Connecting Communities: A Desire for Connection
A community of Bengalureans that is built on their love for food There’s nothing quite like food to bring people together. And in a city like Bengaluru where foodies are spoilt for choice when it co...
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A group of Bengaluru residents bonded by their passion for food has found a meaningful way to connect through shared meals and friendships. The Dastarkhwan Club, a food community in the city, hosts lively meet-ups where members explore local food spots and enjoy flavorful experiences together. According to co-founder Akash Devaraju, the community's diverse interests all revolve around a shared love for food. With a growing roster of over 60 members on WhatsApp and hundreds more showing interest, the club's focus on communal dining has proven to be a powerful catalyst for building connections. What started as a casual Iftaar meal outing with friends soon blossomed into a regular gathering, sparking the idea for the group's name, inspired by the term "Dastarkhwan." Member Tharini Thakur emphasizes that the group's discussions often delve into the origins and cultural significance of different foods, turning each gathering into a learning opportunity rich in history and tradition. Fellow member Abhishek Gupta appreciates the personal touch and sense of community that sets these food-focused gatherings apart from more formal events he has attended in the past, highlighting the unique bond that sharing a meal can create among individuals."Visiting someone's home in Kashmir provided us with valuable cultural insights and a unique perspective on their way of life," he shares. Meghna further comments, "I appreciate the individualized curation of each event and the presence of someone from the culture to explain everything to us." The joy of communal dining includes experiences like Rozana, where restaurant owners share the culinary history, Safarnama food walks to explore diverse cuisines, and Mehfil gatherings where people open their homes to showcase their culture.