The internet is often a breeding ground for the strangest of things – it isn’t always the best place to be.
Yet the ambiguity of what it offers is what keeps us hooked and coming back for more. The wholesome side of the internet especially; the healer of the deepest of first-world wounds.
Do you recall the first time you chanced upon Grandpa’s Kitchen? It offered the right concoction that touched the hardest of hearts. An elderly man, a bonfire, and a purpose.
Loving, Caring, Sharing, This is my Family!
Affectionately known as Grandpa to the internet community, Narayana Reddy, captured the hearts of many for his generosity towards the orphaned children in the state of Telangana in India.
Just look at that smile~
The 73-year-old was famed for serving up ridiculously humongous portions of food ranging from every possible dish you can think of. What’s even more absurd is the way he prepares them.
It’s a stark contrast from the usual cooking channels on YouTube. Mr Reddy used little to none of the fancy gadgets we see nowadays. Instead, he relied on traditional methods and a humble bonfire.
His YouTube journey was not a mere shot at fame. According to the channel’s Patreon page, “our goal is to provide basic necessities like food, clothing, school supplies, and birthday gifts to orphans.”
Within the span of just two years, Grandpa’s kitchen had garnered over six million subscribers.
Mourning the Loss of Internet’s Favourite Grandpa
His last cooking video was posted on 20 September. His health was at a steady decline and his son, Shrikant Reddy, explained that the former needed a break but will be back shortly.
Per the elderly’s request, his son continued producing the videos on his behalf.
Grandpa made his final YouTube appearance through a live stream on his channel last week. Mr Reddy had become obviously haggard. Fans and viewers took notice of the difference in his appearance.
Unfortunately, Grandpa succumbed to the deterioration of his health. On 30 October, a video was uploaded on Grandpa’s Kitchen which confirmed that he had passed away on 27 October at the age of 73.
Fans from all over the world expressed their heartfelt condolences and tributes to the internet’s favourite grandpa.
Grandpa from Grandpa's kitchen is dead. He was the most wholesome man on all of youtube, making large meals which he shared with orphans in his community. Been following him for a long time, and I cant really put into words how painful this is for me.
Rest in Peace pic.twitter.com/ULgDPAUQD6
— Horrifying cheese (@YellowishCheese) October 30, 2019
Just found out that grandpa from Grandpa's Kitchen YouTube channel has passed on. This man is a real hero, cooking to feed the less fortunate kids. Loved his videos.
I hope whatever he started is carried on by someone else. RIP grandpa Narayana Reddy, the world has lost a hero. pic.twitter.com/aYepGxBmRf
— Meeran Siva (@MeeransGTR) October 30, 2019
not my grandpa but, I'm gonna miss your cooking video. utterly devastated to know that you are gone. Rest in peace grandpa.???.#GrandpaKitchen // Grandpa's Kitchen. pic.twitter.com/QQuesIFN7K
— ₩HΔCKBØł (@WHACKBOI) October 30, 2019
Grandpa is indeed one of the internet’s biggest loss. His generosity and warmth has touched the hearts and lives of many. He has even become an inspiration to some of us.
What follows next for Grandpa’s Kitchen remains unknown. But what we do know is that his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of his viewers.
Goody Feed extends its condolences to the family and friends of Mr Reddy. Rest easy and mix well, Grandpa.
