Metro Matters
Unseen Experience: “Eating in the Dark” on White Cane Day; Tharawat reinforces Zameen Group’s commitment to inclusivity on White Cane Day
Bridging gaps through culinary excellence: Ali Tareen
KARACHI: In a pioneering show of solidarity and compassion for the visually impaired community, Khaas Foodz and Zameen Group hosted an exclusive event titled ‘Eat in the Dark’ in celebration of White Cane Safety Day 2024. This invitation-only evening brought together diplomats, corporate elites, media personalities and community leaders to experience… A unique sensuality that goes beyond sight.
The event aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by blind people while empowering them through an immersive fine dining experience. Guests, seated in complete darkness, relied solely on their other senses – taste, touch and sound – to enjoy the exquisite cuisine prepared by a talented blind chef, enhancing their appreciation for the everyday experiences of visually impaired individuals. This event served as a powerful reminder of how small adjustments can foster compassion and inclusivity in a community.
Led by the founder of Khaas Foodz, blind Chef Fiza Hussain has curated a menu that has delighted the senses in innovative ways. Without relying on visual cues, guests experienced the full range of flavors and textures in each dish, highlighting the incredible abilities of the chef and other visually impaired people. Blindfolded with black lines, attendees embraced the darkness as they explored extraordinary culinary creations using only their keen senses of smell, taste and touch.
Adding to the evening’s atmosphere was an exciting musical performance by Adnan Ahmed and Khalid MK Anwar, whose talent resonated deeply with the audience. The performances brought a sense of emotional connection, reinforcing the idea that people with visual impairment are not defined by their disabilities but by their immense potential. The enchanting music created a reflective atmosphere, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.
The notable attendees included members of the Rotary Club, Khudi, academicians, media persons, government officials and diplomats including the General Counsel of Iran, Mr. and Mrs. Ataka from the Japanese Embassy in Karachi. Through this collective experience, guests showed their support and solidarity with the blind community, promoting a deeper understanding of their daily challenges.
Ali Tareen, CEO, Khaas Foodz, emphasized the mission of the event: “We are working to bridge gaps and empower the visually impaired through culinary excellence. This evening was not just a meal; it was about recognizing the abilities and talents of those who navigate life differently.
Sarwat Naseem Shah, Managing Director, Zameen Group, shared her thoughts on the partnership: “Our collaboration with Khaas Foodz demonstrates our commitment to social responsibility and inclusion. We want to create more opportunities for individuals with disabilities and spread awareness about the importance of empathy and understanding.
As the evening came to a close, guests spoke of the power of such initiatives to inspire meaningful conversations and promote inclusivity. Khas Foods and Zameen Group pledged to continue working on projects that empower visually impaired individuals and encourage the community to join them in future events.
The success of Dining in the Dark has sparked excitement for future initiatives, as both organizations aim to make a lasting impact in promoting awareness for the blind.
For those interested in experiencing this transformative event, stay tuned for future opportunities to participate in groundbreaking sensory journeys that challenge perceptions and build a more inclusive world.