ITC Ltd.’s Sunrise Spices has launched ‘The Lost Recipe’ initiative in Assam, a heritage cooking competition aimed at reviving forgotten Indian dishes and traditional culinary techniques. The event, held in Guwahati on February 22, brought together over 100 home cooks and heritage food enthusiasts who presented age-old recipes along with the stories and cultural memories behind them. Built on the theme ‘Old is Gold’, the competition encouraged participants to showcase slow cooking, smoking methods and intricate spice layering. The dishes were judged by an eminent jury led by celebrated Assamese chef Atul Lahkar, known for his work in preserving regional food traditions.
Among 36 finalists, Nilakhi Duarah won for recreating Magur with Dry Bamboo Shoot. Mrigakshi Das and Borsha Bhorali were declared runners-up. Winners received chef jackets, designer aprons, trophies, certificates, a feature in the commemorative book, a three-month certificate course from Only Chef – The School of Culinary Arts, and ITC Sunrise gift hampers. Speaking on the occasion, Piyush Mishra, Business Head, Sunrise Spices, said the initiative is a tribute to North East India’s shared gastronomic heritage.
In Guwahati, such heritage-led initiatives are strengthening consumer interest in regional spice blends like Sunrise Raj Shahi Garam Masala and Whole Panch Phoran. Traders noted that demand for traditional spice mixes has seen steady growth as more households look to recreate authentic, home-style recipes.