Global IndianstoryMitu Bhowmick Lange: Bringing Indian cinema to Australia’s big screens

Mitu Bhowmick Lange: Bringing Indian cinema to Australia’s big screens

Compiled by: Charu Thakur

(November 30, 2024) When Mitu Bhowmick Lange first arrived in Melbourne in 2002, she found herself in a city that couldn’t have been more different from Mumbai, where she had built a thriving career in television and film. Melbourne, despite the multicultural vibe, felt quieter, slower and unfamiliar. As a passionate cinema lover, she missed the energy of India’s entertainment industry and the rich, dynamic stories that reflected her homeland. Fast forward two decades and Mitu has transformed this cultural distance into a powerful bridge. She is the founder of Mind Blowing Films (MBF), the leading distributor of Indian films across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, and the director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the largest South Asian film festival in the Southern Hemisphere.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange

Under her leadership, Indian cinema has become a prominent part of Australia’s mainstream entertainment. What once played in small community centres has now made its way to major multiplexes, where Bollywood hits and regional films attract audiences from the Indian diaspora and curious locals alike. Her work has also strengthened collaborations between Indian and Australian filmmakers, establishing Melbourne as a key center for cross-cultural storytelling. “You will find not just Hindi films but Tamil, Punjabi, and Telugu films being screened. I feel very proud about the kind of growth the market has witnessed since we started,” the Global Indian said.

Over the years, her work has earned widespread recognition, including the Jill Robb Screen Leadership Award and the prestigious Order of Australia for her contributions to Australian cinema. But her journey, like any film narrative, began with challenges, determination, and a deep passion for storytelling.

From Mumbai to Melbourne: A New Beginning

Originally from Kolkata, she finished her graduation from Delhi University before studying film at St Xavier’s College in Mumbai. Soon she kickstarted her journey in film and television by producing and directing shows for BBC News, Zee TV and Star Plus, and worked on the award-winning documentary Watch Without Prejudice, which UNICEF India presented to highlight the impact of violence on Kashmiri children.

But she had to bid her thriving career a goodbye when she followed her husband to Melbourne “resentfully”. “In India, I had a good job and I was part of the media and television world. In Melbourne, I didn’t have anything going on. Slowly, I tried to create my own little world here.” She joined a media and advertising company and spotted an opportunity others had overlooked: the untapped potential of Indian cinema in Australia. At the time, Australian companies were primarily focused on American productions, and Bollywood was barely on the radar. “I somehow managed to convince my very Australian boss that we should look at India as well,” she said in an interview. The idea was bold, and it paved the way for what would become her life’s work.

Salaam Namaste: The Turning Point

The breakthrough came in 2005 with the Bollywood romantic comedy Salaam Namaste, which became the first Indian film shot entirely overseas. As an in-line producer for the project, Mitu worked closely with Yash Raj Films, a collaboration that laid the groundwork for her future ventures.

The film was a massive success. Beyond box office numbers, it showcased Melbourne as a vibrant, multicultural city, leading to a 17 percent increase in tourism from India to Victoria. “Salaam Namaste went on to create so much awareness for Melbourne in India,” Mitu said, adding, “There was a hike in tourism, with students coming to study here.”

The success of Salaam Namaste was only the beginning. Mitu realised there was a growing appetite for Indian films among Australia’s South Asian diaspora. But at the time, these films were screened in makeshift venues like community halls and Chinatown cinemas. “I remember sitting in these makeshift cinemas, and in the middle of the screening, the projector stopped working. When the reel was changed, it was a completely different film!”

The Rise of Mind Blowing Films

Determined to change this, she founded Mind Blowing Films (MBF) in 2009, a distribution company dedicated to bringing Indian cinema to mainstream Australian audiences. The early days weren’t easy. Australian exhibitors were wary of working with Indian distributors, citing past difficulties. But Mitu persisted, earning their trust and opening doors for Bollywood and regional films.

Today, Mind Blowing Films is the leading distributor of Indian cinema in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, releasing over 40 films a year. From Hindi blockbusters to Tamil, Telugu, and Punjabi hits, MBF has helped make Indian films a staple in Australian multiplexes. With the Indian diaspora growing rapidly in Australia, now numbering over 700,000, the love for Indian cinema has remained strong, serving as a cultural bridge for many to stay connected to their roots. By bringing Bollywood hits and regional films to Australian theatres, she has made it easier for the diaspora to enjoy the stories they love.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne

Mitu’s vision for Indian cinema didn’t stop with distribution. In 2010, she launched the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), the largest South Asian film festival in the Southern Hemisphere. Supported by the Victorian Government since 2012, the festival has become a cultural institution, showcasing the best of Bollywood, regional films, and independent cinema.

Mitu Bhowmick with Shah Rukh Khan

IFFM is more than just a celebration of Indian films; it’s a platform for diverse storytelling. From Tamil and Telugu films to hard-hitting documentaries, the festival represents the vast spectrum of South Asian cinema. Over the years, it has brought stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Vidya Balan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kangana Ranaut to Melbourne, attracting audiences from all walks of life.

“Often, we are only as inclusive within our comfort zones,” Mitu says. “Screen is so important for bridging prejudices. You can’t be what you can’t see, and this has driven my work.”

In 2019, Mitu launched My Melbourne, an initiative that pairs Indian filmmakers with Australian writers to create films exploring race, gender, disability, and sexuality. The project is set to premiere at the 2024 IFFM, further cementing the festival’s role as a platform for underrepresented voices.

Beyond Cinema: Championing Social Impact

Mitu’s work isn’t limited to entertainment. She’s deeply committed to using cinema as a tool for social change. In 2016, she produced the award-winning documentary Raising the Bar, which followed six individuals with Down Syndrome from India and Australia as they attended the World Down Syndrome Congress in Chennai.

Her passion for education led to Educate the Educators, a program launched in collaboration with La Trobe University and Blue Bells International School in New Delhi. The initiative equips teachers with the skills needed to work with children with special needs.

Recognition and Legacy

Over the years, Mitu’s contributions have earned her widespread recognition. In 2017, she became the first Indian to receive the Jill Robb Screen Leadership Award. A year later, she was appointed to the board of Film Victoria, another first for an Indian in Australia.

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In 2023, she was awarded the Order of Australia, an honour that she describes as deeply meaningful. “It’s a recognition for all the hard work, especially for anyone who has come to Australia and calls the country a home now. You have to work and try to find a sense of belonging, and when you receive such recognition, you feel complete,” she says.

A Vision for the Future

Mitu’s journey is far from over. With plans to produce collaborative Australian-Indian films, she continues to push boundaries and foster creative partnerships. “As the world is getting smaller, audiences are becoming more global,” she says. “Diverse creative expression across cinema and the arts is important.”

Mitu Bhowmick Lange | Global Indian

From her early struggles in Melbourne to her role as a cultural ambassador for Indian cinema, Mitu Bhowmick Lange has shown how the power of storytelling can bridge worlds. Through Mind Blowing Films and IFFM, she has not only transformed how Indian cinema is experienced in Australia but has also created a legacy of inclusion, diversity, and connection.

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Published on 30, Nov 2024

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First among equals: Who is Rishi Sunak, the man leading the race for UK’s PM?

(July 16, 2022) "Rishi is one of the most decent, straight people with the highest standards of integrity I have ever met in British politics." Former foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt, who was one of the candidates eliminated in the first round of voting on July 13, threw his weight behind former Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak, for whom he was full of praise. With Priti Patel bowing out of the Prime Ministerial race and Attorney General Suella Braverman winning a paltry 27 votes in the second round of voting, Conservative Party MP Rishi has emerged as the Indian-origin strongman, topping the first round with 88 votes. Global Indian takes a look at Rishi's life and his rise in politics. A glowing article in The Tatler, describes Rishi from his days waiting tables at an Indian 'curry house' named Kuti Miah. The restaurant's owner was friends with Rishi's parents, Yashvir and Usha. Which is not to say that Rishi Sunak comes with a tear-jerker of a rags-to-riches, immigrant in the UK origin story. Far from it. Born to a physician father, while his mother ran a pharmacy, his life was decidedly upper-middle class. Far from his exotic, immigrant status giving him

at Rishi Sunak comes with a tear-jerker of a rags-to-riches, immigrant in the UK origin story. Far from it. Born to a physician father, while his mother ran a pharmacy, his life was decidedly upper-middle class. Far from his exotic, immigrant status giving him a leg-up, Rishi's upper crust life has made him 'less relatable' among the hoi polloi, which could prove to be a disadvantage. What's more, the re-emergence of an old clip, in which he says, "I have friends who are aristocrats, I have friends who are upper class, I have friends who are, you know, working class, but... well, not working class," could hamper his prospects. However, for a man who has overcome great odds as a candidate of colour in a conservative party, it might not be too big a hurdle to overcome.

[caption id="attachment_27001" align="aligncenter" width="830"] Rishi Sunak. Photo credit: Rishi's website[/caption]

Despite early hurdles, Rishi was quickly picked out as a rising star - according to The Tatler, this quality was spotted early on, even by his former boss at Kuti Miah. That year, in 1998, as the then 18-year-old Rishi was all set to enter Oxford University, his boss remarked, "You're going to be someone, Rishi." Sure enough, the fiercely patriotic young man, who grew up, thanks to his parents, immersed in the local community, never looked back.

Head boy to hedge funds

His broad grin, which he flashes generously, belies the seriousness that lies beneath - Rishi's flawless record goes back a long way, he was Head Boy at Winchester College, an independent boarding school for boys and also editor of the school paper. He went on to read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Lincoln College, Oxford, where he first dipped his toes in politics, as an intern at the Conservative Campaign Headquarters. He graduated in 2001, which was also the year he gave the fateful interview about his 'working class friends' to Middle Classes: Their Rise and Sprawl.

After graduating from Oxford in 2002, Rishi joined Goldman Sachs, where he worked for three years as an analyst. He, then, moved onto The Children's Investment Fund Management, a hedge fund firm and became a partner in 2006. That year, he moved to America to get his MBA from Stanford University, as a Fulbright Scholar.

It was at Stanford that Rishi would meet his future wife, Akshata Murty, daughter of Infosys co-founder Narayan Murty, marrying her in 2009. As the media is only too happy to point out, the couple is the 222nd richest people in Britain, with a combined fortune of £730 million as of 2022.

[caption id="attachment_27002" align="aligncenter" width="724"] Rishi Sunak | Global Indian Rishi Sunak with his wife, Akshata Murty[/caption]

In the political fray

Rishi's entry into politics began in 2015 when he won the constituency of Richmond, North Yorkshire in the general elections, becoming the Conservative Party's rising star almost instantly. His entry, however, was not well-received by other conservative candidates, who resented this apparent upstart claiming territory they believed to be theirs. His victory was even more noteworthy because he contested "as a rank outsider," according to the Business Standard, "in the 97 percent white, prosperous rural Conservative bastion of Richmond in Yorkshire, where, the joke goes, there has been no immigration since the Norman conquest in 1066." However, his right-wing economic views - Rishi is an enthusiastic believer in free markets and a vocal critic of Brexit - helped him secure a historic win.

In 2018, Rishi was inducted in the UK government by then British Prime Minister Theresa May. At 37, Rishi was a Conservative party MP (Richmond, Yorkshire) with great promise, entering the government as the parliamentary-under-secretary of state in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Incidentally, he was joined by another Indian-origin MP, also a pro-Brexit campaigner - Suella Braverman, who was Suella Fernandes at the time.

Rishi went on to make several contributions in the House of Commons, on issues like digital economy, social mobility and foreign direct investment. "From working in my mum's tiny chemist shop to my experience building large businesses, I have seen how we should support free enterprise and innovation to ensure Britain has a stronger future," Rishi told the media back in 2018.

Rishi Sunak | Global Indian

On a sticky wicket?

As a conservative candidate of colour, Rishi Sunak's position is always likely to be precarious. Will he usher in a post-race era, or speak up for the hyper-local, ethnic problems that minorities face in the UK? Always fiercely patriotic, his loyalty to the UK cannot be called into question. However, he remarked, to the Business Standard, "British Indian is what I tick on the census, we have a category for it. I am thoroughly British, this is my home and my country, but my religious and cultural heritage is Indian, my wife is Indian. I am open about being a Hindu." Although he is given to phrases like "Oh crikey," he does speak a smattering of Hindi and Punjabi.

In 2019, Rishi became the first Indian-origin to be named Chancellor of the Exchequer, taking over 11 Downing Street as one of the most powerful people in England. His term was, admittedly, fraught with controversy - he was charged with breaking lockdown laws, for instance. And the debate around wife Akshata Murty’s non-dom status (it exempted her from paying some ₹196 crore in taxes) continues to rage on.

On July 5, 2022, Rishi resigned from his post as Chancellor of the Exchequer, withdrawing support from PM Boris Johnson over a sexual harassment scandal within the government. He did, however, refuse to badmouth Boris, calling him, "one of the most remarkable people I've ever met." He said, in no uncertain terms, that "he would have no part in a rewriting of history that seeks to demonise Boris." With that final, noble gesture preceding his entry into the prime ministerial fray, perhaps Rishi Sunak will have his own chance at rewriting history after all.

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Village Roots to Global Plates: Chef Suresh Pillai elevating Kerala cuisine on the world stage

(October 25, 2024) It’s a cool winter morning in London, and the bustling streets outside can’t match the calm and focus inside the Michelin-starred Veeraswamy restaurant. In the kitchen, Chef Suresh Pillai works his magic—perfecting the flavours of his signature Kerala-inspired dishes. It’s hard to imagine that this man, revered as a culinary genius, once worked as a waiter earning ₹450 a month. His journey from a modest beginning in a small town in Kerala to becoming a celebrated name in London's elite culinary circles is nothing short of extraordinary. Humble Beginnings and Early Struggles Born and raised in Chavara Thekkumbhagom, a sleepy village in Kollam, Kerala, Chef Suresh's early life was far removed from the glitz and glamour of Michelin-star kitchens as his parents were coir labourer. Financial constraints meant Pillai had to abandon his academic pursuits early on. He left school after class X, but his thirst for learning and ambition to break out of his circumstances never waned. [caption id="attachment_58528" align="aligncenter" width="806"] Chef Suresh Pillai[/caption] At 17, Pillai took on various jobs, including a security guard. However, the long solitary nights filled him with dread, and soon, he found himself in a new role — a waiter

ian" width="806" height="454" /> Chef Suresh Pillai[/caption]

At 17, Pillai took on various jobs, including a security guard. However, the long solitary nights filled him with dread, and soon, he found himself in a new role — a waiter at Chef King - a restaurant in Kollam. Earning a meager salary of ₹450 per month, the young Pillai would work long hours, but it was here that he stumbled upon his passion for cooking. As he helped in the kitchen with odd tasks like chopping vegetables and meat, he began to feel drawn to the culinary world.

"I never thought I would be a chef,” he recalls. But, working in that restaurant, watching the cooks, and helping out, "I slowly realised that I have an interest in cooking." Over time, the passion grew, and he transitioned from a waiter to a cook on the persistence of the chef, soaking in all the knowledge he could from the chefs he worked alongside. But he was just getting started.

The Journey of a Thousand Miles: From Kollam to London

Kerala's cuisine, with its rich and diverse flavours, has always had a special place in the hearts of its diaspora, especially in the UK, where the Malayalee community has long craved authentic flavours of home. Chef Suresh was poised to take these familiar flavours to a global audience, but the road was anything but easy. After gaining experience in regional cuisines across Kerala and Bengaluru, Pillai dreamt of working in a five-star hotel. However, the lack of a formal degree in hotel management was the biggest roadblock for Chef Suresh. Despite excelling in cooking tests, he often was rejected due to the lack of a degree.

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After much effort, he landed a job at The Leela Palace in Bengaluru, but the position came with a harsh reality: despite his years of experience, he had to join as a trainee due to his lack of formal culinary education. He had to forgo his 12 years of experience, but I knew this was my chance to grow. "I got an insight into the working of an organised hotel industry, their methods, and best practices. This changed my career and helped me to grow as a professional chef," said Pillai. He persevered and within two years, became an integral part of the hotel's kitchen.

It was this determination and drive that eventually led him to the iconic Veeraswamy restaurant in London. Founded in 1927 by a British man, Edward Palmer, who married an Indian lady, Veeraswamy at Piccadilly Circus is the UK’s oldest Indian restaurant, known for serving royalty, celebrities, and politicians. His appointment to work at London's first Asian restaurant was a pivotal moment in his career. The restaurant, while predominantly known for its North Indian cuisine, offered Pillai the opportunity to introduce authentic Kerala dishes, adding his personal touch to the menu. His cooking was a hit, and soon, he was a name to be reckoned with in London's elite culinary circles.

Challenges on the International Stage

However, his rise wasn't without its challenges. Transitioning to life in London, while exciting, was filled with difficulties. For one, navigating the British culinary world as an Indian chef came with cultural and professional hurdles. "I had never travelled outside Kerala, let alone India, before moving to London. It was a completely new world," Pillai recalled.

Chef Suresh Pillai | Global Indian

Despite these challenges, he thrived. His crowning moment came when he was selected to compete in the BBC MasterChef competition, becoming only the second Malayalee chef to make it to the iconic show. He dazzled the judges with his fish curry made with mackerel and green mangoes — bringing the flavors of Kerala to the world stage.

"MasterChef was a dream come true," Pillai said, adding that he had applied multiple times before finally making the cut. His appearance on the show catapulted him to even greater heights in the UK’s culinary scene, but perhaps more importantly, it made him a hero for the Indian diaspora.

The UK’s Love for Kerala Cuisine

As Malayalees settled in the UK, which currently is a population of 45,000, they longed for the flavours of home — dishes like fish curry, appams, and traditional sadyas. Kerala cuisine, known for its use of coconut, spices, and seafood, began to gain prominence in London with more restaurants offering the cuisine. Soon, thanks to Chef Suresh Pillai, Veeraswamy became a hotspot for not only the Indian diaspora but also for Londoners eager to explore the unique tastes of South India. Today, Kerala cuisine is celebrated as one of the defining elements of Indian food culture in the UK, thanks to pioneers like Pillai who have brought it to the global stage.

"In London, there’s a deep love for the familiar flavours of Kerala. Whether it's the spicy fish curries or the traditional appams, people long for a taste of home." - Chef Suresh Pillai

In a city filled with Indian restaurants, many of which focus on North Indian cuisine, Pillai's commitment to showcasing the nuances of Kerala's food set him apart.

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Life came a full circle for the chef when he, who didn't have a formal education in culinary arts, found an opportunity to deliver lectures on Kerala cuisine to hotel management students of the University of Bahamas in the West Indies. "Teaching at the Bahamas University has been one of my biggest achievements mainly because I was not able to attend and complete college myself," the Global Indian said, adding, "Their cooking style is entirely different and I showed them how fresh seafood and fresh products could be cooked together."

A Return to Roots and Family

In 2018, after 14 years of living in the UK, Pillai made a life-changing decision. Despite enjoying a comfortable life in London with his wife and two children, he yearned to give back to his homeland and share the knowledge he had gained abroad. He returned to Kerala, where he joined the Raviz Group of hotels as their culinary director. "I have learnt so much from my experience from different parts of the world in terms of knowledge, ideas and hygiene standards. Whatever I have learnt I wanted to bring it to my people," he added.

His dishes like the ‘Taste of Ashtamudi’ tasting menu, served at the renowned Raviz Hotel in Kerala, reflect his dedication to presenting the unique flavours of his homeland on an international platform.

His family, deeply connected to his journey, has always been his support system. His wife Remya and his children, Aiswarya and Sreehari, have witnessed his incredible journey from a waiter in Kollam to a celebrated chef in London. "I wanted my children to get them acquainted with India and its culture. They were living in the UK, and I realised that they needed to know the culture and life of India. I wanted them to experience both cultures so that they can choose what they think is best for them."

A Journey Far from Over

Chef Suresh Pillai's journey isn't just about personal achievement — it's about keeping Kerala's rich culinary traditions alive on the global stage. By bringing the authentic flavours of his homeland to international audiences, while staying firmly rooted in his culture, Pillai has become a beloved figure, especially within the Indian community abroad. His dedication to showcasing Kerala’s unique cuisine has helped elevate its status, making it not only known but celebrated far beyond India.

In 2021, he started his own restaurant - Restaurant Chef Pillai in Bengaluru, followed by another branch of his restaurant at Hotel Le Meridien, Kochi in 2022.

Chef Suresh Pillai

A chess player, who loves music and books, Chef Suresh remains committed to popularising Kerala cuisine. "It brought me from a small town in Kerala to the world stage, and I want to use that power to give back to my community."

For Chef Suresh Pillai, the journey from Kollam to London may be complete, but the journey of sharing Kerala's culinary heritage with the world is far from over.

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‘Dram’a king: How Paul P John took premium Indian single malt to the world

(September 12, 2024) Paul P John, Chairman, The Paul Resorts & Hotels Pvt Ltd and John Distilleries Pvt Ltd. has put India on the world map with his award winning single malt whiskey. With a portfolio of spirit brands under John Distilleries Pvt. Ltd. and world-class resorts, John has made waves with his attention to quality and doing things in style. In 2012, Paul John ventured off-shore and entered the UK markets with three single casks—161, 163, and 164—along with the Paul John Brilliance and Bold. Today, they have the largest portfolio of single malts in India, ranging from unpeated to peated expressions. Their malts malts are available in 44 countries and have won over 320 international awards. Early Days “I am originally from Kerala, but I grew up in Bangalore. Also, my parents lived in Coorg, so I spent most of my holidays there,” he tells Global Indian. As he studied, he worked alongside his father, who operated a chain of beverage shops across Karnataka. It led to a deep fascination with the alcobev industry, which John went on to pursue and take to new heights. “Witnessing my father’s entrepreneurial journey was incredibly inspiring for me, shaping my aspirations

and take to new heights. “Witnessing my father’s entrepreneurial journey was incredibly inspiring for me, shaping my aspirations to eventually become an entrepreneur myself. His mentorship and example laid a strong foundation for my career path in the industry,” he reminisces.

[caption id="attachment_55812" align="aligncenter" width="359"] Paul P John | Indian single malt | Global Indian Paul P John[/caption]

Launching John Distillieries

Continuing his love for spirits, John started John Distilleries Pvt. Ltd. in 1996. “Our focus was on the mass segment of the southern states. In 2008, we set up a malt plant at my distillery in Goa, and in 2012, we launched our single malts in the UK,” John says.

The company was a nearly instant success, and John signed Malayalam actor Mohanlal as the surrogate brand ambassador. In less than a decade, the company became a leader in the Indian whisky industry, selling four million cases in 2005. That year, Original Choice was the largest-selling IMFL brand in Karnataka, selling nearly two lakh cases - around 1.2 million cases in total. The company's successes only grew - in 2006, Original Choice sold around 4.5 million cases, and 6.4 million cases in 2007. In the same year, he branched out into wineries, launching the Big Banyan brand, for which they hired oenologist Lucio Matricardi as the chief wine maker. Their 'Bellissima' is the first desert wine in India to be made from the Muscat grape.

Today, they have the largest portfolio of single malts in India, ranging from unpeated to peated expressions, with ABV from 40% to 58% and cask strength. Paul P John has made Indian single malts available in 44 countries and the brand has won over 320 internationally acclaimed awards. “One of my proudest moments was when Mithuna by Paul John was declared one of the finest whiskies in the world,” he says. The company has recently launched Malhar Indian Craft Gins, Roulette premium whisky and brandy, and Big Banyan wines.

Paul P John | Indian single malt | Global Indian

Foray into Hospitality

Four years after launching his distillieries, John ventured into hospitality, to “be in a space that gave him personal satisfaction, where he could create something niche and different.” This was in 2000, and the first venture, a true labour of love, was the Kumarakom Lake Resort, amid Kerala’s beautiful backwaters. “Now, I have got five luxe properties in South India, including The Paul Bangalore and Big Banyan Vineyard and Resort, also in Bengaluru. He also returned to the home of his childhood, Coorg, where he launched the Coorg Wilderness Resort & Spa, followed by Forte Kochi Hotel in Cochin. “Each of these places has its own special theme and style, making sure every guest gets a truly unique holiday experience with us,” he says.

Driven by legacy

With a lot on his plate, John says that the desire to make a mark in life, to have a purpose for being born, and, if possible, to leave a legacy behind has been the driving force in his life. “One of the strongest motivations for me is taking care of the people in my organisation who have been with me, supported me, and worked tirelessly to help us achieve our common goals,” he says.

His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple - set your mind on your goal and work hard for it as there are no shortcuts to success. “The road may be difficult, and you may face several challenges but do not waver from your goal,” he says. And this comes from his own experience as he has overcome challenges by being steadfast, patient, positive, and unwavering. “It has not always been easy, but I have learned that when a challenge arises, focusing on how to resolve it always brings a solution,” John explains.

[caption id="attachment_55814" align="aligncenter" width="426"] Paul P John | Indian single malt | Global Indian Mithuna, by Paul P John[/caption]

For him of the many lessons he has learnt in life, the biggest is that success is a team effort. “Empower your team and believe in their ability to deliver. Once you have confidence in them and they understand and believe in your vision, great things can happen,” he says.

In leisure

In his free time, John always enjoys travelling and discovering new places and cultures. When he is at home, an occasional game of golf or a great dram of single malt with family and friends is his favourite way to unwind. Looking ahead, his focus is on expanding his portfolio in the alcobev industry to include all segments and choices, and to reach more markets in India and internationally.

“In hospitality, we aim to expand our reach to more destinations in India and abroad, establishing ourselves as the go to choice for premium holiday and stay experiences,” he says. And with his flagship brand Original Choice, being one of the top-selling brands in India's popular whisky segment and one of the top 10 selling whiskies in the world with sales exceeding 21 million cases a year, it is not hard to guess why he is so successful.

Visit the Paul P John website to learn more about the premium Indian single malt.

Chef Lakhan Jethani brings Japan’s Shoji Ryori cuisine to India

(January 14, 2024) Chef Lakhan Jethani has always had a fascination for all things Japan; especially its cuisine. He is well-versed in all aspects of this fascinating country and its culture – from the Shoji Ryori cuisine of the monks to the principle of working with five ingredients only. [caption id="attachment_48256" align="aligncenter" width="549"] Chef Lakhan Jethani[/caption] Though he is not a fluent speaker of Japanese, he understands the language fairly well. One word he would have heard most often for the food he cooks would have to be ‘Oishii’ which means delicious. And, if you look at his picture, he could pass off as a young man hailing from Japan due to his genetic heritage, as his great-grandmother had roots in the North East of India. This is just as well, because he has completely immersed himself in Japanese cuisine, and continues to delve deeper into it. Early days of cooking In an exclusive with Global Indian, the 34-year-old Chef Lakhan, a partner and the head chef at Mizu Izakaya, an upmarket Japanese restaurant, remembers, “When I was around 12, I would go for tuitions with other kids from my building. Once I made tomato baskets – with the flesh

In an exclusive with Global Indian, the 34-year-old Chef Lakhan, a partner and the head chef at Mizu Izakaya, an upmarket Japanese restaurant, remembers, “When I was around 12, I would go for tuitions with other kids from my building. Once I made tomato baskets – with the flesh scooped out, filled with fruit pieces, and tossed in salt, pepper, and chaat masala. I took them for everyone at the tuitions; that is my first memory of cooking.”

[caption id="attachment_48257" align="aligncenter" width="551"] Chef | Lakhan Jethani | Global Indian Hokkaido Grilled Scallops with Mentaiako[/caption]

At 17, after finishing his 12th grade in the IB curriculum, Chef Lakhan enrolled at the Glion Institute of Higher Education in Montreux, Switzerland. He recalls the unusual manner in which they were taught there. “The college had a beautiful five-star hotel which the students managed. The kitchen batch guys would run the kitchen, the housekeeping ones would make the beds for all of us and the cafeteria batch managed everything at the two cafeterias. We were taught everything in a practical way. I also got into a couple of internships during breaks. I worked at Zenzi in Mumbai for six months and for the second internship, at the Marina and Ocean Club Kitchen at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina.

"It is a town that is similar to Miami but smaller. After going back to Switzerland, I did one more internship at the JW Marriott and several weekend part-time jobs at different kitchens. I came back to India after I completed my bachelor’s degree and launched IBar, an upscale cocktail and gastro pub that served food that was better than what is usually served at pubs. This was in Bandra Reclamation, behind Lilavati Hospital, in Mumbai.”

Making a strong foundation

The chef ran IBar for five-and-a-half years and the stint convinced him more than ever, that he wanted to spend the rest of his life in the kitchen. But that meant he needed to have some more certifications under his chef’s hat. “I had to study for three more levels, especially in bakery and pastry if I wanted to be a chef. At 26, I went to the International Centre for Culinary Arts, Dubai to do a specialisation course. After that, I joined Chef Thomas at Bombay Canteen.”

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Underlying this entire career path was a deep and abiding interest in Japanese philosophy, culture, and food. He says, “I liked origami since I was a kid, and Japanese philosophy, how they treated their ingredients and their approach towards Mother Earth. I used to dream of studying and working there so I found my way to Japan for some culinary studies.”

Here, Chef Lakhan worked with Daisuke Namura, a third-generation chef who headed Sougo in Tokyo. Namura had worked earlier with the restaurant Daigo, started by his grandfather, which was a two-Michelin star restaurant. Namura was the chef's mentor. He recalls, “Namura worked at his family restaurant for ten years. The food and ambiance there were very formal and extremely culture-driven. He launched Sougo as a more relaxed place and he is best known for his contemporary creations that have reinterpreted Shojin Ryori cuisine.”

[caption id="attachment_48258" align="aligncenter" width="553"] Chef | Lakhan Jethani | Global Indian Ramen Saporro[/caption]

The cuisine there was Japanese at heart but creative. “The restaurant followed a rule of five – five flavours – salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and umami, the fifth taste. The colours he worked with were black and white, red, yellow, and green. These flavours are drawn from ingredients to provide balanced nutrition to the body and equilibrium to the mind. He was also a teacher at the local university; I learnt a lot from him in three months. I also did a course on how to make Soba noodles – which are made from buckwheat flour or kuttu atta as it is known in India. I plan to launch these noodles here at Mizu soon where they will be made in-house and hand-cut.”

Fun and food, the Japanese way

On his return, in 2018, the chef set up a test kitchen to work on the ideas he had based on his learnings. He then wanted to go to Russia to learn some more. But, his childhood friend Vedant Mallik, with whom he had made plans during their early years that they would set up a restaurant together, intervened and suggested they should work on that dream instead of Chef Lakhan going off to foreign shores again.

[caption id="attachment_48259" align="aligncenter" width="550"] Chef | Lakhan Jethani | Global Indian Mizu Negroni[/caption]

In 2019, the friends decided to launch Mizu Izakaya in Khar, in suburban Mumbai. The name means relaxed, fun, upscale dining. After COVID, they are back in the game and 80 percent of their ingredients are sourced from Japan. The chef adds however that, “We are very conscious of our carbon footprint, so what can be sourced locally, like crabs and prawns, we get from here. In keeping with this principle, we also work on recipes to eliminate wastage. So, the vegetable waste from a California roll is fermented and made into a hot sauce. The kitchen staff have to devise recipes using the ingredients that would otherwise go to waste. This is an annual task for them.”

The current food trend in Japan is Shojin Ryori cuisine – temple food cooked by monks. Sans any onion and garlic, it can be compared to Jain or sattvik food. But that is where the similarity ends. Chef Lakhan says, “This cuisine is becoming more and more prominent as it is quite different from other parts of the world. I have taken Shojin Ryori to the next level in my menu where the veg ramen has no ginger and garlic and the Shojin Dashi broth is made with seaweed and mushrooms. I also try and apply the rule of five to my veg and non-veg dishes.”

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Since he has worked with practically all kinds of ingredients, which is the one he likes the most? He says promptly, “Eggs. They are one of my favourite ingredients as you can cook an egg in a hundred different ways. It is so tasty no matter which way you cook it.”

**Desi khana goes global**

The chef innovates with Japanese cuisine and introduces influences from Indian cuisine as well. He says, “I switch to Indian ingredients when I can; when we were not able to source Japanese lemons, I started using the gondoraj lemon which comes from West Bengal and the North East. The salmon and gondoraj truffle is one of our star dishes. I also have a smoked garam masala sauce that I use for our Hamachi carpaccio. In our desserts, we use the Alphonso mango for our kakigori which is outstanding, as are the strawberries we get here.”

[caption id="attachment_48260" align="aligncenter" width="549"] Chef | Lakhan Jethani | Global Indian Chef Lakhan with his friend and partner, Vedant Mallik[/caption]

Speaking of global trends, Chef Lakhan believes that currently, Japanese food dominates the world of eating out, especially fine dining. But vouches that “Indian and South East Asian cuisines like Taiwanese are going to be the next big thing. Regional Indian food is already becoming popular with so many chefs and restaurants winning Michelin stars. Chefs like Himanshu Saini are pushing boundaries – you only have to see how pani puri is driven into various formats to know how much Indian food has scored on the world stage.”

And even as the young chef keeps going back to Japan to work at sushi joints to brush up on his knowledge, what he comes back and creates, transforms into sheer art.

While travelling, Chef Lakhan likes to eat at:

Sougo, Yakuo, Diago, all in Tokyo: Seasonal tasting menus
Matsunozushi, Tokyo: Aanago fish
Torigin, Ginza, Tokyo: Taukune skewers
Masque, Mumbai: Chef Varun’s tasting menu
Bandra Born, Mumbai: East Indian crab dip and pav brioche
Hashida: Singapore: the signature hand roll and edamame espuma parfait
Sg Low, Singapore: Mentaiko mac and cheese

Follow Chef Lakhan Jethani and Mizu Izakaya on Instagram

Reading Time: 6 mins

Trailblazing Women: Indian-origin politicians making waves globally

(August 4, 2024) With Kamala Harris stepping up as a presidential candidate in the US, there has been a surge of interest in women politicians. This renewed focus highlights the significant contributions and growing influence of women in politics. Global Indian puts into spotlight six Indian-origin women politicians serving in different corners of the world, showcasing their achievements and the diverse paths they have taken to leadership roles. These trailblazers not only represent their constituencies but also serve as inspirations for future generations of women leaders globally. Kamala Devi Harris United States Following Joe Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race, Kamala Harris is the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. The American politician and attorney has been serving as the 49th vice president of the United States since 2021 under President Joe Biden. She holds the distinction of being the first female vice president, the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history, and the first African American and first Asian American to hold the office. A member of the Democratic Party, Harris was a U.S. senator from California from 2017 to 2021 and previously served as the attorney general of California. [caption id="attachment_53216" align="aligncenter" width="475"] Kamala Harris[/caption] The Oakland, California-born

erican and first Asian American to hold the office. A member of the Democratic Party, Harris was a U.S. senator from California from 2017 to 2021 and previously served as the attorney general of California.

[caption id="attachment_53216" align="aligncenter" width="475"] Indian Politicians | Kamala Harris | Global Indian Kamala Harris[/caption]

The Oakland, California-born politician graduated from Howard University and the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a biologist whose research on the progesterone receptor gene advanced breast cancer studies. Harris’s mother moved to the United States from India as a 19-year-old graduate student in 1958, while her father, Donald J. Harris, is an emeritus professor of economics at Stanford University, who came to the United States from Jamaica in 1961 for graduate studies at UC Berkeley.

Shivani Raja

United Kingdom

In May 2024, the British Conservative Party politician was announced as the Conservative candidate for the Leicester East constituency. She was elected to the House of Commons in July 2024, winning with a majority of 14,526 votes. Her victory marked the only seat gained by the Conservatives in the 2024 election. The Indian-origin politician took the Oath of Allegiance holding the Gita.

[caption id="attachment_53217" align="aligncenter" width="457"] Indian Politician | Shivani Raja | Global Indian Shivani Raja[/caption]

Shivani was born in Rushey Mead, Leicester, to parents who immigrated to the UK from India and Kenya in the 1970s. She attended Herrick Primary School, Soar Valley College, and Wyggeston and Queen Elizabeth I College. She graduated from De Montfort University with a first-class honour’s degree in cosmetic science. In 2017, she participated in the Miss India UK beauty pageant and was named a semi-finalist.

Zaneta Felice Antoinetta Mascarenhas

Australia

The Indian-Australian politician made history as the first woman to win the seat of Swan in its 101-year history and as the first person of Goan origin elected to Australia's House of Representatives. She was elected during the 2022 federal election for the Division of Swan in Australia. Mascarenhas has a background as an engineer, having worked for 15 years in Western Australia and Victoria, including as a FIFO engineer. Her career also includes 12 years dedicated to climate change action, during which she supported ASX 200 companies in their decarbonisation efforts. Additionally, she has volunteered with The Climate Reality Project.

[caption id="attachment_53224" align="aligncenter" width="376"] Indian Politician | Zaneta Mascarenhas | Global Indian Zaneta Mascarenhas[/caption]

Born in Kalgoorlie in Western Australia to Indian immigrant parents of Goan descent, who migrated from Kenya, she pursued studies in science and engineering at Curtin University in Perth, where she served as President of the Student Guild.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar

Trinidad and Tobago

Often known by her initials KPB, the politician served as the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 2010 until September 2015. She was the nation's first female Prime Minister, Attorney General, and Leader of the Opposition. Additionally, she was the first woman to chair the Commonwealth of Nations and the first woman of Indian origin to lead a country outside of India and the broader subcontinent.

[caption id="attachment_53219" align="aligncenter" width="551"] Indian Politician | Kamla Persad-Bissessar | Global Indian Kamla Persad-Bissessar[/caption]

The Trinidadian lawyer, politician, and educator currently holds the position of leader of the opposition in Trinidad and Tobago, serving as the political leader of the United National Congress (UNC). Kamla Persad-Bissessar was born in Siparia, southern Trinidad, to Lilraj and Rita Persad, both Hindus of Indian descent. Her father worked as a bookkeeper in Texaco's accounting department, while her mother started as a maid and labourer in cocoa fields, eventually saving enough to own and operate a roti shop.

Priyanca Radhakrishnan

New Zealand

Radhakrishnan has been serving in the New Zealand Parliament since the 2017 general election as a representative of the New Zealand Labour Party. She was the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector from 2020 to 2023. Radhakrishnan worked as a social worker among the Indian community in Auckland, and joined the New Zealand Labour Party in 2006. She has been active in internal party policy development as well as at development of the party at the local and regional level. In 2021, Radhakrishnan was conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award for public service by the President of India. In 2023, she was granted retention of the title ‘The Honourable’ in recognition of her term as a member of the Executive Council.

[caption id="attachment_53220" align="aligncenter" width="493"] Indian Politician | Priyanca Radhakrishnan | Global Indian Priyanca Radhakrishnan[/caption]

Priyanca Radhakrishnan was born in Chennai to Malayali Nair parents. Her great-grandfather, Dr C. R. Krishna Pillai, played an instrumental role in the formation of the state of Kerala. She grew up in Singapore before moving to New Zealand. After completing her master's in development studies, she became a social worker and eventually a politician.

Kamalpreet Khera

Canada

The Indo-Canadian politician is one of the youngest women ever elected to Parliament. She has been serving as the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities since 2023. A member of the Liberal Party, Khera has represented the riding of Brampton West in the House of Commons since the 2015 federal election. She also served as the Minister of Seniors from 2021 to 2023.

[caption id="attachment_53228" align="aligncenter" width="645"] Indian Politician | Kamal Khera | Global Indian Kamal Khera[/caption]

Khera was nominated as the Liberal candidate for Brampton West in December 2014 and won the seat in the federal election the following October. When first elected in 2015, she was the youngest Liberal MP in the House and the second-youngest overall. Before entering politics, Khera attended York University, earning an Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then worked as a registered nurse in the palliative and oncology units at St. Joseph’s Health Centre in Toronto.

This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of how Indian-origin women politicians are making waves in different corners of the world. There are many more women who are not part of this list but are significantly contributing to the field of politics.

Reading Time: 5 mins