Chef Damodharan Kothandaraman, First Indian chef to be awarded a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2025

Chef Damu, was honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2025 for his exceptional contributions to the culinary arts.

The award was conferred upon him by President Droupadi Murmu during the official ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. YouTube+1Wikipedia+1

This recognition celebrates Chef Damu’s decades-long dedication to preserving and promoting South Indian cuisine, his innovative achievements like setting a Guinness World Record, and his influential role as a judge on popular culinary television shows. The Times of India

Following the announcement, Chef Damu expressed his heartfelt gratitude on social media, acknowledging the support of his fans and the culinary community. The Times of India

His accolade has been widely celebrated, marking a significant milestone in recognizing culinary arts as a vital part of India’s cultural heritage.

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Chef Damodharan Kothandaraman, popularly known as Chef Damu, is a legendary Indian culinary expert renowned for his deep-rooted expertise in South Indian cuisine, especially Tamil Nadu’s traditional dishes. Born on September 3, 1954, in Chennai, he began his culinary journey at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai and rose through the ranks with remarkable dedication. He holds the distinction of being the first Indian chef to earn a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and Catering Technology from the University of Madras.

Chef Damu gained national fame through his appearances on Tamil television, notably as a judge on the hit show Cooku with Comali. In 2010, he earned a Guinness World Record by preparing 617 dishes weighing 190 kilograms over a 24-hour cooking marathon. His charisma, knowledge, and passion have made him a household name.

He is also a cookbook author, culinary educator, and YouTube creator, sharing his wisdom with millions. In 2025, the Government of India honored him with the prestigious Padma Shri for his contributions to Indian cuisine.

Chef Damu continues to inspire the culinary world through his commitment to preserving traditional flavors, mentoring young chefs, and promoting India’s diverse food culture on global platforms.

Early Life and Education – Chef Damodharan (Chef Damu)

Chef Damodharan Kothandaraman, popularly known as Chef Damu, was born on September 3, 1954, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. From a young age, he developed an interest in food and cooking, often fascinated by the traditional recipes prepared in his household. However, his formal journey into the culinary world began in a far more structured and challenging environment.

He started his professional career as a trainee chef at the prestigious Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai. During his early years at the Taj, Chef Damu was exposed to rigorous kitchen duties and even had to work in the deep-freeze room—one of the most difficult and physically demanding areas of the hotel’s kitchen. These testing experiences shaped his work ethic, resilience, and discipline, laying a strong foundation for his future accomplishments.

Driven by his passion for food and continuous learning, Chef Damu chose to pursue academic excellence in the culinary field. He enrolled in hotel management studies and made history in 2004 by becoming the first Indian chef to be awarded a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and Catering Technology from the University of Madras. His research focused on the evolution and significance of South Indian cuisine, highlighting its nutritional values, cultural impact, and global potential.

His academic achievement was not just a personal milestone but also a landmark moment for the Indian culinary industry, which had long been dominated by practical experience over scholarly pursuit. Chef Damu’s unique blend of hands-on expertise and academic knowledge elevated the profession and inspired many aspiring chefs to take the educational route seriously.

Through his journey from a humble trainee to a doctorate holder and global culinary icon, Chef Damu has proven that passion, perseverance, and education can transform one’s career and legacy.

Career Highlights – Chef Damodharan (Chef Damu)

Chef Damodharan’s illustrious career spans decades of achievements, not only in professional kitchens but also across television, literature, culinary education, and public engagement. His journey reflects a dynamic fusion of tradition, innovation, and passion for promoting Indian cuisine, particularly the rich and diverse flavors of South India.

Television Appearances

Chef Damu rose to national fame through his engaging presence on Tamil television. He has been a beloved host and judge on numerous culinary shows, where his wit, expertise, and approachable demeanor captured the hearts of viewers across all age groups. His most notable television role has been as a celebrity judge on the immensely popular show “Cooku with Comali” aired on Star Vijay. Through this platform, he brought both entertainment and culinary education to the forefront, making complex dishes and traditional recipes accessible to everyday audiences. His presence added depth, credibility, and humor to the show, making it one of the most-watched cooking competitions in Tamil Nadu.

Guinness World Record Holder

In December 2010, Chef Damu achieved an extraordinary feat that placed him in the Guinness Book of World Records. He cooked 617 different dishes weighing a total of 190 kilograms over a continuous period of 24 hours, 30 minutes, and 12 seconds. This accomplishment not only showcased his physical and culinary endurance but also demonstrated his deep knowledge of Indian cuisine, planning, and execution. The event brought international attention to Indian chefs and inspired a new generation of culinary professionals to think ambitiously.

Authorship and Cookbooks

Chef Damu has authored several acclaimed cookbooks that focus on traditional and regional South Indian cooking. His books emphasize the authentic techniques, ingredients, and cultural narratives behind various recipes. Through his writing, he aims to preserve culinary heritage and educate readers about the health benefits and historical importance of South Indian food. These cookbooks serve as a vital resource for home cooks, students, and professionals alike, blending storytelling with step-by-step guidance.

Culinary Workshops and Food Judging

In addition to television and writing, Chef Damu is actively involved in culinary education and mentorship. He has conducted numerous workshops across India and internationally, where he teaches aspiring chefs, students, and food enthusiasts about Indian cuisine. His workshops are not only instructional but also interactive, incorporating live cooking demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and discussions on food science and nutrition.

Chef Damu has also served as a judge in prestigious food competitions, such as The Hindu’s “Our State Our Taste”, which celebrates regional Indian cuisine. His fair and insightful evaluations have earned him respect among contestants and organizers alike.

Whether through a TV screen, book, or live event, Chef Damu continues to inspire, educate, and elevate the culinary arts, making him one of India’s most respected and influential chefs.

Film and Web Series Appearances | Awards and Recognition – Chef Damodharan (Chef Damu)

Film and Web Series Appearances

Beyond his celebrated career as a chef, Chef Damu has also made a significant mark in the entertainment industry through his appearances in Tamil cinema and web series. His warm personality and immense popularity in the culinary world naturally translated into on-screen appeal, earning him several roles that further expanded his connection with the public.

Films:

• Kallappadam (2015): In this indie thriller, Chef Damu played a cameo role, which added a touch of realism and local flavor to the storyline. His presence brought surprise and delight to audiences who knew him from television.
• Ulkuthu (2017): A Tamil action-comedy film where Chef Damu made a notable appearance, showcasing his versatility and comfort in front of the camera beyond culinary settings.
• Oru Pakka Kathai (2020): Directed by Balaji Tharaneetharan, this film featured Chef Damu in a supporting role. The movie, known for its unique narrative, allowed him to connect with a younger, OTT-based audience.
• Server Sundaram (TBA): A film named after the legendary 1964 classic, this yet-to-be-released movie features Chef Damu in a role paying homage to the profession of culinary arts—adding symbolic value to his inclusion in the cast.

Web Series:

• Kalyanam Conditions Apply (2018): Chef Damu appeared in this popular Tamil web series, blending humor and relationships with cultural themes. His cameo further cemented his place as not only a culinary icon but also a recognizable face in digital entertainment.

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Awards and Recognition

Chef Damu’s lifelong dedication to culinary arts and the promotion of traditional Indian cuisine earned him one of the nation’s highest honors:

Padma Shri Award – 2025

In 2025, Chef Damodharan Kothandaraman was conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, by the Government of India. This prestigious recognition was awarded in honor of his exceptional contributions to the culinary field, especially in:

• Popularizing South Indian cuisine at national and international levels.
• Elevating the image of Indian chefs through television, education, and literature.
• Achieving groundbreaking milestones like earning a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and setting a Guinness World Record.
• Promoting Indian food heritage through workshops, media, and social outreach.

This award not only solidified his legacy but also marked a significant moment for the Indian culinary community, highlighting that chefs and culinary educators can hold equal stature as artists, scientists, and social leaders. Chef Damu’s recognition serves as an inspiration for generations of chefs to pursue their passion with pride and purpose.

Personal Life – Chef Damodharan (Chef Damu)

Behind the celebrated chef and media personality, Chef Damodharan—affectionately known as Chef Damu—leads a grounded and fulfilling personal life rooted in family values and cultural traditions.

He is married to Usha Damu, his long-time partner and a strong pillar of support throughout his culinary journey. Despite his demanding schedule and public presence, Chef Damu has always emphasized the importance of family, often crediting his wife for being a constant source of encouragement, stability, and motivation. Usha has been instrumental in helping him balance the pressures of his multifaceted career, from television appearances to culinary education and public engagements.

The couple is blessed with a daughter named Akshaya, who remains a cherished part of Chef Damu’s life. Although he has kept his family life relatively private, Chef Damu occasionally shares moments with his family during interviews or public events, offering a glimpse into the warmth and affection they share. His relationship with his daughter is one of pride and nurturing, and he often speaks fondly of her in the context of parenting and values.

Despite his fame, Chef Damu is known for his humility and deep cultural roots. Family festivals, traditional food customs, and Tamil heritage remain important aspects of his home life. His personal life reflects the same values he promotes professionally—respect for tradition, love for learning, and strong familial bonds.

This grounding in family and tradition has not only shaped Chef Damu’s personality but also influenced his culinary philosophy, where food is seen not merely as nourishment, but as a celebration of heritage, community, and love.

Online Presence – Chef Damodharan (Chef Damu)

Chef Damu has successfully expanded his influence beyond television and traditional media by building a strong and engaging online presence. Through platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, he continues to share his culinary wisdom, promote Indian cuisine, and connect with a global audience.

YouTube Channel – Chef Damu’s Multicuisine

In September 2019, Chef Damu launched his official YouTube channel, titled “Chef Damu’s Multicuisine.” The channel features an extensive range of content, including step-by-step cooking tutorials, food stories, regional recipes, and health-oriented dishes. With his signature charm and clarity in communication, Chef Damu makes even the most intricate South Indian recipes approachable for home cooks and culinary learners.

Popular playlists on his channel include:

• Traditional Tamil cuisine
• Festive and vegetarian dishes
• Kitchen tips and tricks
• Nutritional food preparation

He also shares anecdotes about food history and personal experiences, making the content both educational and entertaining. His YouTube channel has garnered thousands of subscribers and millions of views, serving as a trusted culinary resource.

Social Media Presence

Chef Damu maintains active profiles on Facebook and Twitter, where he regularly updates followers about:

• Upcoming television appearances
• Culinary workshops and events
• Recipes, health tips, and food facts
• Behind-the-scenes glimpses into his daily life

On Facebook, Chef Damu’s page is followed by a large community of food enthusiasts, aspiring chefs, and fans. He engages with them through live videos, festive wishes, cooking contests, and interactive posts.

His Twitter account is used to share brief culinary insights, promote food-related causes, and connect with fellow chefs and industry professionals. His tweets often reflect his deep pride in Indian culinary heritage and encourage the youth to explore careers in food and hospitality.

Digital Impact

Through these digital platforms, Chef Damu continues to educate, inspire, and entertain a vast online community. His online presence is a natural extension of his mission to preserve and promote Indian cuisine on a global scale—making him not just a chef, but a cultural ambassador in the digital age.