"I did not realise the King would be so fast."
King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited Darjeeling Express, an Indian restaurant in London, to help prepare for Ramadan.
The restaurant, owned by chef Asma Khan, hosted the royal couple as they joined the all-female kitchen staff in packing dates and biryani boxes for donation.
A video shared on the royal family’s Instagram showed Charles and Camilla being welcomed by the chef before helping pack dates.
The caption read: “Packing dates at Darjeeling Express!
“Traditionally, dates are eaten as the first food to break the fast at sunset during Ramadan.
“Their Majesties helped pack dates that will be sent to local hospitals for Iftaar during the holy month.”
Packing dates at Darjeeling Express! ???
Traditionally, dates are eaten as the first food to break the fast at sunset during Ramadan. Their Majesties helped pack dates that will be sent to local hospitals for Iftaar during the holy month. pic.twitter.com/C6Fi6v9xwg
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) February 26, 2025
Footage showed the King and Queen using small tongs to place dates into paper bags, which Asma then sealed.
She joked: “I did not realise the King would be so fast. You’re packing dates faster than I can seal them.”
As Camilla handed over packages, Asma added:
“This is a speedy couple.”
The royal couple also met a group of British Muslim women, including professional rugby player Zainab Alema and author Hajera Memon.
They spoke with artists, businesswomen, and MasterChef 2017 winner Saliha Mahmood-Ahmed.
The visit highlighted Ramadan’s significance.
A video of their visit was shared on Instagram and the caption read:
“Celebrating British Muslim women at @DarjeelingLdn!
“Ranging from professional athletes to artists and leaders in the corporate world, The King and Queen spent time with a group of extraordinary women as they prepare for Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a particularly important time for Muslims where daily life continues as normal, but spiritual focus intensifies.
“To observe Ramadan can mean a range of things; this gathering will be an opportunity to celebrate the diversity and creativity of Muslim women, as well as the beauty of the holy month of Ramadan.
“Their Majesties joined the restaurant’s all-female kitchen team to pack biryani into boxes.”
“These will be given to families supported by Doorstep, as part of Darjeeling Express’ commitment to cook for charitable causes every Ramadan.”
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The visit underlined Darjeeling Express’ commitment to charitable work during Ramadan.
Ramadan begins on the evening of February 28 and will continue until March 29.
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