Chef Shipra Khanna unveils innovative Diwali menus at JW Marriott Maldives Resort

As the Festival of Lights approaches, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa—a luxurious destination for all generations—has announced an exciting collaboration with acclaimed Chef Shipra Khanna, the winner of MasterChef India. This year’s Diwali celebrations promise to be a sensory delight, featuring an extraordinary culinary experience at the resort on October 12 and 13, 2024.

Chef Shipra is an award-winning chef, author, and television personality, celebrated for her innovative approach to Indian cuisine, which seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. At JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, she will craft exclusive menus that highlight locally sourced ingredients from the JW Garden, ensuring each dish bursts with vibrant flavours and reflects the resort’s commitment to sustainability.

On October 12, Chef Shipra will present “The Art of Indian Cuisine” through a six-course wine-pairing dinner at RIHA, an enchanting outdoor dining venue featuring a sunken Tandoor & Tawa. Guests will embark on a culinary journey amidst stunning views of the horizon and sunset. Each course will be thoughtfully paired with exquisite wines, creating a harmonious balance of flavours and textures. This innovative fusion of Indian and French cuisine draws inspiration from Chef Shipra’s extensive travels in France.

“I am thrilled to bring a taste of contemporary Indian cuisine to JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa,” Chef Shipra stated. “From the north to the south of France, I’ve learned from incredible chefs and friends. This menu is a tribute to my experiences, featuring dishes like Coconut-Bouillabaisse—a traditional French dish from Marseille, given an Indian twist.”

On the second evening, Chef Shipra will unveil a traditional Thali course at Aailaa, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, inviting guests to enjoy a Diwali-themed dinner. This beautifully arranged platter will feature a variety of small dishes that showcase Chef Shipra’s signature creations, with each dish designed to complement the others in a delightful mix of flavours, textures, and colours. As a health ambassador for India, Chef Shipra emphasises the importance of incorporating millets—nutritious and environmentally friendly grains—into daily diets. This dinner encourages guests to broaden their culinary experiences by exploring the richness of Indian cuisine through delicious and healthy options.

In honour of the Festival of Lights, highlights from Chef Shipra’s menu will include Rajma ki Galouti, Smoked Jungla Maas, and the exquisite Makhan Malai dessert, elegantly garnished with gold vark, pistachios, and saffron.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Shipra Khanna to JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa,” stated General Manager Mohit Dembla. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing meaningful experiences. During the month of Diwali, we are proud to offer a remarkable culinary journey that captures the rich flavours and traditions of Indian cuisine.”

Chef Shipra’s exclusive menus will be available for an entire month following the celebrations, allowing more guests to indulge in her gourmet creations during the Diwali season.

The dinner at RIHA is priced at USD $450++ per person, with limited seating available (maximum capacity: 6 guests). The Thali dinner at Aailaa is priced at USD $275++ per person and will be offered from October 13 through November 15, 2024.