Mumbai Floods July 26: Actor Harleen Sethi Recounts Her Idli-Sambar Love During The 2005 Deluge

Actor Harleen Sethi, who recently starred in the new web series 'Bad Cop', has always been known for her deep appreciation of food. Growing up in Mumbai, Harleen is well-acquainted with the city's culinary landscape. A self-described foodie with a particular fondness for chaat and sweets, she also admits to being a 'cafe person' who prefers a chilled cup of Vietnamese coffee to tea.

In an interview with mid-day.com, Harleen Sethi shared a remarkable anecdote from the devastating Mumbai floods on July 26, 2005. The actor, then a college student, recounted how her love for idli-sambar led her into an extraordinary situation during the torrential rains that flooded the city.

Harleen was at Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, where she had a favourite spot in the college canteen known for its idli-sambar. As heavy rains began around 3:00 PM, students were advised to head home. Despite the warnings, Harleen decided to stay and enjoy her meal. "I was so enamoured with the idli-sambar," she said. "The rainwater started seeping into the canteen, so I moved from my chair to the table but kept eating. Once I finished, I left."

With no transportation available and telephone lines down, Harleen had to navigate her way home through waist-deep water. She eventually reached her uncle's house, safe but with an unforgettable story of dedication to her favourite dish.

Harleen attributes her passion for food to her father, a talented chef who once owned a cloud kitchen on Carter Road-a pioneering concept at the time. "My father's Chinese food was unmatched. Unfortunately, due to business disputes and his other commitments, he had to close it down," she explained.

She fondly reminisced about family outings in a Maruti car to a restaurant called Salt N Pepper in Juhu. "We'd open the car's trunk, spread a mat, and enjoy our food outdoors," Harleen recalled.

Harleen's stories not only highlight her enduring love for food but also provide a glimpse into her resilience and the cherished memories of her youth amidst the challenging times Mumbai has faced.