The battle over the origins of two iconic Indian dishes, butter chicken and dal Makhani, has intensified as the Daryaganj restaurant chain takes legal action against alleged defamatory remarks made by Moti Mahal proprietors.
In response to what Daryaganj perceives as defamatory comments, the matter has been brought before the Delhi High Court. Daryaganj contends certain statements attributed to Moti Mahal in a recent newspaper interview regarding the genesis of butter chicken. Moti Mahal, however, disavows these statements, dismissing them as an “editorial perspective.”
This legal feud stems from Moti Mahal’s previous lawsuit, asserting their predecessor’s claim to the invention of these beloved dishes. Justice Sanjeev Narula, presiding over the case, has instructed Moti Mahal proprietors to submit an affidavit within two weeks, clarifying their position regarding the contentious statements.
At the heart of the dispute lies the ownership of the culinary heritage associated with these dishes. Both Moti Mahal and Daryaganj lay claim to being the “inventors” of butter chicken and dal makhani, fuelling a protracted legal battle.
Moti Mahal’s lawsuit alleges that their predecessor, the late Kundan Lal Gujral, was the true architect behind these culinary delights, tracing their origins to the post-Partition era. Daryaganj’s legal representation vehemently denies these claims, labelling the lawsuit as baseless.
As the courtroom drama unfolds, the Delhi High Court has scheduled the next hearing for May 29, underscoring the enduring dispute over the rightful claimants to India’s gastronomic legacy.