It is often in the times of chaos and destruction that the greatest deeds of humanity reveal themselves. When the partition of India was taking place and a dark cloud was hovering over the country, some kind souls set out to make a small difference. A simple act of feeding an empty stomach was made into an ongoing passion that has traversed across time to flourish, even today.

Situated in the bylanes of Jama Masjid is a restaurant that runs on ideals of humanity. Brewing some of the most iconic tastes of Purani Dilli, Rehmatullah hotel is famous for more than just that. Its kindness – the ‘rehmat’ that has given it its name – has earned quite a reputation. The customers who come here to satisfy their hunger can pay for somebody else’s meal, too.

“The locals are kind, they often donate money here. When there is an occasion, or a good news, they come and give us money, so that we can feed the hungry. Even if we receive no donation, we never let anyone go back hungry from this shop”, says Fazalur Rehman Qureshi, the owner of Rehamtullah Hotel.

Their biryani is among the reputed ones in Old Delhi and their mouthwatering sheermal dessert boasts of consistent quality over the years. The place is always crowded, with the residents of Old Delhi who have grown on Rehmatullah’s tastes for more than 70 years, tourists from far and wide drawn to its authentic dishes, and those – travellers, saints and the poor folk – who queue outside the hotel in the hope of a fulfilling meal; and they never return disappointed.

Next time, whenever you pass by the lane opposite Jama Masjid Gate No. 1, do pay a visit to this glorious hotel, that was once only a small shop with a kind intention. The tastes will leave you licking your fingers for long, and act of feeding a hungry passer-by, if you shall, will definitely fulfil your soul, if nothing else.