
In a candid revelation, renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor has disclosed that he was removed from the lineup of judges for the first season of “MasterChef India” due to a salary dispute involving Bollywood star Akshay Kumar. The show, which made its debut in India in 2010, was initially set to feature a high-profile panel of judges, including Akshay Kumar.
Sanjeev Kapoor’s Salary Demand and Its Fallout
In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, Sanjeev Kapoor shared that his removal from the show was a direct result of his demand for a higher salary than that of Akshay Kumar. Kapoor, known for his influential presence in the culinary world, reportedly requested to be paid one rupee more than Kumar, citing his expertise and reputation in the field of cooking.
Kapoor’s condition for joining the show reportedly took the showrunners by surprise. He explained, “When ‘MasterChef India’ was being planned, I was approached to be a judge. During the discussions, I made it clear that I wanted to earn a rupee more than Akshay Kumar because cooking is my domain.”
The Showrunners’ Reaction
According to Kapoor, the showrunners were stunned by his demand. He elaborated on the situation, “At that time, the producers had already signed Akshay Kumar as one of the judges. I was told that there was no one more prominent than me in the culinary world, so they had decided to go with Kumar, who is a dear friend and a brilliant professional.”
The showrunners’ decision to retain Kumar despite Kapoor’s higher salary demand illustrates the complexities of high-stakes negotiations in the entertainment industry. Kapoor’s demand, though seemingly minor, was a sticking point that led to his exclusion from the prestigious culinary competition.
MasterChef India: A Look Back
“MasterChef India” premiered in 2010 and quickly became a hit, capturing the attention of audiences with its innovative format and star-studded panel of judges. Akshay Kumar was one of the original judges, bringing his star power and charm to the show. His involvement was seen as a major coup for the show’s debut season.
Sanjeev Kapoor, who is celebrated for his extensive contributions to Indian cuisine and television, would have brought a different dynamic to the show. His exclusion from the initial season has since become a notable anecdote in the story of “MasterChef India.”
Kapoor’s Influence and Legacy
Sanjeev Kapoor’s influence in the culinary world is well-established. Known for his popular television shows and cookbooks, Kapoor has played a significant role in popularizing Indian cuisine globally. His involvement in any culinary venture is seen as a major asset, which makes his removal from “MasterChef India” all the more intriguing.
Despite not being part of the show, Kapoor’s legacy continues to inspire chefs and food enthusiasts across the country. His contributions to the culinary arts have earned him a revered place in Indian gastronomy.
Current Developments and Reflections
As the culinary world reflects on Kapoor’s revelation, it also highlights the broader dynamics of celebrity involvement in high-profile television shows. The story serves as a reminder of the complex negotiations and decisions behind the scenes that shape the entertainment industry.
With “MasterChef India” continuing to be a popular format, the show has evolved over the years, featuring various judges and culinary experts. Kapoor’s story adds a layer of intrigue to the history of the show and underscores the high stakes involved in celebrity television.
As the narrative unfolds, it remains a testament to the intersection of fame, professional pride, and the competitive nature of television entertainment.