Celebrity and Padma Shri award-winning chef Damu has died after a prolonged battle with illness at the age of 72.
The chef had been undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospital in Chennai for some health conditions.
Chef Damo, whose real name is Damodharan Kothandaraman, was an expert cook and was credited with introducing Tamil cuisine to the global stage. He also mastered several cuisines from around the world.
In 2010, he set a Guinness World record by making 617 different dishes in just 24 hours 30 minutes and 12 seconds.
He was the first Indian chef to earn a doctorate in restaurant management and culinary technology from the University of Madras in 2002.
He was honoured with the Padma Shri award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the art of cooking.
Chef Damao also appeared in several TV cooking shows.
He acted as a judge in Vijay Tbv’s Cook with a Clown. He made his last appearance on the show in Season 7, which ended last August.
He also acted and made appearances in films and TV shows inclduing Kallapadam, Ory Pakka Kathai and a web series.
Among Tamil TV programs, he appeared in Arusuvai Neram and Colours Kitchen.
He also appeared in Mazhavil Manorama’s Dhe Chef and Asianet’s Comedy Cooks.
Chef Damo’s demise is being mourned by his family, friends and fans.
