Updated: October 25, 2026, 11:09 AM IST
The culinary world and Tamil television fans woke up to heartbreaking news this morning. Chef Damu, the warm-hearted judge of Cooku with Comali, Padma Shri awardee, and Guinness World Record holder, passed away at the age of 72 in Chennai after a period of health complications. Known to millions simply as “Damu Appa,” he leaves behind not just a trail of delicious recipes and television moments, but a close-knit family that shared his journey with quiet grace.
Table of Contents
Who Was Chef Damu?
Born Damodharan Kothandaraman on September 3, 1954, in Tamil Nadu, Chef Damu rose from hotel kitchens to become one of India’s most recognised culinary voices. He started his career at the Bombay Taj Hotel and went on to earn the distinction of being the first Indian chef to receive a PhD in Hotel Management and Catering Technology from the University of Madras in 2004.
His gentle smile, quick humour, and deep knowledge of South Indian flavours made him a household name. Whether explaining the perfect balance of spices or sharing simple home-style tips, he always felt like family.
His Remarkable Achievements
Chef Damu’s career was filled with milestones that still inspire young chefs:
- In 2010 he set a Guinness World Record by cooking 617 different dishes in 24 hours, 30 minutes and 12 seconds.
- In 2025 the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri for his contribution to culinary science and the popularisation of Indian cuisine.
- He judged several seasons of the hit reality show Cooku with Comali on Star Vijay, where his patience and laughter won over viewers of every age.
- He authored cookbooks, conducted workshops, and mentored countless students, bridging professional kitchens with everyday home cooking.
These achievements were never about personal glory. He often said cooking was his way of bringing people together.
Chef Damu’s Family and Kids
Behind the celebrity chef was a devoted family man. Chef Damu was married to Usha Damu. Together they raised two daughters – Akshaya Damu and Renuka Praveen – who largely stayed away from the spotlight.
Fans caught rare glimpses of the family during celebrations, including Usha’s 60th birthday and a joyful trip to Paris where Damu danced with his loved ones in front of the Eiffel Tower. In one memorable social media post he simply wrote “With my lovely children Renuka Praveen and Akshaya Dhamu,” revealing the soft, proud father behind the television personality. Those photos went viral because they showed a side of him that felt completely real – a man who cherished ordinary family moments as much as any culinary award.
The News of His Passing Today
Reports confirmed that Chef Damu had been receiving treatment at Apollo Hospital in Chennai for ongoing health issues. He breathed his last this morning. Earlier this year, in August 2026, false death rumours had circulated when he missed a Cooku with Comali semi-final due to a leg injection. At that time he released a video saying, “I am alive… please do not believe the rumours.” Today’s news, however, is confirmed by multiple reliable sources.
The outpouring of grief across social media and television reflects how deeply he was loved. Fellow chefs, co-judges, and ordinary viewers are remembering the man who made cooking feel joyful and accessible.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. K. Damodharan (Damodharan Kothandaraman) |
| Popular Name | Chef Damu / Damu Appa |
| Born | September 3, 1954 |
| Age at Passing | 72 |
| Date of Passing | October 25, 2026 |
| Place | Chennai |
| Wife | Usha Damu |
| Daughters | Akshaya Damu, Renuka Praveen |
| Major Awards | Padma Shri (2025), Guinness World Record |
| Famous For | Cooku with Comali judge, Tamil cuisine |
Conclusion
Chef Damu’s passing creates a quiet emptiness in Tamil television and Indian kitchens. Yet his real legacy lives on in the students he trained, the families who cook his recipes every day, and the two daughters who knew him first as a father. In a world that often rushes, he taught us that good food and genuine kindness still matter most.
As we remember him today, many of us will light a lamp, cook something simple, and smile at the memory of his infectious laugh. Rest in peace, Damu Appa. Your flavours and your warmth will stay with us.
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