Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Mar 7: The department of hospitality science at the Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce & Management (YIASCM), a constituent of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), created history by entering the India Book of Records for organising the fastest culinary and beverage marathon representing all Indian states.
The unique record was set on January 30, 2026, marking National Tourism Day, where 28 student chefs and 28 student bartenders simultaneously prepared 28 traditional dishes and 28 beverages representing the 28 states of India within just 28 minutes.
The event celebrated India’s rich culinary diversity and showcased the creativity, precision, and teamwork of hospitality students. The remarkable achievement was officially recognised by the India Book of Records and celebrated during a felicitation ceremony held on Saturday March 7 at the YIASCM Kulur Campus, Bangra Kulur, Mangaluru.
The record-setting initiative highlighted the theme ‘28 States, 28 Chefs, 28 Dishes, 28 Baristas, 28 Beverages in 28 Minutes’, symbolising the unity in diversity of Indian gastronomy.
The felicitation programme began with a welcome dance, followed by a video presentation showcasing glimpses of the record-setting event.
Head of the department Mervin Jaison Vas presented the highlights of the achievement and explained how the department meticulously planned and executed the culinary marathon within a limited time frame while maintaining authenticity and presentation standards for each state's dish and beverage.
Guest of honour Dr B T Nandish, controller of examination at Yenepoya University, described the achievement as a proud moment for the institution.
He said the felicitation ceremony was not merely about receiving a certificate but about celebrating the innovation, teamwork, and excellence demonstrated by the students and faculty.
Referring to the concept ‘28 States, 28 Chef Dishes and 28 Bartender Beverages in 28 Minutes’, he stated that representing every Indian state with authentic cuisine within such a precise time frame was truly remarkable.
Dr Nandish congratulated principal Prof Jeevan Raj, vice principals Prof Shareena P and Narayan Sukumar A, HOD Mervin Jaison Vas, faculty coordinators, and the students for successfully executing the event.
He also noted that hospitality education extends beyond classroom learning and that every dish prepared by the students reflected India’s culture, heritage, and traditions.
The achievement was officially recognised by adjudicator advocate Harish R, strategist and CEO of KM Global Tech Manage Services, who declared the record and presented the India Book of Records certificate to the department.
In his presidential address, principal Prof Jeevan Raj described the achievement as a historic milestone for the institution.
He said the recognition brought pride not only to the institute but also to the entire university community, adding that the chancellor, pro-chancellor, vice-chancellor, and statutory officers of Yenepoya University had conveyed their appreciation and congratulations.
Highlighting the importance of teamwork, he said many world records are individual achievements, but this accomplishment was unique because it was the result of collective effort and coordination among students and faculty.
Prof Jeevan Raj praised the department of hospitality science for demonstrating the institution’s spirit through unity, planning, and commitment, and said such initiatives strengthen the academic brand of the university.
The achievers, including the participating chefs and bartenders, were felicitated during the ceremony in recognition of their dedication and teamwork.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks followed by the national anthem, marking the celebration of a historic achievement in hospitality education.