2024. Styling traditional small plates and large plates and deliciousness in between for Chef Ruchira Hoon’s Draavin Canteen (formerly known as Dakshin Canteen) in South Delhi’s Amar Colony recently was the most satisfying project. I loved using my extensive set of props from Karaikudi to bring out the simple, rustic, traditional yet rich feel of South Indian cuisine for her canteen style restaurant that has a mix of quintessential South Indian & Sri Lankan canteen food and home style staples. The images are a reflection of what I enjoy doing most - playing with rich colours, textures, vintage props, accents and rustic elements. It reminded me of everything I loved when I visited Karaikudi in 2016.

Freshly made podis from Draavin Canteen sat well in my vintage wooden measuring jars and spice box, an old coconut grater & brass pestle & mortar , cast iron woks / kadhais, a vintage slotted frying spoon … everything fitted in beautifully. I carried bunches of fresh young delicate curry leaves from my curry patta tree for a hint of freshness that was accentuated by elements like whole red chillies, tamarind, onion rings and lime, coffee beans too!

Styling only : Deeba Rajpal