Mohit Balachandran may have started his career as a chef but he is now the Brand & Cuisine Custodian at SodaBottleOpenerWala. This is probably why he strongly believes in preserving the authenticity of cuisine. Balachandran talks to Explocity about his journey.

Where did you grow up?

Dad was in the Army, so have traveled the length and breadth of India as a kid.

What led you to becoming a chef?

It was the first thing that came my way after school.

How long have you been a chef?

I was an active chef for six years. Now I am the Cuisine and Brand Custodian for SodaBottleOpenerWala for the past four years.

What do you enjoy more? Cooking or creating?

It's more creating and giving the vision for the product / cuisine.

Do you feel there is virtue in preserving the authenticity of cuisine?

Absolutely. The future would be weak if we don't acknowledge or respect our past. Castles can only be built when the foundation's strong.

What dish do you like eating the most?

I'm not fussy at all. But enjoy street food the most.

What’s your least favourite dish?

As mentioned above, I'm not fussy at all and like to experiment with flavours.

How long have you been in Bangalore?

I've worked here for four years in the earlier part of my career. Now I travel to Bangalore at least twice a month.

Do you like it here?

I love exploring the various offerings of Bangalore. From Veena Stores in Malleswaram to Pepper Chicken at Hamza Hotel in Shivajinagar and Gowdru hotel in Indiranagar.