Chef Manpreet Singh Ahuja stands as a shining example of multi-tasking. The chef is an exceptional singer, who recently went viral after sharing a heartwarming kitchen video. The viral video captures Chef Manpreet singing the song 'Baar Baar Dekho' while expertly spreading dosa batter on a griddle. Playfully altering some of the lyrics, he pays a delightful foodie tribute to dosa.
In the background, fellow chefs spontaneously join the revelry, dancing and revelling in his musical performance. As Chef Manpreet plates the dosa, the camaraderie continues, with his colleagues joyfully dancing and creating a lively atmosphere in the kitchen.
Curious to learn more about the renowned "singing chef," Asian Voice engaged Chef Manpreet Singh in a candid conversation, delving into his profession, musical inclinations, favourite singers, and more.
Initiation into music
Chef Manpreet has been involved in singing since the age of four, influenced by his father who had a deep passion for singing. Describing his foray into music, he said, “Despite my father’s excellence in the field, my grandfather wasn't entirely supportive, as back in those days, mainstream careers were more favoured. Unable to pursue these dreams himself, he envisioned that I could fulfil them and introduced me to the stage at the tender age of four for my first performance.
“Throughout my school years, my father consistently encouraged me to take the stage on important occasions, effectively nurturing my interest in both singing and stage presence. Gradually, my interest in singing and music deepened as my father exposed me to a vast array of artists and singing styles. This musical journey continued during my college years and seamlessly transitioned into my professional life. Even as I started working, singing remained an integral part of my life.”
About the name “singing chef” and the fame Chef Manpreet has garnered
The chef doesn’t perceive himself as someone famous. “There's no fame associated with me. While a small group of people may recognise me, that's about the extent of it”, he says. The title "singing chef" came about to him accidentally, he stresses.
Chef Manpreet would often find himself singing while cooking and this became somewhat of a known occurrence among his colleagues. Then there was a notable event at London's Nehru Centre, dating back to around 2002, where he had the privilege of being invited to speak about Indian spices to an exclusive audience that included the then Indian High Commissioner Mr Nareshwar Dayal. This particular audience comprised individuals who held the position of presidents / CEOs of companies.
Following his talk on spices, which was well-received for its engagement and information, he decided to conclude uniquely. “Instead of the traditional goodbye, I chose to express my farewell through the song, “Chalte chalte, mere yeh geet yaad rakhna, Kabhi alvida na kehna”. The room resonated with the melody, and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the unexpected musical touch. Among the organisers was Frances Mascarenas Malhotra, a lady with a notable background in the beauty pageant world, who suggested that henceforth he be known as the "singing chef," and the term stuck.
“This idea gained traction when Rohit Khattar, the managing director of the organisation I worked for took it further. Flyers were printed, marketing the concept of having a chef who not only excelled in the culinary arts but was also ready to entertain with song. The word spread, and soon, there was enthusiasm for the singing chef to perform at various gatherings. It was an interesting turn of events that shaped this unique aspect of my identity”, he said.
The reason for choosing a different career
Despite his father’s keen interest in seeing him pursue a career in music or cricket, Chef Manpreet didn't venture down that path. He feels that it was his career that chose him stating, “Academically, I was performing well in school, and perhaps my father felt it was suitable for me to focus on a more conventional career, something he hadn't been able to do. He didn't push me extensively, and while he might have been happier had I chosen a musical or cricketing career, I pursued a different path.
“The journey into the culinary world happened somewhat accidentally. Somewhere along the way, during both my college years and employment, I became associated with the title of a chef. It seems like my career chose me rather than the other way around, and one thing led to another. However, singing has always remained an integral part of my life, running parallel to my professional journey.”
Singing his way into people’s hearts
In his career, Chef Manpreet has had many Indian patrons inquiring about his singing. After having enjoyed their meals, guests often request to end the dining experience with a song. He recalls instances where notable personalities, such as the yesteryear actress Deepti Naval and socialite Surina Narula, dined at the restaurant he worked at and invited him to perform for them and their group, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience.
About his interaction with people, he said, “Over the years, it became natural for people to approach me and say, ‘You sing? Please, can you sing for us?’ This interaction added a unique musical dimension to the overall dining experience, creating a connection beyond the culinary aspects of the restaurant”.
Behind the viral “Baar Baar Dekho” video
Chef Manpreet’s account of the behind-the-scenes of his viral video, which has 3.6 million views just on his own Instagram page and counting, is one of the most heartwarming stories. He said, “After 2011, for about 12 years, my passion for singing as a Chef remained somewhat concealed in the public eye until a dear friend and chef, Yogesh Datta suggested that I incorporate my chef's uniform into my singing videos. “Chef Yogesh felt that this would be something unique, would create something distinctive and garner more interest”.
“About a month and a half ago, the unplanned video of me making dosa in his restaurant's kitchen went viral. During a casual visit to his restaurant where I went for a meal, Chef Yogesh jokingly proposed showcasing my singing while doing something in the kitchen. Spontaneously, we decided on making dosa, and as I sang the popular song "Baar Baar Dekho," one of the chefs even joined in with an impromptu dance behind me. This unexpected and spontaneous occurrence led to the video going viral globally, gaining attention not only for the singing but also for the lively atmosphere created in the kitchen.”
What’s next after the viral video
We asked Chef Manpreet about his plans after the viral video and if he intends to market the “Singing Chef” label. He said that none of the social media attention he got has been intentional on his part and so he doesn’t plan on building on it, letting things happen naturally and organically. He said, “It wasn't part of any meticulous planning or a strategic move, but rather an organic, impromptu occurrence that has led to the popularity of my singing reels. My deeply spiritual mother always emphasised the influence of divine blessings in our lives.
“According to her, success, fame, and achievements are bestowed upon us when the Lord Almighty showers us with special blessings. Over the years, I've come to realise the profound truth in her words. Our efforts alone don't make us famous or successful; it is the divine blessings that play a pivotal role.”