India, Oct. 2 -- It's probably an exaggeration to say that chefs are now national celebrities but it is fair to say that they attract more attention than ever before. Every time I participate in the FoodSuperstars's rankings announcement function I am reminded of how much public interest there now is in chefs, though not necessarily the right ones.

The FoodSuperstars list ranks India's Top 60 Chefs (from this year; it was 30 before) and the announcement is always made at a ceremony held in different locations. (It was Kolkata this year.)

I am Chairman of the organisation that compiles the list but it does not necessarily reflect my own preferences: There is a process that involves votes from food writers and commentators from all over I...