The Koh-i Noor, one of the largest and most celebrated cut diamonds in the world, has graced the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom since 1849. But the diamond's fascinating story stretches back millennia, far beyond its present association with British royalty. It is a symbol of the rich and intertwined history between the Anglo-Sikh cultures, a shared legacy that binds nations, dynasties, and peoples together.
A Jewel as Old as TimeThe first recorded mention of the Koh-i Noor dates back to ancient Sanskrit texts from 3200 BC. Through the centuries, it became a prized asset of various rulers across Northern India. The jewel changed hands countless times, passing from Indic to Persian monarchs before reaching its pinnacle in the court of Ranjit Singh, the Lion of Lahore, the formidable Maharaja of the Sikh Empire.
Under Ranjit Singh’s rule, the Sikh Empire flourished as one of the most powerful and influential forces of its time. The empire spanned the area roughly the size of modern-day France and boasted a thriving economy with a Rupee worth thirteen times more than the British Pound. The renowned Sikh Army, composed of skilled warriors, had even recruited former European generals after Napoleon’s defeat, making it a formidable force on the battlefield. The Maharaja’s court in Punjab was legendary—lavish, abundant, and steeped in culture.
It was during this grand period of prosperity that the Koh-i Noor reached the zenith of its fame. A jewel befitting the riches and power of the Sikh Empire, it became a symbol of the vast legacy that Ranjit Singh’s reign represented.
From the Darbar to the British CrownHowever, after the Anglo-Sikh Wars, the diamond was taken from the Sikh Empire and eventually found its way into the hands of the British. It was presented to Queen Victoria in 1850 and has since been a part of the Crown Jewels, standing as a symbol not only of British imperialism but also of the fascinating interplay between Anglo-Sikh history.
The V-Giyan™ Koh-i Noor Menu: A Tribute to a Timeless LegacyToday, as we reflect on the rich history behind the Koh-i Noor, we pay homage to the splendor and resilience of the Sikh Empire. The V-Giyan™ Koh-i Noor menu's development takes inspiration from the opulence and grandeur of Ranjit Singh’s court, bringing a taste of that lavish tradition to modern luxury.
Each dish in the V-Giyan™ Koh-i Noor menu is crafted with the finest ingredients and authentic cooking methods used throughout our kitchens, channeling the spirit of the Maharaja’s court. A celebration of heritage, beauty, and craftsmanship, these dishes are designed to honour the strength and magnificence of the Sikh Empire while embracing the cultural fusion that defines this shared history.
Whether you are drawn to the Koh-i-noor’s rich legacy, or its place in the broader history of the Anglo-Sikh connection, the Koh-i Noor range invites you to experience a slice of history—one that has transcended time, borders & dining tables.
Embrace the tradition, splendor, and legacy of the V-Giyan™ Koh-i Noor menu.
Explore the delights of the Kohinoor Menu, you will spot some of your old favourites and our Punjabi chefs are creating new dishes which will be introduced continuously with each season so keep your eye on it:
V-Giyan™ Kohinoor Menu Dishes
