Biryani has long been a dish that holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers across the world. Known for its rich flavours and aromatic spices, this South Asian delicacy has a significant following. And it’s no surprise that even celebrities, can’t resist indulging in a plate of this beloved dish. Recently, actress Sonam Kapoor treated her Instagram followers to a glimpse of her delectable biryani experience in Hyderabad, a city renowned for its rich culinary heritage. In her Instagram Stories, Sonam shared a mouth-watering spread that had us drooling. The spread was a true tribute to Hyderabadi cuisine, with all the flavours and textures that make it so famous. At the centre of it all was a hot case filled with the iconic Hyderabadi biryani — a fragrant dish made with basmati rice, meat, and spices like saffron and cardamom. 

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar Enjoys Her “Favourite Meal” At Bengaluru’s Nagarjuna Restaurant

Beside the biryani, there was a bowl of creamy raita, a cooling side dish that pairs perfectly with the heat of the biryani. To add even more indulgence to the feast, Sonam’s spread featured a container of Hyderabadi-style chicken fry, which was seasoned with garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. The chicken pieces looked golden, tender and oh-so-delicious! The feast didn’t stop there. The spread also included seekh kebabs, which were served with laccha pyaz (crispy onions), another classic addition to Hyderabadi dining. To complement these rich dishes, there were fresh slices of tomato, cucumber, and onion on the side. The actress took a moment to express her gratitude in the caption, saying, “Nothing like homemade biryani in Hyderabad. Thank you Pinky Reddy you are the best.” 

Take a look here:

In September, Sonam hosted an intimate dinner party with a unique Indian-themed menu. Her private chef shared a behind-the-scenes video of the preparations. The meal included a grazing board with Aloo Tikki Chaat made with spiced sweet potato and almondine tikki, and coconut yogurt. For the main course, there was Kerala-style curry, honey-roasted duck masala, crispy garlic Brussels sprouts, and a variety of side dishes like jeera baby aloo, Kolkata-style veggie milk pulao, and more. The dessert menu included gelatos and sorbets. Read the full story here.

Also Read: Neena Gupta’s Sunday Breakfast Features Delicious Indori Style Poha And Jalebis

Last Updated:November 02, 2024, 13:19 IST

Sonam Kapoor pays a heartfelt homage to Rohit Bal’s legacy by wearing his design and sharing treasured memories of their friendship and collaboration.

Sonam Kapoor pays tribute to the legendary Rohit Bal. (Image: Instagram)

Sonam Kapoor, though unfortunately coincidental, was wearing one of Rohit Bal’s beautiful designs when she received the heartbreaking news of his death while travelling to a Diwali celebration. Sonam thought back on their times together and how much she admired his artistic ability through a heartfelt tribute to the legendary designer on her Instagram page.

Sonam Kapoor’s homage to the designer is among the most wholesome tributes any fashionista could have paid for Bal. Sonam Kapoor, a fashion icon in her own right, has worked with Rohit Bal on several occasions and has also walked the runway for his shows. Kapoor paid a moving homage in a recent social media post, and there couldn’t have been a more fitting or appropriate manner to do it. Sonam Kapoor wore a gorgeous fusion of Rohit Bal’s recent and vintage designs for a Diwali party. Sonam wore a golden netted shrug over a white anarkali-style dress. She finished it off by wearing a really stylish piece around her neck that was etched with a 3D rose.

She posted several pictures from his couture. Sonam also shared one of her final conversations with the designer, in which she complimented him on her performance at the most recent Lakme Fashion Week 2024. ‘Love You’ was Bal’s last reply to her. Sharing the pictures on Instagram, Kapoor wrote, “in Gudda for Diwali. Forever and Ever. In Rohit Bal ‘Husn-e-Taihrat’ 2015 ‘Kroshni’ 2016 ‘Kaynaat’ 2024.

Manish Malhotra, Ananya Panday, and other Bollywood celebrities paid their respects to Rohit Bal on social media. Ananya, who just had the privilege to serve as Rohit Bal’s ‘last’ muse in his homecoming show at Lakme Fashion Week 2024, expressed her deepest condolences and added, “Gudda Om Shanti.”

Meanwhile, renowned designer Rohit Bal, who significantly transformed Indian fashion, died on November 1 at the age of 63.

The passing of the iconic fashion designer Rohit Bal has sent ripples of sorrow throughout the fashion world.
Many known faces from the industry, including Bollywood stars like Sonam Kapoor and Ananya Panday, along with renowned designer Manish Malhotra, took to social media to express their heartfelt tributes to Rohit Bal, lovingly referred to as ‘Gudda’ by those who admired him.

Sonam Kapoor shared her thoughts, saying, “Dear gudda, I heard about your passing as I was on my way to celebrate Diwali wearing your stunning creation that you generously lent me for the second time. I’ve been blessed to know you, wear your designs, and walk for you on multiple occasions. I hope you’re at peace. Always your biggest fan.” She accompanied her message with several photos of them together.
Ananya Panday, who had the honour of being the “last” muse for Rohit Bal and walked the ramp as a showstopper during his comeback show at Lakme Fashion Week 2024, also shared her sorrow. She posted a sweet snapshot from the event, adding, “Gudda . Om Shanti.”
Fellow designer Manish Malhotra described Rohit Bal’s passing as both “sad and shocking.”
Actor Pulkit Samrat shared his sentiments on Instagram, saying, “The OG will be missed.”
The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) also announced the news on their official Instagram account this past Friday. Their post read, “We mourn the passing of Legendary designer Rohit Bal. A founding member of the FDCI, Bal was known for his ability to intertwine traditional patterns with modern sensibilities. His work redefined Indian fashion and inspired countless generations. His legacy of artistry and innovation will forever remain in the fashion world. Rest in peace, GUDDA.”

In October 2024, Bal made a remarkable return to the runway, nearly a year after facing serious health issues. He showcased his collection titled “Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe” during the grand finale at Lakme Fashion Week.
Bal had struggled with health concerns for some time, having been hospitalized in 2023 at Medanta Hospital in Delhi due to heart problems. After a few weeks, he expressed his gratitude through a heartfelt post, acknowledging the support he received. He wrote, “Dear friends, family, and supporters, I am deeply touched by your outpouring of love and prayers during my illness. Your support has been a beacon of hope and strength, helping me on my journey to recovery. As I heal, I am reminded of the resilience of our bond and our shared dreams. I assure you, the show must go on. Your faith in our vision drives its success. Thank you for being my light in these challenging times. Let’s keep moving forward with hope and courage.”
Rohit Bal was 63 when he left us, and his absence will be keenly felt within and beyond the Indian fashion industry.