The Culinary Academy of India (CAI), Hyderabad, has redefined Excellence, clinching the 1st Prize and the prestigious Rolling Trophy at the Chef Ramesh Chandra Culinary Trophy 2026! This thrilling competition conducted at Pioneer College, Hyderabad, witnessed CAI's final-year sensations Jayraj Jonathan and Mano Singh Rana unleash the culinary prowess, outshining top-tier Hospitality and hotel management institutions of Hyderabad.
Their masterpiece centered on "Temple Foods of South India" – a theme that demands technical brilliance and cultural reverence. Jayraj and Mano delivered a Gastronomic Masterclass, captivating judges with their aesthetically stunning and authentic creations. Their presentation echoed the spiritual essence of temple "Prasadam", leaving the judges spellbound.
The esteemed jury, featuring culinary luminaries like Chef Ramesh Yadav, Corporate Chef, Abode Hotel,Chef Sudha Kumar, Chairman, Pioneer and Trinity Institutions, Mrs, Anuradha, Principal, Poltechnic College and Chef Ravi, Chef Manager at VinFlora lauded the duo's attention to detail and flavor accuracy. This victory is a testament to the visionary leadership of Chef Sudhakar N. Rao and Chef Akkshay Kulkarni, and the mentorship of the CAI faculty team.
The Culinary Academy of India has once again etched its name in the culinary hall of fame, celebrating Jayraj Jonathan and Mano Singh Rana's outstanding achievement.