Sri Lankan culinary icon Chef Publis Silva has been recognised at the SLIM-Kantar People’s Awards 2026, reaffirming his enduring contribution to the nation’s food culture and heritage. The accolade, based on nationwide public opinion, celebrates some of Sri Lanka’s most admired public figures.

Chef Deshabandu Dr T. Publis Silva’s remarkable journey began in 1956 at the iconic Mount Lavinia Hotel, where he joined as a kitchen helper. Over more than seven decades, he rose to become the Director of Culinary Affairs and Promotions, playing a defining role in preserving and promoting traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. His work has brought Sri Lankan gastronomy to international attention while safeguarding age-old recipes for future generations.

Both Chef Publis and Mount Lavinia Hotel have become synonymous with authentic Sri Lankan dining, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary craftsmanship.

The SLIM-Kantar People’s Awards, organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing in collaboration with Kantar, is one of the country’s most recognised award platforms, with winners selected through extensive consumer research.

Commenting on the honour, Mount Lavinia Hotel’s Chief Operating Officer, Anura Dewapura, said: “We are proud to have Chef Publis Silva as our legend. He is a remarkable chef, an exceptional leader, and a true mentor to our team. On behalf of the hotel and the entire team, we would like to warmly congratulate him on this outstanding achievement.”

The hotel also expressed its gratitude to the organisers of the SLIM-Kantar People’s Awards 2026 for acknowledging Chef Publis Silva’s lifetime of service.

This latest recognition further cements his legacy as a national treasure in Sri Lanka’s culinary landscape and underscores his lasting influence on the country’s food identity.