25 May 2026
Chef Virender S. Datta shares how his five-decade global culinary journey—from The Oberoi kitchens to working across six countries—inspired him to found IICA as an institute that blends international standards with India’s food heritage. He highlights IICA’s hands-on “learn through application” teaching philosophy, global collaborations, and the institute’s focus on producing not just chefs but leaders and entrepreneurs. He also reflects on the significance of IICA winning the FICCI Higher Education Excellence Award 2025 and outlines Vision 2030 expansion plans to Guwahati and Trivandrum with region-specific learning. The interview concludes with his emphasis on sustainability, technology-driven learning, and the importance of discipline, resilience, and creativity for young culinary professionals.