Chef Damu Passes Away: Padma Shri-Winning Chef Dies in Chennai

Renowned culinary expert Chef Damu passed away on October 25, 2026, following a period of illness. He had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in Chennai for the past few days, but unfortunately, he could not be saved. Condolences have been pouring in from people across various fields, including the film industry and the culinary world.

Chef Damu was a household name in Tamil Nadu and gained widespread popularity through his appearances on television cooking shows. He won the hearts of audiences of all ages, particularly through his role as a judge on Vijay Television’s popular show Cooku with Comali.

He holds the distinction of being the first Indian chef to earn a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and Catering Technology. In 2010, he achieved a Guinness World Record by preparing 617 different dishes in 24 hours, 30 minutes and 12 seconds, showcasing his exceptional culinary skills.

In recognition of his more than four decades of contribution to the culinary field, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri award. Beyond television, Chef Damu also appeared in Tamil films, including Kallappadam and Ul Kuthu, playing chef roles, and portrayed character roles in several other movies.

His passing marks the loss of a celebrated culinary personality who inspired aspiring chefs and entertained millions through his passion for cooking. His contributions to the culinary industry and his memorable presence on television will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.