King Charles, 76, and Queen Camilla, 77, visited local Muslim communities in London ahead of Ramadan, which begins on 28 February.
Their visit included a stop at Darjeeling Express, the Indian restaurant founded by chef Asma Khan, who grew up in Kolkata and later moved to the UK.
The King and Queen joined Asma Khan in packing dates into white paper bags for local hospitals, as dates are traditionally eaten to break the Ramadan fast at sunset.
King Charles, joking that he was “past my sell-by date,” packed alongside the Queen and impressed with his efficiency, even bursting into laughter when Asma praised his skills.
“I didn’t realise the King would be so fast!” Asma Khan marveled in a video posted on the royal family's Instagram, prompting a big laugh from Charles. “You’re packing dates faster than I can seal them.” She added, “I never realised this is a speedy couple,” drawing more chuckles.
The royals also joined Asma and head chef Asha Pradhan in London’s only all-women-run Indian kitchen, helping prepare biryani for Doorstep, a charity supporting families in need. Queen Camilla, wielding a large spoon, cheerfully asked, “Is that enough, or should I add more?”
Spotting Charles deep in conversation, she playfully coughed to get his attention, waving a takeaway box. He joined in, happily ladling food and asking, “Is it chicken and proper basmati rice?” The King was delighted to hear some would be sent to the Palace for them to enjoy later.
During their visit, the King and Queen met prominent British Muslim women, including Judge Khatun Sapnara, author Saima Mir, MasterChef winner Saliha Mahmood Ahmed, and business leader Shaheen Sayed. The King also met Asma Khan’s parents, with Asma later sharing that her father spoke to Charles about their family. The King remarked that Asma’s great-grandfather, Ahmed Said Khan, resembled her father, and she proudly displayed his portrait from the National Portrait Gallery in her restaurant.
Reflecting on the visit, Asma said, “Their Majesties spent time with extraordinary women preparing for Ramadan, a time of spiritual reflection. They also joined our all-female kitchen team to pack biryani for families supported by Doorstep, continuing our tradition of cooking for charity during Ramadan.”
