Syeda Amtul Saudi Gazette To celebrate the diversity and richness of Indian food, “Indian Food Festival-2014” organized by Indian Consulate General in partnership with Saudi Indian Business Network (SIBN) kicked off at the Indian Consulate premises in Jeddah on Thursday. Saud Ali Alshekhi, general manager Ministry of Culture and Information, Makkah region, along with Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai and other diplomats officially inaugurated the event. The three days food fest showcases variety, taste and flavor that each region provides to India. What was witnessed was a variety of fare that had its own style of cooking, range of flavors and unique taste. The opening day witnessed a huge gathering of diplomats from different countries, prominent Indian and Saudi community members and food connoisseurs. Eighteen Indian restaurants, snacks and sweet makers based in Jeddah presented their fares to offer North Indian, South Indian, Hyderabadi and Moglai cuisines. Speaking to Saudi Gazette Alshekhi said I am very happy to preside over the evening. It's excellent to see different food from different states of India under one roof exhibiting their traditional food to the people. I liked the idea and I think we can do such activities very frequently in Jeddah to exchange culture and traditions between the two countries. “The best thing I liked after the food was the green leaf which had some sweet inside which just now I came to know is called “Paan.” I was totally surprised not knowing what to do with this either to eat it or just chew. A real unique mouth freshener,” he said. Confessing the fact that he's a big lover of Indian food, Alshekhi appreciated the hospitality given to him by the Indian Consulate. He lauded Consul General Kidwai's efforts in strengthening ties and fostering friendship between the two countries. Kidwai, in his address, said, “We took this opportunity to show Indian cuisine to local people. The restaurants that were selected to display their cuisines are very representative of their region. The audience too provided a good ambience and I think large number of people will come tomorrow and day after.” “We are trying to showcase a varied Indian cuisine here. Though Indian cuisine is famous, we do not know much about it, except some popular dishes that are served at Indian hotels. Today the variety of Indian food here will give you a flavor of what Indian cuisine is really about,” he added, while thanking SIBN and all the team members for working really hard for this. He specially thanked all participating restaurants and their cooperation.” An appreciation award was also given to executive secretary of SIBN Mir Gazanfar Ali Zaki, who had been instrumental in organizing the event. Zaki said: “The Indian Consulate and Saudi Indian Business Network (SIBN) organized the fest because we wanted to promote and showcase the rich food culture and tradition of India in the Kingdom. Indian food is rich in variety, taste and flavor with each region having its own cuisine. The Indian cuisine is a mirror to our culture, which dates back 5,000 years.” “Indian culture and food have a special place in the hearts of Saudi community. As an organizer we wanted to give an opportunity to Saudis and other nationalities in Jeddah to enjoy the original culinary skills and the flavors of exotic spices, which make the Indian cuisine truly an international delight,” he added. Appreciation certificates were also given to all participating restaurants. Malaysian Consul General Khalid Abbasi Abdul Razak said: “Jeddah is a big city with a multicultural atmosphere and I personally feel that this kind of activities is liked by most people. This festival is a good effort on the part of the Indian consul general. Although I am hoping next time he will invite some special chefs from India. I would like to congratulate him for initiating this and I think we need to have more of this kind cultural activities.” Indonesian Consul General Syailendra said: ”I like Indian food, culture, music and traditions. I am very pleased to be here today.” Visitors to the event enjoyed delicious biryani, haleem, kebabs, naan, chhola bhatura, several chicken and mutton dishes and curries, idli, sambar, dosa, spicy chaats, snacks, sweets and ice creams. A traditional musical performance also enthralled the audience at the event.
