‘Come with curiosity and patience… Delhi will reward you with unforgettable memories': Austrian Ambassador

Indian Express

23-06-2025

'I've been posted in Delhi for nearly four years, and it has been a fantastic experience' — that's how Katharina Wieser, Austria's Ambassador to India, summed up her experience of living in Delhi. She enjoys a stroll through Lodhi Gardens and says the cultural depth and variety of the city are among the things that have stood out during her stay.
Wieser has served as Austria's envoy to India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka since July 2021. A seasoned diplomat with over three decades of experience, she has held key leadership roles in the Austrian Foreign Ministry and the Office of the Austrian Federal President.
A passionate advocate for female diplomacy and inclusive leadership, Ambassador Wieser champions multilateralism, gender equity, and constructive global dialogue in her efforts to strengthen Austria's partnerships worldwide.
She holds a degree in South Asian Studies (Indology) from the University of Vienna and a post-graduate diploma in International Relations from Johns Hopkins University's Bologna Centre.
Wieser speaks to The Indian Express as part of a series of interviews with diplomats about Delhi — their home.
Excerpts:
One place in the city that you love to visit often?
One place I visit often is Lodhi Gardens — it's an oasis amid the bustle. I love the symbiosis of historic architecture and luscious greenery, how you can feel the city breathing there, despite the overwhelming traffic just outside.
Three things that stood out in Delhi during your stay?
First, the cultural depth and variety — it's rare to find such an enjoyable mix of cultures, of old and new. I celebrate every corner of history that I can explore on my weekend outings. Second, the openness, curiosity, and enthusiasm of the people: wherever one goes, one can always strike up a light-hearted and fun conversation. Third, I'd say the contrasts — the beauty of historic monuments sitting right next to daily urban chaos and poverty. It's fascinating, though at times it can feel overwhelming for newcomers.
Does pollution in Delhi bother you? How do you and your family deal with it?
Pollution, particularly in winter, is a concern — as it is for many residents. We use air purifiers, avoid outdoor activities during high-pollution days, and try to stay informed. We are very privileged and have the capacity and opportunity to protect ourselves, but many people do not… this issue is surely one of the big challenges of the immediate future. It's a long-term challenge, and tackling it will require both policy and public commitment — not just in Delhi, but across the region.
Is there anything you would suggest that Delhi's administrators work on to make this city a better place?
Well, yes… while the city has made great strides in areas like Metro connectivity and digitisation, more sustained efforts are needed in waste management, improving air quality, and urban planning. Addressing the burning question of waste and traffic management would make an important contribution to reducing air pollution, and would make visiting Delhi more attractive to tourists as well.
How is Delhi different from other major capitals or cities you have served in?
What makes Delhi truly unique is the pace and intensity of engagement, and the sheer dimension of both challenges and opportunities. Delhi alone is two to three times the size of Austria in terms of inhabitants, so one has to keep putting everything into perspective. For Austria, this setting has provided fertile ground for strengthening our bilateral ties with India. Over the past few years, we've seen meaningful growth across sectors — be it green technology, higher education, innovation, or cultural exchanges.
Favourite food in the city?
Ah, the food! It's a culinary journey in itself. I've developed a special liking for South Indian food and love getting a dosa in one of the many great eateries or restaurants, like Carnatic Cafe or Nathu's. But honestly, it's often the home-cooked meals and street food explorations that truly capture the soul of Delhi's food culture.
Any memories or meetings from the city that you think will stay with you always?
One memory I'll definitely cherish is celebrating Diwali with 'my' Austrian Embassy team, thanks to our wonderful Indian colleagues who organise a traditional celebration with diyas, sweets, (loud) music, and lots of laughter and dancing every year!
And as one example of the many cultural events organised by the Cultural Forum of the Austrian Embassy, I will always remember the screening of the movie, Mehrunisa, which tells a beautiful story about an 80-year old actress — played by the iconic Farrukh Jaffar — standing up for herself and against patriarchal reflexes in the Indian film industry.
It is a movie by an Austrian director (Sandeep Kumar) with Indian roots, shot entirely on location in Hindi in India, and produced in Austria. The screening at the Austrian residence (on the occasion of International Women's Day) was a beautiful example of the power of the new and inspiring people-to-people connections coming up between Austria and India!
If you have to introduce Delhi to someone back home, what will you tell them?
I would say Delhi is not only a city — it's an experience. It's chaotic and challenging, beautiful and green, exhausting and exhilarating, all at once. I'd tell them if you come here with curiosity and patience, Delhi will reward you with unforgettable memories. But you should also be prepared for some sensory overload and a crash course in urban resilience.
Is there anything that you or your family would miss once you say goodbye?
Without a doubt, we'll miss the people. Delhiites have a warmth, openness, and generosity that has really touched me. We'll also miss the festivals, the cultural events, the markets — and perhaps even the unpredictability of life here! I have formed friendships that go beyond diplomacy, and those personal connections are what make a place truly feel like home.