King Charles joked he was “past his sell-by date” as he helped prepare food donation boxes at an Indian restaurant in central London, ahead of Ramadan.
The 76-year-old monarch made the lighthearted remark during a visit to the female-run Darjeeling Express, located near Carnaby Street in Soho. The restaurant, opened in 2017 by British restaurateur Asma Khan, welcomed the royal couple.
Upon arrival, King Charles and Queen Camilla met staff and prominent British Muslim women, including circuit judge Khatun Sapnara, crime author Saima Mir, MasterChef winner Saliha Mahmood Ahmed, and businesswoman Shaheen Sayed from Accenture.
The Queen went into the kitchen to assist staff in packing boxes filled with biryani, which would later be sent to Doorstep, a charity supporting families by providing essential goods and services as they await permanent housing. King Charles, noticing her, approached with curiosity.
“Is it chicken and proper basmati rice?” he asked.
The King was pleased to learn some of the curry was destined for the palace, where he would receive a portion later. He enthusiastically joined in, saying, “Fantastic, look at that!”
The royal couple then sat down to pack dates into white paper bags for Iftaar, the fast-breaking meal during Ramadan. Dates are traditionally eaten at sunset to mark the end of the daily fast, following the example of the Prophet Mohammed.
“So they only get one date?” the King inquired as he helped package the fruit.
Asma Khan chuckled, saying, “Sorry, I didn’t realise the King would be so fast!”
“You are packing them faster than I can seal them! I never realised this was such a speedy couple. We have a relay going on here,” she added, as the King laughed at the comment. When a reporter noted their efficient teamwork, the King joked, “We don’t waste time. Paid by results!”
Throughout Ramadan, Asma Khan donates the entire proceeds from Darjeeling Express to charity, also sending food packages to hospitals as part of the Zakat al Fitr, a charitable donation of food to the less fortunate.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have long supported interfaith efforts across the UK and Commonwealth. As Prince of Wales, Charles met with leaders of various faiths and visited religious sites worldwide. He has long championed interfaith dialogue and understanding between religions.
During the visit, Queen Camilla was invited to ladle a portion of curry into a takeaway box. “Shall I have a try? Just dig right into the bottom,” she said while holding a large spoon.
When King Charles, who was supposed to be meeting guests, didn’t immediately join in, the Queen playfully decided to take matters into her own hands. “I think my husband is supposed to be doing this,” she laughed. “Gentleman, we are waiting!”
Without waiting for a response, Queen Camilla set off to find the King, waving her takeaway box and trying to get his attention with a loud cough.
