The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts hosted the seventh edition of its signature culinary initiative, Shefs at The Leela, at The Leela Palace Chennai, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive excellence and purpose-driven luxury.
Launched in partnership with Dean With Us, the initiative is designed to celebrate women chefs who are redefining the culinary space across geographies and disciplines. In an industry largely dominated by men, Shefs at The Leela offers a platform that promotes visibility, opportunity, and mentorship for women in gastronomy.
Started in 2022, the program has grown into a movement that brings together purpose, identity, and innovation. With each edition, it continues to spotlight emerging talent and untold stories from the culinary world.
The seventh edition took place over two days, beginning on July 19 with a mentorship session and interactive cook-off. Four emerging chefs—Sambhavi Joshi, Sehaj Ghuman, Taiyaba Ali, and Bunuma Patagiri—shared their journeys and insights with culinary students during a panel discussion. The session explored the personal side of becoming a chef, touching on themes of resilience, reinvention, and creativity.
The event culminated in a gala dinner on July 20 at The Grand Ballroom. A four-course dining experience, the evening was curated by the four featured chefs along with an all-women culinary and service team from The Leela Palace Chennai. The celebration featured live music, emerald-green décor, and story cards for each course—symbolising growth and artistic expression.
Nishant Agarwal, Vice President and General Manager, The Leela Palace Chennai said, “True luxury, we believe, must be inclusive—not only in who it welcomes, but in the stories it chooses to tell. As custodians of culture and excellence, it is our privilege to spotlight the incredible women who are shaping the future of cuisine. This platform reflects a larger commitment to championing equity, encouraging dialogue, and creating transformative experiences that transcend the plate.”
With six editions before it, the second Chennai chapter continued the evolution of Shefs at The Leela as a community-building platform that values the emotional and cultural contributions of women in hospitality. Through a mix of discussion, culinary showcases, and student engagement, the initiative aims to push conversations on gender, leadership, and diversity in the food and hospitality sectors.
By reimagining Indian cuisine and highlighting regional flavours, the participating chefs are reshaping the culinary narrative. The Leela remains committed to supporting this transformation—through platforms like Shefs at The Leela—and leading with purpose across sustainability, wellness, and personalised experiences.
