Hyderabad, July 01: Continuing its commitment to bringing diverse and immersive culinary experiences to the city, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) & HICC presents ‘Forest & Fire’, an extraordinary dining festival curated by acclaimed chef, food researcher, and culinary storyteller Chef Harshita Kakwani. Hosted at Permit To Grill and Food Exchange from 17th to 26th July, the culinary experience invites guests on a journey into the forests of Central India, uncovering the rich culinary heritage of indigenous communities through seasonal ingredients, traditional techniques, smoke-kissed flavours, and the elemental art of wood-fire cooking.
As one of Hyderabad’s leading hospitality destinations, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre has consistently championed culinary innovation by collaborating with chefs and specialists from across India who bring authentic regional cuisines and unique food narratives to the city. Through curated festivals and guest chef showcases, the hotel continues to introduce diners to diverse gastronomic traditions, creating memorable experiences that go beyond conventional dining.
With ‘Forest & Fire’, the hotel turns the spotlight on India’s indigenous food culture, an area that remains largely unexplored in mainstream dining. Drawing inspiration from tribal communities and forest ecosystems, Chef Harshita has crafted a menu that celebrates forgotten ingredients, sustainable sourcing practices, rustic spices, and age-old wood-fire cooking methods passed down through generations.
Guests can expect a thoughtfully curated menu featuring dishes such as Mahua Mushroom Bao, Van Shaak Ravioli, Hay-Smoked Fish, Kala Mutton Taco, Patrapoda Jackfruit, Saoji Chicken, Junglee Mutton, and Bamboo Bhurji, alongside traditional grains, regional breads, and desserts inspired by forest produce. Each dish reflects a deep connection to the land, highlighting ingredients and flavours that have shaped India’s culinary landscape for centuries.
Known for her extensive work documenting and reviving indigenous food traditions, Chef Harshita Kakwani has built a reputation for creating immersive dining experiences that bridge storytelling, sustainability, and gastronomy. Her culinary philosophy focuses on celebrating local communities, preserving traditional knowledge systems, and bringing lesser-known regional cuisines into contemporary conversations. Through ‘Forest & Fire’, she offers guests a rare opportunity to experience the depth and diversity of India’s forest food heritage.
Adding an interactive element to the festival, Chef Harshita will also host ‘The Craft’, a special culinary masterclass on 18th July from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, where participants will learn the stories, techniques, and ingredients behind indigenous Indian cooking traditions. During the session, Chef Harshita will demonstrate the preparation of signature dishes inspired by the festival menu, offering guests a hands-on opportunity to engage with the culinary wisdom of India’s forest communities.
Further elevating the experience, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre will present ‘The Pour’, an exclusive Forest & Fire Bar Takeover on 25th July from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Permit To Grill. The hotel’s bar team will collaborate with Chef Harshita to craft a curated beverage experience inspired by local and forest-derived ingredients. The special showcase will celebrate regional flavours through innovative cocktails and beverages that complement the festival’s culinary narrative.
Hyderabad has evolved into one of India’s most exciting culinary destinations, with diners increasingly seeking authentic and meaningful food experiences. ‘Forest & Fire’ is an exploration of India’s indigenous food wisdom and the remarkable ingredients that thrive within our forests.
The experience will be complemented by themed décor, live music, and a warm, nature-inspired ambience, transforming Food Exchange and Permit To Grill into settings that reflect the spirit of the forests that inspired the menu.
Whether for Hyderabad’s discerning food enthusiasts, cultural explorers, or guests staying at the hotel, Forest & Fire promises an unforgettable culinary journey that celebrates nature, tradition, and the transformative power of food.
Event Details
The Feast – Forest & Fire Grand Dinner Buffet
Dates: 17th July – 26th July 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Craft – Forest & Fire Culinary Masterclass with Chef Harshita Kakwani
Date: 18th July 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
The Pour – Forest & Fire Bar Takeover
Date: 25th July 2026
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM