By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Spectrum 2025, the much-anticipated annual gourmet theme dinner, was hosted with grandeur on December 12, 2025 by the Hospitality Department of Don Bosco College, Kurla Campus. A signature academic and experiential learning event, Spectrum continues to stand as a hallmark of excellence, creativity, and professional training for hospitality students. This year’s edition was an extravagant and eclectic culinary experience, where every detail—from concept to execution—was meticulously researched and thoughtfully curated in keeping with the chosen theme.

The primary objective of Spectrum is to create meaningful learning opportunities for students by providing them with a real-time platform to showcase their culinary, service, organisational, and leadership skills. It also aims to build confidence, help students explore their interests across various hospitality domains, and foster a strong liaison between the hospitality industry and students, thereby opening doors to enhanced career opportunities.

The 2025 theme, “Palaterra – A Transcontinental Odyssey,” took guests on a gastronomic journey across the seven continents, presenting signature dishes inspired by global cuisines. The evening unfolded as a symphony of tastes, textures, and flavours—beginning with sumptuous Asian appetizers, followed by four delectable main courses representing North America, Australia, South America, and Africa, and culminating with indulgent European desserts. Each course was thoughtfully designed to delight and intrigue the palate.

Approximately 550 guests, including industry experts, renowned hoteliers, alumni, parents, and well-wishers, gathered on the Don Bosco College grounds to partake in this impressive culinary affair. The ambience was equally captivating, with vibrant lighting, innovative floral arrangements, and thematic décor that brought Palaterra to life. One of the key highlights of the evening was the magnificent chocolate display crafted by the Bakery Department, alongside seven gourmet fondant cakes representing the seven continents. These artistic creations, made by staff and students of the Bakery and Confectionery team, bore imaginative names such as Jacaranda, PortoRosa, Billy-Bella, and Milele, adding a unique visual and conceptual appeal.

The event was graced by Fr Anthony Pinto, Rector of Don Bosco Centre for Learning, Kurla Campus, who addressed the gathering and blessed the occasion with his warm and encouraging words. Spectrum 2025 was a true testament to teamwork, involving the combined efforts of first-year, second-year, and third-year students. Third-year students took on leadership and managerial roles, guiding their juniors, who displayed immense enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication throughout the event. Alumni who attended the evening experienced a wave of nostalgia, reminiscing about their own Spectrum journeys.

Guest feedback was overwhelmingly positive, describing the event as “excellent,” “magnificent,” and “a benchmark of excellence.” Parents expressed pride in witnessing their children confidently assume leadership roles in an event of such scale, praising the flawless execution across all departments. Prominent guests from leading five-star properties in Mumbai commended the impeccable food quality and professional standards, while members of the Salesian community and invited institutions lauded the divine cuisine and exemplary service.

An event of this magnitude was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, corporate partners, hospitality organisations, and benefactors, to whom the management, staff, and students expressed heartfelt gratitude. Fr Mylin Noronha, Campus Administrator and Director - DBC, delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the Salesian community, management, faculty, and students. Spectrum 2025 – Palaterra truly proved to be another feather in the cap of the Hospitality Department. The evening concluded with words of appreciation from Chef Suzanne Nixon, Head of the Department, as faculty and students stood united in team spirit, camaraderie, and joie de vivre—celebrating yet another unforgettable milestone.