Vikram Vij and the power of connection

Vikram Vij leans in beside me on a soft, teal chair on the stunning waterfront patio. The large outdoor kitchen behind us conjures images of sumptuous grilling garden parties and luxurious open-air brunches. He is sharing his vision behind the elaborate five-course dinner he is creating tonight for an intimate Power To Be fundraising dinner at Ali and Peter Gustavson’s in the Uplands, Victoria, British Columbia.

“We will be presenting dishes that are eaten around family tables in India, and we will serve them family-style. Power To Be is about connection and about community, so this is an obvious fit,” he says. “When people eat multi-course plated dinners, they keep their heads down. Here, we are building community with the ‘can you pass me that?’ and ‘may I have more of that?’ That is real connection.”

I have been curious and excited to share space with The Vikram Vij, celebrated chef, author, television personality, supporter of the sustainable food movement, Tedx speaker. Indian-born Canadian chef, Vikram opened the fine-dining restaurant, Vij’s in 1984 in Vancouver, soon joined in business by his (now ex)-wife Meeru. Fiercely driven, he had a goal of five thriving businesses by 50. Indeed, by 50 Vikram had Vij’s, Rangoli, My Shanti, Vij’s at Home prepared curries and Vij’s Railway Express. He is a force, and yet, speaking with and listening to him is fluid and relaxing. He exudes a compelling depth and understanding of not what he thinks is important, but what is important. There is also a joy about him when we discuss food.

“There will be no butter chicken,” he quips. I adore a good butter chicken, but I appreciate that he infers that guests will explore and enjoy a lavish unexpected meal loaded with flavour and intention. There will be Chicken Korma, which hearkens back to when he first opened Vij’s. His mother would cook the korma at her house and bring it to the restaurant. “The recipe is not quite the same, but the story remains,” he shares.

And what will they eat? Paired with Painted Rock wines, the menu includes Dhalwala, Wild boar and Lamb Kebabs with Beet Chutney, Mung bean salad with Naan Crostini, Roasted Eggplant and Sweet potato Chaat with Chickpea Crisps, Goan Prawn Masala with curry leaves and Coconut rice, Vij’s Chicken Korma with Naan, Lamb stew with Fenugreek and Gulab Jamun for dessert.

The Gustavson’s home was transformed with gorgeous Indian decorations replete with Taj Mahal mural, munificent sculptures, breathtaking table settings and a breathtaking and welcoming fresh petal and seed mandala.

“The people who are coming here give to Power To Be with their hearts. Tonight, they will also eat with their hearts,” Vikram beams.

From all of us at Power To Be, thank you to the guests who attended Namaste India: A Vikram Vij Inspired Dinner Aug. 3 in support of inclusive adventures rooted in nature. A special thanks to Vikram Vij for crafting the meal and to Ali and Peter Gustavson for opening their home.

 – Story shared by Gillie Easdon, Grants Associate