Mumbai, India – July 6, 2024 – Durga Khanawal, a historic eatery established in 1934 in Wathar Station, Satara District, was honored at the Global Book of Excellence Award Ceremony at the Hotel Fairfield by Marriott in Mumbai. The award recognizes the eatery’s unique contribution to India’s cultural and historical heritage, particularly during the Indian independence movement.
Founded by Sonabai Jadhav and her niece, Durgabai, Durga Khanawal began as a modest establishment serving British officers traveling between Mumbai and Mahabaleshwar. The eatery gained a reputation for its traditional Maharashtrian dishes, becoming a vital stop for travelers.
Beyond its culinary fame, Durga Khanawal played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle. Sonabai discreetly supported underground revolutionaries, including Krantisinh Nana Patil and others, by providing them with food and crucial information. Her courageous acts were crucial in aiding the freedom fighters, even under the constant threat of British detection.
The legacy of Durga Khanawal, now in its fourth generation, continues to thrive, honoring its rich history and the bravery of its founders. The Global Book of Excellence Award celebrates this enduring legacy, highlighting the eatery’s role in India’s journey to independence and its ongoing significance in preserving cultural heritage.
