Mumbai: In the heart of Mumbai, where the city’s ceaseless hustle meets its artistic soul, the Indian Cake Awards (ICA) unfurled its grand tapestry once again on October 7, 2023. After a hiatus that spanned four long years, the ceremony returned with an effervescent bang, illuminating the burgeoning cake industry in India like never before.
A Confectionery Carnival
The event was nothing short of a confectionery carnival, a veritable feast for the senses. With categories that ranged from the ‘Best Wedding Cake’ to ‘Rising Stars in the Industry,’ and from ‘Best Baking/Cake Academy’ to ‘Cake Hero,’ the awards encapsulated the multifaceted brilliance of India’s cake artisans. Product recognition and other industry-specific traits were also celebrated, making it the only pan-India award ceremony of its kind.
The Crowning Jewel: Prachi Dhabal Deb
As the evening reached its crescendo, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation. The most coveted accolade of the night, the ‘Indian Industry Icon’ award, was yet to be announced. The audience, in a state of palpable excitement, began chanting “Prachi” even before the name was officially disclosed in this non-disclosed nomination category. When Prachi Dhabal Deb, a financial analyst turned cake artist, was finally announced as the winner, the hall erupted in a cacophony of cheers and applause.
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Her acceptance speech was a poignant tapestry of emotion and gratitude, marking both the climax and closure of the ceremony. “I feel extremely honoured and humbled to receive this massive recognition,” Prachi said, her voice tinged with emotion. “I have loved every bit of my journey in cake artistry for the past 11 years, and when you get awarded for something you love so dearly, it is surely the best thing in the world.”
A Palette of Achievements
Prachi is no stranger to accolades and applause. She already holds three world records: one for a 100 kg cake structure inspired by the Milan Cathedral, another for the maximum number of vegan royal icing structures, and a third for creating a 200 kg edible structure of an Indian-inspired palace using vegan royal icing. These feats have been certified by the World Book of Records, London.
The Artist Behind the Art
Born in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, Prachi completed her schooling in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, and her college education in Kolkata. She is married to an IT professional from West Bengal and currently resides in Rahatani, Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune.
The Indian Cake Awards have not only celebrated the talents in this flourishing industry but have also given it a face, a name, and a story to root for. Prachi Dhabal Deb is that face, that name, and that story—a testament to what passion, skill, and a little bit of sugar can achieve.
