My Friend's Lunch Party

Once a friend of mine invited me for lunch A celebration he planned for his book launch, The book was on traditional Indian cuisine, I knew No very different from its modern cousin or new. I was hesitant to join for my stomach was upset He pleaded with me, let the plan not get upset. I must join the friend’s party, how could I say no For it was a special event in his life, I should know. He would take care, being an accomplished chef For me, he assured, food would be entirely safe. I decided to not enter into a friendly row But to go, occupy a chair in the back row, Enjoy the lunch as best I could to the last course And not utter a word about stomach, of course. I went for the lunch on a winter day quite chilly Vowing to avoid the food items with lots of chilli. Through morning my friend made things all ready For the party he threw, guests had arrived already. While cheese and toast rested untouched for a while We proposed a toast to his success as a chef of style. Matching the rhythm of our warm and soft whine Rose red wine rose and swirled in shining glasses thin. I was delighted to see on the table dishful curd So much good for my stomach, I shouldn’t discard. The fat naan was so liberally buttered all over None possibly would have eaten in their life ever, Flat bread made of finest flour of well bred wheat Looked like blooming flowers on the floral plate. The flavor of famous basmati rice as it would rise I would favor to have it instead of bread to be wise, Sprinkle of spring onion with smell of spring in fish curry Added to the gastronomic delight, a treat far to carry, Meat in gravy with basal green layer of fresh basil leaf Could meet the culinary acumen of any expert chef, The salad of beet root, leek, lime and touch of olive Could beat any such combo in the world, I believe. Before scoops of ice cream could bury the red berry The dessert disappeared as if in desert heat in a hurry. My friend’s hospitality won the hearts of one and all, Thanking him amply we departed before the nightfall. We expressed the appreciation for the food aloud As much as our satiated minds sincerely allowed. December 3, 2017.