Celebrated chef and MasterChef Australia judge Gary Mehigan recently graced ABP Network’s India @ 2047 Summit, where he passionately highlighted the profound influence of Indian cuisine on the global culinary stage. Declaring, “India has the best street food in the world,” Mehigan’s session, titled “Food as Unifier: The World on Our Plate,” was a vibrant ode to the diversity, emotional depth, and unifying power of India’s food traditions.
Mehigan didn’t hold back his admiration for India’s bustling street food scene. Beyond just taste, he emphasized the inherent ability of food to bridge divides. “Food is a great unifier. When people ask me what’s special about food, the answer is really simple: food brings everybody together,” he shared, drawing from personal memories of family meals that fostered connection.
He also fondly recalled his experience with Indian festivals, stating, “Food is quite rightly the centre of any celebration in India. I love Holi, and love watching the story of Radha and Krishna while also enjoying a little bit of bhaang. The act of taking prasad in your hand is captivating and brings tears to your eyes.”
Reflecting on the immense popularity of MasterChef Australia in India, with a staggering 67 million viewers over 11 years, Mehigan noted its unique approach. “MasterChef brought families together because it is the perfect antidote for a chaotic world,” he explained, contrasting its appreciative tone with typical reality TV formats. “We did it exactly opposite of what TV expected of us—for us, it was all about appreciation and glory.”
However, Mehigan also voiced concerns about the trajectory of food in an increasingly technological world. “The idea of kitchens disappearing is terrifying, and dark kitchens replacing normal kitchens is scary. The most personal thing you can do for somebody is cook for them.” He also expressed his apprehension towards food supplements, stating, “I am terrified of food capsules; it is like life without art or love, I hope this never becomes a norm.”
Looking ahead, Mehigan painted an optimistic picture of India’s culinary future. “In 2047, farmers will be flourishing, new opportunities will thrive, exporting their produce all over the world. India has become a food lover’s dream, but we knew it always was.” He concluded his engaging session with a symbolic and resonant chant of “Aum,” met with warm applause from the audience.
The India @ 2047 Summit, organized by ABP Network, serves as a crucial platform for envisioning India’s path towards becoming a fully developed nation by its centenary of independence, bringing together thought leaders from various fields to contribute to this national dialogue.
Key Highlights:
- Chef Gary Mehigan celebrated India’s culinary influence at ABP Network’s India @ 2047 Summit, praising its street food and unifying power.
- He reflected on the popularity of MasterChef Australia in India and expressed concerns about the rise of dark kitchens and food capsules.
- Mehigan envisioned a flourishing culinary landscape for India by 2047.
- He concluded his session with a symbolic chant of “Aum.”