This Independence Day, Neon Castle Reimagines India’s Culinary Heritage Through a Story-Led Tasting Experience
This Independence Day, Neon Castle, Mysuru, celebrated India’s rich culinary diversity with “A Culinary Journey Across India,” an exclusive four-course tasting experience curated by Neon Castle founders and chefs Shamanth Ramachandra and Keerthana Ramegowda, in collaboration with acclaimed Goan chef Avinash Martins.
The experience took diners on a flavour-led journey across North India, Goa, Manipur and South India, bringing together regional recipes, traditional techniques, personal memories and contemporary culinary interpretations. Staying true to Neon Castle’s approach to storytelling through food, the menu explored the cultural identity and traditions associated with each region rather than simply recreating familiar Indian classics.
The journey began in North India with a contemporary interpretation of Rajma Chawal, celebrating the comfort and familiarity of the much-loved home-style dish. It was accompanied by an Old Delhi-style Mutton Korma, inspired by the food culture of Old Delhi and Chef Keerthana’s personal childhood memories. The dish also reflected an important part of her culinary journey, having been among the early preparations she learned to master during her professional training.
The menu then travelled westward to Goa, where Chef Avinash Martins brought his understanding of the region’s culinary traditions to the table. Ratale and Sungta showcased the coastal character of Goan cuisine, drawing inspiration from traditional cafreal preparations while incorporating seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques.
The experience continued with a focus on Manipur, highlighting a culinary landscape that remains relatively unexplored within contemporary restaurant dining. Through Veg Chakluk and Fish Chakluk, the menu showcased indigenous ingredients, fermentation techniques and flavours rooted in seasonal cooking and community traditions. The course offered diners a glimpse into the complexity and depth of Manipuri cuisine while staying closely connected to its culinary roots.
The journey concluded in South India with Mosaranna, Neon Castle’s interpretation of the beloved curd rice. Retaining the comforting essence of the traditional dish while incorporating contemporary techniques, the final course brought the tasting experience to a familiar and nostalgic close.
More than an Independence Day menu, “A Culinary Journey Across India” was a celebration of the country’s diverse food traditions and the stories attached to them. From the nostalgia of Old Delhi and the coastal flavours of Goa to the distinctive culinary heritage of Manipur and the comfort of South Indian cuisine, the experience brought together different facets of India’s food culture on a single table.
Through the collaboration between Chef Shamanth Ramachandra, Chef Keerthana Ramegowda and Chef Avinash Martins, Neon Castle marked Independence Day with an experience that celebrated India’s culinary heritage through regional diversity, personal storytelling and contemporary culinary craft
