With over 10 publications and frequent appearances on national and international television channels for food-related programs, Salma Hussain, a resident of E Block Suncity, is a pioneer in the field of Culinary and the history of Mughal cuisines. She has a charismatic personality with infectious enthusiasm and a positive outlook towards life. This article is a piece on her background and accolades along with some pearls of wisdom from her side.
Salma holds a Masters degree in Persian from Mumbai University and started her career at National Archive of India as a translator of manuscripts. She was also the Head of the Afghanistan Unit at All India Radio. Later in her career, she held the position of Director of Hospitality at Hamdard University. She has also worked as a consultant at ITC Hotels. Her love for throwing parties and cooking drew her to Culinary research and writing. She has travelled extensively around the world to explore the history of food and culinary delights. With this experience and knowledge, she has written several award-winning books.
Books: The Emperor’s Table was her first book which traces the history of the Mughal emperors vis-à-vis their fondness for food and contribution to the growth of recipes. The book has several recipes from Mughal cuisine. Another popular publication is The Mughal Feast: Recipes from the Kitchen of Emperor Shah Jahan which delves into some royal kitchen secrets. “Around India’s First Table ‘’ is a heritage volume by her, tracing the history of dining and entertainment at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Her other works include Flavours of Avadh, Islamic food with a healing touch and 50 Great Recipes – Sharbats. “Kabab hi Kabab” and “Bounties of the table” are two books authored by her which are set to release soon. She also writes children’s stories for Urdu books and magazines regularly.
Awards: She was awarded by the Government of India for her book “The Emperor’s Table” and also received International awards for the book. “The Mughal Feast” was given the Best Book of the Year by Roli Books.
Pearls of Wisdom: “Jiyo aur Jeene do” says Salma Ma’am who believes in enjoying every moment of this precious life God has given us and living in the present. Her advice to young people is to pursue their passion and go after what their heart really wants. She emphasises the importance of maintaining relationships in personal life and Networking in professional life. She advises everyone to be optimistic in life and to work hard to achieve their dreams.
