All you need to know about chef Atul Kochhar

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 All you need to know about chef Atul Kochhar

Dubai - In 2012, he opened an Indian restaurant, Rang Mahal, in JW Marriot Marquis Hotel, Dubai.

By Web Report

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Published: Thu 14 Jun 2018, 5:05 PM

As celebrity chef Atul Kochhar faces backslash over his anti-Islam comments, we take a brief look at his life.
Who is Atul Kochhar?
Atul Kochhar was born in the Indian city of Jamshedpur and later settled in London. His father, a caterer, wanted him to be a doctor. Atul was, however, driven by his interest in cooking and food.
Deeply upset, hope I can be forgiven: Chef Atul Kochhar
Career 
After completing his diploma in hotel management from the Indian Institute of Hotel Management, Chennai, he started his career at the Oberoi Group of hotels in Delhi. It was there that he gained cooking experience and carved out his niche as a chef.
He moved to London in 1994 and worked at Tamarind restaurant.
"Here his culinary excellence was recognised and during Atul's tenure as head chef, he was awarded his first Michelin star in 2001," says Seasoned by Chefs.
His first independent venture, Benares, started in 2003 after he left Tamarind in 2002.
"With a focus on combining his heritage and love of British ingredients, Atul's innovative modern Indian cuisine successfully redefined the perception of Indian cooking in Britain, leading to his second Michelin star in 2007, an accolade which he has retained at Benares ever since," the report adds.
UAE residents call for sacking of famous chef for anti-Islam tweet
He also has restaurants in Kent, Mauritius and Ireland.
The well-known chef has also featured in several television series, including BBC2's Great British Menu and Masterchef Goes Large. He has also written some cookbooks.
Dubai connection
In 2012, he opened an Indian restaurant, Rang Mahal, in JW Marriot Marquis Hotel, Dubai.
The contract for the same was terminated following his anti-Islamic tweets.
"The decision by JW Marriott Maquis is deeply upsetting. However, I fully accept the great pain I have caused and the difficult position the hotel has been put in. I have great respect for JW Marriott and in particular their staff in Dubai and wish the hotel well for the future,"  Kochhar said in a statement issued to Khaleej Times.
"I hope my friends and well-wishers in Dubai will forgive me and continue to support me in future," read the statement.


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