By Ms Riddhi Ajay Bhatia for BIS Mumbai

The World Food Day 2025 celebration was organized on October 16, 2025 at Don Bosco Academy, Nerul, in collaboration with Riya Institute. The event was held to create awareness about the importance of food, sustainability, and cultural diversity while promoting learning through joyful participation. It served as an opportunity for students to explore global cuisines and understand how food connects people and cultures across the world.

The celebration began at 12 noon and was inaugurated by Fr Shekhar and Ms Mansi, marking the formal commencement of the day’s activities. Their encouraging words highlighted the significance of World Food Day and inspired everyone to recognize the value of food and the responsibility we all share in reducing waste and ensuring sustainability.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from 25 students and 7 staff members from Riya Institute, who contributed actively to every aspect of the celebration. The venue was decorated beautifully, reflecting a global food theme with vibrant colors, cultural elements, and welcoming displays. A total of eight engaging stalls were set up, featuring games, traditional utensils, and beverages, each representing different regions and culinary traditions from around the world.

Each stall showcased a unique country’s cuisine and its story — from the ingredients used to the cultural practices associated with food preparation and sharing. Students took the lead in explaining these details to visitors, creating an environment of learning, interaction, and enjoyment. The hands-on approach enhanced their hospitality and presentation skills while strengthening teamwork and communication.

The event recorded 25 prior registrations and an impressive 85 walk-ins, indicating strong interest and active community involvement. The energy and enthusiasm among participants and visitors brought the entire space to life, turning the event into a celebration of diversity, creativity, and togetherness.

Participants of various activities and games were rewarded with special gift hampers containing aromatic spices, symbolizing warmth, tradition, and the shared love for flavors that unite people globally. The choice of spices as gifts also served as a thoughtful reminder of India’s deep-rooted connection to food heritage and culture.

More than a cultural exhibition, the event carried a significant educational message. It emphasized the importance of sustainable food practices, mindful consumption, and the global goal of achieving food security for all. Students and attendees were encouraged to reflect on how small lifestyle choices can contribute to a healthier planet and equitable food systems.

The event was well coordinated by Don Bosco Academy, Nerul, and Riya Institute, ensuring seamless organization, participation, and collaboration at every level. The celebration concluded on a joyful and reflective note, successfully achieving its objective of promoting unity through food and appreciation for global cuisines.

In alignment with the FAO’s World Food Day 2025 theme – “Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind.” – the event reminded everyone that water is at the heart of our food systems and that preserving it is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for all.