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indicā, the avant-garde culinary platform founded by Damini Ralleigh and Sandeep Garg, continues its mission to explore India’s rich food histories with Paanch, a unique dining experience curated by Chef Vanshika Bhatia. Scheduled for November 2, 2025, at indicā, Paanch promises to redefine modern Indian gastronomy through a five-course menu inspired by the five elements—Earth, Ether, Water, Fire, and Wind—paired with Godawan, India’s artisanal single malt crafted from six-row barley in the Rajasthani desert. Chef Vanshika BhatiaChef Vanshika, celebrated in Condé Nast Traveller, The Week Magazine’s 40 Under 40, Culinary Culture Co.’s Top 30 Chefs in India, Harper’s Bazaar India’s “25 in 2025,” and as Sustainable Chef of the Year, brings her innovative approach from Petite Pie Shop in Gurgaon, where she blends French classics with Indian produce and a zero-waste ethos. “Delhi in autumn feels alive; the air changes, the markets overflow with produce, and there’s a rhythm to the city that’s both chaotic and comforting,” says Bhatia. “Cooking is about capturing that emotion through flavour.” Paanch’s menu is a narrative of India’s elemental essence. The Earth course features steamed corn cakes with wild mushroom chutney, evoking mist and soil. Ether introduces tender quail glazed in green peppercorn velouté, while Water offers caramelized Surmai paired with herbed white peas. Fire brings intensity with handmade pasta tossed in spiced roast mutton, and Wind concludes with a baked apple pavé layered with mousse and caramelized notes. Each course is thoughtfully paired with Godawan’s single malt, reflecting Rajasthan’s resilient spirit and complementing Paanch’s storytelling. indicā’s reputation as a forward-thinking culinary space shines through this collaboration, contributing to its ongoing inquiry into what defines the Indian table today and how to build a resilient food future. Paanch will be hosted at indicā on November 2, 2025, with limited seating for lunch at 12:30 PM and dinner at 7:00 PM, offering diners a chance to experience this elemental journey.
