By Nand Kishor Yadav , Owner & Culinary Development Chef, The White Hart
India, a country of boundless celebrations, boasts a calendar brimming with festivals that mark every season harvest, and cultural milestone. Festivals are the heartbeat of India, a country where every community has its unique way of marking special occasions. Whether it’s the harvest festivals like Lohri, Pongal, Makar Sankranti, or Bihu, every festival is a reflection of the country’s rich heritage and deep cultural roots. For Indians living abroad, these festivals are more than just events; they are a way to stay connected to home and share the essence of India with the world.
As someone who proudly wears his Indian heart on his sleeve, I have made it my mission to not only embrace these traditions but to share them. My life’s journey—from humble beginnings in India to mastering culinary arts across the globe—has been fuelled by an unrelenting passion for my culture and food.
From Indian Kitchens to the World Stage
My story began in 1999, crafting flavours in Indian kitchens under the meticulous mentorship of the legendary Qureshi family. They taught me not just how to cook but how to respect the dance of spices and aromas that define Indian cuisine. From there, the world became my canvas—working aboard Carnival Cruise Lines in the USA, exploring French, Mediterranean, and South American cuisines, and eventually landing in the UK, where I honed my craft in fine dining establishments alongside culinary greats like Gordon Ramsay.
But no matter where my culinary journey took me, my heart always yearned for India. It wasn’t just the food—it was the spirit, the festivals, the traditions that make every celebration in India a sensory explosion.
Bringing India Alive at The White Hart
Today, I own The White Hart, a quintessential British pub with an unmistakable Indian soul. Festivals like Lohri, Pongal, Makar Sankranti, and Bihu—harvest festivals celebrated across India—are not just dates for me; they’re an opportunity to turn the pub into a vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. We recently hosted a vibrant Lohri festival at the pub, and it was wonderful to see so many members of the Indian community joining us to celebrate. We made sure to bring the true spirit of the festival to life by preparing traditional dishes that everyone could enjoy. Some of the highlights included gajar ka halwa, sarson da saag with makki di roti, Punjabi samosa chaat, dal makhani, paneer butter masala, Punjabi chicken curry, veg kofta curry, gajak, rewadi, roasted monkey nuts, and gur til chakki,
among many others.
These dishes, which take considerable effort to prepare, were made with love to bring the authentic flavors and traditions of Lohri to our tables, even in a faraway land. It was a truly memorable celebration, filled with great food and the warmth of our culture.
Festivals Beyond Borders
Celebrating Indian festivals abroad is not just about replicating traditions; it’s about reinventing them. It’s about bringing people together—those who miss home and those eager to experience it. It’s about proving that no matter how far we go, our roots follow, grow, and flourish.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of catering for prestigious clients, from the Hinduja brothers to the cast of Strictly Come Dancing, and even hosting an Indian street food stall at the Chelsea Flower Show. Yet, the moments I cherish most are those where I see someone’s eyes light up as they bite into a dish that reminds them of home.
A Piece of India in Every Bite
For me, food is not just sustenance; it’s storytelling. Through my cooking and celebrations at The White Hart, I aim to tell the story of India—not just the India of festivals and spices but the India of joy, resilience, and togetherness. So, this year, as we welcome the harvest season, The White Hart will transform once again into a little slice of India. It’s not just my pub; it’s a space where everyone—no matter their origin—can experience the warmth of Indian traditions. Because, at the end of the day, I am Indian at heart, and wherever I go, a part of India will always go with me. Let’s celebrate together.
READ MORE: Korean skincare brand Exocobio enters Indian market
Pingback: Perfect Hairstyles Enhanced with Coconut-Based Hair Oil - The Look