New Delhi, December 12: The 15th National Street Food Festival, which began on Friday at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the national capital, presented a captivating blend of authentic Indian flavours and international music on its very first day, filling the entire arena with excitement and vibrancy. More than 500 street food vendors from 27 states of India not only infused the air with the aromas of their traditional and unique dishes but also offered Delhiites and tourists a rich taste of India’s cultural diversity. The festival was officially inaugurated by Union Minister for Culture & Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who not only declared the event open but also visited stall after stall to sample various dishes and interact warmly with the vendors, appreciating their skill and dedication.
Following the inauguration, Minister Shekhawat’s presence at the stalls instantly energised the atmosphere. He relished bamboo chicken and biryani at the Andhra Pradesh stall and personally tested the festival’s only UPI digital payment system by making an online payment. Impressed by the efficiency of one particular vendor, he smilingly remarked, “You are fit to be a brand ambassador.” His simplicity, engagement, and enthusiasm boosted the morale of the vendors, who felt encouraged by the personal attention. He also interacted with senior officials of NASVI to understand the 15-year journey of the festival and the struggles and achievements of street vendors, calling the festival an important initiative in preserving India’s traditional culinary heritage. He expressed that he would revisit the festival with his family and also encourage ministry officials to do the same.
As dusk approached, the stadium transformed dramatically when Sri Lankan international singing sensation Yohani Diloka De Silva, known worldwide as the “Manike Mage Hithe” girl, stepped onto the stage. The moment she appeared, the entire venue erupted in cheers, applause, and excitement. Her pop music, high-energy performance, captivating style, and vibrant stage presence added a thrilling new dimension to the festival. From youngsters to elderly visitors—everyone was seen grooving to her tunes. Each of her songs sparked waves of enthusiasm among the audience, and within minutes, the entire stadium felt like one grand musical carnival. This seamless blend of flavours and music became the true highlight of day one, turning the evening into an unforgettable celebration for the people of Delhi.
The festival’s grandeur will continue through the weekend. On Saturday at 7 PM, renowned Sufi and folk singer Kailash Kher will grace the stage with his powerful and soulful voice. Loved by people across all age groups for his distinct musical style, Kailash Kher’s performance is expected to further elevate the festival’s energy, spirit, and cultural richness—transforming it into a celebration not just of flavours but also of India’s musical and artistic heritage.
Celebrating India’s street food culture on a national scale, the festival is organised by the National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI), which is marking the silver jubilee of its 25-year journey dedicated to the rights and recognition of street vendors across the country. Vendors, hawkers, and small food entrepreneurs consider this festival a celebration of their identity, hard work, and tradition. Running until December 14, the festival offers a spectacular confluence of taste, entertainment, music, and art, drawing appreciation not only from Delhi but also from visitors from across India and around the world.
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