Hosted by Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai and Ministry of Chutneys, the 7th edition of The GReaT Conversation examined the links between military heritage, food culture and storytelling.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai⁠ and Ministry of Chutneys⁠ presented the 7th edition of The GReaT Conversation Series – Regimental Mess & Summer Kitchens, an exclusive cultural evening hosted at the historic Amir Mahal on 13 June 2026.

The evening brought together distinguished voices to explore the enduring connections between culinary traditions, military heritage and the cultural legacy of South India, creating a unique platform for meaningful dialogue, storytelling and shared experiences.

Voices from hospitality, military service and culinary heritage

Bringing together distinguished voices from hospitality, military service and culinary heritage, the evening explored the traditions, stories and shared experiences that continue to shape India’s cultural identity.

The evening was moderated by Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali, Dewan to the Prince of Arcot, and featured an esteemed panel comprising Nikhil Sharma, MD & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group; Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts; Major (Dr) Praveen Raj (Retd.), former Indian Army Officer and Commando; and Rakesh Raghunathan, Food Historian and MasterChef India Judge (Tamil).

At the historic Amir Mahal

Set against the grandeur of Amir Mahal, one of Chennai’s most iconic heritage landmarks, the event featured an engaging exchange of perspectives on military traditions, culinary heritage and the enduring role of food in bringing communities together.

Leadership perspectives

Speaking about the initiative, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said, “Food has always been a powerful connector of people, cultures and stories. Through The GReaT Conversation, we wanted to create a platform that celebrated heritage through meaningful dialogue while bringing together voices that continue to shape the way we understand history, hospitality and community.”

“Some of the most meaningful travel experiences are often shaped around the table, through the flavors we discover, the stories we hear and the people we share them with. Events such as The GReaT Conversation offer a unique opportunity to celebrate the traditions and narratives that continue to influence the way we experience food and culture today. By bringing together diverse perspectives from history, hospitality and the armed forces, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage that exists behind many of the dishes and traditions we cherish,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.

Guests and attendees

The evening welcomed an influential gathering of members of the diplomatic corps, Consuls General, honorary consuls, senior government officials, hospitality leaders, business personalities, media representatives, cultural custodians and distinguished guests for a celebration of military heritage, culinary traditions and the enduring power of storytelling.

A culinary showcase

Curated by Ministry of Chutneys, the event served as a curtain raiser to Regimental Mess & Summer Kitchens, a specially crafted culinary showcase inspired by the traditions of military messes, cantonment kitchens and summer food cultures from across India. Guests also enjoyed a thoughtfully curated dining experience that brought these stories to life through flavor, memory and shared moments around the table