Renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor recently shared an intriguing anecdote about his involvement with the first season of MasterChef India. According to Kapoor, he was originally approached to be a judge on the show when it was adapted for Indian audiences in 2010. However, there was a surprising twist in the negotiations that ultimately led to his absence from the inaugural season. ALSO READ: Khel Khel Mein: Chitrangda Singh REACTS To Her Cameo Being Loved By The Fans; Actress Says, ‘It’s Always Amazing To Team Up With Akshay Kumar’
In a candid interview with Siddharth Kannan, Kapoor recounted how he was approached by the showrunners to join MasterChef India as a fellow judge alongside Akshay Kumar, who had already been signed for the role. Kapoor, widely recognized as one of India's most prominent culinary figures, was flattered by the offer but made a unique demand. He insisted that he should be paid one rupee more than Akshay Kumar, as cooking was his domain, and he believed that as a chef, he should be compensated accordingly. ALSO READ: Stree 2: Akshay Kumar’s Cameo In Rajkummar Rao-Shraddha Kapoor Starrer Is Very Impressive! Here’s What You Are Missing Out If You Haven’t Watch The Film Yet
Kapoor's demand reportedly left the showrunners in shock. He explained his reasoning by stating that at that time, he was considered the top chef in India, with no one in the industry matching his stature. He further emphasized that while he had great respect for Akshay Kumar, a close friend and a highly respected professional, the kitchen was his territory, and he felt justified in asking for a higher fee. Kapoor recounted how the showrunners were initially taken aback by his condition and did not immediately agree to it. However, after some time, they returned to him with a new proposal. They had decided to replace Akshay Kumar and offered Kapoor the role of a judge on his own terms.
Ultimately, Sanjeev did not participate in the first season of MasterChef India but joined the show in its second season. He continued his role as a judge through the fourth season, contributing significantly to the show's success. After Kapoor's departure, several other chefs took on the judging responsibilities, but chefs like Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar became the most consistent faces of the show over the years.
MasterChef India has since become a beloved cooking competition in the country, with eight seasons aired in Hindi alone. Kapoor's story sheds light on the behind-the-scenes negotiations that shaped the show's early years and highlights his confidence in his culinary expertise. His insistence on being compensated fairly for his work, especially in his own field, reflects the importance of knowing one's worth and standing firm in negotiations, even in the face of unexpected challenges.
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