When I look back, I realise that my biggest turning point was moving from Kashmir to Delhi in the wake of terrorism in the early ’80s. Had Kashmir not been affected by terrorism I would’ve grown up there and life would’ve shaped up differently.

Another highlight was leaving Delhi to pursue modelling in Mumbai. I realised that I was on my own and had to fend for myself. This taught me a lot about life and survival. Professionally, I learnt a lot about modelling and was motivated to join the film industry next.

Life took another turn when I decided to join the film industry but, as fate would have it, none of my movies released. I was beginning to feel low and dejected but I started investing my time in cooking. I’d read cookbooks, prepare different types of cuisines and soon became quite skilled. I was ready to take up cooking professionally.

Then I moved to Goa and worked at a friend’s restaurant. For more than a year I trained at an Italian restaurant, a Mediterranean restaurant and a Goan restaurant which not only improved my cooking but also taught me the tricks of the trade.

A major high was when the producers of the cookery show, Chakh Le India were looking for a host who could cook. I tried out and got selected. This allowed me to travel and was a great chance to grow as a chef, anchor — and even as a person. I’m now hosting another cookery show called Chakh Le Academy where I teach youngsters to prepare different regional cuisines.

As of now I’m looking forward to launching my own restaurant in Bangalore, a city I love for its climate and culture. My idea is to earn an honest livelihood with hard work. I think drumming up good food for food lovers would be the most gratifying thing for me.

(As told to Chitra Anand Papnai)