Gaurav Khanna has been crowned the very first winner of Celebrity MasterChef India, taking home the golden trophy and a prize of ₹20 lakh. A moment of pride, celebration, and emotion unfolded as the actor turned chef impressed the nation with his culinary journey, culminating in a dish that stunned the judges and won hearts.
In the grand finale, Gaurav presented a dish titled Dakshin Bharat. With jackfruit as the centerpiece, the plate carried the essence of South Indian flavors layered with finesse. His thoughtful use of ingredients, including the daring combination of walnuts and peanuts, created a beautiful balance of texture and taste. It wasn’t just a dish; it was a reflection of his persistence and artistry.
The judging panel, which included Sanjeev Kapoor, Ranveer Brar, and Farah Khan, couldn’t stop raving about the experience. Vikas Khanna, though absent due to an urgent commitment at his New York restaurant, had earlier expressed deep admiration for Gaurav’s culinary ethics and emotional strength. He said, “Never met anyone like you… you reminded me what it truly means to be a winner with integrity, empathy, and grace.”
Ranveer Brar also shared a heartfelt tribute to the winner, praising the consistency of Gaurav’s dishes throughout the competition. In a post, he wrote, “Tumhari har dish mein zidd, passion aur creativity thi… and I can’t wait to see where your food journey goes next.” His note captured the essence of what made Gaurav stand out, his unwavering focus and sincere effort in every round.
Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, visibly moved by the dish, described it as “mindboggling”, emphasizing its flavor, precision, and storytelling. The technical brilliance didn’t go unnoticed either. Chef Kunal Kapur, joining in the celebration online, congratulated Gaurav warmly, calling him an inspiration and saying his journey would motivate many more to follow their passion.
During the final tasting, Ranveer was particularly surprised by the brave choice of blending nuts into a savory course. It was an unusual pairing but executed with such control that it left even seasoned chefs nodding in appreciation. The jackfruit, often underused in gourmet cooking, became a hero ingredient in Gaurav’s hands, capturing the depth and versatility of regional cuisine.
Gaurav’s story from actor to culinary champion feels like a perfect recipe for inspiration. It’s about courage, creativity, and staying grounded even when the spotlight shines brightest. His victory marks not just a milestone for the show, but a celebration of resilience and reinvention.