‘Delhi is a true picture of unity in diversity… a melting pot'
In the last three-and-a-half years she has spent in Delhi, the city has become like a second home for Ina Hagniningtyas Krisnamurthi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia to India. Not just food, she loves the diversity of the city, but also its food.
In her career spanning nearly two decades, she has held various diplomatic positions and has held various other government posts. She is an MA in International Studies from Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia. She speaks to The Indian Express as part of a series of interviews with Ambassadors about Delhi — a city she admires.
Excerpts:
One place in the city that you like visiting often.
Delhi for me is like a second home. It's not easy for me to pinpoint one, but I often visit Nehru Park or Lodhi Garden… very friendly and green.
What has stood out in Delhi during your stay?
In Indonesia, we have this principle of 'Bhinekka Tunggal Ika', which loosely translates in English to 'unity in diversity'. I think Delhi is truly a picture of unity in diversity. When I arrived here in 2022, there were 152 diplomatic missions. Now, the number has gone up to 180. The city is a melting pot of diplomats, especially from many faraway countries. I was posted in New York before…there are 193 missions there. Secondly, when you talk about food, you can find cuisines from all Indian states. Unfortunately, Odisha Bhawan is now undergoing a renovation, but that is one of the places that I frequent because I love Odisha's food. It almost has a Southeast Asian flavour.
Thirdly, even as Delhi is not my favourite Indian city, it has a character unlike many others. The past and the future come together. It's so colouful. You can say that you can understand Delhi, but you cannot, because every corner of the city brings out a different side.
My favourite place is Chandigarh, and another city for me that I fell in love with right away is Visakhapatnam.
Memories or encounters in the city that you'll never forget?
One was the G20 Summit. The lockdown during the G20 Summit for three days…it was all so beautiful, my God! It was very romantic. I cannot explain in words.
Second, when Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto came here as the Chief Guest of the Republic Day parade this year. In October, when the decision came to invite my president, I was doubtful that we could do it. India made it happen because you're so unbelievably good at extending your friendship.
Favourite food in the city?
The South Indian food in Malcha Marg, and I also love fried fish. And also, Dhaba in Claridges, because I love the butter chicken, and also the garlic naan. But the dal, I think, Bukhara is the best…by far. The dal is unbelievable. I just buy the dal and eat it with naan or roti. That's it. I can eat that forever.
If you have to introduce Delhi back home, what will you tell them?
First, unity in diversity. Second, the warmth of the people. Third, even Delhiites can't fully know the city… because if you go to Old Delhi, every nook and corner is different…Every time I go there, I go okay, how come this is here? I did not see it before.
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