The International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi, is all set to host its 40th Bi-Annual Convocation at Holiday Inn, Aerocity — a milestone moment that also marks 20 incredible years of shaping India’s culinary future. The celebration will see industry leaders, proud alumni, faculty, and students come together to applaud the achievements of the graduating class of 2025 and the institute’s remarkable journey in redefining culinary education in India.

The event will be graced by Dr. Pushpesh Pant, Padma Shri awardee and one of India’s most respected food historians and critics, as the Chief Guest. Also joining as Honoured Guest and Distinguished Speaker is Mr. Vikrant Batra, Co-Founder of Café Delhi Heights, alongside other distinguished names from the hospitality and education sectors.

Founded in 2005 under the visionary guidance of Chef Virender S. Datta, a hospitality veteran with over five decades of experience, and Mr. Arjun S. Datta, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director, IICA has become a benchmark for culinary excellence. The duo’s leadership has driven both academic depth and operational innovation, taking Indian culinary education to international standards.

Over the years, IICA has built strong global affiliations with City & Guilds (UK), World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS, Paris), and BSI Learning Australia, offering students career pathways that extend well beyond borders. Their efforts have also been recognised with prestigious honours, including the FICCI Higher Education Excellence Award 2025 for “Excellence in Creating Employment & Entrepreneurship (Private)” and the Best Culinary Institute in India 2025 title at the Food Connoisseurs India Awards.

The convocation evening will feature inspiring speeches, student showcases, and the ceremonial awarding of diplomas, culminating in a high-tea reception celebrating the next generation of culinary professionals. Sponsors supporting the event include Carna Medical Database Pvt. Ltd. in association with Tsukuba & House as Principal Sponsors, MainDish.in as Gifting Sponsor, and KIC™ Hotel & Restaurant Equipment Manufacturers as Associate Sponsors.

As IICA marks this milestone, it continues to uphold its mission of empowering culinary talent through hands-on training, international exposure, and a deep respect for India’s rich gastronomic heritage.

About IICA:

Established in 2005, the International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi, is one of India’s top culinary institutes offering globally recognised programs in Culinary and Patisserie Arts. Backed by collaborations with City & Guilds (UK), BSI Learning Australia, and WACS (Paris), IICA blends international standards with Indian flavours, nurturing future chefs who now lead across hospitality, entrepreneurship, and global fine dining. Recognised by the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council of India, IICA continues to shape careers with its balanced approach of practical learning and global exposure.