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Leading with Passion: Arun K. Chittilappilly on Wonderla’s Journey and Future

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In India’s vibrant amusement park industry, Wonderla Holidays Ltd stands out as a true marvel. What began as a modest concept has blossomed into a nationwide sensation, featuring groundbreaking attractions such as India’s inaugural reverse-looping roller coaster and a distinctive spinning roller coaster. Leading this transformative journey is Arun K. Chittilappilly, who carries forward the entrepreneurial legacy of his father, Kochouseph Chittilappilly. Here Arun shares insights into the evolution of India’s amusement park landscape through Wonderla’s strategic expansions and ambitious projects. This offers a compelling look into the future of amusement parks in India, highlighting Arun’s unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences and Wonderla’s exciting trajectory.

What initially sparked your interest in amusement parks and resort management?

My fascination with amusement parks and resort management began early on, inspired by my visits to parks around the world. Each trip left me exhilarated but also highlighted a gap in India’s offerings compared to the vibrant, immersive experiences abroad. This realization sparked a deep-seated desire to introduce world-class amusement parks to our country. Initially a passion project initiated by my father, our goal was to create a destination that could deliver the same level of joy and excitement to families that we experienced internationally. What started as a dream has since evolved into Wonderla—a testament to our commitment to providing unmatched amusement experiences. Today, Wonderla stands proudly, offering countless cherished memories and unforgettable moments to our visitors.

Share with us a memorable moment or achievement in your career with Wonderla.

There have been so many memorable moments throughout my journey with Wonderla that it is hard to pick just one. One that truly stands out is our Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2014. Raising Rs 180 crore was a significant milestone for us. There was a lot of scepticism surrounding a relatively small company like Wonderla going public. Many doubted our ability to succeed in such a venture, but we were determined to prove them wrong. The successful IPO was a testament to our hard work, vision, and the faith of our stakeholders.

Another proud achievement is the remarkable growth we’ve witnessed over the years. From humble beginnings, we’ve expanded to four parks in Kochi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and now Bhubaneswar. Additionally, we have a resort in Bengaluru. Seeing Wonderla grow and bring joy to millions of visitors has been incredibly fulfilling. Each park represents a dream turned into reality, and the smiles on our visitors’ faces make all the effort worthwhile.

How would you describe the unique attractions awaiting visitors at Wonderla parks?

At Wonderla, our mission is to craft unforgettable experiences for every guest. With custom-built rides sourced from top global suppliers, we deliver unparalleled thrills across India. Our parks feature a thrilling array of attractions, such as Recoil, India’s exclusive reverse-looping roller coaster, and exciting water experiences like Rain Disco, Wonder Splash, and Wave Pools. In Bhubaneswar, Odisha, our newest park boasts the nation’s sole spinning roller coaster, and we continually introduce unique offerings at each location.

What sets Wonderla apart is our steadfast commitment to safety and cleanliness, ensuring worry-free enjoyment for families. Each park embraces its regional identity, enriching your visit with local culture—whether it’s the tranquil ambiance in Kochi or the vibrant spirit in Bengaluru, every Wonderla park offers its own charm. For me, witnessing families and friends come together, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories, embodies the true essence of Wonderla.

What are the core values that guide Wonderla’s operations and customer service philosophy?

At Wonderla, our commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction is ingrained in everything we do. From meticulous cleanliness and stringent safety measures to world-class rides crafted by top international suppliers, every aspect of Wonderla is designed to delight and inspire.

Our approach to customer service is rooted in genuine hospitality—we treat every guest like a cherished member of our own family. Whether it’s guiding visitors to their favorite attractions or ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish, our dedicated team strives to exceed expectations at every turn.

Above all, Wonderla is a place where families come together, friends create lasting memories, and joy fills every corner. It’s more than an amusement park; it’s a sanctuary of fun and connection, where every visit is an opportunity to make unforgettable moments. This passion drives us every day, ensuring that each guest leaves Wonderla with a heart full of happiness and cherished memories.

How do you ensure safety and maintenance standards are upheld across all Wonderla locations?

Ensuring safety and upholding high standards across all Wonderla locations remains our foremost priority. We meticulously implement stringent safety protocols and maintenance procedures, which undergo constant monitoring and refinement. Each park strictly adheres to international standards, underscored by certifications such as ISO 14001 for eco-friendliness and OHSAS 18001 for safety.

Our commitment extends beyond certifications to comprehensive measures like regular inspections, robust training programs for our team members, and ongoing improvement initiatives. These efforts are designed to guarantee a secure and sustainable environment, fostering a worry-free experience for every guest at Wonderla, regardless of location.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to start their theme park or resort?

Drawing from over two decades of experience in this dynamic industry, I can affirm that launching a theme park or resort is both exhilarating and demanding, requiring a profound grasp of its intricate workings. It’s an arena where engineering precision meets creative marketing finesse, making operational efficiency paramount.

Central to success is investing in a dedicated and skilled team. They form the bedrock, ensuring stringent safety standards, upholding quality benchmarks, and crafting memorable experiences for our guests.

My advice is to approach each challenge with passion and meticulous planning. Every decision should embody a dedication to excellence and customer delight. Ultimately, your team is the linchpin, instrumental in translating your vision into a thriving reality within this vibrant industry.

How do you balance innovation and maintaining the charm and appeal of traditional amusement park experiences?

Balancing innovation with the timeless charm of traditional amusement park experiences is essential for Wonderla. We deeply value customer feedback and data insights, grounding all our decisions in detailed research. For instance, classic rides like Wonder Splash and Crazy Cars remain popular among visitors. While preserving these much-loved attractions, we also recognise the importance of staying up-to-date with our offerings. Introducing innovative experiences such as VR attractions allows us to cater to evolving guest preferences and expectations.

For us, innovation isn’t about replacing tradition but enhancing it. It’s about finding new ways to surprise and delight our guests while maintaining the nostalgic essence that makes Wonderla special. By blending the best of both worlds—classic favourites and cutting-edge innovations—we ensure that every visit to Wonderla is a mix of cherished memories and exciting new adventures.

What role do customer feedback and reviews play in shaping improvements at Wonderla?

Customer feedback forms the cornerstone of our continuous improvement efforts at Wonderla. We highly prioritize insights gathered through tools such as Net Promoter Score (NPS) and comprehensive 360-degree feedback mechanisms. Each piece of feedback serves as a catalyst for positive change, offering invaluable guidance on what our guests value and where we can innovate.

From enhancing ride experiences to refining service standards and introducing new attractions, customer input profoundly influences our decision-making process. At Wonderla, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences by attentively listening to our guests. Their feedback fuels our ongoing evolution, ensuring that every visit exceeds expectations and leaves a lasting impression.

Can you share a bit about the team behind Wonderla and the collaborative efforts that go into creating new attractions?

The team behind Wonderla is incredibly diverse and dynamic, representing a wealth of talent and expertise. Our growing Engineering team has developed an impressive portfolio of over 60 in-house rides, both land and water, to thrill and delight our guests. Collaboration is at the core of our innovation process, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives come together to explore new ideas and concepts that redefine amusement park experiences. Our latest attractions, such as the exhilarating Sky Tilt in our Bengaluru Park, showcase our commitment to pushing the boundaries of excitement.

Our team’s collaborative efforts span engineering, design, operations, marketing, and guest relations. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every new attraction meets and exceeds our rigorous standards of safety, quality, and guest satisfaction. At Wonderla, we believe our diverse team is our greatest strength. Together, we’re dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences that captivate and thrill our visitors, making every visit to Wonderla a journey of excitement and joy.

How do you see the future of amusement parks in India over the next decade?

The future of amusement parks in India over the next decade promises an exhilarating transformation, especially in tier 2 cities. With a burgeoning population across numerous districts and a growing appetite for unique leisure experiences, the sector is primed for substantial expansion. Factors like increasing disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and a preference for experiential spending among millennials are reshaping the landscape.

Amusement parks are gearing up to meet these demands by blending innovation with cultural richness, offering cutting-edge rides, immersive themes, and tailored attractions that appeal to a diverse audience. This evolution aims to create lasting memories and cater to the varied interests of visitors from all walks of life.

Wonderla, with its legacy of providing top-tier entertainment and hospitality, is poised to lead this charge. By continually pushing boundaries in innovation and expanding into new markets, Wonderla ensures that each visit is not just entertaining but also a journey filled with discovery and enjoyment, resonating with families, thrill-seekers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

What inspired the decision to expand Wonderla to multiple locations?

Wonderla’s decision to expand to multiple locations across India is driven by our strategic vision to capitalise on the burgeoning amusement park industry in the country while mitigating risks and maximising our reach. The Indian amusement park sector is experiencing rapid growth, fuelled by increasing disposable incomes and urbanisation trends. Recognising this opportunity, we aimed to tap into diverse regional markets by opening parks in new locations, allowing us to cater to a broader customer base and tailor our offerings to meet specific demographics and preferences unique to each region.

Our initial expansions proved successful, revealing a significant demand for quality amusement options and identifying a gap in the market that Wonderla could effectively fill. This success made us more ambitious, seeing immense potential in providing top-tier amusement experiences where they were lacking. This strategy not only enhances our brand presence but also enriches the leisure options available to Indian families across different cities.

How do you ensure that Wonderla parks cater to a diverse range of visitors, from families to thrill-seekers?

At Wonderla, we ensure that there’s something for everyone. Our parks feature a variety of attractions, from high-adrenaline roller coasters for thrill-seekers to gentle rides and water play areas for kids and families. We also offer practical amenities like prams on rent and designated family pools to make visits more convenient and enjoyable. This way, whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out or an adventure enthusiast seeking excitement, Wonderla has you covered.

What are some of the key factors you consider when designing new attractions?

When designing new attractions for Wonderla parks, we carefully consider several factors to ensure an exceptional guest experience. We prioritise the thrill and novelty of the attraction, aiming to introduce exciting and innovative experiences, especially those new to India. Safety is paramount, with each attraction undergoing rigorous testing and adhering to international safety standards to guarantee guest well-being. Additionally, we focus on creating attractions that are easy to maintain, minimising downtime and ensuring continuous operation. By integrating excitement, novelty, safety, and maintenance efficiency, we strive to deliver rides and experiences that not only thrill but also exceed the expectations of our visitors.

How does Wonderla stay ahead in the amusement park industry—from staying informed about trends to generating ideas for new rides?

Wonderla maintains its bellwether position in the amusement park industry through a proactive approach to staying informed and innovative. We actively engage with industry bodies and participate in global forums to keep abreast of the latest trends and best practices. By visiting parks around the world, we gain firsthand insights into emerging attractions and visitor experiences, which help us anticipate and adapt to industry shifts.

Ideas for new rides at Wonderla are inspired by a combination of extensive travel experiences and rigorous research. We immerse ourselves in diverse amusement park environments globally, studying market demands, consumer preferences, and advancements in technology. This comprehensive approach enables us to conceptualise and develop rides that not only thrill but also exceed guest expectations, ensuring Wonderla remains a leader in delivering cutting-edge and memorable experiences for all visitors.

Can you discuss any upcoming projects? Are there any plans to expand Wonderla amusement parks outside India?

Currently, our focus lies in expanding within India, especially in tier-II cities where we perceive significant growth opportunities. We are actively engaged in discussions with multiple state governments to explore potential partnerships aimed at acquiring land and securing incentives for developing tourist attractions that will benefit local communities. Our expansion strategy prioritizes cities with feasible land costs and streamlined project execution processes.

One of our most exciting upcoming projects is in Chennai, slated to become our largest park to date, with an anticipated opening in the second quarter of FY26. This endeavor underscores our commitment to enhancing the entertainment landscape and creating memorable experiences for our visitors.

While international expansion remains a consideration for the future, our current emphasis is on delighting guests across India with exceptional experiences at Wonderla parks. We believe in growing strategically, ensuring that each new venture upholds our rigorous standards of innovation, safety, and guest satisfaction.

Your father, Kochouseph Chittilappilly, is a well-known business magnate and philanthropist. How has his entrepreneurial journey influenced your career path?

My father’s entrepreneurial journey has left a profound impact on generations in Kerala, inspiring both my brother and me deeply. Growing up surrounded by his vision and drive to build large-scale businesses, I learned invaluable lessons in innovation, persistence, and creating opportunities that matter. His unwavering belief in India’s potential resonates strongly with me; despite our challenges, he reminds us of the immense opportunities our country offers, especially in sectors like ours.

His mentorship has shaped my approach to business, encouraging me to pioneer new offerings that not only enrich lives but also contribute positively to our economy. At Wonderla, I am committed to expanding our presence and upholding his legacy by delivering exceptional experiences that resonate with our guests across India.

Could you tell us about Wonderla Holidays and how it complements the overall experience offered by Wonderla amusement parks and resorts?

Wonderla Bengaluru Resort stands out as India’s premier luxury retreat, uniquely positioned adjacent to Wonderla Amusement Park. Boasting state-of-the-art banquet facilities spanning 8,300 sq.ft indoors and 25,000 sq.ft outdoors, it is ideal for hosting a wide range of events including weddings, corporate functions, and gatherings. Surrounded by verdant landscapes, the resort offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, lawn games, and jogging, complemented by culinary delights at Woods multi-cuisine restaurant and relaxation at the Swimup Bar By The Pool. Guests can also indulge in amenities like the temperature-controlled pool and the exhilarating Caribbean Whirlwater ride, ensuring a rejuvenating escape for all.

In addition to enhancing guest satisfaction, the resort plays a pivotal role in our revenue strategy, particularly through non-ticket revenue (NTR) generated from events and leisure retreats. This approach not only maximizes guest engagement but also enriches their overall leisure experience. Looking ahead, we are committed to replicating and expanding the resort concept to other strategic locations, seamlessly integrating it into the Wonderla brand. Our goal is to ensure that every guest enjoys a comprehensive and delightful leisure experience across all our properties.

What inspired Wonderla Holidays to venture into the food delivery business during the pandemic?

We saw an opportunity to bring a taste of Wonderla’s hospitality directly to our guests’ homes during challenging times. Venturing into the food delivery business was a natural extension for us, leveraging our expertise in food and beverage services. It was a way for us to stay connected with our patrons and provide them with a slice of the Wonderla experience, even when they couldn’t visit our parks. Plus, it was a bit of fun for us to explore new avenues and adapt to the changing circumstances.

How has your family influenced your approach to business and leadership?

Both of my parents have been instrumental in shaping my views on business and leadership through their own successful entrepreneurial journey. Their guidance has instilled in me the importance of ethical business practices, the value of building a cohesive and talented team, and the necessity of exercising financial prudence in all aspects of operations. Growing up in this environment has deeply ingrained in me a profound respect for integrity and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

At Wonderla, these principles form the foundation of our approach. Sustainability, innovation, and the well-being of our team and stakeholders are at the forefront of every decision we make. I am driven by the legacy my parents have left, inspiring me to continuously innovate and uphold the high standards they have set. My goal is to foster an environment at Wonderla where everyone can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and share in our collective success.

Picture Courtesy: Pegasus Photography/images are subject to copyright

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Suresh Pillai to Chef Pillai: A Journey of Flavor and Fame

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Brands dominate our lives in this social media era, yet the captivating stories behind their rise often remain untold. One such story is that of Chef Pillai, whose journey to fame is truly remarkable. Much like the legendary alchemists who transformed base metals into gold, Chef Suresh Pillai has achieved a golden touch in the culinary world through his passion, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence over more than three decades. From the shores of Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, his path has led him to kitchens around the globe, making him a culinary wizard committed to both innovation and tradition. Join us as we unveil the secrets behind Chef Pillai’s culinary mastery, the creation of his brand, and his transformation into a successful entrepreneur.

Chef Pillai

Tell us about that remarkable journey of transformation that began on the shores of the Ashtamudi Lake?

My journey from Suresh to Chef Pillai began in a quaint village in the backwaters of Kollam district. Born into an ordinary family, I stumbled into the culinary world by chance after completing Class X. Circumstances at the time prevented me from pursuing formal education in the field. However, as I immersed myself in the kitchen, I discovered a natural talent for cooking and became fascinated by its endless possibilities.

My fortunes took a positive turn in 2005 when I traveled to the UK for work, armed with 15 years of experience and a strong work ethic. Initially, I went by my name, Suresh Pillai, but due to the importance of surnames for work permits, I soon became known as Mr. Pillai. At Veeraswamy, England’s first Indian restaurant established in 1927, I was the sole representative of Kerala cuisine among chefs and staff from North India, earning the moniker “Chef Pillai.”

Venturing into social media, I faced difficulties creating an account as “Suresh Pillai,” leading me to adopt the persona of Chef Pillai. Despite never envisioning a return to India while enjoying life abroad, my fame grew through social media and appearances on BBC’s Masterchef, paving the way for recognition as Chef Pillai in my homeland.

In 2017, an opportunity to work in Kerala at The Raviz Hotel in Kollam prompted a return. Initially, the plan was to go back to England after the contract ended, considering our citizenship status and children’s happiness. However, fate had other plans, leading to the decision to establish my own venture in Bangalore post-COVID. Within six months, another restaurant opened in Kochi’s Le Meridien, owned by the Marriott Group—yet another milestone. Within a year, four more enterprises were started, including one in Qatar.

Transitioning from chef to entrepreneur proved challenging, requiring attention to various aspects beyond culinary skills, such as marketing and finance. Despite the hurdles, my vision of promoting Kerala’s flavours worldwide fueled the expansion of my restaurant empire. With the support of investors and a dedicated team, I am on the verge of completing 60 restaurants this year, following three years of development. Each establishment will offer a diverse array of tastes and price ranges.

The journey from Suresh to Chef Pillai symbolizes not just personal growth, but also a commitment to sharing the essence of Kerala cuisine on a global scale. And the journey still continues.

What circumstance led to your journey to Britain?

I had always dreamed of venturing to Europe, America, or Australia, despite receiving numerous job offers in the Middle East. I held out for the chance to fulfill my European aspirations, and that opportunity finally came in 2005. While working at Kumarakom, I received a call summoning me to Mumbai for an interview for a job in the UK. After five days of interviews, I was selected, and within a week, I found myself in London.

Securing a position at Veeraswamy, England’s first Indian restaurant, was a significant milestone. Amidst a vast array of chefs, I was chosen as the sole representative of Kerala cuisine—a role that exposed me to new experiences and learning on an international scale. Reflecting on my career, those 15 years spent in the UK remain some of the most valuable and formative.

What aspect of your culinary journey has brought you the greatest joy and fulfillment?

Establishing eleven new brands, launching sixty successful restaurants, and fostering a sense of community among over a thousand individuals in just three years has been the most rewarding aspect of my career. Throughout my professional life, I have received numerous awards and recognitions for my culinary expertise and letters of commendation from various distinguished personalities.

However, the greatest joy and satisfaction over the past thirty years have come not just from the work itself, but from the opportunity to contribute significantly to the livelihoods of many families. This has been the most fulfilling part of my journey, bringing me immense happiness and contentment.

What are the secret ingredients to becoming an exceptional chef?

To become an excellent chef, one must have a passion for the culinary art. The willingness to continually learn new things and the humility to acknowledge that there is always more to learn are essential. It’s not enough to just study; practical experience is crucial for gaining a deeper understanding. Trying to correct mistakes and improve based on our knowledge gaps is necessary. If we accept and acknowledge our inadequacies, we can strive to achieve excellence. Otherwise, if we assume that our learning is complete, success will always elude us. Success comes from adapting and incorporating lessons from our experiences, both good and bad, into our practices.

Could you define the learning and training phase that moulded Chef Pillai?

In my experience, pursuing a formal course over several years can certainly be beneficial. However, I’ve also come to recognise that proficiency can be achieved through dedication and effort alone. Despite not having studied Hotel Management, I’ve ascended to senior positions in prominent hotels and restaurants, albeit with numerous challenges along the way. This isn’t to discount the value of education; rather, it emphasises the importance of how one applies their knowledge and skills. I’ve encountered individuals who, despite obtaining degrees and undergoing training, failed to excel. What truly matters is the mindset we cultivate between learning and practice, remaining open to the lessons that surround us. Whether it is skills acquired from humble beginnings or insights gained from observing others, embracing continuous learning and adaptation is key, particularly in an ever-evolving industry.

In your global palate-hopping journey, what is your favourite dish?

During my three decades as a chef, I’ve had the privilege of sampling a vast array of dishes from around the world, ranging from the most refined to the simplest fare. Each culinary creation originates from the culture of the country, shaped by its landscape, climate, and the customs of its people, evolving over the years. If one can appreciate the history behind it and savour it with understanding, everything will taste not only delicious but also fascinating. Personally, I hold a deep appreciation for the diverse flavours of Kerala cuisine, but I also have a penchant for Japanese food due to its health benefits and nuanced flavours.

Are you planning any specific initiatives to support economically and educationally backward individuals aspiring to enter the culinary sector?

Undoubtedly, with the widespread presence of Malayalis globally, there has been a remarkable surge in the popularity of Kerala cuisine among enthusiasts worldwide. This trend presents a significant opportunity for Malayalis, whose upbringing and intimate knowledge of Kerala’s culinary traditions uniquely position them for success in the field. Acknowledging this potential, I am committed to establishing a skill center or academy that offers comprehensive, hands-on training alongside theoretical study. The aim is to equip individuals of all ages with the essential skills needed to thrive in the culinary industry.

This initiative seeks to provide accessible education and employment opportunities, transcending traditional four-year courses and catering to the diverse needs of aspiring chefs. With the imminent launch of numerous restaurants and my vision to establish a hundred establishments, these initiatives are geared towards empowering individuals to pursue fulfilling careers in the culinary arts, irrespective of their background, age, or circumstances.

Chef Pillai

What does ‘skill training’ entail?

Let me illustrate with an example. ‘Appam’, a cherished delicacy among Malayalis, holds a special place in many hearts. Crafting a delicious and well-made appam involves a meticulous process: grinding rice flour, preparing a batter, fermenting it for several hours, and skillfully cooking it to perfection.

While many may be familiar with the basics of preparing appam, the true skill lies in maintaining consistency and quality with every batch. A skilled chef can expertly manage the fermentation process, ensuring that each appam maintains the desired level of sourness, even as the quantity of batter varies. This level of precision, coupled with the ability to cook without over or undercooking, requires not just practice, but honed skill.

Mastering this art can lead to a respectable income, potentially around Rs 35,000 per month. It’s a testament to the value of culinary expertise and the rewards that come with dedication and skill in the kitchen.

How does cooking time differ across countries? Could you share your experiences working with renowned chefs worldwide?

Upon arriving in the UK, I had to reevaluate certain culinary practices, particularly the notion of precise cooking times. While in Kerala, flexibility with cooking durations, such as in prawn curry, may be acceptable, international kitchens demand precision. Even a slight deviation in timing or spice levels can significantly affect a dish’s quality. Unlike Kerala, where taste reigns supreme, international kitchens prioritize consistency and strict adherence to predefined standards. My experiences collaborating with top chefs globally have emphasized the critical role of precision and consistency in attaining culinary excellence.

All of Chef Pillai’s restaurants uphold international standards. How can ordinary folks enjoy Chef Pillai’s flavours?

Indeed, this question has been asked by many, and my aspiration has always been to make my culinary creations accessible to everyone. One strategy has been to establish a premium brand, Chef Pillai, which has facilitated partnerships with esteemed establishments like Marriott. While the premium brand has opened doors to new opportunities, my ultimate goal is to offer high-quality cuisine at affordable prices. In upcoming projects, I aim to introduce dining options that cater to a budget-friendly range, with the ultimate vision of creating restaurants where meals are priced at Rs. 100. This endeavor is currently in progress, with a focus on maintaining the high standards set by our existing ventures.

Can we anticipate the establishment of a Chef Pillai Institute in the future?

Absolutely. Efforts are underway to bring this vision to life as soon as possible. Establishing an academy dedicated to culinary arts will provide aspiring chefs with the training and skills they need to excel in the field. My goal is to preserve traditional recipes and culinary heritage while imparting knowledge to future generations. Creating the Chef Pillai Institute is a tangible step toward achieving this goal, ensuring that our culinary legacy endures for years to come.

Picture Courtesy: Pegasus Photography/images are subject to copyright