Nathan Philips Square of Toronto on Aug 5 turned into a delectable Indian food street that drew thousands of visitors from all over the region, celebrating the diversity that Canada epitomizes.

Organized by the Young Canadian Alliances and School of Flavours, Taste of India Food Festival was an instant hit with children and adults alike. Serpentine queues were witnessed at most of the food stalls, and people didn’t mind waiting.

The festival  this year had about 100+ different Indian cuisines with all the participant  food vendors offering a sample plate of their most popular dishes for just under $10.

Despite heat the spirit of the festival was in no way dampened. People young and old, of all nationalities colourfully attired, filled the festive place with joy, with everyone busy eating their favorite dishes.

Samantha from Markham, who came to the festival with her friend Jimmy, said, “I love Indian food and I am literally spoilt for choice here. I would try at least five to six dishes.”

Teong Chang, who lives in British Columbia and has come to Toronto to visit a friend, sounded very excited: “When I heard about the event from my friend, I didn’t want to miss it. I am glad I came.”

Consul General of India Dinesh Bhatia lit the ceremonial lamp and greeted the crowd and asked everyone to be present at the India Day parade on August 19.

Children from Reign Yash Dance group dazzled the stage, performing on peppy Bollywood beats. Yash Koppala and his team’s performance drew thunderous applause from the visitors gathered there.

The unique feature of this festival is that it was a street food festival.  Street food culture is a relatively fresh idea in Canada.

In a relaxed, happy, and joyful environment  producers, manufacturers, food vendors and restaurants showcased what they have with an opportunity for interaction, communication and shared experiences, the keys to understanding different cultures.

Taste of India left a fond and lingering aftertaste for the hundreds who came to take a trip down Indian food street in Toronto.

(Reporting by Sayantan Banerjee and Asha Bajaj with Satarupa Biswas)