Inside Rashtrapati Bhavan
Cooking for Shri Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu & President of Vietnam, Tô Lâm
From a pinch of salt to a wave of smiles — this is the remarkable journey of Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi.
Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi received the distinguished honour of being invited by Rashtrapati Bhavan to curate and present a special culinary experience for the State Banquet hosted by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, in honour of the President of Vietnam, Tô Lâm, in the esteemed presence of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.
This historic occasion represents a defining milestone in Chef Harpal’s culinary career. As the sole chef chosen for this prestigious collaboration, he joined forces with his dedicated Karigars from Karigari Restaurants to design a menu inspired by the vibrant culinary legacies of Punjab and Haryana. Together, Chef Sokhi and his team showcased a powerful blend of heritage, artistry, and national pride — celebrating authentic flavours, enduring traditions, and the spirit of Indian hospitality at one of the country’s most distinguished state events.
The thoughtfully curated menu highlighted the richness and diversity of North Indian cuisine. Punjabi cuisine brought forward its signature bold flavours, fragrant spices, and the unmistakable depth created through traditional techniques such as tandoor cooking. Complemented this, Haryanvi cuisine reflected rustic authenticity, centred around wholesome ingredients, subtle seasoning, and comforting simplicity.
The evening stood as a testament to India’s cultural depth, culinary craftsmanship, and the spirit of innovative collaborations.
Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi shared his deep sense of pride in representing his team and the Karigari family at this landmark occasion, describing it as the “mother of all collaborations” and a milestone in his culinary career. Being entrusted with serving India’s highest dignitaries and esteemed international guests stands as a testament to the confidence placed in his expertise and his impact on Indian cuisine.
This distinguished collaboration highlights the rising global recognition of India’s diverse regional cuisines and motivates him to keep pursuing culinary excellence.
Take a look at the specially crafted culinary experience created for the prestigious State Banquet:
