From Kari to Curry: A Global Exploration

A survey by CNN named curry as a dish enjoyed around the world. In 2017, Indonesian Rendang curry was named the world-best food. The map above demonstrates the British trade route

In this first article, I trace the journey of curry from its ancient roots in the Indus Valley to its modern‑day presence in kitchens across the world. Through visits to markets, restaurants, and archives, I explore how migration, colonial trade, and diaspora communities have transformed “kari” into the global comfort food we now know as curry—and how I’m weaving this history into the Kari to Curry project.