As a young boy with big dreams in a village close to Kapurthala, Baljeet Singh embarked on a journey to Norway to assist in his father's restaurant. Little did he anticipate that this decision would lead to accolades from the Indian government! During a recent event at the Chandigarh Press Club, Baljeet showcased his Annapurna Certificate and trophy, recounting highlights from his remarkable journey.

“The journey began when I boarded a flight to Oslo in 1987, and it was filled with obstacles, particularly the language barrier. However, I gradually adapted, learning everything from cooking to dishwashing and guest service. The fruits of my labor are evident today,” he shares.

In 2023, the Indian government, through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) under the Ministry of External Affairs, introduced the Annapurna Certificate to honor Indian culinary excellence abroad. In 2025, out of 120 submissions, only five Indian restaurants globally received this prestigious award. Among them was Baljeet's restaurant, New Delhi, located in Norway, which has been delighting patrons with authentic Indian cuisine for nearly four decades. “The Indian embassy officials in Norway selected us for this honor. Achieving this is no small feat; it requires meeting stringent criteria, including a monthly guest count of 5,000. One must nurture their restaurant with the same care as a newborn—dedicating time, consistency, and passion,” he proudly states.

Baljeet views the Annapurna Award as a testament to cultural pride and culinary excellence. “This certificate signifies more than just recognition; it acknowledges our contribution to bridging cultures and sharing the love of Indian cuisine worldwide,” he explains. His commitment is evident, as during the Covid-19 pandemic, he provided free meals to nurses and medical staff in Norway, exemplifying the essence of Indian hospitality.

Looking ahead, Baljeet aspires to establish restaurants in India, starting with locations in Chandigarh and Goa. When asked about the most popular dish in Norway, he beams, “Butter chicken.” No surprises there!