advertisement
Chef turned writer, Anthony Bourdain travelled to the most unlikely parts of the world to discover its culture, history and people through food. In 2014, he took a trip to India as a part of his CNN travel show, Parts Unknown. In the north state of Punjab, Anthony introduced his audiences to the colourful and vegetarian Indian food.
Elaborating on the food scene in India, late Bourdain, in an interview with Vogue said,
“In India—Punjab in particular—the thing you notice first, the thing that stays with you, is the colours”.
He even referred to The Beatles’ songs that were influenced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi when the band took a trip down to India.
Bourdain also highlighted the lack of authentic Indian restaurants in his own hometown, New York.
“Back home, we are really weak on street food, at least in Manhattan. Queens is another matter, there’s a lot of good street food there. New York does deli well, so I can safely recommend Pastrami Queen, Katz’s Deli, or Barney Greengrass. But I can’t recommend any Indian restaurant in New York. I’ve been spoiled,” Anthony to Vogue.
Through his excursions, he was often known to “humanise the dehumanised”, break down complex ideas, and provide alternate views. In this clip with Anderson Cooper, Bourdain bats for the underdog, Indian street food over a bowl of Spaghetti Bolognese.
As someone who continuously made efforts to break down barriers through his travel experiences, Anthony used his voice to empower minorities and thoughtfully peeled away the complex layers to open up diverse cultures to the world. He travelled to places where no Western cameraman ever did. For his contribution to the culinary world, the irreplaceable Anthony Bourdain leaves a legacy behind. The celebrated chef and host inspired millions with his body of work and will be missed immensely.
(If you have suicidal thoughts, or if you know someone who needs help, please refer to this state-wise list of credible mental health professionals.)
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)