Tell us a little about yourself and cooking?

I have been cooking since I was around 10 years old. I come from a nice little place in India called Pandharpur, it is an important pilgrimage city in state of Maharashtra. We had big family so everyone was given work and I picked up cooking because Back then my father was farmer so we always had supply of fresh vegetables, grains, lentils, Milk. So my journey for cooking started about 40 years ago with very simple Maharashtrian dishes and it has evolved since then, now I make, Punjabi, South Indian, Bengali, Chinese, Italian, Mexican dishes. My husband, kids and son-in-law are my biggest fans and supporters.

What was the best compliment you received?

Many people call me Sugran (it is a Marathi term for best cook around)

What's your signature dish?

A very simple Maharastrian dish called Misal Pav.

What tips would you give a novice cook?

Understand your ingredients and only way you will be able to do that is by trying different combinations. Cooking is an art, nobody can perfect it in a day so don't feel bogged down if you don't succeed first time

What are biggest influences to your dishes?

My mother and living in city knows for variety of best food- Pune.

What was your first cooking experience?

It was many years ago so I don't really remember (smiles).

What motivates you to cook?

My husband, picky kids and son-in-law who is always ready to try out dishes and access to various ingredients.

Whats your BonGong story?

I have participated local cooking competitions, My recipes have been featured in newspapers in India and I always wanted to get my recipes out to as many people as I can…Leanne presented this opportunity to contribute for BonGong through my son and I instantly said yes!