Overview
Born in Cape Town and raised in Durban, South Africa, I embody a multicultural heritage shaped by my East Indian father and mixed South African mother. South Africa, with its diverse blend of indigenous African, Dutch, British, Indian, and Malay influences, has cultivated a rich culinary experience. Having grown up in a multicultural home, I carry the DNA of authentic fusion of South African Indian cuisine, Durban curry to be precise.
As 4th generation Indian born into the height of apartheid South Africa, my products trace back to the migration of my great, great grandparents from India to the city of Durban, South Africa. Alongside a multitude of fellow Indentured laborers on the sugar cane plantations, their resilience nurtured the birth of a new community. Since then, Durban has become home to the largest Indian population outside of India, and due to improvising with limited spices from their homeland, the iconic “Durban curry” was born.
Concepta’s Studio transcends mere spices! It’s a cultural fusion hub, offering a unique experience through spices, food, and creativity. Now residing in Maine, where there is an appetite for diverse culinary experiences, I feel a responsibility to share my roots. I bring forth the simplicity and authenticity of homemade spice blends that encapsulate the unique identity of South African Indian cuisine.
I’m not just about spices; I’m about sharing stories, inspiring palates, and embracing cultural diversity. Join me on a flavorful journey that celebrates identity, community, and the extraordinary history of South African Indians.