Using food and art as catalysts to bridge the gap between two nations- India and Pakistan, this restaurant on the Wagah-Attari border is as unique as its name.
With the idea that “Peace is the beauty of Life”, this restaurant has its name as Sarhad (Urdu word for frontier) and the architecture, vibrant truck art, and rich foods make it stand out from the crowd. Launched on India’s Independence Day- August 15, 2012, Sarhad is popular with local residents as well as visitors and they come here in large numbers to satisfy their taste buds.
Sarhad Complex is the brainchild of Aman Jaspal. In an interview to IANS, he said, “Food is the primary love of all Punjabis. Peace through food is the motto of Sarhad and it is no wonder our logo has a dove with the word peace inscribed in 25 languages.”
This brick-lined complex attracts travelers from all over the world as it brings out the best of two nations and communities. The food they offer here reflects the culture of Punjab before the partition and you can taste the Amritsari and Lahori flavor in one plate. The place also makes a sort of statement that united Punjab was better than the divided one.
According to the IANS report., Aman further said, “This place has a lot to offer from the cuisine and culture of Amritsar and Lahore. Apart from this, we are putting up a peace gallery so that visitors get a glimpse of the history of both countries in the right perspective. From pre-1947 video footage to old newspapers – we are getting everything for the gallery.”
The idea of Sarhad complex to spread the message of love and peace through food is also recognized by Harvard University. Not just that, the decor of Sarhad took form after much planning and hard work.
While Haider Ali, a renowned Pakistani tuck artist had spiced up the looks of two small trucks, the furniture of the complex was designed by a famous Pakistani designer Ansa Zafar.
“We have put in a lot of effort to bring Sarhad till here. It has taken us many trips to Pakistan and overcoming various obstacles to put this into shape. It is a celebration of the architectural, cultural and culinary heritage of pre-partition Punjab,” Aman added, as mentioned in the report.