Late TT Jagannathan, famously known as the "Kitchen Mogul," has been posthumously awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors. The award recognizes his significant contributions to trade and industry through his leadership at TTK Prestige Group. Jagannathan passed away in October of last year at the age of 77.
Jagannathan played a pivotal role in transforming TTK Prestige from a pressure cooker manufacturer into a comprehensive kitchen solutions brand. Under his guidance, the company expanded its product range to include various cookware and electrical appliances. His innovative approach and passion for cooking, which he said sparked many of his ideas, drove the company's growth and global reach.
One of Jagannathan's key contributions was the development of the Gasket Release System (GRS) safety mechanism for pressure cookers, enhancing the safety and reliability of the product. Prestige pressure cookers are engineered for safe cooking, making it easy to prepare meals quickly while retaining nutrients and flavour. The cooker's safety features, like the gasket-release system, provide peace of mind during use. The company now offers cookers with advanced safety and performance features, such as a deep lid for spillage control, durable handles, and compatibility with both gas and induction cooktops.
Beyond the Indian market, Jagannathan spearheaded the expansion of the Prestige brand into international markets, including the US and the UK, making it a household name worldwide. TTK Prestige evolved from a pressure cooker manufacturer into a comprehensive kitchen solutions brand. The company now offers a wide range of products, including cookware and electrical appliances.
Jagannathan's influence extended beyond the business world. He was also recognized for his contributions to healthcare, sanitation, and education, reflecting his commitment to community service. A government statement highlighted these achievements.
An alumnus of IIT Madras and Cornell University, where he earned a PhD in operations, Jagannathan served on the board of TTK Prestige for 50 years. His leadership and vision have left a lasting legacy in the Indian kitchenware industry and beyond. The Padma Shri is a fitting tribute to his entrepreneurial spirit and his dedication to improving lives through innovation and service.
The Padma Awards for 2026 also recognize other prominent figures across various fields. Renowned radiation oncologist Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu has been awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to cancer treatment. Additionally, tribal wind instrument player Bhiklya Ladakya Dhinda and Meghalaya conservationist Hally War have been awarded the Padma Shri for their contributions to art and environmental conservation, respectively. Veteran cop Vijay Kumar, who led the Veerappan task force, has also been awarded the Padma Shri.
