For decades, Shankar Mahadevan has been a household name in India, enchanting millions with his soulful voice and unforgettable compositions. From the fusion rhythms of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy to his classical jugalbandis, he has always been a man of creativity and innovation. Now, in a surprising yet heartwarming move, the music maestro is stepping into a new world—the culinary universe. Mahadevan is launching his own chain of South Indian restaurants, aptly named “Malgudi,” across Mumbai. 

With the first branch already open in Borivali and more outlets set to come up in Chembur and Lower Parel, these restaurants promise to take patrons on a nostalgic journey inspired by the fictional town created by celebrated author R. K. Narayan.

Why Malgudi? A Taste of Nostalgia

For generations of readers, R. K. Narayan’s “Malgudi” has been more than just a fictional South Indian town. It represents simplicity, warmth, and the charm of everyday Indian life. Shows like Malgudi Days etched its legacy into India’s cultural memory. By naming his restaurants after Malgudi, Mahadevan is stepping into that shared nostalgia. It’s not just about food; it’s about storytelling through flavors, evoking memories of childhood, family meals, and the cultural essence of South India.

Mahadevan explained that every dish on the menu is carefully curated by him, reflecting authenticity and tradition. This isn’t just another celebrity-backed brand; it’s a personal project, rooted in his passion for South Indian cuisine.

A Maestro’s Curated Menu

Unlike many celebrity ventures that focus only on branding, Mahadevan has gone a step further by designing the restaurant’s menu himself. Each dish reflects heritage recipes and authentic flavors passed down through generations. 

One of the highlights is the Mulbagal Dosa, a century-old recipe that Mahadevan promises most people will be tasting for the first time. Known for its rich filling and unique preparation style, the dosa embodies the kind of culinary gems he wants to introduce to Mumbai’s food lovers. From traditional filter coffee served in steel tumblers to lesser-known delicacies beyond the popular idli-vada-dosa trio, Malgudi’s menu aims to be both comforting and educational—a gastronomic journey across South India.

Food Meets Culture in Mumbai’s Heart

The decision to launch Malgudi in Chembur, Borivali, and Lower Parel is strategic. These neighborhoods are cultural melting pots where South Indian cuisine has long had a place. Chembur is already known for its bustling South Indian eateries, Borivali brings in a diverse crowd, and Lower Parel caters to cosmopolitan food lovers. 

Mahadevan’s restaurants will therefore appeal to both the homesick South Indian community in Mumbai and to foodies eager to explore authentic flavors. By connecting R. K. Narayan’s timeless stories with his own curated recipes, Mahadevan is creating an experience that blends literature, culture, and cuisine. 

Recently, filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan visited Mahadevan’s Navi Mumbai home as part of her YouTube channel. During the interaction, Mahadevan revealed details about his upcoming restaurant chain. Farah, who has been a close friend of the composer, couldn’t hide her excitement.

Why Celebrity Ventures in Food Matter

India has seen several celebrities step into hospitality, but Mahadevan’s entry is unique. While most ventures bank on star power, Malgudi is banking on authenticity—authentic cuisine, authentic storytelling, and authentic emotional connection. This move also highlights how Indian celebrities are expanding their influence beyond the arts into lifestyle and cultural preservation. 

By curating traditional recipes and celebrating a literary gem like Malgudi, Mahadevan is ensuring that heritage is passed on to new generations in fresh, engaging ways. Shankar Mahadevan’s leap from music to food is not just a career experiment; it’s a cultural offering. By weaving together the charm of R. K. Narayan’s Malgudi with authentic South Indian recipes, he is giving India something truly special. Just as his songs move in our memories, his restaurants aim to leave a memorable taste—one that combines nostalgia, authenticity, and innovation. Malgudi isn’t just about dining; it’s about experiencing India’s cultural soul on a plate.