Synopsis:
- Raj is originally from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, a state in south India. He immigrated in 1987 and lived in Chicago until 1997 while completing masters/PhD in chemical engineering at UIC.
- Immigration experience: Confronting a new food culture, new health issues, and learning to cook with roommates from diverse backgrounds on a tight budget.
- Diet and nutrition: Knowledge and awareness of nutrition grew after emigrating to Chicago, blending Indian spices sent by parents with American produce.
