Zorawar Kalra is a risk taker. Instrumental in redefining the culinary scene in the capital city, the restaurateur recently stepped into the world of dancing. In a chat with Travel+Leisure India & South Asia, Kalra shares details of this new milestone, new business ventures, and more. By Adila Matra
Excerpts from the interview with Zorawar Kalra:
T+L India: Tell us about your decision to join Jhalak Dikhla Jaa. What prompted it?
Zorawar Kalra: When Jhalak was offered to me, I was in a dilemma for the first two days. I’m on this show because I think life is all about learning new things, and about accepting new challenges, and here I’m completely out of my comfort zone.
T+L India: You have already established a name in the culinary field. How are you adapting to being in a completely new world?
Zorawar Kalra: I had zero knowledge about dancing and for me, it was hard on the body and mind. I want to represent the common man who wants to learn to dance but hasn’t been able to or had the opportunity to. I am here to entertain people and my job is done. But [in the process], at least I will grow and learn a lot of dancing skills with my choreographer Suchitra (Sawant Sangare), who is just incredible.
T+L India: What is in the works for Massive Restaurants?
Zorawar Kalra: Several things. We open in the US in the next couple of months with our first Farzi Cafe and there are around 15 other dine-in restaurants planned before the end of the year. However, our business, namely Louis Burger, has seen a phenomenal response, and these burgers have now developed a cult following across many cities. We plan to grow it pan India across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities very quickly.
T+L India: You said in an Instagram post that your family has been the cornerstone of everything. What was their reaction to your new stint?
Zorawar Kalra: I had dual feelings in my head. And I had divergent views from my family, so I didn’t reply to them (makers) for two days. My son said no, I think probably because he was scared that I’ll embarrass him. I was hesitant but my wife showed a lot of confidence in me. She said, “You must do it, it’s a very big show. It’s a big platform, and you need to showcase multiple skillsets. And you will learn with time.” And that’s when I said yes.
T+L India: Will we see Zorawar Kalra in a singing show next? Are you an artist secretly?
Zorawar Kalra: I’m happy being a restaurateur. We have a slew of launches lined up, which is very exciting. The idea of serving well-curated, innovative and progressive menus to a new country or city is always challenging as well as exciting.
T+L India: What are your favourite cuisines?
Zorawar Kalra: Indian, Japanese, and Peruvian in that order.
Related: Going Places With People: Dancer Kruti Mahesh Talks About Destinations She’d Love To Shake A Leg At
