New Delhi, Sept. 13 -- I turned 60 last month. It did not feel like a big deal, but it's something. I did a self-appraisal and put together some notable changes. I forget things (not everything because my friends and family tell me I tend to repeat bad jokes). My body complains. I don't sleep as peacefully as I did. I don't eat as much as I used to. I can't run as long and swim as far without damage to tendons and muscles. I go to physiotherapy more often than I write this column.

There's one thing that hasn't changed though-the time I devote to my kitchen. If anything, my enthusiasm for cooking has grown. I cook more than I used to, my cooking has become more thoughtful and patient, according to me of course, and I feel like I must refi...