Padma Lakshmi

Padma Lakshmi (born 1970) is an Indian-American author, model, television host, and activist. Born in Chennai, India, she was raised in both India and the United States. Lakshmi began her career as a fashion model before expanding into writing and media. She is the author of the memoir *Love, Loss, and What We Ate*, which recounts her life across cultures and her relationship to food. She became widely known as the longtime host and executive producer of Bravo’s *Top Chef*. Lakshmi has also used her public platform to advocate on issues including women’s health and immigrant rights.