W hen Puja Sahu launched The Potbelly Bihari Kitchen in Delhi’s Shahpur Jat in 2011, Bihari cuisine had a rare presence in India’s culinary mainstream. She realised that gap and initiated an experiment, as she had a culinary treasure with a strong narrative. Soon her experiment evolved into a pioneering culinary movement that brought the rich heritage and the rustic flavours of Bihar into contemporary dining conversations.

Ms Sahu, the co-founder and head chef of The Potbelly restaurant chain, acknowledges that her mother, Mamta Sahu, has played a pivotal role in her venture’s growth. “My mother personally trained the local cooks in the early days to ensure that the restaurant’s traditional home-style flavours stayed completely true to their regional roots,” reveals Ms Sahu.

After 15 years of sincerity and hard work, her mission has been successful as she runs five outlets — three in Delhi, one in Gurgaon and one in Patna. Sharmila Chand meets Ms Sahu and is impressed with her story, her restaurant, its ambience and, above all, its authentic Bihari cuisine.

How do you define yourself?
An ordinary person with extraordinary dreams

What is your philosophy of life?
Find moments of peace even in chaos. When swamped with challenges, break them into smaller bits and resolve them. Simplify life.

What is your passion in life?
Passion to find new passions and keep learning something new

What is your work philosophy?
I never rest on my laurels. I am always on my toes on a quest to get better at what I do.

A business leader you admire
the most…
Honestly, I do not have just one person I admire.  I admire ordinary people who live and work with dignity.

Your source of inspiration…
My spiritual practice of Buddhism and my mentor Daisaku Ikeda and my mom

How do you de-stress?
Spending time with my daughter and family

Your mantra for success…
Have a spirit to keep learning, and strive for self-improvement as an ongoing process. Work with humility, and respect people who work for you.

Your dream…
For a better world, for a brighter future, for the youth and our children

Ten years from now, where do we see you?
Staying youthful and physically and mentally fit

Chand.sharmila@gmail.com