DIASPORA

Celebrating India's culinary heritage and architectural marvels in Albania

Wednesday, 09 Oct, 2024
A traditional dance of Albania performed at the Presidential Palace, Tirana. (Photo courtesy: Flags Communications)

The event was a convergence of history, art, and innovation, and set the stage for future cultural exchanges between India and Albania.

Tirana, Albania: A two-day inaugural Mini Festival of India was held this month in Albania, showcasing India’s rich royal culinary heritage and its architectural marvels. The cultural extravaganza was presented by Dikshu C Kukreja, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Albania, and graced by Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation of Albania.

On October 2nd, the Presidential Palace in Tirana was transformed into a royal court as the "Kitchen of the Kings" event delighted guests with the opulent culinary traditions of Rampur, a princely state renowned for its exquisite cuisine. Master chefs recreated signature dishes like mutton taar korma, shab deg, and an array of delicately spiced kebabs, offering attendees an immersive experience of Rampur’s royal flavors.

The evening was further enriched by live performances from the Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana, a prestigious musical tradition dating back to the 18th century. The intricate compositions and soulful renditions provided a mesmerizing backdrop to the culinary showcase, transporting guests to the royal courts of India.

In the words of Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, Government of Albania, "The royal kitchen of Rampur is not just a culinary heritage but a reflection of the soul of our culture. That is the magic of this evening, a moment that brings us closer not only to the tastes of Indian cuisine but also to the cultural richness that demonstrates how intertwined our cultures are—through our shared respect for traditions, history, and art. More than a dinner, this is a journey through history, culture, and the deep passion of a people who, for centuries, have kept their traditions and identity alive through their cuisine”.

The festival continued on October 3 with the inauguration of the exhibition “An Odyssey of India’s Architecture” at the Polytechnic University of Tirana. Curated by the CP Kukreja Foundation for Design Excellence, it provided an in-depth look at India’s architectural evolution over the past five decades.