Chef Koushik takes us on a journey about food and history. He intricately weaves tradition, technology and time describing how they shaped what we eat. From old kitchens that worked like military brigades to modern ones that still echo that same structure, he shows us how deeply rooted our culinary systems really are. He speaks of tools passed down through generations holding the same purpose, albeit with small modifications. As the world got smaller and ingredients traveled farther, our choices expanded. Chef Koushik presents us with the trend of going back to what’s local, seasonal, and kind to the earth, calling it “sustainable food”. He discusses how festivals brought people together where food was shared, celebrated, and passed on. Royal kitchens taught us about structure, discipline, and pride in craft along with lessons that still shape how we cook and lead today. This talk isn’t just about recipes or trends. It’s about remembering where we come from and using that to guide where we’re going. Chef Koushik’s words are an invitation to slow down, reconnect with our roots, and cook with more heart. A legendary chef known for his daring and innovative fusion of traditional techniques with modern flavors, Koushik has become a sensation in the culinary world. With over 100,000 Instagram followers, his mouth-watering and visually stunning creations have captured the hearts (and appetites) of food lovers everywhere.

Koushik Shankar, renowned for his fusion cuisine, began cooking at the age of five, inspired by a comic book recipe. Starting his career at Leela Kempinski in 1997, he later founded Eatitude Gourmet Technologists in 2006. As a judge on MasterChef India - Tamil (2021, 2023) and star of shows like Masala Express, he became a TV sensation. Known as "The Mad Chef" for his bold culinary style, Koushik has judged prestigious food events, inspiring with his innovative approach to cooking. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx