At the heart of the Samarkand Pilaf Festival 2025, two exceptional Pakistani chefs — Sadaf Waseem and Amina Basit — proudly represented Pakistan and its rich culinary heritage on a global platform. As state guests, they received overwhelming praise for showcasing traditional Pakistani rice dishes, including Sindhi Biryani, Yakhni Pulao, and Kabuli Pulao, which attracted a large number of visitors eager to taste the bold and aromatic flavors of Pakistan.
Guests from various countries not only tasted the dishes but also observed the live cooking process, appreciating the depth of spices, cultural background, and the chefs’ culinary mastery. Festival attendees, food experts, and fellow participants widely praised the Pakistani chefs for their professionalism, hospitality, and flavor-rich presentations.
As a gesture of appreciation, Sadaf Waseem and Amina Basit were each presented with shields of honor by the festival organizers, recognizing their role in introducing Pakistani cuisine on such a prestigious international stage. This proud moment highlighted women’s empowerment in the culinary field and showcased the growing global influence of Pakistan’s food culture.
Adding to the emotional and diplomatic significance of the occasion, the chefs took part in a flag ceremony, where they unfurled both the Pakistani and Uzbek flags. This powerful gesture symbolized gratitude for Uzbekistan’s warm hospitality and celebrated the deep-rooted cultural and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
One of the festival’s most iconic moments included the Uzbek hosts preparing a monumental 100 kg of traditional Uzbek Palao, symbolizing the spirit of unity, generosity, and shared culinary history. This was complemented perfectly by the Pakistani delegation’s participation, adding depth and diversity to the cultural exchange.
The entire Pakistani nation takes immense pride in this remarkable achievement. The participation of Sadaf and Amina, supported by the College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM), stands as a shining example of how skilled women from Pakistan are stepping onto the global stage, building bridges through food, culture, and diplomacy.
