Taste of tradition: Indian-Sri Lankan Food Festival brings community together

GLEN ALLEN, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond's annual Indian-Sri Lankan Food Festival kicked off today along with the sizzling sound of dosa batter and the rich aroma of curry spices.

Held annually at the Tabernacle Pentecostal Church in the heart of Glen Allen, the festival drew hundreds of attendees on Saturday May 24, along with the beat of traditional music which created a vibrant atmosphere for attendees.

The festival left many eager to experience the bold flavors and rich heritage of South Asia. From longtime regulars to first-time visitors, guests enjoyed a wide array of dishes like, butter chicken, biryani, samosas, gulab jamun and more to celebrate the culinary diversity of India and Sri Lanka.

Among the crowd was Beulah Kalyanapu, who has been cooking and serving fresh dosa at the festival for five years.

“It’s my way of sharing my culture — one bite at a time,” she said, flipping golden crepes filled with spiced potato and onion.

For newcomers like Jada Evans and Jana Outland, the experience delivered big flavor and bigger smiles.

“So far, the samosas — delicious,” said Evans. “We got these mango lassis,” added Outland. “So good, sweet, pure.”

Some, like Winston and Philomina Devisser, have made the event a tradition.

“You’re happy to be here today?” Winston was asked. “Oh, yes. I like, I’m happy,” his mother Philomina replied with a smile.

The menu offered something for every palate, from butter chicken with naan to the smooth coolness of mango lassi.

Beyond the food, the event served up connection, a space for community, celebration and shared culture.

Whether guests came for a taste of home or to try something new, one thing was clear--the Indian Sri Lankan Food Festival brought people together through food, flavor and heart.

If you missed this year’s event, don’t worry, organizers say the festival will return next year once again inviting everyone to take part in this joyful culinary celebration.