The semi-final of the Lulu Dum Dum Biryani Fest brought together contestants from India, Bahrain and Sri Lanka in Manama, with a wide range of biryani styles showcased during the competition.
The event, organised jointly by Gulf Madhyamam and MeFriend, was held at Al Reef Panasia Restaurant, where 30 participants selected from hundreds of entries competed for a place in the final round.
Contestants presented home-cooked dishes featuring Kannur, Hyderabadi and Sri Lankan biryani styles, along with fish, vegetable, chicken, mutton and beef variations.
Participants arrived at the venue in the afternoon with their prepared dishes before judging began.
The judging panel included Mukesh Shanmughan, executive chef at Food City Restaurant Company, Ratheesh M.P, executive chef at Al Reef Panasia, and Algad E Sawant, chef at Crowne Plaza InterContinental.
Organisers said judges faced difficulty selecting finalists because of the overall quality of taste and presentation.
Visitors attending the event were also invited to sample the dishes after the competition concluded.
Ten finalists were selected for the grand finale, with names set to be announced through Gulf Madhyamam’s social media platforms.
The final round will take place on May 29 at Lulu Hypermarket in Zinj Galleria Mall, where the competition to crown Bahrain’s “Sultan of Taste” will conclude.
The event will also feature music, dance and family entertainment ahead of Eid Al Adha, while celebrity host Raj Kalesh and chef Abida Rasheed are expected to attend as chief guests.