Ahead of World Baking Day, Hyderabad's kitchens are witnessing a notable shift as more people exchange screen time for sourdough starters, frosting bags, and fresh batches of bread. Baking is increasingly recognized as a creative and calming activity that allows individuals to unwind and reconnect with family amid hectic routines, according to the city's growing community of enthusiasts.
The Post-Pandemic Baking Renaissance
"Post-Covid, people wanted activities that helped them slow down and work with their hands again," says Arundati Rao, Founder and Academic Director of Escapades Baking and Culinary Academy. Pastry chef and founder of BakerontheHill, Aditi Punetha, adds, "People attend baking sessions not just to learn, but also to relax, bond with loved ones and explore a creative outlet."
From Hobby to Ambition
What begins as a weekend pastime is gradually transforming into a serious pursuit for many in Hyderabad. Deepika Hebbatam, an ex-IT professional, shares, "I'm planning to move away from my stressful IT job and pursue baking full-time." Prashanth Pattamatta, a data analytics professional, notes, "The endless creativity involved in bread-making is what keeps me experimenting and learning new techniques." Maria Blessy, a corporate employee, reveals that workshops and online baking communities motivated her to continue learning and evolving.
Sensory Immersion and Creative Freedom
"Baking engages all the senses — you smell it, touch it, hear it and finally taste it — which is why so many people today are drawn to it as a creative, hands-on and immersive experience," explains Arundati Rao. Pastry chef Darani Janarthanan echoes this sentiment: "Once I start baking, I lose track of everything else around me." Ritika Turakhia Jain, a pastry chef, adds, "Baking is something I return to regardless of my mood — whether I'm happy, stressed or tired, I always find comfort in the process of creating something from scratch."
A Break from Screens and Stress
Amid demanding jobs and long hours spent on screens, many Hyderabadis are finding solace in flour-dusted countertops and slow evenings dedicated to baking. "You somehow find time for the things you truly enjoy — sometimes I even stay up late at night baking when everyone else is asleep," says Archana Gopinathan, a corporate professional.
Family, Nostalgia, and the First Bake
For many bakers, the journey begins with family — whether recreating childhood memories or wanting healthier treats for children at home. "I wanted to be sure about the ingredients I was giving my children, especially cakes, cookies and breads," says Prasoona Palaparthy, a corporate professional who first turned to baking for her kids. Maria Blessy shares, "The journey started with my son, but over time baking became something I genuinely wanted to pursue seriously and keep improving at."
As World Baking Day approaches, Hyderabad's baking community continues to grow, driven by creativity, comfort, and a desire for hands-on connection in a digital age.
