Chef Damu dies at 72; Padma Shri-winning Tamil chef

Chef Damu, the celebrated Tamil television chef who became a household name through cooking shows and reality television, has reportedly died at the age of 72 following health complications. The news was reported by Samayam Tamil.

Damodharan Kothandaraman, popularly known as Chef Damu, became widely recognised for his appearances on Jaya TV and Star Vijay, particularly as a judge on the popular cooking reality show Cooku With Comali. His friendly presence on the programme earned him the affectionate nickname ‘Damu Appa’ among viewers.

Chef Damu built his career through years of work in professional kitchens before becoming one of Tamil Nadu’s best-known culinary personalities. His journey began with washing dishes in hotel kitchens, where he gradually learnt the craft and developed his expertise in cooking.

He went on to establish himself as a chef, educator and television personality, with a particular focus on traditional Tamil cuisine. His work covered a wide range of regional food, including Chettinad dishes, seafood specialities and traditional vegetarian preparations.

His career also extended beyond television. Chef Damu authored more than 20 books and worked to bring regional Indian cuisine to wider audiences through his culinary knowledge and public appearances.

One of the most notable achievements of his career was a cooking marathon in which he prepared 617 dishes over 24 hours and 30 minutes. The food reportedly weighed around 190 kg, and the feat earned him a place in the Guinness World Records.

The achievement highlighted his endurance and technical skill, while bringing further attention to his work as a chef.

Chef Damu also made history in culinary education. He was recognised as the first Indian chef to earn a PhD in culinary arts, according to a previous Economic Times report on his career.

Although Chef Damu had appeared on television for years, his role as a judge on Cooku With Comali helped him connect with a wider audience. The show combined cooking challenges with comedy, making him a familiar face among viewers who may not have followed professional culinary competitions.

His interactions with contestants and the show's comedians helped establish his affectionate public image as ‘Damu Appa’. His television journey also extended to YouTube, allowing him to reach audiences beyond traditional broadcasting.

Chef Damu received the Padma Shri in 2025 for his contribution to the culinary arts. The civilian honour recognised his work in cooking and his role in promoting India's culinary traditions.

His career, from working in hotel kitchens to becoming a nationally recognised chef, made him a prominent figure in Tamil food and entertainment.

Chef Damu’s death comes after speculation about his health circulated earlier in 2026. In August, he had personally addressed death rumours in a video message, saying he was alive and explaining that a leg injection had prevented him from attending a Cooku With Comali semi-final episode. He said he had participated in the finale, according to a report published at the time.