Sunrise Spices Launch ‘Xipa Bisari’ to Revive Assam's Culinary Roots

ITC's Sunrise Spices, in collaboration with celebrated Assamese chef and culinary revivalist Atul Lahkar, has launched an exciting new YouTube series titled ‘Xipa Bisari: A Back to Roots Series.’ The 10-episode journey, presented by Sunrise and supported by the Cultural Ministry of Assam, was unveiled on April 16th at the Chandmari Bihu Xonmilon pandal in Guwahati amidst enthusiastic attendees and the presence of Mr. Rahul Das, Chief, Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam.

‘Xipa Bisari’ will follow Chef Atul Lahkar as he traverses Assam's villages and markets, seeking out forgotten recipes, traditional cooking methods, and the invaluable culinary wisdom passed down through generations. The series will highlight Chef Lahkar's interactions with local culinary custodians, particularly elderly women who have preserved these traditions through oral history and practice. Viewers will get a glimpse into their kitchens, filled with the aromas of authentic spices and the stories behind each dish.

In each episode, Chef Lahkar will reinterpret these age-old recipes, incorporating Sunrise Spices' authentic blends to bridge traditional flavors with a contemporary touch. Sunrise Spices, known for its quality, will play a central role in showcasing the distinct spice profiles that define Assamese cuisine. The series will feature a range of dishes, from well-known staples like Khulasapori Pitha and Kalangdang to lesser-known regional delicacies, offering a rich tapestry of Assam's food culture.

Speaking at the launch, Rahul Chandra Das, Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, told Business North East (BNE) that "We have to delve into our flavors, stories, and the traditions. Through this captivating YouTube series, which deals with all such kinds of things, we definitely need to know Assam's gastronomic culture. Through this episode, definitely, what we termed it as 'Kheepa Bisari,' we need to go back to our journey, back to the roots."

Chef Atul Lakhar, owner of Khorikaa, shared his passion for the project: "Its not only a series, this is basically connected to the root. I've been doing research for the last 30 long years on our tribal community or Assamese food history, about the food culture. It's a gastronomical journey. So, I travel every community to highlight their foods, highlight their lifestyles, highlight their houses, what they use for the recipes, and why they prepare this recipe, and also their story behind the recipe. That is very important."

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He further elaborated on his vision for the series, stating, " It's a bridge between two generations, the past and the present generation. And it will be the future generation."

Chef Lahkar informed BNE the significant resources required for the series, estimating a minimum of Rs 2 lakhs per episode to cover travel, research, team costs, camera work, and editing.

‘Xipa Bisari: A Back to Roots Series’ promises to be a captivating exploration of Assam's rich culinary heritage, brought to life by Chef Atul Lahkar and the authentic flavors of Sunrise Spices, offering a valuable bridge between generations and a celebration of the region's unique gastronomic identity.