London-based Nepali restaurant recognized by former Premier League club

A Nepalese restaurant in London has been recognized for its charitable work in the community by a former Premier League football club.

Sujan Katuwal of Panas Gurkha in Lewisham was presented with a signed Charlton Athletic shirt ahead of their match against Cambridge United.

The shirt was given to Katuwal after the restaurant gained notoriety for its incredible work in the local community since the start of the pandemic.

Led by Katuwal and his restaurant team, Panas donated and delivered over 100,000 free meals to local key workers during the pandemic.

After receiving the recognition, Katuwal said, “It’s really quite amazing.

“After the 12 months we’ve had and the work we’ve done in the local community – this is a lovely way to finish off the year.

“We’re a local, community-focused restaurant so the recognition we’ve received from a club that’s very close to our hearts is special.

“To see all the fans at the ground so appreciative of our efforts as well as really quite something.”

The shirt was presented to Katuwal in front of thousands of Charlton fans by the club’s owner Thomas Sandgaard and the CEO of the Charlton Athletic Community Trust, Jason Morgan.

By way of appreciation, Katuwal presented Sandgaard with a Nepalese craft scarf, topi  and khukuri which was gratefully received by the Danish businessman.

The recognition summed up a special few weeks for the restaurant after they were awarded the Best Nepalese Restaurant and the Community Heroes award at the 2021 Asian Food Awards.