Interview with Rosemary Shrager, 65

TV chef Rosemary is a ball of energy and can’t wait to throw herself into all aspects of life in India but particularly the food of course. Rosemary began her career in restaurant kitchens, working under Pierre Koffman and Jean-Christophe Novelli, and now runs her own cookery school and patisserie. Like Jan, Rosemary has also survived the I’m A Celebrity…
jungle!

Although she has never been to India before and knows very little about it, the adventurous foodie wants to ride an elephant, meet local people, explore the role of God in India and meditate. She’s also in pursuit of the perfect sari.

How did you find the experience?

The experience was life changing, being privy to another culture so different to ours. The feeling was exhilarating, humbling, and a huge privilege to get to know some wonderful people.

What did you learn about yourself?

I learnt quite a lot. Firstly I realised that I haven’t got a lot of patience when it comes to making decisions. I get on with most people, but when things annoy me I do tend to reveal my feelings, which probably does not go down very well.

I found the spiritual side of India extremely moving. I found myself being very drawn to that life, one of calmness and acceptance.

What can Brits learn from Indian culture?

The attitude towards the elderly. The respect is completely inbred within Indian culture. We could learn so much from this.

How did you find the food out there and as a cook, what did you find impressive?

We were fortunate to be staying in a proper Indian home where the food was fantastic. We had feasts every day with ingredients that cost very little and it gave us a taste of the real India.

What I found fascinating was the variety of choice, the intensity of flavours, and the attention to detail. We had a cooking class which was a revelation that opened me up to a whole load of new ingredients and processes. I have come away from India knowing that I want to learn more.