Internationally renowned celebrity chef Shankar R. Santhiram, famed for his Fire by Shankar restaurant in Malaysia, brought a belly full of laughter and good food to the sappadu (Tamil for meal) he prepared for residents and guests at the Aryan Benevolent Homes (ABH) in Chatsworth on Friday.
Guests were treated to a variety of Tamil Malaysian styled curries and a rice base. Basmati ghee rice with cashew nuts was accompanied by Amma’s Kolli Kulambhu (mum’s chicken curry), Penang‑styled vegetable korma (potatoes, carrots and cauliflower in a coriander and fennel curry base) and Sorrakai Kootu (calabash in dhall).
Addressing the gathering, Santhiram spoke at length about the similarities between people of Indian origin in South Africa and Malaysia, referring to them as “coming from the same stock”.
Speaking to Post Plus, Santhiram said, “It has been an absolute blast. It’s fantastic. It has been my privilege and singular honour to be here and to do this. Durban holds a very special place in my heart. I feel like family.”
“You know sometimes you do things where the satisfaction and the energy you receive, even though you are tired, is at a different level. I have had so much fun being here with the kitchen team. It is absolutely special to be here. Durban, South Africa, thank you for always making me feel at home.”
ABH CEO Ray Naguran returned those emotions of love and gratitude. “As the aroma of spices filled the air, residents gathered for a culinary experience that truly tantalised the taste buds. They were deeply honoured by Chef Shankar’s visit and the exquisite, mouthwatering meal he crafted for them.
“His expertise and passion also captivated our kitchen team, who watched and learned as this culinary master worked with effortless skill. We are deeply grateful to Chef Santhiram; his generosity is a heartwarming reminder to our residents that they are cherished, one delicious plate at a time.”
Conversing with event sponsor Kooven Naidu, CEO of KNFT Shipping, Santhiram’s final words were, “Maybe I should come back with my team and do a proper sappadu as a fundraiser for the ABH.” Naidu heartily agreed, and the crowd roared in support.