Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has refused to apologise for his controversial remarks about Nagpur's iconic Saoji cuisine, saying his comments reflected his personal opinion and were intended to raise awareness about the health risks associated with excessive consumption of oily and spicy food. His stand has intensified a debate over the balance between promoting healthy eating and respecting regional culinary traditions.
The controversy began after Mundhe, while addressing a public event, remarked that if someone like him ate Saoji food, he would end up in hospital for at least a month. He also cautioned that frequent consumption of oil-rich dishes could increase the risk of lifestyle diseases, including heart ailments. The remarks quickly went viral, triggering criticism from Saoji restaurant owners, food enthusiasts and members of the Saoji community.
Several restaurateurs demanded that the senior IAS officer withdraw his statement and issue a public apology, arguing that Saoji cuisine is a symbol of Nagpur and Vidarbha's cultural identity. However, speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Mundhe remained firm, saying, "Those were my personal remarks. There is no question of an apology."
The issue has also sparked wider reactions from regional organisations. The Vidarbha Rajya Andolan Samiti (VRAS) and other groups accused Mundhe of making sweeping comments about a cuisine that represents the region's heritage. They argued that individual food preferences should not be used to judge an entire culinary tradition and urged public officials to exercise greater sensitivity while commenting on cultural symbols.
Celebrity chef Vishnu Manohar defended Saoji cuisine, highlighting its historical roots in Nagpur's textile mill culture. According to him, the cuisine evolved among workers who experimented with bold flavours after long working hours, eventually developing the distinctive spice blend and cooking style that has become synonymous with the region. He stressed that Saoji is much more than a spicy meat dish—it is an integral part of Vidarbha's food heritage.
While health experts agree that excessive consumption of oil-rich foods can contribute to lifestyle diseases, the controversy has opened a broader conversation about how public health messaging should be communicated without undermining regional food traditions. As the debate continues, Mundhe has maintained that his comments were solely intended to encourage healthier eating habits rather than target any particular community or cuisine.
