Kolkata | June 30, 2026: In a first for the city, Shiraz Golden Restaurant has announced ‘The Biryani Man 2026’, Kolkata’s inaugural biryani eating competition, as part of its 85th anniversary celebrations. The unique culinary event is being organized in association with the upcoming Bengali film The Eken: Kerala-e Kurukshetra.
The grand finale will take place on July 25, 2026, at Hotel Siamton Inn Shiraz, where 25 finalists will compete in a 45-minute biryani eating challenge. The participant who consumes the highest number of plates after completing the mandatory minimum of two plates will be crowned “The Biryani Man 2026.”
The winner will receive the prestigious title along with a Lifetime Free Mutton Biryani Card, allowing one complimentary dine-in serving of Shiraz’s signature mutton biryani every week for life. All participants will also receive a three-year Shiraz Loyalty Card and a complimentary plant.
Registrations will remain open from July 1 to July 21, with entry forms available at all Shiraz outlets, through QR codes on promotional materials, and via the restaurant’s website. A live lucky draw on July 22 will select the 25 finalists.
The contest logo was unveiled by Shiraz partners Mr. Ishtiaque Ahmad, Mr. Akhtar Hasnain, and Dr. Raghib Hasnain, in the presence of actors Anirban Chakrabarti and Suhotra Mukhopadhyay.
Organizers confirmed that the competition is open to Indian citizens aged 18–60 years who are medically fit. A doctor, ambulance, first-aid facilities, and an on-site medical team from Mediview Nursing Home will be present throughout the event to ensure participant safety.
The collaboration aims to celebrate two of Kolkata’s greatest passions—biryani and cinema—while building excitement for The Eken: Kerala-e Kurukshetra, which is slated for release during the Durga Puja festive season.
