Srinagar, July, 31: Lateef Ahmad Baba, a celebrated Kashmiri Waza (Chef), has taken the traditional Wazwan cuisine to international acclaim.
Born and raised in Srinagar, Baba mastered the intricate and labor-intensive art of Wazwan from an early age. “Wazwan, a multi-course meal, is central to Kashmiri culture, often served during weddings and significant events. Each dish requires meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of flavors and spices,” Baba explained.
As a fourth-generation chef, Baba was inspired by his elder brother to join the family profession. “We have a range of clients, and to meet the demands, my brother advised me to join him. At a very young age, I started learning the Wazwan art,” he recalled.
Baba noted that the traditional ‘Wazwan book’ contains only seven dishes and expressed concern that adding more dishes is diluting the delicacy of the original Wazwan.
His dedication to preserving this culinary heritage has made him a global ambassador of Kashmiri cuisine. Baba’s cooking skills caught the attention of international food connoisseurs, leading to invitations to showcase his expertise in countries like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
One of Baba’s most notable achievements was serving Wazwan dishes to cricket legends such as Imran Khan, Javid Miandad, and Vivian Richards. “Serving these sports icons was an honor. I still remember when cricket greats tasted Wazwan,” he shared. The positive feedback from these renowned athletes highlighted the universal appeal of Kashmiri Wazwan.
Among his celebrated dishes are Rogan Josh, a fragrant lamb dish cooked with yogurt, garlic, and spices, and Yakhni, a delicate yogurt-based mutton curry. “Each dish is a labor of love, reflecting the centuries-old traditions of Kashmiri cooking,” Baba said.
Baba’s passion and dedication continue to enchant food enthusiasts worldwide, making him a symbol of Kashmiri hospitality and culture.
