Text written by VoyaG and shared from the Mauritius Chefs Association
A Night of Tribute and Excellence
Mauritian Chefs Association Honors Chef Vijranand Kallooa’s 50-Year Career
The Mauritian Chefs Association hosted an unforgettable Enthronement Night on August 23rd, a celebration of culinary excellence, unity, and heritage at Rêve D’R in Petit Raffray. This year’s gathering carried a special resonance, marked by two defining moments:
- A heartfelt tribute to Chef Vijranand Kallooa, honoring his 50 years of dedication to the culinary arts.
- The recognition of Dr Mooroogen Coopen, president of the association, recently awarded a Doctorate from the Dunster Business School of Switzerland.
Celebrating Chef Vijranand Kallooa
Few chefs embody Mauritius’ culinary journey as profoundly as Chef Vijranand Kallooa. From his first steps in 1975 at the legendary St Géran, to opening landmark resorts such as Coco Beach, Long Beach, Kanahura in the Maldives, and leading kitchens across the island, his career is a story of passion, perseverance, and inspiration.
With over five decades of service, multiple international medals, and the distinction of opening five hotels, Chef Kallooa has left an indelible mark on the Mauritian hospitality industry. For 27 years, he has also served as treasurer of the Mauritian Chefs Association, strengthening its foundations and mentoring new generations.
“I became a chef at 17, and today at 67, I still cook with the same passion. If one day I am asked to cook on the moon, I’ll go — because this is more than a profession, it’s a love,” he shared with emotion, receiving a standing ovation from his peers.
Honoring Dr Mooroogen Coopen
The evening also celebrated the leadership of Dr Mooroogen Coopen, president of the Mauritian Chefs Association, who was recently awarded a Doctorate of Philosophy in Leadership and Hospitalility Management from Dunster Business School of Switzerland.
Under his guidance, the Association has become a strong advocate for sustainable cuisine, local products, and international collaboration, proudly representing Mauritius within the World Association of Chefs Societies, the Global Culinary Alliance, and the African Culinary Alliance.
A Culinary Vision for the Future
More than a ceremony, the Enthronement Night reaffirmed the mission of the Mauritian Chefs Association: to inspire, educate, and connect. With a clear commitment to supporting young talent, fostering innovation, and preserving tradition, the Association continues to position Mauritius as a world-class gastronomic destination.
✨ The evening was above all a moving tribute to Chef Vijranand Kallooa’s extraordinary career, and a celebration of leadership embodied by Dr Mooroogen Coopen — two figures whose passion continues to shape Mauritius’ culinary identity.
