Pakistani Cuisine Day concluded with a vibrant and historic grand finale at Alhamra Arts Council Hall 1, Mall Road, Lahore. The event marked a defining moment in the nation’s culinary history as COTHM Global and the Chefs’ Association of Pakistan (CAP) came together for the first time to introduce an official national celebration dedicated solely to Pakistani cuisine—an initiative aimed at giving Pakistan’s food the distinct identity it deserves on the global culinary map.
The balloon-releasing ceremony added a vibrant and symbolic touch to the grand finale of Pakistani Cuisine Day. As colorful balloons lifted into the sky with the chief guest leading the moment, the gesture represented Pakistan’s culinary heritage rising toward global recognition. Students and guests gathered with excitement, turning the ceremony into a joyful celebration of unity, pride, and the beginning of a new chapter for Pakistani cuisine.
The day began with the arrival of students and management, followed by a traditional live cooking demonstration of Makai di Roti and Sarson da Saag. The hall filled with excitement and the rich aroma of Pakistan’s culinary heritage, setting the tone for a culturally powerful celebration. A symbolic balloon-releasing ceremony with the chief guest added vibrant colors to the sky, representing Pakistan’s culinary rise on the world stage.
Inside the hall, the program formally started with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem.
During his welcome address, COTHM Founder, President & CEO Ahmad Shafiq delivered a heartfelt and visionary message about the purpose behind Pakistani Cuisine Day. He stated:
“For the first time in Pakistan’s history, COTHM and CAP have united to introduce Pakistani Cuisine Day. Our traditional dishes have never been given a distinct identity at the global level—yet they carry generations of culture, history, and pride. Today marks the beginning of a new journey to reclaim that identity and present Pakistani cuisine to the world with the dignity and recognition it truly deserves.”
He further emphasized CAP’s mission to showcase Pakistan’s culinary heritage internationally, ensuring its rightful place in the global culinary community.
A distinguished highlight of the event was the presence of Mehmet Eymen Şimşek, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Lahore, along with his spouse. Both praised the initiative, calling Pakistani Cuisine Day a meaningful cultural milestone that strengthens connections between nations. They admired the authenticity of flavors, the creativity of the students, and the warmth of Pakistan’s hospitality.
Adding further prestige to the event, TV Anchor Zohaib Butt, renowned singer Adeel Barki, and Faiza Ali, Vice President of the Lahore Women’s Chamber of Commerce & Industry, also joined the ceremony. They expressed their appreciation for this significant national movement to reclaim the culinary identity of Pakistan and encouraged the youth to continue celebrating and preserving authentic Pakistani flavors.
International endorsements were delivered through video messages from Worldchefs Vice President Dr. Rick Stephen and Chef Muhammad Raees, CAP Vice President for International Relations. Documentary screenings by COTHM students—featuring Biryani and Lahori cuisine—highlighted regional culinary stories through powerful visuals and storytelling.
Winners of in-house culinary competitions from COTHM New Garden Town, Johar Town, DHA, and Harbanspura were celebrated on stage.
Souvenirs were presented to the distinguished guests, creating memorable moments throughout the ceremony. A grand cake, sponsored by Chocolate Academy and Glazed Bakery, was cut to mark the joyful closing of the festivities.
The event wrapped up with national songs, applause, and a grand group photograph symbolizing unity, pride, and the beginning of a new culinary chapter. Pakistani Cuisine Day concluded not just as an event, but as a national movement to elevate the identity, recognition, and global footprint of Pakistani cuisine, ensuring its legacy thrives for generations.
