Famed Pakistani chef Zakir Qureshi passes away in Karachi

Chef Zakir Hussain in a picture shared by him on July 3, 2020. (chefzakirofficial_/Instagram)

• Qureshi inherited the passion for culinary arts from his father who worked with British Airways and PIA
• He began his professional career at Karachi’s Sheraton Hotel in 1980 and first appeared on TV in mid-2000s

KARACHI: Renowned Pakistani chef Zakir Qureshi has passed away in Karachi, his family confirmed on Tuesday, bringing an end to his famous shows that provided diverse culinary expertise to countless people.
Born in the southern Pakistani port city of Karachi on Feb. 16, 1967, Qureshi inherited the passion for culinary arts from his father, Abdul Aziz, who worked as a chef with British Airways and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
The celebrity chef, who had maintained a loyal audience through his television programs, had been battling a kidney disease and remained under treatment in the United States until a month ago, according to his nephew. He passed away on Monday night.
“For uncle Zakir, cooking was more than a profession; it was a family tradition. However, he distinguished himself as the only member to pursue formal culinary studies abroad. He always spoke with great affection about his mentors, especially Sultana Siddiqui and Athar Waqar Azim,” Qureshi’s nephew, Shayan Qureshi, told Arab News.
“He was a kind, well-mannered, and loving individual. His culinary skills were exceptional. He not only revitalized traditional dishes but also skillfully adapted international cuisines to appeal to the Pakistani palate. His television shows not only brought delicious flavors into countless homes but also imparted the art of cooking.”
Qureshi had traveled to Dubai, Singapore, South Africa and Botswana for work and studies, according to his family. He began his professional career at Karachi’s Sheraton Hotel in 1980 and first appeared on TV in mid-2000s.
Zohaib Aalim, producer of Zakir’s Kitchen show, told Arab News that Qureshi had always been warm and respectful toward others, and always stayed focused on his work.
“Chef Zakir worked with us from 2015 to 2021. His most admirable quality was that he taught the best recipes within a limited budget. He used to say that he wanted to teach dishes people could actually make at home within their means,” Aalim said.
“In that sense, he was truly exceptional. He popularized Chinese, Continental, and Desi cuisines through his simple and accessible methods.”
Aalim said the flavors Qureshi introduced, the lessons he taught, and the memories he left behind will “forever live in our hearts.”
He may be gone, but his taste, his style, and his expertise continue to breathe in every Pakistani kitchen.