The Astor Kolkata’s inaugural Khasi Festival, a vibrant showcase of Northeast India’s native flavors, takes you on a culinary journey through the Meghalayan hills. Chef Juban Mawphniang, who flew down from Meghalaya specifically for the occasion to curate the menu, is the centerpiece of this one-of-a-kind experience.

The festival, scheduled to take place from July 25 to August 10, 2025, offers lunch (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.) and supper (7 p.m. to 11:45 p.m.) sessions, providing guests with a unique opportunity to enjoy the hearty, traditional Khasi cuisine. The price of a lunch for two is Rs 1000.

“The most potent language of memory and identity is food. I feel incredibly honored to bring a piece of my home to Kolkata — not just through the dishes but also through the stories, the rituals, and the warmth behind every Khasi meal,” said Chef Juban Mawphniang.

The carefully chosen menu offers regional favorites that capture the coziness and taste of traditional Khasi kitchens:

Doh Syiar Neiiong – Chicken cooked with black sesame

Doh Sniang Roast – Sliced roasted pork

Dohkhlie* – Pork salad with a tangy twist

Jadoh (Chicken) – Chicken rice, a Khasi staple

Kharang – Smoked fish curry served with steamed rice

Syrwa Tit – A light chicken and mushroom soup

There are also vegetarian options that offer well-balanced flavors for all palates, such as Khasi-style mixed vegetables, sticky rice, and soft flatbreads called putharo.

Sakin Gata (steamed sticky rice cake) and pineapple with black salt and pepper flakes are two classic Khasi desserts that guests can savor to finish off on a pleasant note. Kwai, a traditional betel nut offering that symbolizes friendship and respect in Khasi culture, is served at the end of each meal.

Head to The Astor to enjoy amazing dishes at the Khasi Festival.

Priyanka Dutta