With a career that spanned over six decades, Chef Qureshi’s influence is woven into the very fabric of India’s fine-dining legacy. Hailing from Lucknow, and coming from a lineage of khansamas (royal chefs), he brought India’s ancient culinary techniques into the modern era.

He was the founding chef of ITC Hotels’ iconic Dum Pukht restaurant, which redefined Indian luxury dining with dishes crafted from slow-roasted, sealed handi cooking, preserving every nuance of flavor, aroma, and texture.

His unparalleled contribution earned him India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, the Padma Shri, making him one of the first chefs in India to receive this prestigious national recognition. Chef Qureshi also trained and mentored generations of chefs, many of whom today carry forward his philosophy of patience, respect for ingredients, and culinary heritage.

A master of spices, tradition, and precision, Chef Imtiaz Qureshi wasn’t just a chef*he was a custodian of India’s royal gastronomic history. His legacy continues to live on through iconic dishes, luxury hotel menus, and the continued reverence of culinary professionals around the globe.