It’s that time of the year to wish your friends and family Puthāaṇdu vāazhthugal! This auspicious occasion marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar year and is joyously celebrated across Tamil Nadu. Deeply entrenched in Tamil culture and tradition, Tamil Puthandu symbolizes renewal and prosperity. On this day, families come together to celebrate with elaborate customs, decorating their homes with mango leaves and adorning the streets with colourful kolams, all showcasing the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu. An integral part of the celebrations is the classic Puthandu feast that the chefs at Southern Spice, the iconic South Indian specialty restaurant at Taj Coromandel, have recreated for their guests this Tamil New Year’s Day.
The quintessential South Indian experience at Southern Spice starts with the refreshing Nannari Sarbath, Neer Mor and Panagam. Guests can revel in the flavourful Manga Pachadi (Raw mangoes, jaggery, red chillies, asafoetida, mustard seeds, ghee); Ulundu Vadai (Spiced, crisp fritters made from Urad dal batter); Kara Pidi Kozhukattai (Rice flour, tempered with spices and steamed); and Arai Keerai Kadayal (Amaranth leaves, moong dal, mustard, curry leaves, tempered). Non-vegetarians can delight in Kozhi Uppu Kari (Slow roasted chicken with chili and homemade clarified butter & spices); Meen Monga Curry (King fish cooked in a green mango and coconut curry); and the most popular Attu Erachi Kuzhambu (Succulent lamb shoulder meat, cooked gently with spices). End this feast with the classic favourite, Asoka Halwa (Moong dal, whole wheat confection).
For the most memorable culinary experience this Tamil New Year’s Day, head to Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel, one of India’s Top 50 Restaurants awarded by Condé Nast Traveller India.
Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel | April 14 | Lunch & Dinner | INR 3000 plus taxes (Veg Thali); INR 3300 plus taxes (Non-Veg Thali); and INR 300 plus taxes for mocktails | Please call 044 6600 2827 / 78248 62311 for more details and table reservations.
