Bhadri Durgabakshi worked as a journalist in Sri Lanka before moving to the USA. She was a sub editor and wrote feature articles covering human interest and travel and interviewed well-known personalities visiting Sri Lanka. She also featured a weekly “Restaurant Review” column where she explored and critiqued various dining experiences.
In America, she worked at the World Bank as a Finance Officer, for more than three decades, in Washington, DC. During her tenure at the World Bank, she also functioned as the Head of Administration and Finance in the Mozambique office.
Currently Durgabakshi serves as a co-chair Board Member of Groundswell International (a non-profit organisation that promotes agro-ecological farming and food security systems).
****
Sunday Observer Explorer decided to spotlight Bhadri Durgabakshi a visitor to Sri Lanka to relate her experience at Ifthar in Colombo… so that we give you the reader an eye witness account of the delectable dishes…
Q: How did you feel mingling with the known faces at the Ifthar function after having been away for so many years?
“While I have shared many cherished moments with my Muslim friends over the years, experiencing Iftar at the Cinnamon Lakeside was truly unique and memorable.”
“The time-honoured tradition of breaking fast with fellow brethren was captured in true spirit and unity, thanks to the amazing efforts put together by the management of Cinnamon Lakeside. I was impressed by the prayer rooms for the ladies and the gents as one entered the buffet hall. It showed that every aspect of this beautiful tradition was thoughtfully upheld.
“The decorations reflected the essence of traditional Middle Eastern style with various areas adorned with carpets and cushions, creating a cozy setting for tea and coffee. We were presented with a lavish spread of delectable cuisine from Pakistan and the Middle East starting with the bread baskets on the tables. They also contained juicy dates along with an assortment of nuts.”
“The dolmas (stuffed grape leaves) which are associated with Ottoman cuisine and the creamy hummus were healthy choices to break fast. A faluda drink filled with “kasa kasa” and tasting of rose water accompanied the items on the table. The diverse selection of food ensured that there was something to delight every palate and dietary preference”.
Q: What about the main dishes?
“I prefer vegetarian and seafood dishes so I navigated towards these choices, although there were many meat dishes to satisfy those who savor their meats — such as mutton gala kebab, chicken Rajasthani boti and chicken haryali, just to name a few.
“I started with pani puri – a delightful crispy puff filled with spicy, sweet and tangy water. The art of eating a pani puri is where you put the entire puff in your mouth and let the various tastes come alive in your mouth.
The Middle Eastern delights such as Tabouleh, Baba Ghanoush, Muhammara, samosas and Fattoush salad were amazing. I also loved the white bean stew with vegetables. The white beans just melted in my mouth bringing with it a burst of flavor.
“Biriyani, dal makhani, vegetable salona, baked fish and sauteed prawns were the next items on my plate. Needless to say these tasted absolutely incredible.
Q: How did you like the desserts?
The wide array of desserts were as beautiful as they were tasty. I tried the creamy, nut filled kulfi with fresh fruits. The chocolate fondue was tempting next to the strawberries, but I decided to skip that and also the wide array of beautifully crafted chocolates. There were hot baklavas, churros and many Indian sweets. So many choices but now, no more room to indulge.
Q: How would you describe the Ifthar night?
“It was a feast and a memorable occasion. The ambiance beautifully showcased traditional Middle Eastern and Pakistani influences. Every detail was carefully considered making the evening truly special and unforgettable”. – CIM
Pix by Shan Rambukwella
