Indians make it large in Austria

Vienna, Oct 7 (PTI) India seems to be a big hit in this
historic Austrian city, with Indians churning out some of the
best Asian dishes.
Though there are just about 20,000 people of Indian
origin in the country, Vienna has more than 20 restaurants
offering Indian food.
Even though not many Indian films have been shot here,
Bollywood is almost synonymous with whatever Austrians know
about India.
Austrian President Heinz Fischer loves Bollywood (Indian
film industry) and is keen on Indian directors and produces
shooting here.
"Austria is amazing. People here love Indian food," said
Manjeet Ram, chef at the Raddison Blue hotel here, who hails
from Phagwara in Punjab.
Ram, who has been in Vienna for the last 18 years, claims
he is popular among diplomatic missions here including
Pakistan's.
"I have received a lot of appreciation certificates from
numerous embassies here including Pakistan's who ask for me
whenever they want to have some great authentic Indian and
Pakistani dishes," said a beaming Ram, who did cook some
amazing food for the Indian media delegation accompanying
President Pratibha Patil on her State Visit to the country.
Indians also play a small role in the Austrian army.
"I came here when I was eight. I am with the regular
army," said Madukumu Kalel, who hails from Kerala.
He was part of the military regiment which gave a
splendid guard of honour to Patil in the majestic
Ballhausplatz, a square in central Vienna, the inner-court of
the Hofburg Palace, the Presidential office here.
Instantly standing out because of his Indian features,
Kalel said there are other Indians also in the Army. However,
he hesitated to speak after knowing that he was talking to the
media.
Last year, about 50,000 Indian tourists visited Austria.
PTI SAP
MNS