and Executive Director of Climate Healers
02:30
PM
PANEL
Milk: The Silent Killer – Unveiling the Health Truths
In this eye-opening session, we’ll delve into the lesser-known truths about milk and its impact on health. From its potential links to chronic illnesses to its effects on digestion and overall well-being, this talk will challenge commonly held beliefs and offer a deeper understanding of milk's role in the modern diet. Join us as we uncover the facts, explore alternatives, and discuss how to make informed choices for a healthier lifestyle.
Dr. N.K. Sharma,
Founder & Chairman, Reiki Healing Foundation
Dr. Rupa Shah,
MBBS. Public Speaker. Educator. Author, "Dairy Alternatives: What about my calcium?"
Manish Pareek,
CEO and Chief Innovation Officer at Eori™
Moderated by
Dr. Harsha Atmakuri,
Director of Empathy Films
03:05
PM
PANEL
Women’s Hormonal Health: Dispelling the Risks and Myths
Gain clarity on one of the most misunderstood aspects of women’s well-being—hormonal health. This session explores the science behind hormonal balance, addresses common myths and fears, and highlights the role of lifestyle, nutrition, and stress in supporting long-term hormonal health. Whether you're navigating menstrual issues, fertility concerns, or perimenopause, this talk offers practical, evidence-based guidance for every stage of life
Dr. Rajani Chinni,
Co-Founder, Origins Nutra
Khushi Agarwal,
CEO and Co-founder of EarthBased
Natasha Aggarwal,
Founder & Chief Product Developer & Recipe Maker, nattier
Neha Ranglani,
Integrative Nutritionist, Health Coach, Functional Medicine Practitioner
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
03:45
PM
TALK
Health Story of Transformation: Cancer Reversal
This inspiring session brings a powerful personal story of cancer reversal through a plant-based lifestyle.
Harshad Parekh,
Co-Founder of Plantacious
04:00
PM
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TEA BREAK
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04:10
PM
PANEL
The Supplementation Story: Myths, Facts, and Vegan Solutions
Worried about protein, calcium or nutrients on a vegan diet? This session separates fact from fiction, covering what you really need, what to watch for, and how to meet your goals with ease and confidence.
Nidhitra Rajmohan,
Professional Tennis Player
Vaibhav Garg,
Clinical & Sports Nutritionist (MSc), Co-Founder & CSO of In You
Sushant Bodke,
Founder, Veplants
Moderated by
Kuntal Joisher,
Vegan Mountaineer, Nutrition Expert,
Fitness coach
04:45
PM
TALK
The Science of Plant-Based Beauty: Debunking Vegan Skincare Myths
This talk redefines beauty as more than just skin deep—unpacking the science behind plant-based skincare and separating fact from fiction. You'll gain insight into how vegan beauty products support not only your skin’s health but also broader goals of sustainability and holistic self-care
Dr. Mohit Bhatia,
Founder, Fuschia
Harmeet Singh,
Chief Brand Officer, The Body Shop, Asia South
Moderated by
Roshni Sanghvi,
Registered Holistic Nutritionist and Wellness Coach.
05:35
PM
PANEL
Managing Lifestyle Disorders: A Path to Better Health
In this insightful session, we explore the growing impact of lifestyle disorders and how small, sustainable changes can lead to better health and well-being. Learn practical strategies for managing conditions like stress, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, and discover how adopting healthier habits—such as plant-based eating, exercise, and mindfulness—can pave the way to long-term wellness. This session offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to transform their lifestyle and improve their health
Dr. Zeeshan Ali,
Phd, Nutrition Program Specialist, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine
Dr. Nandita Shah,
Founder-Director SHARAN
Harshvardhan Chauhan,
Founder & CEO, Mountaintribe
Sourab Agarwal,
Founder, Vedi Herbals
Moderated by
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
06:05
PM
PANEL
The Imperfect Vegan: Navigating the Journey of Raising Vegan Kids & Vegan Pregnancy
Raising vegan children isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention, balance, and learning along the way. This session shares real-world experiences, practical tips, and honest reflections on navigating family, nutrition, and social situations while raising kind, conscious eaters
Sridevi Jasti,
Holistic Nutritionist, Founder & MD, Vibrant Living
Durgesh Nandhini,
Conscious Living Educator
Shalini Batra,
Author, Entrepreneur, Lactation Consultant
Moderated by
Roshni Sanghvi,
Registered Holistic Nutritionist and Wellness Coach
06:45
PM
PRESENTATION
Boosting Heart Health with Plant-Based Nutrition
Discover how a plant-based diet can be a powerful ally for your heart. From lowering cholesterol and blood pressure to reducing inflammation, plant-powered nutrition offers proven benefits for cardiovascular health. Learn how simple dietary shifts can lead to long-term wellness and vitality.
Dr. Arun Kalyanasundaram,
Director & Head of Cardiology, Promed Hospital
07:00
PM
CLOSING SPEECH
Wrapping Up the Vegan India Conference 2025
.
Palak Mehta,
Founder Vegan India Conference, Vegan First & Ekatva Festival
COOKING MASTERCLASS
PARALLEL SESSIONS
COOKING
DEMO
11:30
AM
The Oil-Free Cooking Class
In this session, we'll explore the powerful benefits of oil-free, whole food plant-based (WFPB) cooking for heart health. Learn how to prepare delicious, nutrient-dense meals without using oils—while still enhancing flavor and maximizing the natural goodness of your ingredients. Discover simple cooking techniques, smart ingredient swaps, and satisfying recipes that align with a heart-healthy, WFPB lifestyle. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to level up your plant-based approach, this talk offers practical tools for cleaner, healthier eating.
Vandana Tiwari,
Vegan Chef, SHARAN India
COOKING
DEMO
12:15
PM
Vegan Biryani & Laddoos: Indian Classics Reimagined
In this demo, we’re bringing the bold, comforting flavors of biryani and the sweet charm of laddoos—all made 100% vegan. Whether you're vegan, curious, or just here for good food, this session will show you how traditional favorites can be made with compassion, without compromising on taste.
Anju Kalhan,
Founder of Bliss by Anju
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01:00
PM
LUNCH
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COOKING
DEMO
02:00
PM
The Plant-Based Dairy Kitchen Essentials Workshop
Join our hands-on demo to learn how to make plant-based milk, butter, cheese, and paneer at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Nidhi Nahata,
Founder, JustBe by Nidhi Nahata
COOKING
DEMO
03:00
PM
Wrap it Up | High-Protein Vegan Meals with Local ingredients
This is a hands-on session, by holistic nutritionist, founder & MD of Vibrant Living - Sridevi Jasti where she will demonstrate how to create gluten-free, high-protein vegan wraps using local, wholesome ingredients. The session will explore the power of millets, legumes, vegetables, and seeds to craft meals that are not only delicious but also deeply nourishing.
Sridevi Jasti,
Holistic Nutritionist, Founder & MD, Vibrant Living.
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04:00
PM
TEA BREAK
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04:30
PM
Smoky Kebab Chaat
Join Chef Aman Rajput for a vibrant, hands-on demo to learn how proso millet and raw banana (kacha kela) can become the heart of a sensational Smoked Millet Kebab Chaat — a modern take on India’s favorite street-style snack.
The recipe is for anyone who wants to eat fast, cook clean, and live plant-forward without compromising on flavor.
Aman Singh Rajput,
Founder, Four A Hospitality