In the ever-evolving world of Indian gastronomy, Chef Sugandha Saxena stands out as a trailblazer, seamlessly blending tradition with luxury. As the founder of two prestigious brands, Laddooh and Okhli she has elevated the essence of Indian mithai and spotlighted the lesser-known Kayastha cuisine. With a profound understanding of her heritage and a vision to revive traditional flavors, Sugandha has carved a niche in the culinary world, catering to discerning palates both in India and internationally.
Sugandha’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in her education and heritage. After completing a bachelor’s degree in hotel management, she pursued further specialization in International Hospitality at EHL Hospitality Business School in Switzerland, renowned for producing top-tier professionals. Armed with this global exposure and her Kayastha roots, Sugandha set out to create culinary experiences that honor tradition while remaining authentic.
LADDOOH: A Fusion of Tradition and Luxury
At the core of Sugandha’s entrepreneurial success is Laddooh, a brand that has redefined luxury mithai in India. Specializing in handcrafted, artisanal Indian sweets, Laddooh merges the finest ingredients with age-old techniques, creating an unforgettable dessert experience. Each piece is a celebration of rich textures and traditional flavors, crafted with precision to satisfy refined tastes.
it is an exclusive, made-to-order brand specializing in bulk orders for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations, available by appointment only. Sugandha personally works in the kitchen with her team, ensuring the highest quality and inspecting every box herself.
A hallmark of Laddooh is its exclusivity. Unlike traditional mithai shops, Laddooh operates on a bespoke model, focusing solely on bulk orders for weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations. The brand intentionally eschews the typical store concept, keeping its offerings niche and elite. Clients can connect with Laddooh by appointment only, ensuring a personalized, luxurious experience tailored to their specific needs. Each order is handcrafted, not machine-produced, and customized to perfection, whether for a grand wedding or a high-profile corporate affair.
In addition to catering to India’s elite, Laddooh has garnered international acclaim. Sugandha’s desserts have gained popularity not only within Bollywood and aristocratic circles but also globally. Laddooh’s luxurious creations have even earned the endorsement of Prince Raja Manvendra Singh Gohil, a notable figure in Indian royalty, further elevating the brand’s prestige.
Whether it’s the use of gold and silver leaf or the incorporation of rare ingredients, every detail at Laddooh reflects Sugandha’s passion for creating an indulgent, luxurious dessert experience. The brand’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it the go-to choice for those seeking something extraordinary for their special occasions.
Okhli : A Culinary Ode to Kayastha Cuisine
While Laddooh explores the world of Indian sweets, Sugandha’s second brand, Okhli, serves as a heartfelt tribute to her Kayastha heritage. Known for its unique blend of Mughal and North Indian influences, Kayastha cuisine occupies a special place in India’s culinary traditions. Through Okhli, Sugandha aims to revive and celebrate this rich legacy.
Okhli operates as a cloud kitchen, allowing the flavors of Kayastha cuisine to reach homes and events across cities. The menu is a carefully curated selection of age-old recipes passed down through generations, offering a true taste of Kayastha culinary traditions. Signature delicacies include best-sellers like mutton e dadima, mutton koftas, mutton yakhani pulao, korma,Takke Paise , Veg Qeema , tikde roti, and daal sultani, all prepared using time-honored techniques that reflect the heritage of Kayastha households.
Okhli has also gained recognition for its exclusive pop-up dining experiences, held in major cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, and Bangalore, as well as internationally in Germany and Dubai. These pop-ups offer diners an immersive experience, allowing them to savor the nuanced flavors of Kayastha food. Each dish, steeped in tradition, tells a story of heritage and brings to life the forgotten flavors of a bygone era.
Sugandha’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of Kayastha cuisine has made Okhli a favorite among food lovers who appreciate the deep-rooted cultural significance of this cuisine. The dishes reflect the warmth and richness of Kayastha kitchens, ensuring that the legacy of this unique culinary tradition continues to thrive.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition
Sugandha Saxena’s journey as a culinary artist is defined by her ability to honor tradition while elevating it to new heights. Her brands, Laddooh and Okhli, have been celebrated both in India and abroad, with mentions in prestigious lifestyle magazines and international food forums. Sugandha’s vision is to keep Indian heritage alive through food, ensuring that the world has a chance to savor the richness of these time-honored traditions.
Her global recognition Is a testament to her unwavering commitment. Sugandha has been invited to host pop-ups and workshops across Europe and Asia, mentoring industry professionals and showcasing her skills on international stages. As she continues to promote Indian culinary traditions, her brands stand as symbols of heritage, quality, and authenticity.
Through Laddooh and Okhli, Sugandha Saxena is not just preserving the past but ensuring that Indian sweets and Kayastha cuisine continue to be celebrated for generations to come. Her dedication to culinary excellence and passion for her heritage promises a future where these rich traditions thrive, inspiring a new generation of food lovers to explore and appreciate the depths of Indian culinary art.
