The Saveetha Hospitality Institute – Food & Tourism (SHIFT), Saveetha University, Thandalam, organized a Tamil Oratorical Competition on July 29 on the theme “Our Indian Foods and Their Importance”(நம் நாட்டின் உணவுகள் மற்றும் அதன் சிறப்புகள்). The event was organized by Dr. Pushpalatha, Assistant Professor of Tamil, to encourage students to appreciate India’s rich culinary heritage while promoting fluency in the Tamil language.
The programme began with an enlightening keynote address by Dr. Nalini, Associate Professor, SPIER, who explained the scientific significance of traditional Indian foods. She highlighted the nutritional value of ingredients commonly used in Indian cuisine, including the role of mustard seeds, spices, and other traditional cooking practices, making the session highly informative and engaging for both students and faculty.
Students enthusiastically delivered speeches entirely in Tamil, demonstrating remarkable confidence and language skills. Although many students are more accustomed to speaking in English, they embraced the challenge and presented their topics with great enthusiasm.
Among the notable presentations, Deepak (III Year) spoke on the importance of Gujarati cuisine, with special emphasis on the traditional dish Dhokla, while  Malivina (III Year) presented an insightful speech on the uniqueness and nutritional richness of Tamil Nadu cuisine. Students from the second year, including Abhinaya and Adish, also actively participated. The competition concluded with the prize distribution ceremony, where Dr. Nalini honoured the winners.
Deepak (III Year) got a first prize and Malvina (III Year) got a second prize.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. T. Milton, Principal, Saveetha Hospitality Institute – Food & Tourism, appreciated Dr. Pushpalatha for organizing a meaningful event that combined language, culture, science, and culinary heritage. He congratulated all the participants for confidently presenting their speeches in pure Tamil and making the event a memorable learning experience.
The competition successfully strengthened students’ appreciation for India’s diverse food traditions while encouraging the preservation and promotion of the Tamil language.