Remembering Chef Damu: A life dedicated to Tamil Nadu’s culinary heritage
A tribute to the late Chef K Damodaran, who took Tamil Nadu’s cuisine to the world stage, documented forgotten dishes, shared cooking techniques through his television shows, and inspired thousands with his simple, no-nonsense approach to food
Chef K Damodaran, known affectionately as Chef Damu, dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Tamil Nadu's culinary heritage. Born in Vellore, he passed away in Chennai on October 25 at the age of 72. A beloved figure in the culinary world, Chef Damu was renowned for his simple, no-nonsense approach to food and his ability to inspire others with his expertise.
Throughout his career, Chef Damu shared numerous recipes and cooking techniques through his television shows, documentaries, and cookery competitions, demonstrating that even the most complex dishes could be prepared with basic ingredients and simple techniques. His passion for food was evident in his work, from documenting forgotten dishes to sharing his experiences working with noon meal cooks from 25 government schools in Srirangam district.
Chef Damu's influence extended beyond the realm of cooking. He was also involved in charity work through his role with the South India Chefs Association (SICA), where he mentored hundreds of students and taught them essential safety and hygiene standards. His dedication to both his craft and his community made him a true icon in the world of Tamil Nadu cuisine.
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