Hans News Service Vijayawada

UK-based Telugu celebrity chef Kanthi Kiran Thamma, Chef and director of The Spice Circuit Ltd., Brighton, has been named a finalist in the Chef of the Year category at the BIH Spotlight Awards 2026.

Chef Kanthi’s selection follows an overwhelming response to his nomination in the nationwide recognition programme, with finalists chosen from more than 3,000 nominations across the UK hospitality industry. His achievement highlights his contribution to South Asian cuisine and the UK’s diverse culinary landscape. The Spice Circuit Ltd. was previously honoured with the Best South Asian Restaurant award at the BIH Spotlight Awards 2025, recognising its distinctive contribution to South Asian cuisine and hospitality.

Now in its fifth year, the BIH Spotlight Awards have attracted more than 1,000 attendees from across the UK and Ireland and recognised 60 winners. The awards also provide a platform for established professionals and emerging talent in the hospitality sector. Chef Kanthi’s latest nomination adds to his growing recognition in the UK culinary industry and places him among leading chefs competing for the coveted Chef of the Year title.

The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony at Quaglino’s, London, on October 12, 2026, in the presence of leading chefs, restaurateurs, hospitality professionals and food connoisseurs from across the UK and Ireland.

Chef Kanthi Thamma, born in Guntur and raised in Hyderabad, is an acclaimed chef and entrepreneur based in Brighton, UK. Over 12 years, his culinary ventures have earned numerous awards and international recognition. As a guest chef, he has represented South Indian, particularly Telugu, cuisine across Sweden, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Italy and the USA.