The India Habitat Centre (IHC), New Delhi, has always been known as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and gastronomy. In september 2025, it launched its brand-new initiative—the “Utsav Series”—a celebration of India’s diverse cultural and culinary traditions. And what better way to begin than with Onam, Kerala’s iconic harvest festival?

Here’s how the launch unfolded and why this festive series is set to become a much-awaited tradition at IHC.

1. Introducing the ‘Utsav Series’

The Utsav Series is envisioned as a curated journey across India’s festivals, bringing authentic regional experiences to the heart of Delhi. It will feature not only traditional foods but also cultural decor, attire, and music that capture the soul of each celebration.

2. onam Chosen as the Grand Beginning

The first festival in the series is Onam (September 3–5, 2025), a harvest celebration symbolising prosperity, harmony, and thanksgiving. Rooted in Kerala’s mythology of King Mahabali’s homecoming, onam unites communities with its timeless values of joy, inclusivity, and abundance—making it a perfect launchpad for the initiative.

3. Ann Restaurant Becomes kerala for 3 Days

IHC’s Ann Restaurant at Habitat World has been transformed into a slice of Kerala. The entrance welcomes guests with:

• The Nilavilakku brass lamp
• Vibrant Pookkalam (floral rangoli)
• Kathakali face masks
• Fresh marigolds, Rajnigandha, coconuts, and raw bananas

The décor exudes the spirit of Onam, while instrumental music completes the festive mood.

4. Hosts in Traditional Attire

Every detail has been considered to ensure authenticity. Guests are welcomed by hosts dressed in:

• Kasavu Saree for women, with its iconic golden border
• Mundu for men, symbolising Kerala’s cultural grace

This touch enhances the immersive cultural experience for IHC members and their guests.

5. A Traditional Lighting Ceremony

To inaugurate the celebrations, Prof. (Dr.) K.G. suresh, Director, IHC, lit the Nilavilakku lamp alongside dignitaries. This symbolic act marks the start of the Utsav Series while paying homage to Kerala’s traditions of invoking auspicious beginnings.

6. Food as the heart of the Celebration

Onam is incomplete without the Onam Sadhya—a grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Ann Restaurant curated a special onam Thali featuring authentic delicacies such as:

• Black Pepper Rasam & Podi Idli
• Vegetable Pulishery, Cabbage & Carrot Thoran
• Koot Curry, Mix Veg Avial, Coconut Vegetable Curry
• Beet Pachadi, Sambhar, Inji Puli
• Kerala red Rice & Malabari Paratha
• Sweet ending with Jaggery Payasam
• Served with aromatic South indian Filter Coffee

This thoughtfully prepared menu captures the essence of Kerala’s culinary traditions.

7. Food as Cultural Diplomacy

Speaking at the launch, Prof. (Dr.) K.G. Suresh remarked:

“At the india Habitat Centre, we believe food is one of the finest ways to experience and celebrate India’s cultural diversity. Through our Utsav Series, we aim to bring authentic regional traditions alive for our members.”

His words reflect IHC’s vision to make cuisine a bridge to cultural understanding.

8. Exclusivity for IHC Members

The celebrations, including the onam Thali, are exclusive to IHC members and their guests. This ensures a premium and curated experience, while also creating a sense of community within the institution.

9. Why onam Sets the Tone Perfectly

Onam’s universal values—harmony, gratitude, and inclusivity—resonate with the mission of IHC. Just as the festival brings people together in kerala, the Utsav Series aims to bring Delhi’s cosmopolitan audience closer to India’s living traditions.

10. What’s Next in the Utsav Series?

While onam marks the beginning, the Utsav Series is expected to expand into other regional festivals like Durga Puja, Baisakhi, Diwali, Pongal, and Eid. Each festival will bring its own culinary showcase and cultural performances, making Habitat World a year-round destination for authentic celebrations.

 Conclusion: A Feast of Cultures Ahead

With the Onam Utsav at Ann Restaurant, IHC has set the tone for a unique cultural initiative that goes beyond food—it’s about heritage, inclusivity, and community celebration. As the Utsav Series unfolds, Delhiites can look forward to travelling across India’s festivals without ever leaving the Habitat Centre.

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