From Ramgarh to Your Plate: Nakli Dhaba's Sholaay-Inspired Culinary Journey

Forget the popcorn; this is a Bollywood experience you can taste… 

For the first time ever, Bhubaneswar is hosting a food festival that's as dramatic, flavorful, and unforgettable as the iconic film it celebrates: Sholaay. Nakli Dhaba, has transformed itself into the legendary village of Ramgarh, bringing the spirit of this beloved classic to your plate. Launched to coincide with both Holi (a festival featured prominently in Sholaay) and the film's 50th-anniversary celebrations (a slight misstatement in the original, as Sholaay was released in 1975), this immersive dining experience is a must-try for film buffs and food enthusiasts alike.

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A Trip Down Memory Lane (and into Ramgarh!)

The moment you step into Nakli Dhaba, you're transported back in time. Forget the usual restaurant ambiance – you're now in Ramgarh, the bustling village that served as the backdrop for Sholaay's epic saga. Vintage Bollywood posters adorn the walls, casting a nostalgic glow. Lanterns illuminate the seating areas, creating an atmosphere that's both rustic and romantic. You'll even find a meticulously crafted jail setup (perfect for photo ops!), handcarts, and hear iconic dialogues from the film echoing through the space. Live music further enhances the experience, serenading guests with classic Bollywood tunes.

Meet the Characters (and the Chefs!)

But the immersion doesn't stop at the decor. The restaurant staff themselves become part of the show, embodying beloved Sholaay characters like the menacing Gabbar Singh, the jovial Veeru, the spirited Basanti, and the stoic Thakur. This theatrical element adds an extra layer of fun and engagement to the dining experience, making it far more than just a meal.

Behind the scenes, Executive Chef Suraj Kumar Sahoo has masterfully crafted a menu that pays homage to the film's rustic setting and bold flavors. He and his team have blended authentic North Indian cuisine with the spirit and story of Sholaay, resulting in a unique and unforgettable culinary journey.

A Menu That's Sholay to the Core

Chef Sahoo explains that the menu is designed to be a direct reflection of Sholaay, with each dish capturing the essence of the film's characters and iconic moments. The flavors are bold and rustic, reminiscent of a traditional North Indian Dhaba experience.

He emphasizes the use of traditional cooking techniques to ensure authenticity. But it's not just about the taste; it's about the presentation. Expect dramatic platters themed to match the characters – think "Gabbar Ka Tandoor" and "Thakur Ki Thaali." This attention to detail elevates the dining experience, making it as visually exciting as it is delicious.

Here is a review of some of the amazing dishes:

Samba's Shorba / Yakhni:
 This isn't your average soup. Samba's Shorba/Yakhni is a fragrant lamb broth, simmered for hours with tender lamb chunks, delicate peppercorns, and a hint of mint. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a cozy, fireside setting. Served in a classic soup bowl, the broth is a beautiful golden hue, garnished with fresh mint sprigs and a delicate swirl of saffron. The first sip is a revelation – a rich, savoury warmth that spreads through you, followed by the subtle spice of the peppercorns and the refreshing coolness of the mint. The lamb is incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors, creating a perfect balance.

Raan-e-Dhanno:
Prepare to be impressed by Raan-e-Dhanno, a dish fit for royalty (or, in this case, a beloved Sholaay horse!). A whole baby lamd leg is the star of this show, marinated overnight in a blend of yogurt, cashews, onions, green chilies, and a symphony of spices including cardamom, ginger, and garlic. The slow cooking process ensures the lamb is unbelievably succulent and infused with flavor. Presented on a grill plate alongside a vibrant house salad and a rich, flavorful gravy, the Raan-e-Dhanno is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The meat is incredibly tender, falling off the bone with ease. The marinade creates a complex, layered flavor profile – a delightful dance of creamy cashew, tangy yogurt, spicy chili, and aromatic spices. The golden varq (edible silver leaf) adds a touch of elegance.

Pahado ki Hara Matar Ki Shammi:
 For a vegetarian delight, the Pahado ki Hara Matar Ki Shammi is a must-try. These vibrant green patties are made from a blend of green peas, spinach, corn, and aromatic spices like cardamom, cumin, and a touch of yellow chili powder. The ingredients are sautéed to perfection, then stuffed with a surprise filling of cheese and nuts before being shallow-fried to a golden crisp. Served on a sizzling platter with a refreshing house salad and a tangy mint chutney, these shammis offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The exterior is crispy and slightly crunchy, while the interior is soft, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the peas and corn is perfectly balanced by the savory spices and the tangy chutney.

The Sholaay Experience: More than Just a Meal

This food festival is more than just a culinary event; it's a complete sensory experience. It's a chance to relive the magic of Sholaay, to immerse yourself in its world, and to create new memories with friends and family. The combination of authentic North Indian cuisine, theatrical presentation, and immersive ambiance makes this a truly unique and unforgettable event.

Don't Miss Out

Don't miss your chance to experience this one-of-a-kind Sholaay-themed food festival at Nakli Dhaba, Mayfair Lagoon, Bhubaneswar. Whether you're a die-hard Sholaay fan or simply a lover of great food and unique experiences, this festival is guaranteed to be a dhamakedar (explosive) delight! Book your table now and prepare to be transported to Ramgarh. It is the perfect time to enjoy this amazing immersive experience.