Who Was Chef Damu? Renowned Indian Chef And TV Personality Dies At 72
· Free Press Journal
Renowned chef, academician and television personality Dr. K. Damodharan, popularly known as Chef Damu, passed away in Chennai on October 25, 2026, at the age of 72, following a period of ill health. His demise marks the loss of a celebrated culinary figure who inspired generations of food enthusiasts, aspiring chefs and television viewers.
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Chef K Damodharan Passes Away
Chef Damu leaves behind an unparalleled impact on Indian cuisine and media. He passed away in Chennai on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at the age of 72. His demise marks the end of an illustrious career spanning culinary education, television and promotion of Indian cuisine.
RIP Chef Damu passed away this morning due to ill health.
— Deepu (@deepu_drops) October 25, 2026
The news of the passing of Chef Damu, is a heartbreaking loss for the culinary community and his countless admirers. A celebrated chef and beloved television personality, he won the hearts of audiences through his… pic.twitter.com/Q2Kx3RqnGd
Chef Damu became a household name through his engaging cooking programmes and his contribution to popularising South Indian cuisine. He was also widely recognised for his appearance as a judge on the Tamil reality show Cooku With Comali, where his warmth, infectious smile and approachable personality won him admirers across generations.
Who Was Chef Damu?
He was born K. Damodharan and built a distinguished career combining culinary expertise, academic achievement and television entertainment. He was widely recognised as the first Indian chef to receive a PhD in Hotel Management and Catering Technology from the University of Madras in 2004.
புகழ்பெற்ற சமையல் கலைஞர் செஃப் தாமு (Chef Damu) அவர்கள் உடல்நலக்குறைவால் காலமானார் என்ற செய்தி மிகுந்த வருத்தமளிக்கிறது.
— TVK INDIA HQ (@TVKINDIA_HQ) October 25, 2026
2025-ஆம் ஆண்டு பத்மஸ்ரீ விருது பெற்ற பெருமைக்குரிய இவர், சமையல் கலையில் தனது தனித்துவமான சாதனைகளால் உலகளவில் புகழ்பெற்றவர். மேலும், கின்னஸ் உலக… pic.twitter.com/o07oFHYd60
Throughout his career, he worked to promote traditional South Indian flavours and culinary practices, helping bring regional cuisine to wider audiences. His contributions extended beyond television, as he also played an important role in culinary education and mentoring aspiring professionals.
Guinness World Record And Padma Shri Honour
Chef Damu achieved international recognition in 2010 when he secured a Guinness World Record by cooking 617 dishes in 24.5 hours during a marathon cooking session. The achievement highlighted his culinary skills, endurance and dedication to his profession.
His contributions to the culinary arts received national recognition when he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2025, one of India's highest civilian honours.
From Pasta Workshops To Thai Brunches: Mumbai’s Food Scene Has Weekend Plans SortedA Lasting Culinary Legacy
Chef Damu's influence extended beyond recipes and cooking shows. Through his work in education, television and the promotion of regional food traditions, he helped make culinary arts more accessible to the public.