Nagpur: What happens when a chef swaps the kitchen for the stage, serves poetry alongside food, and turns conversations into an art form? Nagpur is about to find out. On May 31, celebrated chef and cultural personality Vishnu Manohar will dish out an unconventional evening where Bhavgeete, Marathi poetry, theatre, humour and traditional cuisine come together in a cultural platter titled ‘Khaau Gappa ani Kavita’ (Food, Conversation and Poetry).The programme will be held at Dr Vasantrao Deshpande Auditorium in Civil Lines at 6.45pm. Addressing media on Thursday, Manohar said the event is designed as an immersive cultural experience blending food traditions with storytelling, literature and live performances like a theatre play.Conceptualised by Manohar along with host Mukund Deshpande, the event will feature discussions around traditional and ‘sattvic’ cuisine, including anecdotes, ayurvedic significance of dishes, and memories gathered during the chef’s 35-year culinary journey.The evening will also include recitations of Marathi poetry, including original works penned by Manohar, along with live music, theatrical excerpts and food presentations. Musicians Shrikant Pise on harmonium and Sachin Dhomne on tabla will accompany performances.Adding a theatrical touch to the event will be a specially curated ‘Nandi’ (the song played before the beginning of the actual play as a tribute to Lord Ganesh) on Indian culinary culture. The song is written by Vignesh Joshi and rendered by Hindol Pendse. Manohar also announced that the team has planned a 25-day tour of the United States beginning this August. Entry to the programme is free, but only for those with passes.
