In a continuation of what is being informally termed as 'culinary diplomacy', Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah savoured a traditional Mangalurean feast on Wednesday. The highlight of the meal was his favourite naati koli saaru (country chicken curry), served at the Cauvery Guest House of Mangalore University in Mangaluru.
A Coastal Visit with Historic Significance
The Chief Minister was in the coastal district to participate in several key programmes. His itinerary prominently included the centenary celebration of the historic dialogue between Mahatma Gandhi and Sri Narayana Guru. He also attended events marking the centenary of Sri Narayana Guru's Mahasamadhi.
Lunch Menu Curated by Party Leader
While the spread of coastal delicacies was extensive, organisers were quick to clarify that this lunch had no direct connection to a similar meal the day before. On Tuesday morning, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had served the CM a comparable fare during a breakfast meeting. Sources within the Congress party revealed that Wednesday's lunch menu was specifically curated by party leader Rakshith Shivaram. The food was expertly prepared and supplied by Ocean Pearl, Ujire.
A Feast of Coastal Delicacies
The lunch was a comprehensive showcase of Mangalurean culinary heritage. Beyond the star dish of naati koli saaru, the spread featured an array of seafood and local staples. The menu included:
- Anjal tawa fry and pomfret rawa fry
- Prawns ghee roast served with soft neer dosa
- Kane fish curry (ladyfish) paired with simple boiled rice
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was not alone in enjoying this feast. He was accompanied by his cabinet ministers, Speaker UT Khader, and several MLAs and MLCs, making it a significant political gathering over a traditional meal.
The back-to-back meals featuring the Chief Minister's preferred dish have sparked conversations in political circles. While officially downplayed as coincidence, the repetition of 'naati koli saaru' in high-level meetings is seen by many as a subtle form of bonding and regional appreciation within the state's leadership. The event successfully blended political engagement with a celebration of Karnataka's rich coastal cuisine.
