Also known as the "Czar of Indian Cuisine", restaurateur Jiggs Kalra of Massive Restaurants Private Limited died at the age of 72. The septuagenarian, who is also known as the "tastemaker of the nation" was suffering from a prolonged illness. He is survived by his son Zorawar Kalra and daughter-in-law Dildeep Kalra. Jiggs Kalra had recently become the first Asian to be inducted in the International Food and Beverage Gourmet Hall of Fame. His full name is Jaspal Inder Singh Kalra and he is also known as a pioneer in the Indian food and beverage industry. He was the first person to conceptualise food-based television shows and series in India. Kalra is known for some of the biggest restaurant brands in India, including Farzi Café, Made In Punjab, Masala Library, Pa Pa Ya, etc.
The news of Kalra's demise elicited condolence messages on social media. Journalist and author Vir Sanghvi was among the first ones to tweet his condolences to the Kalra family. Here's what he wrote:
Kalra's son and founder of Massive Restaurants Zorawar Kalra had recently spoken about his father's ill health on his Instagram page. Marking Jiggs Kalra's 72nd birthday, Zorawar had posted a picture of his father saying, "Today is my father, Jiggs Kalra's 72nd Birthday. This is the first time unfortunately it has been celebrated in hospital, as he isn't well. Last year we celebrated it together as a family. Nothing matters more than time spent with your parents as each and every single Birthday matters. He is a toughie. Has been battling his stroke for 19 years and will be back soon. Roaring."
Also Read: Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra: Is it the Kohinoor in Delhi's Culinary Crown?
Among other things, Jiggs Kalra will also be remembered for serving known personalities and political heavyweights including former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former U.S. president Bill Clinton as well as British Royals Prince Charles and Princess Diana. He has also authored numerous books on the Indian cuisine including "Classic Cuisine of The Punjab" and "Prashad Cooking".