* The ceremony is for Christmas and New Year-2024 celebrations

Heralding the festive season of Christmas and capturing the spirit of forthcoming New Year; the School of Hotel Management & Tourism (SHMT) at Lovely Professional University (LPU) organized a flavorful ‘Fruit Maceration Ceremony’. It was a celebrative representation of the ‘art of flavours’.

Held at the state-of-the-art facilities of the University, the ceremony showcased the culinary prowess and creativity of the students of the SHMT. It was all about the art & science behind fruit maceration. It is a technique that enhances the flavours of fruit by soaking in a chosen liquid medium to create delicious and unique concoctions.

Gracing the occasion, LPU’s Pro Chancellor Mrs Rashmi Mittal expressed her delight at the innovative initiative taken by the students, whom she commended for their unique passion in the culinary art. She also highlighted the importance of such practical experiences in shaping the future leaders for the hospitality industry. Mrs Mittal was accompanied by Pro Vice- Chancellor Prof Dr Sanjay Modi, HoD Prof Shankar Jha and other faculty members.

Such a ‘Mixing’ is a ritual to welcome happiness and prosperity. During the ceremony, the chefs, all the executives and even celebrity guests participate- “The more to mix, the merrier the feat!” This initial step towards making the ‘Cake’ is the huge mixing process, which is observed world over as “Mixing ceremony”.  This stirring ceremony, which historically dates back to the 17th century in Europe, is part of an age-old Christmas tradition.

Maintaining the culture and tradition, the ingredients taken were dry fruits like raisins, prunes, dates, cherries, orange, lemon and nuts like cashews, pistachios, and almonds. Large quantities of fresh juices and honey were generously added to soak all the mixtures. Freshly minced spices were also added and tossed till the fruits and nuts were well coated. With occasional stirring to ensure the nuts were swollen, the whole preparation was emptied into a large container and stored for further Christmas and New Year-2024 celebrations. The entire arrangement focused on edible, healthy and organic ingredients.  

The entire arena was decked in the ‘Christmas Theme’, where lighting of the Christmas-tree, carol singing, mirthful dances and solemn addresses marked the celebrations. It was equally enjoyed by both international and national students for celebrating the festivity to spread the warmth of the oncoming season and welcoming the new year-2024. Miniature forms of Santa Claus, Christmas trees and bells were made and displayed.

Celebrations encouraged togetherness, passion of creativity, team building spirit, learning and honing hospitality traits among students. These are necessary for the students to emerge as aspiring professionals. LPU provides 100% placement opportunities to its students and prepares them as aspiring Hoteliers, both in India & Abroad and also for Cruise placements. Such LPU students get International opportunities to work in the USA, Europe, Italy, U.K. and more.