The Crown & Champa Resorts Collection is pleased to announce the appointments of Harshal Kumar as Cluster Executive Chef for Hurawalhi Island Resort and Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Alexander Soosai as Executive Chef for Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, and Khemraj Bhatt as Executive Chef for Kuredu Island Resort & Spa.
Harshal Kumar, Cluster Executive Chef for Hurawalhi Island Resort & Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
“I stand in the heart of the kitchen, surrounded by the symphony of sizzling pans and the aromatic dance of herbs and spices. It all began with a love for food – the magic of transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary creations that tantalize taste buds and evoke emotions.” Chef Harshal Kumar
Harshal Kumar, with an illustrious culinary journey spanning years of dedication and expertise, bring a wealth of experience and innovation to his new role. Throughout his distinguished career, Harshal has garnered numerous accolades, including being a gold medalist in the South American Chef Competition and representing the Chef’s Culinary Forum of WACS. His talents have earned him global recognition, with collaborations alongside renowned chefs such as Australian celebrity chef Luke Mangan and Michelin-starred chef Dominik Kappelar. Notable highlights of Harshal’s journey include his tenure with Gordon Ramsay for his pop-up restaurant, Bread Street Kitchen.
About the Resorts: Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of the Maldives, Hurawalhi Island Resort and Kudadoo Maldives Private Island are Forbes five-star accredited resorts offering unparalleled luxury and tranquillity.
Alexander Soosai, Executive Chef for Komandoo Island Resort & Spa
Chef Alex’s culinary journey began with pursuing excellence, obtaining his Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering in 2005. His tenure with Crown & Champa Resorts commenced in 2016 at Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, where he ascended through the ranks with diligence and determination. From Chef de Partie to Junior Sous Chef in 2018, and later to Sous Chef in 2021, Chef Alex’s commitment to culinary excellence and leadership has been unwavering. Chef Alex has earned 2 blue medals and 2 top silver medals in prestigious culinary competitions in the Maldives is renowned for his adept kitchen management skills, including impeccable time management, meticulous attention to detail and strong leadership qualities.
“Assuming the role of Executive Chef at Komandoo Island Resort & Spa is a great honour and privilege,” remarked Alexander Soosai. “My dedication lies in maintaining the utmost standards of culinary brilliance and curating memorable dining experiences for our valued guests.” Chef Alex Soosai
About the Resort: Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, an exclusive adults-only haven for guests aged 18 years and above and boasts 65 charming villas enveloped by a stunning lagoon and expansive white sandy beaches. As the sole resort on the island of Komandoo, it offers discerning guests an idyllic retreat, a fantastic house reef, diving and unparalleled hospitality.
Khemraj Bhatt, Executive Chef for Kuredu Island Resort & Spa
Khemraj Bhatt brings over 19 years of culinary expertise and leadership experience to his role as Executive Chef at Kuredu Island Resort and Spa. His journey in the hospitality industry began as a Trainee at the renowned Grand Hyatt, New Delhi, in 2004. He further honed his skills at Hilton Hotel, India, before assuming roles of increasing responsibility at Foodhall and Kenilworth Hotels & Resorts, where he was recognized as the Best Hospitality Personality among Kolkata hotels. In 2019, Khemraj embarked on his Maldivian journey with Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, showcasing his culinary prowess as Executive Chef for multiple pre-opening. Since joining Kuredu Island Resort and Spa as Executive Sous Chef in February 27, 2023, Khemraj has demonstrated exemplary leadership and culinary creativity, enriching the dining experiences of our guests.
“I am deeply honoured and thrilled to step into the role of Executive Chef at Kuredu Island Resort and Spa,” Chef Khemraj Bhatt expressed. “With a culinary operation spanning 8 dining outlets, I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of culinary excellence and ensuring that every guest embarks on a memorable dining journey.” Chef Khemraj Bhatt
About The Resort: Kuredu Island Resort & Spa nestled in the picturesque Lhaviyani Atoll, Kuredu Island is a top dive and family resort offering a myriad of tropical adventures and unforgettable holiday experiences. With 14 Restaurants and Bars, Kuredu offers a vibrant culinary scene.
About Crown & Champa Resorts
Crown & Champa Resorts (CCR) is the leading resort collection in the Maldives that caters to every purpose of travel and connects travellers with a passion for a life fully lived to the best of this idyllic destination, offering world-class hospitality and thoughtful, attentive services in authentic Maldivian experiences.
The diverse collection of properties includes nine resort islands: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Hurawalhi Island Resort, Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa, Jawakara Islands Maldives, Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, Komandoo Island Resort & Spa, Meeru Island Resort & Spa, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, Innahura Maldives Resort, and the city hotel, Champa Central Hotel.
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