`Reimagining food’: Telangana launches India’s first `Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator’

Hyderabad: Telangana government, in partnership with Hyderabad-based The Culinary Lounge, has launched India’s first Culinary and Experiential Tourism Accelerator.

The initiative aims to leverage opportunities in the global culinary tourism market, estimated at over USD 1 trillion.

The accelerator was unveiled at The August Fest and will focus on supporting the next generation of culinary and cultural entrepreneurs. It will promote innovation in sourcing, revival of traditions, sustainability, technology integration, and heritage preservation.

The program is led by TGIC and NICE org with The Culinary Lounge as a knowledge Partner.

Startups in the thematic areas of culinary tourism and experiential tourism will be offered:

• Access to expert networks and domain mentors

• Incubator facilities and resources

• Opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration

• Regional inclusion and community impact focus

• Access to markets

• Access to funding opportunities

“This is about reimagining food not just as culture or commerce, but as critical innovation infrastructure, with both social and economic impact,” said Gopi Byluppala, Founder & CEO of The Culinary Lounge.

Meraj Faheem, CEO of the Telangana Innovation Cell (TGIC), said, “This is the first initiative of its kind in the country. At TGIC, our focus is on identifying innovative startups and businesses that preserve local heritage and push it forward into the future. We are committed not just to sustaining our legacy within Telangana, but also to taking its rich cultural heritage beyond state borders.”

Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Special Chief Secretary for Tourism & Culture, said “Telangana’s identity is deeply intertwined with its rich culture and history. This accelerator program is a crucial step in transforming our cultural assets into economic opportunities. By supporting our cultural entrepreneurs in the F&B and experiential tourism sectors, we are not only creating jobs and wealth but also solidifying Telangana’s position as a global brand for unique and authentic experiences.”

Cultural Linkages

A fireside chat at the festival between Telugu actress and playwright Jhansi Laxmi and Gopi Byluppala explored the connection between food, language, textiles, and heritage.

“Food, language, and heritage must work together to create a comprehensive ecosystem for promoting Telugu culture. Isolated efforts will not be as impactful,” Jhansi said.

Culinary & Cultural Passport Concept

The discussion also introduced the concept of a Culinary & Cultural Passport for Telangana, a digital and physical travel companion allowing tourists to collect stamps from culinary and cultural destinations in the state.

Proposed inclusions in the passport trails are Oragallu, Ramappa Temple, Sakinalu, Sarvapindi, Gussadi, Perni Natyam, and Ananthagiri Hills. “Work on the passport is well underway, and its launch is just around the corner,” Byluppala said.

About The Culinary Lounge

Founded in 2016, The Culinary Lounge is an experiential kitchen and cultural hub that designs corporate cook-offs, cultural experiences, and skill-based culinary programs, blending creativity with entrepreneurship.