Chef Pradeep has been working at a cafe in Udaipur for seven months. He believes that starting a career from zero is crucial for success in the culinary industry.

Pradeep is a young, enthusiastic chef who is currently serving at a cafe in Udaipur.

Originally from Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, Pradeep has completed high school. He did join the college and cleared the first semester, but while he was giving exams for the second semester, his father passed away, after which he left his studies. Though he wanted to study further and even reapplied for entrance, due to his family’s critical condition, he was unable to continue his studies.

Talking about his professional experience, Pradeep says that he began his career at CPWD, where he worked for four months, but due to long working hours and pressure from seniors, his health got affected, and therefore he left the job. He then tried at various other companies in Udaipur for a job, but due to his mother’s health, he had to take many leaves, which the companies didn’t allow. After his mother’s sad demise, he again came to Udaipur in search of a job, this time as a chef, but just after a month's lockdown happened. Then he went back to his native place.

Lockdown was a very tough period for Pradeep, as he was jobless. He had no money in hand, and even then, there were times when he didn't have an adequate meal. He even used to work as a laborer to make ends meet. After things became a bit normal, he again came to Udaipur and searched for a job, but employers were expecting 12–13 hours of working time with a very minimal salary.

Then, after many trials, he got a job at his current cafe. The owner told him that he would be taught everything and that his training would start from zero. This cafe was not opened until that date. Gradually, with his determination, he started learning, and today it's been 7 months since he successfully served as a chef in the cafe. He kept experimenting and learning new dishes.

Reflecting on his childhood, Pradeep says that his childhood was spent in Neemuch. He was a very good student until 10th grade, but then, due to family issues, his focus got a bit shifted. He was interested in cooking from his early childhood and knew how to cook by the age of seven. And today, his interest has become his passion and his career. Though he didn’t want to do a job in this line, his luck brought him here.

According to Pradeep, a person who is interested in becoming a chef should start from zero. He should approach learning with a fresh perspective, as trying to blend previous knowledge with the distinct cooking styles and techniques of various cafes and restaurants may not yield favorable results.

When asked about his role models, Pradeep says he draws inspiration from his sister, who taught him to stand still in difficult situations. She has always motivated him and never let him fall down. He gives credit for his success to his sister. She is his biggest support and has always guided him to grow in life.

Drawing a comparison between education and experience, Pradeep believes that education will help you gain experience in the chef line, so it is more important.

If Pradeep ever gets a chance to go back in time, he would love to relive his school time, as it was full of enjoyment and fun with friends. He believes that no matter where a person stands in life, his school memories will always be fresh in his mind.

Pradeep believes in taking his team along with him, as he thinks that he can’t grow without them. And this is a perfect example of a team leader who grows with his team.

Pradeep encourages everyone to keep learning throughout life, emphasizing that learning knows no age boundaries. One should always remain eager to acquire new knowledge, as it brings positivity to one's life.