Chef Doma Wang, affectionately known as the ‘Momo Queen of Kolkata,’ stands as a culinary maven breaking barriers and paving the way for women in the vibrant landscape of Indian kitchens. Her journey is not just one of culinary excellence but also a testament to the resilience and determination required for women chefs to make their mark in a predominantly male-dominated industry.
Chef Doma Wang’s culinary journey took an unconventional turn when she was assigned to the pasta section—a tiny room with space for only one person. Little did she know that this seemingly confined space would become the launching pad for her culinary brand. In 2020, on World Pasta Day, Chef Wang unveiled her brand, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her culinary career. The challenges faced by women chefs, often relegated to specific sections or underestimated roles, are not unfamiliar to Chef Doma Wang. However, her ability to turn adversity into opportunity exemplifies the resilience that defines her culinary prowess.
Chef Doma Wang, often referred to as the ‘Momo Queen of Kolkata,’ acknowledges that there is still a long way to go for women chefs to gain the recognition they deserve. In her view, the commercial kitchens in India are predominantly ruled by men, and the narrative around famous Indian chefs often revolves around those based abroad.
“Unfortunately, it’s still the men who rule the commercial kitchens in our country. When one talks of famous Indian chefs, it’s mostly those who are based abroad – Asma Khan, Maneet Chauhan, Garima Arora, to name a few. I am hopeful that in a few years from now, more female chefs will climb the ladder as head chefs,” Chef Wang shares. Her optimism reflects a belief in the transformative power of time and the potential for a more inclusive culinary industry. Chef Doma Wang’s culinary ventures, The Blue Poppy Thakali and Boma Asian Bakery, are not merely eateries but reflections of her culinary innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Through her establishments, Chef Wang not only showcases her culinary expertise but also contributes to redefining the narrative for women in Indian kitchens.
The challenges faced by women chefs, often relegated to specific sections or underestimated roles, are not unfamiliar to Chef Doma Wang. However, her ability to turn adversity into opportunity exemplifies the resilience that defines her culinary prowess.
Chef Doma Wang’s impact extends beyond her culinary ventures; it serves as an inspiration for the next generation of women chefs aspiring to break into the culinary world. Her journey challenges stereotypes and underscores the potential for women to excel in every aspect of the culinary profession. As the ‘Momo Queen of Kolkata,’ Chef Doma Wang represents not just a culinary icon but a symbol of empowerment and determination. Her story invites more women to embrace their passion for cooking, dismantle gender barriers, and assert their presence in the diverse and dynamic world of Indian kitchens.
Chef Doma Wang’s journey is a narrative of resilience, determination, and culinary brilliance. From navigating confined spaces to launching her culinary brand, she has defied stereotypes and emerged as a culinary pioneer shaping the future. As more women chefs like Chef Doma Wang ascend the ranks and establish themselves as leaders in the culinary realm, the narrative of Indian kitchens is undergoing a transformation—one that celebrates diversity, talent, and the indomitable spirit of women in the culinary arts. Chef Doma Wang’s legacy is not just in her delectable creations but in the doors she has opened for future generations of women chefs in India.