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Culinary Icon Chef Damu Dies at 72
25 Oct
Summary
- Renowned Chef Damu, a Padma Shri awardee, passed away at 72.
- He rose from dishwasher to become a celebrated chef.
- Chef Damu was a familiar face on Tamil television's Cooku with Comali.
Chef Damodharan, widely recognized as Chef Damu, died on Sunday at the age of 72 following a period of illness. A recipient of the Padma Shri, he was a distinguished figure in the culinary arts and a beloved personality on Tamil television, particularly for his role as a judge on the popular show Cooku with Comali.
His career exemplified remarkable determination, beginning as a kitchen dishwasher and culminating in becoming one of India's most esteemed chefs. His achievements include a Guinness World Record and the prestigious Padma Shri honor. Chef Damu also held a PhD in Hotel Management from the University of Madras, being the first Indian chef to do so.
Fans noticed his recent absence from Cooku with Comali Season 7, which he later explained was due to a leg injection. He had reportedly been using a wheelchair in recent years after hip fracture and knee surgery. His passing marks a significant loss for the culinary landscape and Tamil entertainment.
