Delhi-NCR, May 21, 2025 — The SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Delhi-NCR Campus (Ghaziabad), made culinary history by crafting 1001 unique Vada Pavs in just 14 minutes and 36 seconds, officially setting a new world record and pushing the boundaries of innovation in hospitality education.
Why Vada Pav? A Symbol of Unity and Flavor
Vada Pav is more than a snack—it’s an emblem of India’s cultural tapestry. Often hailed as the “Indian burger,” this humble yet fiery delight represents street food at its finest. SRM’s bold choice to celebrate this dish honored its deep-rooted legacy in Indian gastronomy while elevating it through innovation and diversity.
From traditional spices to exotic ingredients, every Vada Pav variant told a unique story—rooted in regional flavors and inspired by student creativity.
The Grand Culinary Marathon
Event Host: SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ghaziabad
Spearheaded by: Department of Hotel and Catering Management
Key Institutional Leaders:
- Mr. Yatendra Kumar – Vice Principal
- Chef Pankaj Kumar Sisodia – HoD
- Chef Manoj Joshi – Assistant Professor
- Ms. Harshita Khurana – Assistant Professor
- Mr. Dinesh Kumar – Assistant Professor
- Mr. Raj Kishore Mishra – Assistant Professor
- Ms. Anuti Choudhary – Assistant Professor
- Ms. Swati Sharma – Lecturer
- Ms. Subhadra Das – Assistant Lecturer
- Mr. Vishwanath Naicker – Programmer
Months of preparation culminated in a moment of pride and precision as the team embarked on a mission to create 1001 distinct Vada Pavs in under 15 minutes.
The Record-Breaking Challenge
- Participants: 40 Culinary Students
- Goal: 1001 Unique Vada Pavs
- Time Achieved: 14 Minutes and 36 Seconds
Every recipe was different. Every step was timed. Under pressure and with unwavering focus, the students delivered a performance that was equal parts culinary mastery and logistical excellence.
Behind the Scenes: Preparation and Precision
Weeks of Planning & R&D
Developing 1001 unique recipes required relentless testing, creativity, and collaboration. Each filling—ranging from spicy beetroot to pineapple mint—was meticulously crafted.
Ingredient Inventory:
Over 500 ingredients were catalogued, prepared, and portioned. The event was a masterclass in food logistics, safety, and sanitation.
Inclusivity in Every Bite
From vegan to gluten-free and allergy-conscious options, the menu reflected care and inclusiveness, proving that great food can also be responsible food.
Flavor Innovation: Traditional to Trailblazing
The variety stunned everyone—801 unique Vada fillings and 200 types of bread, including sweet, spicy, and even fruit-based creations. The creativity on display was boundless.
Inspiring Leadership and Words of Encouragement
- Welcome Address: Dr. Dhowmya Bhatt, Dean, IQAC – “This is more than food—it’s about passion, innovation, and pride.”
- Motivational Speech: Dr. R. P. Mahapatra, Dean – “Cook with heart. Believe in your team. Make history.”
- Hospitality Vision: Dr. D. Antony Ashok Kumar, Director, IHM – “Leadership begins in the kitchen.”
- Pre-launch Pep Talk: Dr. Sanjay Viswanathan, Director – “This is about creativity, courage, and community service.”
The Countdown and Execution
2:00 PM: The whistle blew. 40 students launched into a choreographed culinary sprint. Stations fired up, ingredients flowed, and innovation took over. The atmosphere was electric.
Official Recognition: Nova World Records
- Adjudicator: Mr. Rajkumar Natarajan
- Verification Partner: E. Prabakaran
- Record ID: NWR-2025-1187
- Title: Fastest Creation of 1001 Unique Vada Pavs
At 14 minutes and 36 seconds, the nod of approval marked the historic moment. Thunderous applause followed as Dr. Sanjay Viswanathan and Dr. Antony Ashok Kumar accepted the official certificate.
Celebration Through Service: Giving Back to the Community
In a heartwarming gesture, every Vada Pav was packed and distributed to Laksh Pathshala NGO and local underprivileged families. Students personally handled the packaging and ensured quality and hygiene throughout.
“We succeed when we serve.”
Echoes from the Experience
Student Voices:
“It was exhausting, but the best day of my life,” said Subham, a final-year student.
Faculty Reflections:
“This is what true education looks like—practical, passionate, and purposeful,” said Chef Pankaj Kumar Sisodia.
Community Response:
Recipients expressed heartfelt gratitude. For many, it wasn’t just a meal—it was a gesture of love and recognition.
A Legacy of Learning, Leadership, and Love
This wasn’t just a record-breaking event. It was a milestone in hospitality education. It demonstrated the power of student-led innovation, compassionate service, and the importance of real-world learning.
SRM University didn’t just create Vada Pavs—they created history.
And in doing so, they set a shining example for institutions across the globe: when passion meets purpose, excellence is inevitable.
