Discovering the Soul of South Indian Cuisine with Ooragami

Ooragami, is a culinary adventure born from a deep love for food and a passion for exploring diverse traditions and cultures. Many assume I'm Punjabi due to my name, while others guess Kodava based on my appearance. In truth, my heritage lies in the lively state of Andhra Pradesh, courtesy of my father, and my heart belongs to the dynamic city of Bangalore, where my mother hails from. I was born and raised in Bangalore. Growing up in a township surrounded by a mosaic of cultures, I developed a profound appreciation for the stories and flavours each tradition brings to the table.

From a young age, I was captivated by the colourful parade of food vendors who frequented our neighbourhood. The tinkling bells of the Kwality Walls cart, the night-time bicycle vendor selling Apple Ice fruits, and most notably, the pickle seller on his trusty Luna. He would arrive with a makeshift seat laden with jars of homemade pickles, offering tantalizing tastes by placing a dollop on our hands. My mother, despite her own mastery of pickle-making, never failed to buy some for me, indulging my curiosity and love for these vibrant flavours.

This childhood joy of discovering new tastes and stories is what fuels my passion for food today. Visiting new places, exploring local markets, and immersing myself in the sensory feast of spices, fresh vegetables, and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans are experiences that make me feel like an adventurer. Each market visit, each new flavour, is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Ooragami is the manifestation of this curiosity and excitement. It’s my way of sharing the joy of South Indian food with the world, presenting it in a polished, curated, and gourmet style. Our focus is on honest ingredients and authentic flavours, steering clear of the commercialized offerings that often overshadow the true essence of Indian cuisine.

Our products are crafted by women homemakers from across South India, using the freshest seasonal ingredients and traditional methods. These heirloom recipes, passed down through generations, create culinary magic in every bite. Each item is carefully curated and made in small batches, ensuring authenticity and quality. By purchasing from Ooragami, you directly support these talented women and their households.

From the very beginning, I have designed and developed the entire packaging of Ooragami from scratch. My goal is to showcase our food in a better light through fun, vibrant packaging that reflects the essence of South India. Every detail, from the colours to the patterns, is inspired by the rich cultural heritage and lively spirit of the region, making our products not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes.

Indian food is much more than biryani and butter chicken. South Indian cuisine, in particular, remains underrated and underrepresented on the global stage. With Ooragami, I aim to shine a spotlight on this rich culinary heritage, taking you on a journey through the unexplored and undiscovered flavours of South India. Join me in this adventure, and let’s celebrate the diverse and delicious world of South Indian food together.

#food #branding #tradition #packagingdesign