The 30th cohort of BCT&CA launched their culinary odyssey on 23 July 2025

The 30th cohort of BCT&CA launched their culinary odyssey on 23 July 2025. The class received a commanding welcome from the Paragon Educational Society Board — Mr. Srikanth Chakravarthy, President; Mr. Prasad, Vice President; Chef Sudhakar Rao, Secretary; Mr. Mohan, Joint Secretary; and Chef Akshay Kulkarni, Treasurer. 

Mr. Bomi H Patell, CEO of BOMPAT Recruiters and advisory board member, delivered an electrifying keynote to ignite these aspiring culinarians. Senior faculty and staff then engaged the new cohort in dynamic introductions, setting the tone for a transformative journey. 

To fast-track their induction into the demanding hospitality and culinary arena, the Academy convened industry luminaries to motivate, mentor, and deliver strategic career guidance across the first week: 

Mr. Ajit Singh Garcha ,Area General Manager, The Park Hotels, Hyderabad, accompanied by Executive Chef Satya Pandari — a proud alumnus — opened the students’ eyes to real-world hotel leadership and kitchen excellence. 

Chef Raj Sethia, Board Member SICA, Culinary Director, Gangotree & Munch booth,Bengaluru was a special invitee to speak about his journey so far and motivate the young minds to choose the path of entrepreneurship as and when they gain enough experience.

Mr. Arnold Lobo, Training Manager, ITC Kakatiya, illuminated the critical importance of rigorous training and the exceptional career trajectories available within ITC Hotels. 

The HR team from Marriott Hotels, Hyderabad — Ms. Kiran Preet Kaur, Director of Human Resources, and Mr. Surojit Bodak, Training Manager — unpacked the human-connect skills vital to service excellence and highlighted Marriott’s vast global opportunities for emerging talent. 

Alumnus and entrepreneur Mr. Sean Joseph, Managing Director of SV Caterers & Events, delivered a powerhouse session on professionalism, discipline, and relentless consistency, crediting the Academy for shaping his career. A field trip to a five-star hotel is also scheduled to give students immersive, hands-on insight into top-tier hotel operations.

Dr.Shripuja Siddamsetty ,Clinical Psychologist spent time with the students to enlighten them about mental health and maintain a work life balance. 

This year the Culinary Academy of India celebrates three decades of culinary excellence — a legacy built on uncompromising standards, disciplined training, and skill mastery. Team CAI is energized and proud to welcome the new cohort as regular classes commence on this high-impact, career-launching journey.