The Akshaya Awards 2025, hosted by the Malaysian Indian Chef Association (MICA), illuminated the Galaxy Banquet Hall in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, with a grand celebration of culinary talent. As one of the media, The Hindu Press was privileged to witness this remarkable evening that recognized the achievements of Malaysian-born Indian chefs. The event paid tribute to those who have shaped and elevated the local food and hospitality industry with their artistry, innovation, and dedication.
The awards covered a broad spectrum of categories, acknowledging both seasoned veterans and rising stars. The prestigious Akshaya My Mentor Chef Award 2025 was posthumously awarded to Late Chef P. Shivakumar, honoring his lasting impact on the culinary world. The Entrepreneurship & Expansion Award recognized chefs breaking new ground, with Chef Naressh Balakrishnan (Male), Chef Tharshini Elanggovan (Female), and Chef Kumar Mahathvan (Young) leading the way.
The event celebrated excellence across diverse specialties:
- Chef S.Rram Kumar – Most Outstanding Indian Cuisine Chef
- Chef Ganapathy Thiagarajan – Most Outstanding Pastry Chef
- Chef Arvind Jeyaratnam – Young Rising Star
- Vikneswaran Nasam – Most Outstanding Culinary Student
- Chef Kalidevan Murugaya – Celebrity Chef Award
- Chef Pandian Jayabalan – Most Outstanding Butcher Chef
- Chef Vasan Angalan – Innovative Chef Award
The awards also honored chefs across different experience levels, showcasing the depth of talent within the community:
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Chef Award (10 – 15 Years Experience): Chef Prasath Sivam
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Chef Award (16 – 20 Years Experience): Chef Aravinthan
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Chef Award (21 – 25 Years Experience): Chef Sargunan Naidu Sundararaju
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Chef Award (26 – 30 Years Experience): Chef Partiben Muniandy
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Chef Award (31 – 35 Years Experience): Chef Valmurugan Subramaniam
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Chef Award (35+ Years Experience): Dato Chef Pari Subramaniam
- Akshaya Celebrity Chef Award 2025: Chef Kalidevan Murugaya
- Akshaya Most Outstanding Butcher Chef 2025: Chef Pandian Jayabalan
- Akshaya Innovative Chef Award 2025: Chef Vasan Angalan
The Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Chef Logarajah Sinnappu, while the Malaysian Indian Chefs Association President Award went to Late Mr. Thiagarajan & Mrs. Pritum Kaur for their leadership and contributions.
The night concluded with the Akshaya Culinary Achievement Award, celebrating chefs like:
- Chef Devia Nathan Gnanapragasam
- Chef Murugan Balakrishnan
- Chef Poobalan Suppiah
- Chef Anandan
- Chef Moses Englu
The Hindu Press takes immense pride in sharing these stories of perseverance and passion, showcasing the enduring impact of Malaysian Indian chefs on the culinary world.The Hindu Press extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners!
