Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has expressed his condolences following the death of renowned chef K Damodaran, popularly known as Chef Damu. He passed away in Chennai on October 25, 2026, at the age of 72. Known for bringing professional cooking into people’s homes through television, Chef Damu became a well-known face among Tamil audiences, especially through the popular cooking reality show 'Cooku with Comali'. His death has prompted accolades for his contribution to the culinary arts, his accomplishments as a chef and his role in making cooking more accessible to viewers.
In a condolence message shared on social media, Vijay recalled Chef Damu for his culinary skills and unique approach to television cooking. The Chief Minister also emphasised the chef’s Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon held in 2010 and his Padma Shri award, conferred in 2025.
Who Was Chef Damu?
Chef Damu built a career spanning several decades in the sector of hospitality and culinary. Born in 1954, he studied at the Institute of Hotel Management in Chennai before starting his professional journey in the industry. He worked with well-known hotel groups and organisations, gaining experience across various areas of skilled cooking.
Over time, he became well-known not only for his culinary mastery but also for his work in bringing Indian food culture to a wider audience. His expertise spanned over several cuisines that included traditional South Indian preparations. He also wrote cookbooks and helped many aspiring young cooks develop their skills, extending his impact beyond television appearances.
Instagram/Chef Damu
Chef Damu’s Guinness World Record And Padma Shri
In December 2010, Chef Damu acquired a Guinness World Record by making 617 dishes during a cooking marathon that lasted for 24 hours, 30 minutes and 12 seconds. The dishes weighed about 190 kg in total, making the accomplishment a defining point in his career.
His contribution to the culinary arts was acknowledged nationally when he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2025. The civilian recognition acknowledged his work in the field and his efforts to bring greater visibility to the culinary career.
How ‘Cooku With Comali’ Made Him A Household Name
For many viewers, Chef Damu was best known as a judge on the Tamil television show 'Cooku with Comali'. The programme incorporates cooking challenges with comedy, pairing contestants with entertainers who help them guide kitchen tasks. Damu’s experience, humour and clear advice made him a loved presence on the show.
Audiences came to identify him for his warm style and motivation of contestants, helping professional cooking feel less intimidating to home viewers. His television career played an essential role in connecting culinary expertise with everyday audiences.
Chef Damu’s death marks the loss of a notable figure in Tamil Nadu’s food and television industry. His work as a chef, mentor and television personality leaves behind a legacy that goes beyond professional kitchens to the homes of the many spectators who followed his journey and loved him fondly.