Despite being a global superstar with access to the finest cuisines around the world, Ram Charan’s heart—and stomach—remain firmly rooted in South India. Whether he’s filming in Los Angeles or attending international premieres in Tokyo, one culinary ritual remains non-negotiable: a home-cooked South Indian meal, just like his father, megastar Chiranjeevi.
And the dish he simply can’t do without? Rasam, rice, and an omelette.
Global Star, Local Taste
Ram Charan’s wife, Upasana Kamineni Konidela, recently opened up about her husband’s food preferences in a candid interview. She revealed that no matter where they are in the world, Ram insists on having at least one Indian meal a day—and not just any Indian meal. It has to be South Indian, and it has to be home-cooked.
This unwavering love for traditional food has become a defining trait of the actor’s lifestyle. Even after dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and sampling exotic international fare, Ram’s palate craves the comfort of rasam’s tangy warmth, the simplicity of steamed rice, and the protein punch of a perfectly cooked omelette.
Traveling with Tradition: The Pressure Cooker Chronicles
To meet Ram’s culinary demands while abroad, Upasana has developed a unique travel routine. She carries a pressure cooker on every trip, often cooking in hotel bathrooms to avoid triggering fire alarms. “We plug it in the shower area so we don’t set off any alarms,” she shared, adding that this quirky workaround has become a staple of their travel life.
This tradition actually began with Chiranjeevi, who also insisted on home-cooked South Indian meals during his travels. Ram’s mother, Surekha Konidela, used to prepare dry mixes for Chiranjeevi, which could be quickly turned into upma or pongal with just hot water. That legacy now continues with Ram Charan, and has even inspired a business venture.
Athamma’s Kitchen: From Family Hack to Food Brand
What started as a practical solution to Ram’s food cravings has evolved into a full-fledged brand: Athamma’s Kitchen. Launched by Upasana, the brand offers ready-to-cook South Indian meals based on family recipes passed down from Surekha Konidela.
The idea was born during one of their international trips, when Ram’s craving for rasam struck late at night. Unable to find an Indian restaurant open at 11:30 PM, Upasana realized the need for portable, authentic, and easy-to-make traditional meals. Athamma’s Kitchen now brings that same comfort to fans and foodies across the globe.
Why Rasam, Rice, and Omelette?
Upasana explained that the meal is not just emotionally satisfying—it’s nutritionally balanced. Rasam is rich in spices and antioxidants, rice provides essential carbohydrates, and the omelette adds protein. “It’s healthy too,” she said. “You get rasam that’s good for digestion, and protein from the omelette.”
This simple trio has become Ram Charan’s go-to comfort food, especially during hectic shooting schedules. It’s a reminder that even the most glamorous stars find solace in the flavors of home.
Fans React: Grounded and Relatable
Fans have praised Ram Charan for staying grounded despite his global fame. His commitment to tradition and family values resonates deeply with audiences, especially those from South India who see their own food rituals reflected in his lifestyle.
Social media is abuzz with admiration, with many calling him “the most relatable superstar” and sharing their own stories of traveling with homemade food.
What’s Next?
As Ram Charan continues filming his upcoming project Peddi, his culinary preferences remain unchanged. Whether he’s on set in Europe or attending film festivals in the U.S., rasam, rice, and omelette will always be part of his daily routine.
And with Athamma’s Kitchen gaining traction, fans may soon be able to enjoy the same meals that fuel one of India’s biggest stars.
Sources: Economic Times, Indian Express, Moneycontrol
