Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Norwegian Culinary Experiences Niru Kumra, founder of MasalaMagic.
Cooking courses, corporate events, catering and food ranges with an Indian twist “My vision is to make Indian food as famous in Norway as pizza and pasta,” says Niru Kumra, founder of MasalaMagic.
culture and the lesser-known Indian wine production,” she says.
By Stian Sangvig | Photos: MasalaMagic
Following years of hard work and a determination to succeed, MasalaMagic has grown into a diverse family business with authentic food series in Norwegian food stores. Chutneys, pastes, papadums and more are now produced in India based on Kumra’s recipes.
Kumra started out in a school kitchen holding cooking classes for some friends. Word spread quickly, and the seed for what was to grow into a family business was sown. Kumra arrived in Norway with her parents and siblings when she was only eight years old. “I developed a passion for food as my mum taught me how to prepare the best food the traditional way,” she explains. She even dreamed of food at night. “The idea of setting up my own business came from meeting a dreams psychologist, who encouraged me to take my dreams seriously,” she continues. Equipped with a degree in business and project management, she realised her dream in 2003. Her husband and children now also form part of the company. Cooking courses are popular amongst corporate clients and individuals. 108 | Issue 93 | October 2016
“Participants are learning from scratch how to chop, make, decorate and eat these meals the Indian way,” Kumra says, explaining how the evening is full of talk and information about India, Indian food, spices and a gorgeous meal. On Kumra’s blog, adventurous fusion recipes such as Tandoori Spaghetti can also be found. “As the world grows smaller, I want to show how the best of cultures can merge on a plate,” she says. Offerings for corporate clients include team-building events, theme evenings and business meetings, where colleagues can bond over fine Indian food. Almost 9,000 people have learned about the magic of Indian cooking from the entrepreneur. Catering is also available. Customer requests encouraged MasalaMagic to branch out and organise culinary trips to India. “On 2-14 November, we go to southern India with Kerala backwaters, enjoy food, the
For more information, please visit: www.masalamagic.com Also check out Niru Kumra’s blog: www.nirusverden.com