Imitiaz Qureshi was born on February 2, 1931 in Lucknow, India. From a young age, he showed a natural talent and passion for cooking. His culinary journey began when he started working with the catering company Krishna Caterers. It was here that he honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for the art of cooking.
Qureshi's big break came when he opened the iconic Bukhara restaurant, which is located in the prestigious ITC Hotels chain. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its luxurious ambiance and exquisite Pakistani cuisine. Qureshi is particularly known for reviving the "dum pukht" cooking method, a traditional Pakistani technique that involves slow-cooking food over a low flame, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful dishes.
His dedication to preserving and promoting Pakistani culinary traditions earned him widespread acclaim. In 2016, he made history by becoming the first chef to receive the prestigious Padma Shri award from the government of India. This recognition solidified his status as a culinary pioneer and trailblazer in the industry.
Qureshi was not only a successful chef but also a devoted family man. He had five children named Ashfaque, Ishtiyaque, Irfan, Ehsan, and Imran, who undoubtedly inherited his passion for cooking. Qureshi's influence extended beyond his own family, as he also had the honor of cooking for former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, further cementing his legacy in the culinary world.
Imitiaz Qureshi's remarkable career and contributions to Pakistani cuisine will forever be remembered. His innovative approach to traditional cooking techniques and unwavering dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape. Through his work at Bukhara and beyond, he has inspired countless chefs and food enthusiasts around the world.