Chef Poonam Dedhia /Culinary Brand Ambassador of Talod Foods | INDIAN ARTISAN CHEF CONSULTANT|

Early Life and Inspirations

Chef Poonam Dedhia, a name synonymous with authentic Indian culinary artistry, especially in Gujarati cuisine, is a culinary prodigy from Mumbai, India. From a very young age, Poonam’s life was intertwined with the rich aromas and tastes of traditional Indian cooking, imparted lovingly by her mother, who was her first mentor and guru. At the tender age of five, Poonam began absorbing the culinary secrets and skills that would later blossom into a full-fledged passion and career.

Her early years were marked by a curious and eager spirit, keen to learn and experiment with flavors that were handed down through generations. Growing up in Mumbai, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, Poonam was exposed to diverse culinary traditions. However, her heart always remained tied to the heritage recipes of Gujarat — especially the regions of Kutch and Kathiyawad, known for their unique and vibrant food culture.

This early foundation, supported by the nurturing guidance of her mother, planted the seeds for what would become a lifelong mission: to revive and promote the traditional and often forgotten recipes of Gujarat to a broader audience.

Education and Early Recognition

Poonam’s academic journey is as remarkable as her culinary one. She pursued higher education in Counseling Psychology, completing her post-graduation with an M.A. degree. Even during her college days, cooking remained an essential part of her life. Balancing academics and culinary interests, she participated actively in various food-related competitions.

One pivotal moment during her college years was her participation in an intercollegiate Salad Competition. This event proved to be a significant confidence booster as she clinched the first prize. Winning this competition was a turning point for Poonam, affirming that her passion for cooking was more than a hobby—it was her calling.

Her studies in psychology gave her a unique edge in understanding people, their preferences, and how food can connect deeply to emotions and culture. This holistic approach would later reflect in her culinary philosophy and teaching style.

The Dawn of a Culinary Career

After completing her post-graduation in 2012, Poonam’s professional culinary journey took a leap forward. She got a breakthrough opportunity to showcase her cooking skills on television. She appeared on the Marathi channel Zee Marathi in a special cookery show titled “Aamhi Saare Khavvaye.” This platform allowed her to reach a wider audience and share the flavors of Gujarat with viewers across Maharashtra and beyond.

Her talents and dedication soon caught the eye of the larger culinary community. She participated in the renowned “Food Food” Channel’s competition, where she was fortunate to share the screen with the legendary Padma Shri awardee and Masterchef Sanjeev Kapoor. Out of 250 participants, Poonam made it to the top six contestants—a testimony to her skills, creativity, and determination.

This visibility on national platforms propelled her career and opened numerous doors. It was the validation she needed to believe firmly in her path as a chef and culinary ambassador of Gujarati cuisine.

Building a Culinary Brand and Philosophy

Since 2012, Poonam Dedhia has been steadily building her brand as an Indian Artisan Chef Consultant, specializing in authentic Gujarati cuisine with an emphasis on traditional recipes from Kutch and Kathiyawad.

Her cooking is not just about food; it is an experience of culture, history, and love passed down through generations. She believes that cooking is therapeutic and that food holds the power to heal, connect, and celebrate life. This philosophy drives her in every venture, whether it be on television, in cooking classes, or during large-scale food festivals.

Poonam’s approach is deeply rooted in continuous learning and adaptation, balancing tradition with modern techniques and presentation styles. She has made it her mission to rescue many traditional recipes that are on the verge of extinction and to introduce them to younger generations in a way that is both authentic and appealing.

Major Achievements and Culinary Events

One of the significant milestones in her career was the massive cooking event she organized in January 2016 in Ahmedabad, serving over 1000 people. This event garnered widespread media attention and was covered by many regional newspapers, highlighting her growing influence in the culinary world.

Poonam’s cooking events are more than just about food. They are celebrations of heritage, craftsmanship, and community. She has successfully conducted numerous wedding events, lunch promotions, and Gujarati food festivals in some of the most prestigious venues across India.

Her collaborations include high-profile establishments such as:

• Radisson Mumbai
• ITC Maratha – Responsible Luxury Collection Hotel
• Hilton Jaipur, where she recently held a two-week food promotion
• The Conclave in Kolkata
• Ambuja Neotia Sheraton in Hyderabad
• Kailash Parbat in Chennai
• Clark’s Exotica in Bangalore

And many more, including resorts and luxury hotels across the country.

She has also provided specialized culinary training for hotel teams, such as two special training sessions for Gujarati cuisine at the Continental Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology in Kolhapur. This commitment to education reflects her desire to pass on knowledge and inspire future chefs.

Media Appearances and Recognition

Poonam’s media presence has been strong and consistent. Her TV appearances on Zee Marathi and Food Food channel have given her a platform to advocate for traditional Indian cuisine.

In February 2025, she co-hosted a Gala Dinner with the celebrated Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi for ABP News at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai, a prestigious event that further cemented her reputation as a top culinary talent.

In 2025, she was invited as a Guest Judge for the “Kutch MasterChef Season 1” at the Radisson Resort & Spa, Kandla, where her expertise was recognized and celebrated. This role underscores her position as a respected authority on Gujarati cuisine and culinary excellence.

Teaching and Mentorship

Beyond cooking and media, Poonam Dedhia has a passion for teaching and mentoring. She has conducted guest lectures at her alma mater, inspiring aspiring food entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with dedication and discipline.

Her approach to teaching is holistic, blending culinary skills with business insights and cultural storytelling. She believes that food entrepreneurs need not only cook well but also understand the market, customer preferences, and the importance of authenticity.

Poonam’s mentorship has helped many budding chefs and food business owners gain confidence and clarity in their career paths.

Culinary Philosophy and Style

At the heart of Chef Poonam Dedhia’s cooking lies a deep respect for tradition and authenticity. She is committed to preserving the original flavors of Gujarati cuisine, known for its unique balance of sweet, salty, and spicy notes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Her signature style is a celebration of simplicity and purity of taste, emphasizing home-cooked warmth but presented with the finesse of a professional chef.

She views cooking as an art form that nourishes not just the body but also the soul. Sharing food, in her words, is sharing love, culture, and memories.

This philosophy reflects in her cooking classes, where students not only learn recipes but also the stories behind them, the cultural significance, and the techniques that make each dish special.

Impact and Legacy

Chef Poonam Dedhia’s impact extends beyond individual accolades. She has contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of Gujarati culinary heritage at a time when globalization threatens to homogenize food cultures.

By bringing lost recipes back into the limelight, conducting large-scale events, and training hospitality professionals, she is ensuring that the culinary traditions of Kutch and Kathiyawad live on and flourish.

Her work inspires a new generation to appreciate regional cuisine’s richness and the importance of cultural identity through food.

Personal Traits and Values

Those who have worked with Poonam describe her as passionate, determined, and deeply committed to her craft. Her warmth and humility make her a beloved figure both on and off the screen.

She is continuously learning and evolving, often experimenting with new ideas while honoring tradition. For her, cooking is a journey of self-discovery and joy.

Her personal values of hard work, respect for heritage, and a desire to give back to the community shape every aspect of her professional life.

Future Vision

Looking ahead, Chef Poonam Dedhia aims to expand her reach internationally, introducing global audiences to the flavors and stories of Gujarat. She envisions launching culinary tours, publishing recipe books, and creating digital platforms to teach and inspire.

She is also passionate about collaborating with other chefs and cultural ambassadors to promote Indian cuisine globally.

Her ultimate goal is to create a legacy that honors tradition while embracing innovation, inspiring others to find their unique voice in the world of food.

JOURNEY

From a young girl learning at her mother’s side in Mumbai to a nationally recognized culinary artist and educator, Chef Poonam Dedhia’s journey is a compelling story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Her dedication to Gujarati cuisine, her achievements on national television, her large-scale culinary events, and her work in education and mentorship make her a beacon in the Indian culinary scene.

Her story continues to inspire aspiring chefs and food lovers alike, reminding us that food is more than sustenance—it is culture, memory, and love shared across generations.