Alka Rani Singh, with connections to the erstwhile kingdom of Pratapgarh believes that belonging to the blue blood clan also comes with a lot of responsibilities.
Reviving the lost food and coutureShe has made efforts to revive the traditional art, crafts, fashion and food belonging to the regal era and is a living example of giving a fresh perspective to royal luxury.
We met her at the Royal Fable Season 12 exhibition organised by Anshu and
Varun Khanna along with Safir Anand. She spoke to us about heirloom fashion and food culture and why they need to be preserved.
Food and traditionAlka Rani Singh believes the best version of regional flavours came on table during festivals when all the women of the house used to come together and prepare food. She has ensured that the tradition of making pickles, chutneys and seasonal desserts like Kali Gajar ka Halwa are not lost in the humdrum of modern life. At the Season 12 of Royal Fables which was held at DLF Emporio, she made a unique laddoo that won every heart. Rooted in culture, loaded with benefits and a piece of luxury-it completely symbolised the spirit of Diwali.
The thought behind Silver laddoo"Basically this is the revival of a certain recipe where Pan and Gulkand are used together. Paan is very popular in Awadh and has been traditionally consumed as a post meal digestive. Gulkand again made well is an antioxidant with cooling properties. I have used homemade Gulkand with no added sugar and in the recipe have added coconut along with these two which is a source of healthy fat and fibre. The three mixed together give the feel of a light dessert and rolling them in pure silver varq adds to the health quotient as silver is known to have cooling as well as antibacterial properties. Traditionally a coin was put inside the laddoos which was seen as a Shagun or good fortune. Taking that into account I have added a small silver jewel on the laddoo which can be used any which way.
A perfect Diwali giftThis royal mithai symbolises taste and opulence and is loaded with health benefits which makes it a perfect Diwali gift, says Alka Rani Singh.