The smell of chili and spice will fill the Memorial Union today as “Mirch Masala,” the annual Indian Food Festival, brings a sampling of the diverse Indian culture to Iowa State.

“Mirch Masala,” which translates to “chili and spice,” is sponsored by the Student Union Board and organized by the Society for Indian Tradition and Arts (SITAR). This year, SITAR planned the Indian Food Festival to showcase India’s diversity by displaying Indian art and preparing several traditional Indian dishes, which originate from different regions of the country.

The Indian Food Festival will be in the Great Hall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are available to the general public for $5 and will be sold at the door.

Rohini Ramaswamy, president of SITAR, said her group wants to offer more than just a small sample of Indian cuisine. Instead, her group will serve at least six different menu items and side dishes, so more adventurous guests can enjoy a full Indian meal.

“If you want to get a taste of a real Indian meal, then this is a good way to get it,” Ramaswamy said.

The variety of menu choices reflects the diversity of the Indian culture. The dishes range from the sweet and cool Cucumber Raita, a yogurt and cucumber mix, to the spicy and hot Daal Makhani, made from black beans that are cooked in milk and Indian spices.

Those who are curious but apprehensive about enjoying the spicy Indian dishes are assured by the chefs that the meals will be adjusted to better suit American tastebuds. Recipes for the dishes will also be available for people wanting to prepare the exotic dishes in their own kitchens.

Food is not the only aspect of Indian culture people can learn about at the festival. Booths will be set up to display India’s art traditions.

“There is a large amount of interest about traditional Indian arts,” Ramaswamy said. “SITAR tries to organize events that highlight Indian tradition and culture for Iowa State and the Ames community.”

Indian art forms that will be featured at the festival, include the country’s traditions in music, dance, costumes, architecture, sculpture, film and literature. Students knowledgeable in these arts will be available at the festival to answer questions and provide further information.

“This is a forum where people can ask questions and find answers,” Ramaswamy said.