Chef Damu, the Tamil chef and television personality known for judging Cooku With Comali, has reportedly died at the age of 72 following health complications.

Key Takeaways

  • Damu received the Padma Shri in 2025 for his contribution to the culinary arts.
  • He previously addressed false rumours about his death in August 2026.

Chef Damu’s career in food and television

Born Damodharan Kothandaraman, Damu began his career washing dishes in hotel kitchens before becoming a chef, educator and television personality. His cooking included Chettinad dishes, seafood specialities and traditional vegetarian preparations.

He appeared on Jaya TV and Star Vijay and became widely known as a judge on Cooku With Comali, where viewers called him “Damu Appa.” He also authored more than 20 books.

In a cooking marathon recognised by Guinness World Records, he prepared 617 dishes over 24 hours and 30 minutes.

Earlier health rumours

In August 2026, Damu addressed death rumours in a video message, saying he was alive. He said a leg injection had prevented him from attending a Cooku With Comali semi-final episode, though he had participated in the finale.

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