ISLAMABAD: Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture and the British Council, has proudly established Pakistan’s first “Museum of Food.” It is a digital hub highlighting Pakistan’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene.
In Pakistan, food is a vibrant thread that weaves together generations, regions, and traditions, transcending mere flavors and ingredients. A newly launched online platform on Google Arts & Culture, in collaboration with the British Council, elegantly puts it all together in Pakistan’s Museum of Food.
This captivating exhibit beckons individuals to journey through the multifaceted dimensions of Pakistani cuisine, offering over 90 immersive videos, 100 meticulously curated narratives, and an astounding collection of 9,000 high-resolution photographs. Each element of this exhibit unveils profound insights into Pakistan’s rich and diverse culture.
From the aromatic spices of Punjab to the fiery flavors of Balochistan and from the seafood delights of Karachi to the savory treats of various regions, the exhibit brilliantly highlights the regional and communal distinctions that shape Pakistan’s culinary landscape.
It delves into the unique techniques, ingredients, and rituals that define these diverse cuisines, shedding light on the culinary treasures that contribute to the nation’s cultural diversity.
One noteworthy aspect of the exhibit focuses on the pivotal role of women in Pakistan’s food culture. These women’s stories are showcased, from tending to the fields and managing dairy farms to skillfully transforming raw ingredients into delightful dishes. By highlighting their contributions, the exhibit underscores the intricate connection between their efforts, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of future generations.
Pakistan’s bustling streets and vibrant markets offer a sensory spectacle through street food. Iconic snacks like savory chaats, sizzling kebabs, and flaky parathas encapsulate a microcosm of the country’s dynamic food culture.
The exhibit delves into how these humble street-side vendors have played a pivotal role in shaping modern Pakistani cuisine and have become integral to the nation’s gastronomic identity.
Project Director Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy said, “Pakistan’s culinary heritage is a fundamental part of the country’s cultural identity, but due to the passage of generations and the challenges posed by climate change, certain home practices and traditional dishes have become increasingly threatened. Pakistani cuisine Keeping in view the threats faced, we have embarked on a mission to not only reminisce the old flavors but also to appreciate our past and actively preserve and revive techniques and rituals at risk of extinction.”
Amit Sood, Founding Director of Google Arts & Culture, said, “Considering the passion for gourmet food online, we are very excited to unveil our latest exhibition on Google Arts & Culture dedicated to Pakistan’s vibrant flavors and rich culture. There is enthusiasm. From the mountains of the north to the bazaars of the south, Pakistan is a land of diverse landscapes and traditions, all of which are reflected in its cuisine. We hope that consumers of Pakistan will be fully immersed in the many wonders of this amazing country through our largest digital hub developed in close collaboration with Sherman Obaid Chinoy and the British Council.”
