Sanjeev Kapoor Mourns Loss of Legendary Chef Damu
Chef Sanjeev Kapoor pays a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Chef Damu, remembering his cheerful nature and massive contributions to culinary arts.
The culinary world is in mourning following the passing of the beloved celebrity chef K Damodaran, widely known as Chef Damu, who passed away at the age of 72. In a touching gesture, renowned culinary expert Chef Sanjeev Kapoor has paid a heartfelt tribute to his colleague, remembering him as a beacon of positivity and joy.
A Heartfelt Farewell from Sanjeev Kapoor
Taking to Instagram, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shared a photograph of Chef Damu, reflecting on the bond they shared. Kapoor expressed his deep sadness, highlighting the infectious energy that Chef Damu brought into every room.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Chef Damu. Will always remember him for his ever-smiling, cheerful nature and the wonderful laughs we shared every time we met,” Kapoor wrote.
Kapoor further emphasized that the loss is not just personal but a significant blow to the entire professional cooking community, stating that Chef Damu dedicated his entire life to the culinary arts and his departure is a "huge loss to our culinary fraternity." He also extended his deepest condolences to the grieving family and loved ones.
The Remarkable Journey of Chef Damu
Born in 1954, Chef Damu's journey in the kitchen began with a formal education at the Institute of Hotel Management in Chennai. He started his professional career as a management trainee with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, laying the foundation for a career that would eventually span decades and break world records.
A Record-Breaking Career
Chef Damu was not just a cook; he was a powerhouse of culinary endurance. His name entered the Guinness World Records in December 2010 after an incredible feat where he prepared 617 dishes, weighing a total of 190 kg, in just 24 hours, 30 minutes, and 12 seconds.
His appetite for challenges didn't stop there. He was known for pushing the boundaries of scale, including:
- Creating a massive 14.7-metre dosa in Madurai.
- Preparing the world’s largest curry during a venture in Singapore.
A Television Icon and National Honor
While his technical skills were unmatched, Chef Damu became a household name through his charismatic presence on television. He gained immense popularity as a judge on Vijay TV’s hit show ‘Cooku with Comali’. The show, which blended high-stakes cooking with comedy, allowed audiences to see his easy-going nature and his supportive approach toward contestants.
Beyond the kitchen and the small screen, he also made appearances in Tamil cinema, further cementing his status as a celebrity personality.
The Ultimate Recognition
The pinnacle of his professional recognition came in January 2025, when Chef Damu was awarded the Padma Shri. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon him for his extraordinary contributions to the culinary arts and his success in bringing the sophistication of professional cooking to the general public.