The Roots of My Cooking, The Love of My Family
Behind every recipe I create, there are memories, traditions, and the love of the people who have shaped my journey. My passion for cooking did not begin in a day; it grew over the years, inspired by the wonderful women in my family and nurtured by their love, care, and encouragement.
My Mom and Grandmother — Where It All Began
My first lessons in cooking came from my mom and my grandmother. They taught me not just the art of cooking, but also the love, patience, and care that go into making every meal special. Their recipes, techniques, and little kitchen secrets are precious treasures that I carry with me even today.
My mom is one of the hardest-working people I know, always giving to others and putting her family before herself. She has taught me so much through her actions, especially the true meaning of selflessness and unconditional love. A part of her lives in everything I do, and I am grateful for the values and traditions she has passed on to me.
My Mother-in-Law — A Heart Full of Care
I am equally blessed to have a caring and supportive mother-in-law who constantly looks out for my well-being. Whenever I have a large number of orders to prepare, she checks on me, making sure I am not overworking myself and taking care of my health. Her concern and thoughtfulness remind me that family support often comes through the little things that mean so much.
My Elder Sister Deepa — My Forever Person
Deepa is more than a sister to me; she is my confidante, my emotional anchor, and one of my greatest sources of strength. She has stood by me mentally and supported my work through every stage of this journey. Having someone who understands you, believes in you, and encourages you when things get difficult is truly a blessing. I am so grateful to have her in my life.
And then come my wonderful nieces and nephew, who celebrate my cooking in the sweetest ways possible. Whether it is an elaborate spread or the simplest little dish, their appreciation and excitement make it feel special. Their encouragement brings me so much happiness and reminds me that sometimes, the smallest gestures of love mean the most.
My Younger Sister Jayashree — The One Who Always Believed
Jayashree has always encouraged me to dream bigger and take the leap towards opening my own restaurant. Her constant encouragement and willingness to be there whenever I need her have meant more to me than words can express. Having someone who reminds you of your potential, especially when you are unsure of yourself, is a gift I will always cherish.
Her belief in my dreams has given me the courage to imagine what Divine Kitchen could become, and I will always be thankful for that push and encouragement.
Family — My Greatest Blessing
When I look back at my journey, I realise that I have never walked alone. From the cooking traditions passed down by my mom and grandmother to the care, encouragement, and love of my sisters, mother-in-law, nieces, and nephew, every one of them has added something special to my story.
Divine Kitchen is built on more than passion and hard work. It carries the flavours of my childhood, the wisdom of generations, the encouragement of my loved ones, and countless memories made with family.
I feel truly lucky to have such a beautiful family in my life. Their love is my comfort, their encouragement is my strength, and their happiness is one of the greatest rewards of doing what I love.
Every dish I make carries a little piece of my family’s love, and that will always be the most special ingredient in Divine Kitchen.
