Norway-based Baljeet Singh plans to bring his restaurant, New Delhi, to Chandigarh
As a dreamy-eyed young boy in a village near Kapurthala, when he decide to move to Norway to help out in his father’s restaurant business, little did Baljeet Singh know that he would one day be feted by the Indian government! During an interaction at the Chandigarh Press Club on Thursday, Baljeet proudly displayed his Annapurna Certificate and trophy, while sharing excerpts from his coveted journey.
“It was not all that easy when I boarded the flight to Oslo in 1987. There were many challenges, including the language, but step-by-step I learnt it all. From the kitchen to washing the dishes to catering to the guests, I learnt it all. Today, the result is for everybody to see,” he begins.
Established in 2023 by the Government of India, through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), under the Ministry of External Affairs, the Annapurna Certificate recognises Indian culinary excellence abroad. In 2025, out of 120 entries, only five Indian restaurants worldwide were selected for this prestigious recognition. Among them was New Delhi, Baljeet’s restaurant in Norway, which has been serving authentic Indian cuisine for almost 40 years. “For this award, we were selected by the Indian embassy officials in Norway. Make no mistake, it’s not easy. One has to meet strict guidelines, including a monthly footfall of 5,000 guests, and for that one must nurture their restaurant like a newborn—day and night, with care, consistency and passion,” he beams.
Baljeet emphasises that the Annapurna Award is a symbol of cultural pride and culinary excellence. “This certificate is not just a recognition, it’s an appreciation of the role we play in connecting cultures and spreading the love of Indian food across borders,” he adds. Baljeet’s journey is rooted in deep commitment. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he served free meals to nurses and medical staff in Norway, showcasing the spirit of Indian hospitality.
Baljeet now wants to open up restaurants in India too, Chandigarh and Goa to begin with. Before he signs off, any favourite dish that people prefer in Norway? “Butter chicken,” he smiles. No surprises there!
