Rajkot to Indiana: a love letter to food & hospitality

I am from Rajkot, a city in the vibrant state of Gujarat, well known for its Kathiyawadi hospitality and spirited warmth – where food is more than just a meal, it’s an invitation to share, connect, and belong. Interestingly, this deep-rooted sense of welcome is something I’ve also found in Indiana, where Hoosier Hospitality thrives. Though miles apart, both places share a passion for bringing people together through food, tradition, and community.

Growing up in Rajkot, my mornings often began with a stroll down Race Course Ring Road, where the air carried an irresistible mix of aromas. From the comforting scent of healthy soups and boiled lentil bowls with a twist to the richness of Kahwa, every morning walk turned into a sensory adventure. (And trust me, if you’re in Indiana, the warmth of Kahwa is something you must try in our unpredictable weather!)

Food, for us, isn’t just sustenance – it’s a celebration of culture and connection. Any occasion, big or small, called for a morning feast starring Gathiya-Jalebi, a beloved pairing of crispy, salty deep-fried gram flour sticks with syrupy sweet jalebis.

Savoring delicious Undhiyu in India with my favorite person … my dad. (Photo provided)

With each season came its own specialties. Winter brought the comforting embrace of Undhiyu, a slow-cooked mixed vegetable curry packed with flavors that instantly transport me back to my childhood. I’ve always longed to see it on more Indian restaurant menus here, but for those adventurous veggie lovers, my kitchen is always open!

What makes Undhiyu special isn’t just its rich taste but also the ingredients that define it – toover (pigeon peas), valor (broad beans), methi leaves (fenugreek), and fresh green garlic. I’m grateful that stores like Patel Brothers and other local Indian grocers help keep these cultural bridges intact, allowing us to stay connected to our roots through food. They provide not just ingredients but a taste of home – one that brings nostalgia, warmth, and belonging.

Rajkot’s Kathiyawadi hospitality is about more than just serving food – it’s about creating an experience where people come together, share food, share connection, and feel they truly belong. In many ways, it reminds me of Hoosier Hospitality, where kindness and generosity define the culture. Whether in a small Gujarati farsan shop or a cozy Indiana diner, the essence remains the same – food has the power to turn strangers into family.

At the end of the day, food is more than just what’s on the plate – it’s about the warmth it brings and the connections it creates. And in both Rajkot and Indiana, food always feels like home.

Pooja Thakkar is working to build connections through cuisine. You can read her column each Saturday in the pages of The Reporter.