CTD's Misson and Three Pillars
The relationship we have with ourselves, our soul, and the relationship we have with food, our tastebuds, is a constant cycle. Personally, this cycle is never ending and the focus throughout my life. For example, I would go an entire day without eating when I've had a stressful day in my 9-5 and did not spend time releasing the pent up tension or anxiety. Then, I'd indulge in highly processed foods at midnight. But on that same stressful day in my 9-5, when I've made the conscious effort to journal in my diary every morning or go for a walk during my lunch break, I noticed that these small actions would reflect positively in my eating habits and overall wellbeing. I drank more water, ate 3 meals in a day filled with whole foods, preferred ghar ka khanna (in Hindi) or vittil sappadu (in Tamil), and had a much deeper sleep.
Our mission at CTD is simple: finding a balance between soothing your soul and your tastebuds.
How? Read our three pillars below!
Food
In the kitchen, we find a common ground where differences fade away and the joy of food brings us closer together. With every aroma and flavour, memories are unlocked and bonds strengthened.
Food is the universal language.
By sharing recipes, we celebrate diversity. Each dish carries a story and invites us to partake in a shared human experience.
🌶 Paneer Bhurji on Toast, under "Breakfasts" in Recipe Index
Youtube video:
Sini Bakes
📍St.Catharines, ON, Canada
Storytelling
Kadak Chai
📍Chaiiwala Scarbrough
We spotlight the narratives of the beautiful souls in our lives to unlock the richness of our community's tapestry. From small business owners, to local cafés, and to your favourite local food joint.
These stories serve as windows into their journeys, struggles, and triumphs. We are committed to building a stronger and a more supportive community where every voice is heard and celebrated.
Community
To create meaningful connections, it's essential for each member to know one another - both online and offline. Sharing my food photography services, in person meet-ups or virtual cooking classes can bridge distances.
These interactions not only inspire us with diverse perspectives and culinary experiences but also empower us to make a collective impact, enriching our bonds and experiences along the way.
💌 Kick-Start Guide, you can get after joining the CTD community for free
Vidya Mohan (she/her)
Founder
In December 2014, the delightful moniker "Chikka Tikka Diaries" was born. By day, I dedicated myself to the corporate legal services industry in Toronto, while my evenings were all about embracing my passion for food photography, videography, and content creation across various social media platforms like Youtube, Instagram, Spotify, and Pinterest.
Fast forward to June 2020, and the revamped Chikka Tikka Diaries website made its delicious debut. Even as I climbed the corporate ladder, supporting lawyers from Bay Street to boutique law firms, my weekends were reserved for exploring local businesses, indulging in neighbourhood eateries, and amplifying the voices of immigrants who enrich our community.
Then, in April 2024, a new chapter began when I found myself at a crossroads after parting ways with my corporate job. Seizing the moment, I decided to take the leap!
With over 6 years in the corporate legal sector and more than 10 years of experience in food photography, videography, social media marketing, and content creation under my belt (along with a few new grey hairs marking my journey into my thirties), I'm diving headfirst into full-time entrepreneurship!
My mission? To share mouthwatering recipes inspired by my South Asian heritage, to connect with small business owners in our neighbourhood, spotlight the stories of everyday leaders and their lessons, journeys, and victories, and to cultivate a vibrant CTD community. Ultimately, to soothe my soul and my tastebuds all through the lens of Chikka Tikka Diaries!
Join me on this exciting entrepreneurial adventure by following along on Youtube, Tik Tok, and Instagram!