<keyword id="30469" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kochi" source="Orion">Kochi</keyword>, a vibrant city in Kerala steeped in history and culture, boasts a culinary landscape as rich and diverse as its heritage. From aromatic spices to coastal delicacies, the cuisine of Kochi embodies a fusion of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Let's embark on a gastronomic journey through the 10 famous cuisines that define the essence of Kochi's culinary scene. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Malabar Biriyani:" comment="subhead" text="Malabar Biriyani:">Malabar Biriyani:</cmsannotation> A quintessential Malabar delight, the Malabar Biriyani is a fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat, spices, and aromatic herbs. Kochi's version often features tender chunks of chicken or succulent pieces of mutton, infused with flavors of cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Karimeen Pollichathu:" comment="subhead" text="Karimeen Pollichathu:">Karimeen Pollichathu:</cmsannotation> A cherished dish among seafood enthusiasts, Karimeen Pollichathu showcases pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a harmonious medley of tangy and spicy flavors. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Appam with Stew:" comment="subhead" text="Appam with Stew:">Appam with Stew:</cmsannotation> Appam, a lacy, fermented rice pancake with a crispy edge and soft center, pairs exquisitely with a fragrant stew made of coconut milk, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or lamb. This breakfast delicacy is a local favorite. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kerala Prawn Curry:" comment="subhead" text="Kerala Prawn Curry:">Kerala Prawn Curry:</cmsannotation> The coastal influence shines in Kochi's Kerala Prawn Curry, featuring fresh prawns simmered in a coconut-based gravy infused with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and tamarind, delivering a delightful tanginess. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Puttu and Kadala Curry:" comment="subhead" text="Puttu and Kadala Curry:">Puttu and Kadala Curry:</cmsannotation> A staple breakfast dish, Puttu is steamed cylinders of ground rice and coconut served with Kadala Curry, a spicy black chickpea curry. The combination offers a burst of flavors and textures. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Parotta and Beef Fry:" comment="subhead" text="Parotta and Beef Fry:">Parotta and Beef Fry:</cmsannotation> Kochi's take on Parotta, flaky layered flatbread, pairs impeccably with succulent Beef Fry, cooked with spices, onions, and curry leaves. This dish reflects the city's diverse culinary influences. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kerala Sadya:" comment="subhead" text="Kerala Sadya:">Kerala Sadya:</cmsannotation> A grand feast, Kerala Sadya is a ceremonial meal served on banana leaves, featuring an array of vegetarian dishes like Avial, Thoran, Rasam, and Pachadi, showcasing the richness of Kerala's flavors. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Thalassery Chicken Dum Biryani:" comment="subhead" text="Thalassery Chicken Dum Biryani:">Thalassery Chicken Dum Biryani:</cmsannotation> Hailing from nearby Thalassery, this aromatic and flavorful Chicken Dum Biryani features marinated chicken and fragrant Basmati rice cooked with spices, saffron, and fried onions in layers. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kerala Fish Curry:" comment="subhead" text="Kerala Fish Curry:">Kerala Fish Curry:</cmsannotation> Coconut-infused tangy and spicy Fish Curry, often made with kingfish or seer fish, captures the essence of coastal flavors. Tamarind, coconut milk, and a melange of spices define this traditional dish. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kerala Banana Chips:" comment="subhead" text="Kerala Banana Chips:">Kerala Banana Chips:</cmsannotation> A beloved snack, Kerala's Banana Chips are thinly sliced bananas fried to a crisp perfection, seasoned with spices, and often enjoyed as a crunchy accompaniment to meals or as a standalone treat. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/top-5-places-to-visit-in-kerala/slidelist/103806526.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Top 5 Places to visit in Kerala</a>

Culinary odyssey: Exploring Kochi's 10 famous cuisines

Hey there, fellow wanderers and <keyword id="6181" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Food" source="Orion">food</keyword> enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a gastronomic journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more? India, with its diverse culture and rich culinary heritage, boasts cities that are veritable treasure troves of delectable delights. So, let's take a whirlwind tour of some of the top foodie havens in this land of spices and flavors, where every bite is a symphony of taste and tradition. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Delhi - The Capital of Culinary Diversity" comment="subhead" text="Delhi - The Capital of Culinary Diversity"><keyword id="66" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Delhi" source="Orion">Delhi</keyword> - The Capital of Culinary Diversity</cmsannotation> Kickstarting our culinary voyage is none other than the vibrant heart of India - Delhi! This bustling metropolis serves up a mosaic of flavors that are as diverse as its population. From the fragrant by-lanes of Old Delhi, where street stalls dish out mouthwatering chaats and spicy kebabs, to the chic restaurants offering contemporary twists on traditional Indian dishes, Delhi has it all. Don't miss out on iconic street foods like golgappas and chole bhature. And of course, a trip to Delhi wouldn't be complete without savoring the buttery goodness of authentic North Indian cuisine. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Mumbai - A Melting Pot of Street Eats" comment="subhead" text="Mumbai - A Melting Pot of Street Eats"><keyword id="6358070" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mumbai" source="Orion">Mumbai</keyword> - A Melting Pot of Street Eats</cmsannotation> Ready for a rendezvous with the bustling streets and tantalizing street food of Mumbai? This city is a paradise for food lovers who adore both authenticity and innovation. Taste the world-famous Vada Pav, Mumbai's version of a spicy burger, and let your senses dance with the tanginess of Pav Bhaji. Seafood enthusiasts, head to Juhu Beach for some succulent fish treats! And let's not forget the irresistible fusion of flavors in Mumbai's iconic street food scene - the Pav Bhaji Fondue and the Schezwan Dosa are a must-try. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kolkata - Where Sweets Steal the Show" comment="subhead" text="Kolkata - Where Sweets Steal the Show">Kolkata - Where Sweets Steal the Show</cmsannotation> Stepping into the charming lanes of Kolkata is like entering a haven of sweets and confectionery delights. The city's love affair with sweets is evident in its array of delectable offerings, with Rosogolla and Mishti Doi taking center stage. But don't let your journey stop there - dive into Kolkata's signature street foods like Kathi Rolls and the legendary Puchka (Pani Puri). The blend of sweet and savory will surely have your taste buds singing a joyful tune. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Chennai - A Southern Spice Symphony" comment="subhead" text="Chennai - A Southern Spice Symphony">Chennai - A Southern Spice Symphony</cmsannotation> As we journey south, Chennai beckons with its unique blend of aromatic spices and robust flavors. The city's signature dish, the Masala Dosa, is a crispy delight filled with spiced potatoes and served with an array of chutneys. Seafood aficionados, make sure to try the fiery Chettinad cuisine, a proud testament to the region's culinary heritage. From the tangy Paniyaram to the creamy filter coffee, Chennai is a gastronomic paradise that embraces your senses with open arms. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jaipur - Royalty on Your Plate" comment="subhead" text="Jaipur - Royalty on Your Plate">Jaipur - Royalty on Your Plate</cmsannotation> Our next stop whisks us to the Pink City, Jaipur, where royal indulgence meets culinary artistry. The traditional Rajasthani thali is a must-try, offering a sumptuous spread of dal, bati, churma, and more. Don't forget to savor the city's famed Pyaaz Kachori and Ghewar, desserts that will transport you to a world of regal indulgence. With its blend of rich spices and authentic flavors, Jaipur's cuisine promises an unforgettable dining experience fit for kings and queens. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Amritsar - Divine Delights in the Golden City" comment="subhead" text="Amritsar - Divine Delights in the Golden City"><keyword id="11917951" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="amritsar" source="Orion">Amritsar</keyword> - Divine Delights in the Golden City</cmsannotation> Nestled in the heart of Punjab, Amritsar is a city that takes its food seriously. The world-renowned Golden Temple serves a daily Langar (community meal) that's a testament to the city's devotion to feeding the soul and stomach alike. Treat yourself to the iconic Amritsari Kulcha paired with Chole, a quintessential Punjabi dish that's as hearty as it is flavorful. And for dessert, the creamy Phirni and Jalebi will transport you to a sweet haven. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Lucknow - Awadhi Magic Unleashed" comment="subhead" text="Lucknow - Awadhi Magic Unleashed">Lucknow - Awadhi Magic Unleashed</cmsannotation> Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, is synonymous with the rich and aromatic Awadhi cuisine. Embark on a culinary journey that takes you through the royal kitchens of the past. Savor the succulent Galouti Kebabs and melt-in-your-mouth Tunday Kebabs, both renowned for their exquisite flavors and delicate spices. Conclude your meal with a taste of the decadent Shahi Tukda, a dessert fit for royalty. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Hyderabad - A Nizami Feast Awaits" comment="subhead" text="Hyderabad - A Nizami Feast Awaits">Hyderabad - A Nizami Feast Awaits</cmsannotation> Prepare to be enchanted by the royal flavors of Hyderabad's Nizami cuisine. The world-famous Hyderabadi Biryani is a fragrant masterpiece that combines tender meat with aromatic rice and spices. Pair it with Mirchi Ka Salan, a spicy peanut curry, for a perfect balance of flavors. And if you have a sweet tooth, indulge in the luscious Qubani Ka Meetha, a dessert made from dried apricots. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kochi - Coastal Charms on Your Plate" comment="subhead" text="Kochi - Coastal Charms on Your Plate">Kochi - Coastal Charms on Your Plate</cmsannotation> Venture down south to Kochi, a coastal gem that boasts an array of seafood delights. From the iconic Kerala Sadya, a vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, to the fiery Fish Moilee that's a symphony of coconut and spices, Kochi's cuisine mirrors the city's diverse cultural influences. The Malabar Parotta paired with a spicy Beef Curry is a match made in culinary heaven. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ahmedabad - Gujarati Gastronomy Galore" comment="subhead" text="Ahmedabad - Gujarati Gastronomy Galore">Ahmedabad - Gujarati Gastronomy Galore</cmsannotation> Our final stop takes us to Ahmedabad, where the vibrant flavors of Gujarati cuisine await. Embrace the simplicity and wholesomeness of dishes like Dhokla, Khandvi, and Fafda, which are perfect for both the health-conscious and flavor-seekers. Sip on a glass of refreshing Chaas (buttermilk) to cleanse your palate between bites. And for dessert, relish the ever-popular Basundi and the delightful Ghevar. So there you have it, dear food enthusiasts - a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary wonderland that is India. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the royal courts of Jaipur, each city offers a unique blend of flavors, aromas, and experiences that are bound to leave you craving for more. As you embark on your travels through this diverse land, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of Indian cuisine. Let your taste buds be your guide, and let the magic of these cities unfold on your plate. Happy feasting, and bon appétit! <h3>SEE ALSO:</h3><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/10-most-beautiful-waterfalls-in-india-you-must-visit-once/articleshow/102940228.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">10 most beautiful waterfalls in India you must visit once</a>

Taste the best: Indian cities known for their irresistible food

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/27121837.cms" /> When the winter is right upon us and holidays are back with a bang, can festivals be far behind? It is <keyword id="24087" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="carnival">carnival</keyword> time across India – a time to celebrate and share all things good in true Yuletide spirit. So we bring you seven offbeat <keyword id="6385705" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="events">events</keyword> – a mix of modern concepts and traditional happenings that celebrate the varied and vibrant art and culture of the country. And then there will be Christmas <keyword id="192" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Celebrations">celebrations</keyword> all over India. Let go of your toil &amp; care, and connect to retune your life. Happy holidays! 
 
Life at its exotic best – <keyword id="78069" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rann-Utsav">Rann Utsav</keyword> (<keyword id="6354766" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gujarat">Gujarat</keyword>) It’s a desert <keyword id="58" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Festival">festival</keyword> with a difference. The white salt marsh, spread across some 7,000 sq km in Gujarat, attracts thousands to the Great Rann every year, revealing the many-hued life and culture of <keyword id="6361801" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kutch">Kutch</keyword>. The journey from Bhuj will take you to the colourful Tent City at <keyword id="1967990" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Dhordo-village">Dhordo village</keyword> and other exotic locations such as <keyword id="1967991" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Hodko">Hodko</keyword>, <keyword id="1967994" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhirandiyara">Bhirandiyara</keyword>, <keyword id="144766" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Khavda">Khavda</keyword>, <keyword id="476012" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kalo-Dungar">Kalo Dungar</keyword> (<keyword id="226408" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Black-Hills">Black Hills</keyword>) and the <keyword id="656787" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mandvi-beach">Mandvi beach</keyword>. The great white saltpan in the distance looks mesmeric and nearby, you can catch the haunting tunes played by the locals on their jodia pava (twin-flutes). While you are here, <keyword id="76631" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Folk-music">folk music</keyword>, dances, camel safaris and wildlife viewing will fill your days. A stay at the bhunga (egg-shaped mud huts), a taste of the Kutchi cuisine and the exquisite local art will enthral you further. In mid-January, Kutch celebrates the traditional <keyword id="4062388" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kite-festival">kite festival</keyword> <keyword id="90750" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Uttarayan">Uttarayan</keyword> and you can watch the spectacular view as thousands of flying beauties dot the sky. 
When: Dec 15-March 18 
What it costs: Rs 7,900-22,500 plus taxes per person on twin sharing basis. 
Image: Rann-utsav.com 
 
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Shake a leg at <keyword id="91958" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sunburn-festival">Sunburn Festival</keyword> (<keyword id="826" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Goa">Goa</keyword>) If the <keyword id="24879" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sun">sun</keyword>, seas and <keyword id="6354530" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="music">music</keyword> allure you to distraction, it’s time to head for the coastal capital for a rocking experience. Sunburn is the coolest <keyword id="881528" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="electronic-dance-music-festival">electronic dance music festival</keyword> to invade the <keyword id="1834821" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="indian-beaches">Indian beaches</keyword>, now entering Season 7 with pomp and style. With custom stages in the making, numerous genres of music on offer and some world famous DJs &amp; <keyword id="49237" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Artistes">artistes</keyword> debuting, it is surely going to be an electrifying extravaganza that could be the party of parties in Goa. Get ready for some fun, frolic and froth even as the music captures your soul and you can’t stop dancing. 
When: Dec 27-29 
What it costs: Rs 9,250-15,500 per person. 
Image: Wikimedia Commons 
 
<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/27120166.cms" /> 
 
Super fun at <keyword id="1968003" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Vh1-Supersonic">Vh1 Supersonic</keyword> (Goa) Another electrifying <keyword id="6356630" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="EDM">EDM</keyword> (<keyword id="42249" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="electronic-dance-music">electronic dance music</keyword>) event that will be held in Goa this year. A super line-up of artistes and DJs from all over the globe will keep you spellbound with some rocking music while dancing gets even better when you are grooving on the <keyword id="8688" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="SEA">sea</keyword> shore. And guess who is leading the super fest? None other than the electronic music promoter <keyword id="135873" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nikhil-Chinapa">Nikhil Chinapa</keyword> who has left Sunburn and is now starting his own show. The <keyword id="1968004" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Debut-edition">debut edition</keyword> this year is purely for <keyword id="6355317" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Dance">dance</keyword> music fans, but it could be a <keyword id="1968005" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Multi-genre-festival">multi-genre festival</keyword> within the next year or two. So let’s wait and watch the magic happen. 
When: Dec 26-30 
What it costs: Keep a tab, the organisers will soon come up with the ticket pricing. 
Image: Gosupersonic.in 
 
<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/27120247.cms" /> 
 
Wellness fest at Zambhala (Goa) If you are seeking wellness and harmony this <keyword id="6389817" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="new-year">New Year</keyword>, the <keyword id="1968009" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Zambhala-Yoga">Zambhala Yoga</keyword>, <keyword id="1968008" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Music-and-Life-Spirit-Festival">Music and Life Spirit Festival</keyword> could be the <keyword id="1968010" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Lifestyle-event">lifestyle event</keyword> for you. Debuting this December, it is going to be an annual festival that brings together <keyword id="1968011" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Yoga-experts">yoga experts</keyword>, <keyword id="551676" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="spiritual-teachers">spiritual teachers</keyword>, <keyword id="25205" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="doctors">doctors</keyword>, <keyword id="21324" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Therapists">therapists</keyword>, <keyword id="145052" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="healers">healers</keyword>, <keyword id="6367711" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Musicians">musicians</keyword> and <keyword id="1792" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="artists">artists</keyword> from all over the globe. So that one may nurture the power of self and live with positive energy. The yoga part of the festival is especially interesting as it will focus on various methods of yoga and <keyword id="6388212" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="meditation">meditation</keyword> – all curated to ensure a better and <keyword id="1968013" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Healthier-living">healthier living</keyword>. Then there will be talks and workshops on <keyword id="639756" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="life-skills">life skills</keyword> and <keyword id="1968014" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Alternative-healing">alternative healing</keyword>. Overall, quite a new concept and could be worth joining. 
When: Dec 21-22 
What it costs: Rs 2,800 per person for participation; day passes available at venue for Rs 1,600 while kids under the age of 12 can attend for free. Event to be held at Bardo, Morjim, in North Goa. 
Image: Zambhala.in 
 
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Melody, masti at <keyword id="1968016" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mt-Abu-Winter-Festival">Mt Abu Winter Festival</keyword> (<keyword id="6355588" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</keyword>) Come December and this hill resort in the heart of Rajasthan pulsates with festive notes. A grand procession marks the beginning, diyas are set floating on the <keyword id="455501" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nakki-Lake">Nakki Lake</keyword> in the evenings and spectacular <keyword id="54214" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Fireworks">fireworks</keyword> light up the night sky. <keyword id="29645" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Performers">Performers</keyword> and <keyword id="6360759" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="artisans">artisans</keyword> from all over the state assemble here, bringing to life the rich culture and traditions of this princely state. Give in to the serene magic of music – the folk, the shehnai and the <keyword id="6401082" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sufi">Sufi</keyword> strains. Or join the Rajasthani dancers with full zest. The thrilling <keyword id="1968020" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Fire-dance">fire dance</keyword> of Bikaner, the graceful <keyword id="1968022" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ghoomer">Ghoomer</keyword> and <keyword id="1968023" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Terahtali">Terahtali</keyword>, the lively <keyword id="1288524" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kalbelia">Kalbelia</keyword> and the fascinating <keyword id="1622221" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gair">Gair</keyword> of Mewar are sure to take your breath away. For the adventurous, there’s a long list of contests – rowing, horse races, tug-of-war, gilli danda, <keyword id="6799761" type="SPORT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kite-flying">kite flying</keyword> and even 20-20 cricket. Shop for exquisite <keyword id="6502685" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Handicraft">handicraft</keyword> and taste the delectable local food to make the most of this colourful carnival. 
When: Dec 29-31 
What it costs: A trip to <keyword id="434732" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mt-Abu">Mt Abu</keyword> suits every budget and starts from Rs 7,000-8,000 per person on twin sharing basis. 
Image: Wikimedia Commons 
 
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The beat of sun, surf &amp; ruins – <keyword id="1968024" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mamallapuram-Dance-Festival">Mamallapuram Dance Festival</keyword> (<keyword id="12864" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Chennai">Chennai</keyword>) If you missed the Konark dance festival in Odisha earlier this month, travel south to the beach town of <keyword id="385028" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mamallapuram">Mamallapuram</keyword> (also known as <keyword id="73041" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mahabalipuram">Mahabalipuram</keyword>), around 60 km south of Chennai, and soak in the <keyword id="1968025" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Open-air-dance-festival">open air dance festival</keyword>. One can never find a more majestic backdrop with the <keyword id="1968028" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Monolithic-rock-sculptures">monolithic rock sculptures</keyword> and temples rising above the golden shore and the endless waves breaking nearby. This ancient port town of the Pallava dynasty hosts a month-long festival that brings to life classical and <keyword id="522230" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="folk-dances">folk dances</keyword> from all over India – <keyword id="14944" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bharatanatyam">Bharatanatyam</keyword>, <keyword id="6386949" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kuchipudi">Kuchipudi</keyword>, <keyword id="255053" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kathakali">Kathakali</keyword>, <keyword id="1300412" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="mohini-attam">Mohini Attam</keyword>, <keyword id="6354459" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Odissi">Odissi</keyword>, <keyword id="210" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kathak">Kathak</keyword> and more. The exact venue is close to <keyword id="1968030" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Arjunas-Penance">Arjuna’s Penance</keyword>, a bass relief sculpted on the face of two gigantic adjacent rocks. While in Mamallapuram, you must visit Cholamadal artists’ village and shop for some exquisite handcrafted items. 
When: Dec 27-Jan 26 
What it costs: Most tour operators offer customised pricing, depending on itinerary and package; may cost around Rs 7,000 per person on twin sharing basis. 
Image: Tamilnadutourism.org 
 
<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/27120377.cms" /> 
 
A symphony of Indian traits – <keyword id="1968032" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Cochin-Carnival">Cochin Carnival</keyword> (Kerala) This is one colourful carnival that calls for fun, feasting and revelry. It’s an age-old event and dates back to the colonial days when the Portuguese held <keyword id="9735" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="new-year-celebrations">New Year celebrations</keyword>. Now it offers loads of <keyword id="1783440" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="carnival-games">carnival games</keyword>, <keyword id="1968033" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Beach-games">beach games</keyword>, races (how about some dirt biking), dancing and fireworks. Locals dress up in <keyword id="1968034" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Fancy-costumes">fancy costumes</keyword> and the grand finale includes a huge procession on New Year’s Day – complete with drum beats, music and embellished elephants. But just like a full-blooded carnival, it has more to offer that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the globe. While the North and <keyword id="1968035" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="South-Indian-folk-dances">South Indian folk dances</keyword> set the stages on fire, a three-month-long <keyword id="1968037" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="International-exhibition-of-contemporary-art">international exhibition of contemporary art</keyword> (they call it <keyword id="1055137" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kochi-Muziris-Biennale">Kochi-Muziris Biennale</keyword>) was also held across the state in 2012-13. So it should be back next December to delight <keyword id="1643" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Art-lovers">art lovers</keyword> and Aspinwall in <keyword id="6361494" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Fort-Kochi">Fort Kochi</keyword> is expected to be the main venue for the second edition. 
When: Dec 25-Jan 1 at Fort Kochi. 
What it costs: A week’s vacation in Kerala may cost around Rs 16,000 per person on twin sharing basis (excluding airfare). 
Image: Keralatourism.org 
 
<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/27120517.cms" />

Seven
Indian Festivals You Must Not Miss This December

<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/50369660.cms" style="width: 800px; height: 600px;" /> A Kolkata-based quick service restaurant chain ‘Wow! Momo’ is serving the Tibetan dish which has over years become one of India’s favourite street side snack in the most bizarre ways. A look at its menu flaunting Chocolate <keyword id="76833" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="momos">momos</keyword>, Moburg (momo burgers), prawn and fish momos, pizza momos and what not, can have you drooling! 

	The story of this startup reminds us of the famous phrase: every drop of water counts and together these drops can fill a dry pond. Here’s why!
 Based out of a small kiosk in a 30-square feet space in a Kolkata mall, two friends Sagar Daryani and Binod Homagai would sell momos to consumers on their own making Rs 2000 a day. Who would have expected the duo would soon become owners of a fast food restaurant chain that has spread it wings across six cities today (which include Kolkata, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, Kochi, and Delhi) and is expanding fiercely. After raising the first round of <keyword id="6357455" type="EVENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Funding">funding</keyword>, the company is going really fast now with 43 outlets in March to 63 in December. 

	“We started with Rs 30,000 and we bootstrapped for the next 6.5 years to reach a turnover of Rs 20 cores last March without any funding,” Sagar told Business Insider. 
 By the time they approached investors and zeroed in on the first round of funding from <keyword id="328347" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Indian-Angel-Network">Indian Angel Network</keyword> (IAN), the startup was already at a turnover of Rs 20 crore, a run rate of Rs 2 crore a month from its 43 store count. 

	“I met Sanjeev Bikhchandani in Kolkata last year at Tiecon. We got talking and as destiny would have it, it somehow worked for both of us,” recounts Sagar, who was able to raise Rs 10 crore in August last year. The investment is being used to expand aggressively across cities and improving the product range for a better consumer experience. Currently, their product line comprises different variants of momos, thukpa, and meals. They serve 11 different flavors of momos available in steamed, fried, pan-fried, sizzler, and baked variants.<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/50369576.cms" style="width: 800px; height: 600px;" /><img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/50369624.cms" style="width: 800px; height: 600px;" />

	<img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/50369565.cms" style="width: 800px; height: 600px;" /><img class="gwt-Image" src="/photo/50369570.cms" style="width: 800px; height: 600px;" />

	The question is why did they not look for funds in the nascent stage? Because, there was no desperation to get money. “Over the years, we were approached by VCs but we were not keen because we felt that in order to raise money, you need to have the right bandwidth to scale up at very good pace. We wanted to build that and we were very happy to build a brand at our own profits,” says Sagar. “Also, I felt a bias when it came to valuations to tech versus non-tech companies which disappointed me. We were not getting the valuations we were looking for despite running a successful business model, having a great team to drive the business and expanding operations on our own,” he adds.
 

	However, when they did think of approaching investors, Sagar highlights, not every experience was a pleasant one. “A renowned VC asked me once if we would be interested in selling our company in the next three years. We understand that they are here to make money and being a consumer market that we are in, a quick exit would be a big brand coming and taking over. However, we were confident that we can take Wow! Momo as a brand from Rs 1000 to 10,000 crore ourselves,” he says.
 

	The confidence in these folks at Wow! Momo comes from the fact that both Binod and Sagar have learnt it the hard way. They used to serve consumers themselves in the Spencer outlet back in 2008. Seeing that the product was doing well, they shifted to a 90-square feet space in one of Kolkata’s best malls in no time where they started making Rs 7 to 8 lakh monthly which was the turning point for their business. From here on, they were able to afford employees, only to build a great team that they have now. 
 

	Future plans:
 

	After raising Rs 10 crore from Indian Angel Network in August this year, the company is going really fast now. 
 

	“We are looking at 70 -75 stores by March next year and around 105 stores by March 2017 with a turnover of 60 crore per annum. Seeing the KFCs and Dominos in India, our long term goal is to become an Indian brand going abroad,” says Sagar. The company plans to go for second round of funding in December next year and is looking at an IPO in about 5 to 10 years from now.

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