Indian restaurant in Ukraine turns into temporary shelter for 130 people, wins rave reviews
After Russia stepped up its attacks on Ukraine’s most populous cities, many people were forced to leave the country and their homes. As governments and authorities arrange the evacuation of their citizens, locals are stepping up to provide basic resources to help people survive this political deadlock. One such story from Ukraine has surfaced on the internet and received rave reviews. An Indian restaurant in Kyiv, Ukraine, has acted as a temporary shelter for people during this time of political crisis. The restaurant ‘Saathiya’ in the Ukrainian capital is an eatery that has volunteered to provide its basement for the country’s vulnerable people. The photos of the restaurant have gone viral on Twitter, check out:
A man named Manish Dave turned his restaurant into a shelter for more than 125 vulnerable people in Ukraine. He and his staff cook the food and risk their lives to find rations for all. The world needs more people like Manish Dave. pic.twitter.com/ZnQlViwDoZ– Good good) February 27, 2022
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Manish Dave is the man behind this Indian restaurant and its noble initiative. He moved to Ukraine from Vadodara, Gujarat in October 2021 to open a restaurant for Indian students living in the country. Before the restaurant could reach and become profitable, they faced an unprecedented crisis. He provided his restaurant basement for people who needed a safe place to stay and food to eat. His message on Telegram invited people of all nationalities, “We will do our best to arrange food and free accommodation as we can. Stay united with Ukraine.”
A touching story in the midst of war. An Indian-owned diner in Kyiv has doubled as a makeshift bunker where dozens of children, pregnant women, students, the homeless and elderly locals gather, looking for Find safety from deadly clashes. https://t.co/sePLr4ryd8— Niha Masih (@NihaMasih) March 2, 2022
(Read more: See: Sikh volunteers provide ‘Langar on board’ to students in Ukraine)
Dave told the Washington Post he would welcome people from all walks of life. The 52-year-old said in a phone interview, “Any nationality, any person can come here and stay temporarily. I will continue to provide accommodation and food until as much as possible,” he added.
Saathiya Restaurant already has a capacity of more than 130 people in its premises. Dave and his 11-member staff prepare Indian food like Dal and Chawal for the people. They are trying to reduce the spice level to suit the taste preferences of many countries. The restaurant owner has received donations of food, rice and vegetables from the people to continue maintaining the operation of the shelter.
About Aditi AhujaAditi loves to talk and meet like-minded people (especially vegetarians). Bonus points if you get her hilarious movie recommendations or if you recommend a new place to eat.