The G20 Summit has been India’s way of showing the world that we truly believe in treating our guests like God and providing them with the best hospitality possible. From decorations to travel to food, New Delhi took care of the visiting leaders, delegates, and their families to the utmost. Among all of these preparations and decorations, what stood out was the food that was served to the guests, highlighting the taste of simple and sustainable Indian cuisine and the versatility of millets. This is exactly what impressed Akshata Murthy while taking the first bite of Kunal Kapur’s khichda.
For those uninitiated, Chef Kunal Kapur was a part of the team of three chefs, along with Chef Anahita Dhondy and Chef Ajay Chopra, who cooked an elaborate lunch spread for the spouses of the First Ladies visiting India for the Summit. While Chef Anahita made the starter and Chef Ajay Chopra prepared the dessert, Chef Kunal Kapoor took on the responsibility of making the main course. And for this occasion, he chose to make a vegetarian version of khichda, which is usually made with meat. He prepared the dish with mushrooms, and the comforting taste really impressed UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s wife, Akshata Murthy.
Credits : Instagram - @chefkunal
Akshata is a businesswoman, a billionaire heiress, and a successful fashion designer. She was a part of a 15-member delegation of spouses of world leaders, including Yoko Kishida (Japan), Kobita Jugnauth (Mauritius), and Tshepo Motsepe (South Africa), who were hosted by the three chefs. Chef Kunal was really excited for the party to try out this special jowar mushroom khichda that he prepared. The dish was served with a side of broth and salad. Murthy really enjoyed the simple Indian dish. As soon as she took the first bite, she was super impressed and called his creation the best warm homecoming dish that she could get.
The rest of the party too enjoyed this special millet-based lunch menu and learned more about Indian cooking and cuisine. The whole experience was a huge success, with all the chefs taking to social media to express joy and gratitude for the afternoon with the First Ladies. Akshata Murthy and Rishi Sunak have been in the news for paying a visit to the Akshardham Temple in Delhi. The Indian-origin First Couple of the United Kingdom are in India for the G20 Summit and took the opportunity to eat Indian food and look closely at our vibrant and inclusive culture.