Guwahati: ITC’s Sunrise Spices, a brand deeply rooted in Eastern India’s culinary traditions, has unveiled its latest cultural initiative—‘Xipa Bisari: A Back to Roots Series’—in an effort to rediscover and celebrate the rich food heritage of Assam. The 10-episode series was officially launched on April 16th at the Chandmari Bihu Xonmilon pandal in Guwahati, in the presence of Mr. Rahul Das, Chief of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, and celebrated Assamese chef and culinary revivalist, Atul Lahkar, who also hosts the series.
Curated as a tribute to traditional Assamese recipes and the cultural knowledge embedded in them, Xipa Bisari features Chef Lahkar traveling across Assam—visiting villages, markets, and kitchens—where he engages with local custodians of culinary wisdom, particularly elderly women who have preserved these traditions through generations. Each episode will see him reinterpreting ancient recipes using Sunrise Spices’ signature blends, bridging the gap between past and present culinary styles.
“Sunrise, our ethos has always been rooted in authenticity, cultural pride, and celebrating the culinary richness of every region we serve. ‘Xipa Bisari’ series is a heartfelt extension of this belief, an initiative that honours Assam’s traditional food heritage, empowers local communities, and inspires the next generation to rediscover and cherish their culinary roots,” said Piyush Mishra, Business Head, Spices, ITC Ltd.
Chef Lahkar added, “This collaboration is more than just about food, it’s a tribute to our elders, to our stories, and to the sustainable way of living embedded in Assamese culture. I am thrilled to be part of this wonderful series by Sunrise Spices.”
Supported by the Cultural Ministry of Assam, the series promises to spotlight a wide array of dishes—from familiar names like Khulasapori Pitha and Kalangdang to lesser-known regional gems—offering viewers a unique look at Assam’s culinary soul. Through the series, Sunrise aims not just to showcase recipes but to preserve and pass on a way of life built on flavour, sustainability, and community.
