Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, recently ignited a lively discussion on social media about the stark contrast between home cooking and street food in India and Singapore. His observations from a recent trip to Singapore highlighted the minimal presence of home-cooked meals among Singaporeans, sparking a debate on whether India might follow a similar trend.

The heart of Kamath's post revolved around his realization that many Singaporeans do not cook at home and often lack kitchens altogether. This revelation led him to reflect on the potential future of India's culinary habits. He speculated that if India were to adopt similar practices, it could lead to an explosive growth in the restaurant industry. However, he also noted that India's organized food market is significantly smaller compared to other countries, with only 30% of it being structured, as opposed to 55% in the United States.

Kamath’s insights generated substantial engagement, with over 300,000 views and diverse reactions from his followers. Many Indians expressed their attachment to home-cooked meals, emphasizing its cultural significance. One user commented on the role of government-supported hawker centers in Singapore, which provide affordable and quality-controlled street food options. Others pointed out that while convenience-driven dining will likely grow, the love for home-cooked meals remains deeply ingrained in Indian culture. The debate underscored the importance of preserving traditions while embracing modern conveniences, highlighting the balance between innovation and heritage.

This discussion reflects broader questions about cultural identity and lifestyle changes. It invites us to appreciate the richness of traditional practices while considering how evolving economic conditions might influence daily habits. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder that every society has unique strengths and values that deserve recognition and preservation.