In the bustling lanes of Mumbai, India, a city that never sleeps, lies Oye Kake. Our Punjabi restaurant may seem like the others, but there are many stories within our establishment that form the essence of who we are. While the city sees its first rays of sunlight, and people start getting ready for work, there’s a culinary legend, already hard at work at Oye Kake.
At 80 years young, Sulakkhan Singh is known fondly within Oye Kake as our Kulcha King. He isn’t just the oldest chef working in the city of Mumbai (atleast to our knowledge), but also a symbol of passion, resilience and the undying spirit of someone passionate about food.
Sulakkhan Singh’s journey in the kitchen began at the tender age of 11. Hailing from the vibrant city of Amritsar, he found his first job at the Tej Hotel in Kamala Nagar, Purani Dilli (New Delhi). The early years of his career were filled with the hustle and bustle of the Delhi food scene, where he learned the art of cooking, an understanding of flavors and an innate sense of taste. It was here that his love for making kulchas blossomed—a love that would define his life and bring joy to countless food lovers.
Singh’s life took a poignant turn when he lost his family back in Amritsar. With no one left to call his own, he made the bold move to Mumbai. It was here, amidst the vibrant tapestry of the city, that he found a new family and a new purpose. Singh has been a cornerstone of the Oye Kake kitchen, pouring his heart into every dish he creates. Mumbai and Oye Kake have become his home, his family, and his identity.
Today, Sulakkhan Singh’s name is synonymous with the best Amritsari kulchas in Mumbai. His expertise in crafting the most perfect, golden-brown, and flaky kulchas has earned him the affectionate title of “Kulcha King.” For him, making kulchas is not just about mixing flour and water; it’s an art form that requires patience, skill, and a heart full of love. Each kulcha he prepares is a testament to his dedication, as he infuses each one with his secret blend of spices, a hint of nostalgia, and a lot of warmth.
Despite being well past the age when most people would consider hanging up their aprons, Singh remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft. When asked about retirement, his response is always the same: “I will die making kulchas in Mumbai.” His unwavering dedication and love for his work inspire everyone around him, from the younger chefs in the kitchen to the patrons who savor his creations. For Singh, cooking is not just a profession; it is his life’s calling, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
While he works, Singh can often be heard singing Punjabi folk songs, a joyful tune accompanying the rhythm of his hands as he prepares dough and stokes the tandoor. These songs are a bridge to his past, memories of his homeland, and a testament to his vibrant spirit. They add a unique charm to the Oye Kake kitchen, making it not just a place of work, but a space filled with love, warmth, and the joy of cooking.
At Oye Kake, we are incredibly proud to have Singh as part of our family, and we invite you to experience the magic of his kulchas—each bite filled with the taste of tradition, love, and the extraordinary life of the Kulcha King. Visit Oye Kake today to taste the magic made from Sulakkhan Singh’s hands, and we bet it’s one you’ll never forget!