A journey through India’s street food culture

This Independence Day, as we commemorate the 76th year of our nation’s freedom, it is imperative that as we celebrate our political independence we also explore the diverse and delectable culinary heritage that defines India.

The Indian food industry is surely undergoing a renaissance, embracing the assortment of regional flavours that have long been cherished within our borders.

Moreover, a vibrant street food culture has been adding immense attraction to a city’s food scene and offering experiences to travelers. Godrej Food Trends Report 2023 states that the last decade has seen a steady rise in interest in street food. Digital media has taken a keen interest in street food, amplifying tales ranging from the extraordinary to the unconventional, so much so that the Indian traveler is opting for destinations just to discover local street food.

Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of Perfect Bite Consulting and Curating Editor of the annual Godrej Food Trends Report says, “This Independence Day, let’s celebrate the diversity of food in India. With its multifarious population, India is a treasure trove of local foods waiting to be discovered. Not only does each region of the country boasts its own distinct flavors, ingredients, and cooking styles, but also has a rich repertoire of local street foods. Indian street food is as varied as its regional cuisines. This Independence Day, let us celebrate our gastronomic freedom and love for all things chatpatta masaledar, and crispy that unite us as Indians.”

India’s street food reflects the country’s rich and varied culture, with each region offering its own unique flavors and dishes. On this Independence Day, we proudly salute the culinary custodians for their role in preserving the authentic flavors of India’s diverse regions. Their efforts not only safeguard our culinary heritage across different regions but also facilitate cross-cultural exchange and deeper appreciation. Godrej Food Trends Report 2023 mentions some of the Indian street food destinations that will see the most interest in 2023.

Lucknow: Regarded as the prime street food destination by 63 per cent of experts, the city is expected to attract a growing number of travelers who will indulge in the delights of local street foods.

Kolkata: Following closely, 57 per cent of the panel anticipates an increased demand for local street food in Kolkata, solidifying its reputation as a hub for culinary exploration.

Amritsar: 55 per cent of experts predict that Amritsar will witness more interest among people who seek to delve into the realm of local street food.

Indore: Notably, 47 per cent of experts express a belief in the rising curiosity among consumers to uncover the treasures of local food in Indore, suggesting an emerging trend in the city’s culinary scene. India’s street food is a microcosm of the country’s diverse culture and it’s designed to hit the high note. Also, Indian street food is easily accessible, affordable, and tasty at the same time. Hence it gives travelers an opportunity to experience the common citizen’s life and highlight the connections between history, geography, religion, and food and relate to why people eat what they eat.