“Cooking is an art, but all art requires knowing something about the techniques and materials†– Nathan Myhrvold
As I was browsing through my camera roll, I came across the opening ceremony pics of mats institute of hotel management that I had not yet shared. Just a few months before the pandemic struck, i had the pleasure and the honour of inaugurating this institute. In the inaugural speech, amongst other things, I spoke about the immense responsibility that chefs have in society as they have to cater to not just the taste buds but also the cleanliness and health aspects of the customers and people who eat their food.
The hospitality industry is one of the most affected industries in this pandemic. I have seen hotels and restaurants shut shop, friends and acquaintances lose their jobs or accept severe pay cuts and others who try to stay afloat as people are just beginning to warm up to the idea of eating in restaurants again. At the same time, I have also seen stories of grit, determination and success spring up of those who persist and want to move on despite all odds.
Let’s hope that the coming year brings in all the good cheer for everyone. And may institutes like this keep training and educating young minds with great ideas and new ways of doing things to adapt to the new normal.
