The culinary world grieves the loss of one of its most cherished icons, Dr. K. Damodaran, affectionately known as Chef Damu. A household name in Tamil Nadu passed away on 25th October 2026 at the age of 72 after a period of long illness. People noticed his absence from Cooku with Comali Season 7. 

Chef Damu was more than a chef; he was a cultural ambassador, a television pioneer, and an educator who dedicated his life to showcasing the depth of Tamil cuisine to the world. 

He took his last breath today, but his journey remains an inspiration to millions of home cooks and professionals alike. 

Chef Damu’s Journey In The Culinary World

Chef Damu’s obsession with cooking began long before cooking became a recognised career path. Growing up in a traditional South Indian home, Chef Damu was curious about age-old recipes, traditional spices, and indigenous cooking techniques. 

Determined to pursue cooking as a career, Damu pursued formal culinary education at Madras University and built a strong foundation in hotel management. He became India’s first chef to earn a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and Catering Technology. His research focused on Tamil recipes that were fading from modern Tamil households. For Damu, cooking was never simply food; he believed it was science, art, and a medium for storytelling. 

How Did Chef Damu Become a Household Name?

Long before YouTube recipe videos or food influencers dominated social media, Chef Damu revolutionised Indian television by bringing traditional south indian recipes to home kitchens. He started his recipes with his infectious smile and signature catchphrases. Some of his famous catchphrases were ‘Super-aa-irukku,’ meaning ‘It’s superb’, and ‘Suvaiye Thani,’ which meant ‘a unique taste altogether ’. 

His charismatic personality spanned decades of popular television programming, culminating in his beloved role as a judge on hit reality shows like Cooku with Comali. His witty banter, paternal encouraging spirit, and constructive guidance endeared him to an entirely new, younger generation of fans, cementing his status as a permanent pop-culture treasure.

How Did Chef Damu Globalise South Indian Flavours?

Chef Damu made it his personal mission to bring South Indian flavours to the entire world. He wanted the world to know that South Indian cuisine goes beyond dosa and idli. He travelled to different countries, led food festivals, and trained international hotel staff. He showed regional nuances of Tamil cuisine to food critics and dignitaries.

Chef Damu Holds a Guinness World Record And Padma Shri 

In December 2010, Chef Damu etched his name in the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest cooking marathon show. He cooked continuously for 24 hours, 30 minutes, and 12 seconds. Here, he prepared 617 dishes, weighing a total of 190 kg. In 2025, Chef Damu was awarded a Padma Shri by President Draupadi Murmu for an outstanding contribution to culinary arts. 

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Condoled The Death of Chef Damu

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay condoled the passing of Chef Damu through his X account. CM Vijay says that his demise is a great loss to the culinary world. 


Chef Damu’s List of Achievements

1. First Indian Chef with a Ph.D

Professionalised catering technology and documented forgotten regional recipes.

2. Pioneer of Tamil TV Cookery Shows

Transformed cooking shows into prime-time family entertainment across decades.

3. President of South India Chefs Association


Mentored thousands of young chefs and advocated for regional Indian culinary heritage.

Chef Damu’s Legacy Will Live On

Chef Damu’s life's work proved that regional food, when prepared with authenticity, respect, and passion, commands global respect. He bridged the gap between rustic village kitchens and five-star international dining, proving that traditional spices hold timeless value. Chef Damu did not just feed people; he taught the world to cherish Tamil culture through food.

(Image Credits: Instagram/X)

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