The latest episode of Celebrity MasterChef turned into a heated battleground, with tensions flaring between Gaurav Khanna and Nikki Tamboli. While competitive spirits often run high, this time, the friction between them escalated beyond the usual banter.
The clash unfolded during a team challenge where Gaurav and Nikki found themselves on the same side. Unfortunately, their team failed to secure the win, and Nikki was quick to place the blame on Gaurav. Frustration evident, she made sharp remarks, holding him responsible for their loss. Meanwhile, Kabita Singh was asked about Gaurav’s role in the task, given that the two had worked on the dessert. Without hesitation, she stated that his contribution had been minimal, adding that almost everything had been prepared by her.
Gaurav, however, refused to stay silent this time. When Farah Khan brought up Nikki’s claim that he had done nothing, he responded with a pointed remark. He reminded everyone that Kabita was the one who marinated the paneer for Nikki’s dish, yet when it was time for appreciation, the credit wasn’t shared. Farah then turned to Kabita again, asking for clarity on Gaurav’s involvement. She acknowledged that he had made the drink but insisted that the kheer and crumbles were entirely her work.
Unwilling to let this pass, Gaurav shot back. If she was taking full ownership of the dessert, then he hadn’t really lost to Faisal Shaikh, it was Kabita who had lost, he remarked. His words left everyone stunned, making it clear that he was no longer willing to be sidelined.
Later, while preparing his dish, Farah asked him why he had lost his temper. Gaurav opened up, revealing that in the beginning, he had doubted whether he belonged in the competition. Seeing other contestants with strong culinary skills made him question himself. But after making it to the sixth week, he no longer felt that way. “Sometimes, you have to tell the other person- enough,” he declared, a statement that resonated with many.
His supporters were thrilled to see him standing his ground. Fans flooded social media with praise. One comment celebrated his stance, stating, “ He took a firm stand for himself and this is the applause worthy moment Good job Gaurav… And thanks for clarifying that it was Kavita Ji’s kheer, crumble and jelly warna kal se kuch logon ka chapad chapad band hi nhi ho raha tha.”
Another comment was more direct, calling Nikki out for her behavior. The user described her, “ “Panauti” “Kuch nahi kiya” “only I can save this team”.. She is the most egoistic,selfish,self-centered person ever.She doesn’t deserve to be in anybody’s team. She can cook the best dish,but she can never be a winner to me. Winners don’t come with attitude.”
I just want to say to you @iamgauravkhanna I love your thoughts, your determination and persona but what I love the most is the way you handle the people around u
You know the right time and the method to give the best reply
Ur proud fan 🫶 #GauravKhanna #CelebrityMasterChef pic.twitter.com/PT1l5g46HX
— Isha Bharadwaj (@Isha8093) March 5, 2025The conflict between Gaurav, Nikki, and Kabita may have been intense, but for many, it was also a turning point. Gaurav’s decision to speak up was a defining moment, proving that he was no longer willing to be underestimated.