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Chef Damu
Indian chef (1954–2026)
Damodharan Kothandaraman (3 September 1954 – 25 October 2026), professionally known as Chef Damu, was an Indian celebrity chef. He was known for hosting numerous cooking shows and serving as a judge on popular Tamil language television programs, most notably Cooku with Comali on Star Vijay. He holds the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, achieved in 2010. In recognition of his contributions to the culinary arts, he was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2025.
Damu was also known for being the first Indian chef to receive a Ph.D. in Hotel Management and Catering Technology, awarded by the University of Madras in 2004.
Career
In December 2010, Chef Damu cooked 617 dishes weighing a total of 190 kilograms over a continuous cooking session that lasted 24 hours, 30 minutes, and 12 seconds.
Damu authored several cookbooks and conducted culinary workshops to promote traditional South Indian cuisine. He also served as a judge in food competitions such as Our State Our Taste conducted by The Hindu across various cities in Tamil Nadu. He later headlined as a judge with Chef Venkatesh Bhatt on Cooku with Comali, an amateur cooking competition produced by Vijay TV between 2019-2022.
Death
Chef Damu died in Chennai, on 25 October 2026, at the age of 72.
Recognition
In 2025, Chef Damu was conferred the Padma Shri by the Government of India for his contributions to culinary science.
Film and television appearances
Films
Kallappadam (2015)
Ulkuthu (2017)
Oru Pakka Kathai (2020)
Mrs & Mr (2025)
Server Sundaram (TBA)
Web series
Kalyanam Conditions Apply (2018)
Television
Arusuvai Neram – Jaya TV
Dhe Chef – Mazhavil Manorama -Malayalam show
Athu Ithu Yethu – Cameo appearance
Chocolate – Cameo appearance
Cooku with Comali – Seasons 1 to 7
Colors Kitchen
Comedy Cooks -Asianet- Malayalam show (grand finale jury)