Celebrity chefs Ranveer Brar and Kunal Kapur, who joined Vikas Khanna as judges on MasterChef India season 9, believe the popular cooking reality show has played a major role in elevating everyday cooking and giving home chefs long-overdue respect and recognition. Ranveer Brar talks about his experience Speaking about the show’s impact, Ranveer Brar highlighted how cooking at home was once largely overlooked. “Pre-MasterChef, if you were cooking at home, you weren't respected or recognised for it. I think that the beacon of respect and recognition to everyday cooking came through MasterChef,” he said. According to Brar, the show transformed home cooking into something far more significant. “It catapulted into something bigger, like bringing an entire industry together, the whole food media ecosystem, whether it is smaller channels doing stronger food media or food media on social media,” he added. Brar further pointed out how deeply the show is woven into today’s food content landscape. “A lot of food creators, I'd say 50 per cent of them would be associated with MasterChef in some form. It's given recognition and respect to the home kitchen,” he said. Kunal Kapur on returning with MasterChef India For Kunal Kapur, MasterChef India represents a vast learning platform that goes far beyond traditional culinary education. “The moment the doors of MasterChef India opened, you found that there is so much more beyond what you were taught in a culinary college or in your hotels, that the knowledge is right out there, and one didn't have to travel, the knowledge is coming to you,” he shared. Kapur also spoke about how the show sparks curiosity and deeper exploration of food cultures. “So, you had this curiosity of getting to understand what has come in front of you, the food, the people, the style of cooking, and then go back home and keep researching more, travel to that place, understand it a little more better, whether it's a custom, a certain food, which is driven by a certain festival or harvest,” he said. Apart from his culinary journey and YouTube channel, Ranveer Brar has also ventured into acting, which he says helps him express himself better. “These are the two acting gigs that I've done, Ma Kaasam has been shot and Such Is Life is mostly going to be shot in the US starting spring. The idea is to do one or two projects every year as it allows me to express myself even better and have a clearer head. Acting clears my head, makes me a better chef as well, and I absolutely enjoy it,” Brar said. When asked about exploring cinema, Kunal Kapur said he is open to the idea. “I'm somebody who likes to watch movies. I'm a little particular about which movie I watch; I wait for reviews, I wait who's the actor, director, what kind of story it is and everything.” He added with a smile, “I'm super keen to work in movies… I'm super open, I'm putting it out there in the universe, why not?”
05 January,2026 06:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJaaved Jaaferi is a name synonymous with some of Indian television’s most iconic entertainment shows. From being a beloved judge on Boogie Woogie to lending his energetic voice as the narrator of Takeshi’s Castle, Jaaved carved a unique space for himself and earned a massive fan following. However, despite his deep association with dance-based reality shows, the actor has expressed disappointment with how the genre has evolved over the years. Jaaved Jaaferi reacts to reality shows on TV In a recent interview with Times of India, Jaaved shared that most dance reality shows today feel repetitive, even though their formats may differ on paper. According to him, the visual presentation and overall structure lack originality. He pointed out that while there is no shortage of talent, very few shows manage to stand out or feel memorable. In his words, “They all look the same. While the formats evolve, the core presentation rarely does. There's great talent around but when it comes to the shows, nothing really stands out.” Reflecting on the era of Boogie Woogie, Jaaved highlighted how different the creative environment was back then. He explained that dancers today have easy access to global content online and often pick up styles from across the world. “Today, dancers watch everything online and pick up styles from all over the world. We did not have the kind of exposure back then,” he said. He added that Boogie Woogie worked because it was original and not inspired by any international format. “Our show was original. It wasn’t copied. If it ever comes back, it has to be version 2, different and fresh,” he stressed. Boogie Woogie, which aired from 1996 to 2014, was one of India’s earliest talent-based reality shows. Co-hosted and judged by Jaaved alongside Naved Jafri and Ravi Behl, the show played a crucial role in popularising dance on Indian television and introduced audiences to a new form of interactive entertainment. On the work front On the film front, Jaaved was last seen in De De Pyaar De 2, released in November 2025. The film starred Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh and his son Meezaan Jafri. Jaaved’s dance face-off with Meezaan in the song “3 Shaukk” became a viral sensation online. He will next be seen in Rahi Anil Barve’s fantasy thriller Mayasabha, slated for release on January 16, 2026.
05 January,2026 05:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActress Jiya Shankar is once again in the limelight due to her personal life. After dismissing the engagement rumours with Bigg Boss OTT 2 co-contestant Abhishek Malhan, she recently dropped a romantic photograph with a mystery man. As the speculations surrounding who this mystery guy might be gain momentum, Jiya's team has issued a statement requesting privacy, claiming that the actress does not wish to be a part of “publicity stunts or manufactured narratives”. Jiya Shankar’s team issues statement The statement underlined that she does not participate in publicity stunts, seeking to dispel ongoing rumours and reinforce her commitment to maintaining boundaries regarding her personal life. The official note from her team read, “We, as representatives of Jiya, have always maintained a clear and consistent stance: she does not engage in publicity stunts or manufactured narratives. And this is something that she has addressed more than once, as shutting down the rumours and the trollers was our only intent and not to spark unnecessary debates,” they stated. They added that a credible artist like Jiya, with a body of work that speaks for itself, has never relied on controversy for momentum. “Her focus remains firmly on her craft, personal growth, and the life she has consciously chosen to build with integrity and independence. She is content, secure, and grateful for the love she receives, while choosing to share only what aligns with her values. We urge conversations to remain respectful, positive, and centred on meaningful work rather than speculation. Regards, Team Jiya Shankar,” they went on to say. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jiyaa Shankar (@jiyaashankarofficial) Jiya and Abhishek recently rubbished all the rumours of them being engaged. Taking to social media, Jiya stated that she was neither dating nor engaged to Abhishek. Abhishek Malhan’s reaction to rumours Abhishek also reacted to his link-up rumours with Jiya through a social media post, saying, “I want to make one thing very clear, please stop linking my name with anyone.” He further pointed out that he had participated in the show (Bigg Boss OTT 2) three years ago and his chapter with Jiya ended there. About Jiya Shankar’s mystery man Bigg Boss OTT 2 co-contestant Abhishek Malhan made headlines again after reports claimed that Jiya and Fukra Insaan were set to get engaged soon. Well, Jiya took to her social media handle and shared a mushy photo with a mystery guy. As per the claims (unverified), Jiya has been dating Kaaran Dhanak. He is reportedly operating a hookah parlour in the US and is also involved in legal issues.
05 January,2026 04:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTelevision actors Mahhi Vij and Jay Bhanushali have reportedly decided to part ways after giving their marriage ample time and effort. According to sources close to the couple, the separation was mutual and amicable, with both choosing to move on peacefully as their relationship was no longer working. Rather than allowing differences to escalate into conflict, the two agreed that a respectful separation was the healthiest path forward. Mahhi Vij seeks no alimony from separation Sources further reveal that Mahhi Vij has not sought any alimony or maintenance following the separation. The actress reportedly made a conscious decision to avoid financial disputes, prioritising dignity, closure and emotional well-being over prolonged legal proceedings. This understanding extended to matters concerning their children as well, with both parents choosing to handle the situation maturely and responsibly. Those familiar with the situation say that Mahhi and Jay tried hard to make their marriage work before arriving at this decision. Despite efforts to reconcile and resolve ongoing differences, the challenges persisted, eventually leading them to mutually agree on separation. The news came as a surprise to many in the television industry and among fans, especially after the couple shared the update on their respective social media platforms. Mahhi Vij is focusing on her career Following the separation, Mahhi Vij is said to be focusing entirely on her professional journey. The actress has reportedly chosen to channel her energy into work, exploring new opportunities and commitments with renewed determination. People close to her share that Mahhi is in a positive headspace, keen on moving forward independently and concentrating on personal growth alongside her career. Mahhi Vij and Jay Bhanushali tied the knot on February 9, 2011, and went on to become one of the most loved celebrity couples on Indian television. Over the years, they shared several milestones together and often spoke about family values and togetherness. The couple are parents to their daughter Tara and foster parents to Khushi and Rajveer, who have always been an important part of their lives. While their marital journey has now come to an end, sources emphasise that the separation has been handled with mutual respect, maturity and understanding. Both Mahhi and Jay are said to be focused on ensuring peace and stability for themselves and their children as they begin this new phase of life separately.
05 January,2026 03:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJust like a true Mumbaikar, actress Surbhi Chandna is missing Vada Pao during her trip abroad. In her latest Instagram post, Surbhi revealed that after spending 15 days away from the country, she is craving for the traffic Vada Pao and some other unique things the city has to offer. She was seen giving her own twist to actor Suniel Shetty's dialogue from the 2006 romantic comedy, Shaadi Se Pehle, starring Akshay Khanna, Suniel Shetty, Ayesha Takia, Mallika Sherawat, and Aftab Shivdasani. In the video, Surbhi expressed her desire to go back to her city and enjoy all its wonderful offerings. "Day 15 abroad and you are craving Traffic Vada Pao & Khadde," the text overlay on the clip read. In the dialogue, Suniel Shetty's character is expressing his longing for the city. "When it Finally Hits You...Mumbai (Pink heart emoji) Vada Pao Teri Yaad Aa Gayi (sic)," Surbhi captioned the post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Surbhi Chandna (@officialsurbhic) On another note, Surbhi recently opened up about her journey with Naagin, revealing that she did not say yes to the show immediately. As she appeared on actress Rashami Desai’s talk show, Surbhi admitted that working with ace producer Ekta Kapoor had always been high on her bucket list, which eventually made her do Naagin. “I don't fit the criteria….I told them that I am dying to work with Balaji but give me some other show… then they asked me to think over it and I requested some time. They were supposed to start with an actor before me, then there’s this story of reincarnation, and then comes my role in the series as the Naagin, and that’s when I instantly got into action mode," revealed Surbhi. Rashami also took a fun jibe at Surbhi, pointing out a humorous drawback of being linked to Naagin. “Kids come up to you and say, ‘Aunty, Naagin ban ke dikhao na," she remarked. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
05 January,2026 03:31 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSOn December 7, 2025, the 19th season of the Salman Khan-hosted Bigg Boss concluded with a spectacular finale in which actor Gaurav Khanna raised the trophy. In addition, he received a car and a cash award of Rs 50 lakh for winning the show. But even after a month, Gaurav still hasn't received the automobile he was promised, according to a recent video he did with fellow resident Pranit More on his YouTube account. Gaurav Khanna hasn't received the car yet Gaurav caught up with fellow housemate Pranit and discussed their Bigg Boss experience in a segment of his vlog. While eating dinner, Pranit took up a spoon, while Gaurav said he was eating with his hands, just like he had done on the reality show. When asked if there was a "Bigg Boss effect," Pranit replied, "Ameeron wali jagah ko leke aaya hai. (You brought me to a rich place)," followed by, "Main ameer ban chuka hoon (I am rich now)." Afterwards, Gaurav packed Pranit some food and dessert, thanking him for helping him around the house and jokingly urging him not to steal from the refrigerator. Gaurav laughed when Pranit requested him to give him his car as well. He said, "Woh mujhe hi nahi mili abhi tak (I haven’t gotten it yet)." Gaurav even liked a fan’s comment under the video that read, "Aisa kyun lag rha hai vlog ko as a reminder use kara gya. Bigg boss walon ko yadd dilane ke liye ki car abhi nhi mili hai jaldi di jaye (Why do I feel like this Vlog is a reminder to Bigg Boss to give him the car?)" With the theme "Iss Baar Chalegi Gharwalon Ki Sarkaar" (this time, the housemates will reign), Bigg Boss 19 gave the game a parliament-style twist. Farrhana Bhatt came in second, and Gaurav Khanna emerged victorious. Pranit More, the second runner-up on the reality show, also came very close to making it to the final. Gaurav Khanna on lifting the trophy When Gaurav lifted the trophy, the actor shared with mid-day, "I think in my last reality show, also, this thing was very evident. A lot of people there were also thinking I'm not worth it for that show, and I won that show as well. I always feel that reality shows are marathons, they are not sprints, and I believe in doing the right thing at the right time, at the right moment in my way. So, I'm very happy that all fell in the right places and I'm here with you today."
05 January,2026 02:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter carving a niche for herself in the Gujarati film industry and making her presence felt in Bollywood with films like Jayeshbhai Jordaar, Kaushaljis vs Kaushal and Dhadak 2, Deeksha Joshi is now winning hearts on the small screen as Deepti in Sony SAB’s popular show Pushpa Impossible. Marking her television debut, Deeksha joined the show post the seven-year leap, adding a fresh dynamic to the narrative. Deeksha Joshi shares experience Sharing her experience of working on a television set, Deeksha reveals how different the medium is compared to films. From longer shooting hours to mastering technical precision while performing emotionally charged scenes, the actor says television has pushed her out of her comfort zone. Being surrounded by seasoned actors on the sets has also been a learning curve, helping her understand consistency, discipline, and the pace required to deliver impactful performances on a daily basis. These initial days, she says, have been both humbling and enriching, adding new layers to her craft. Deeksha Joshi reflects on how different television is from films and shared, “I have worked in films, theatre, short formats and ads before, but television was completely new for me. In television, the pace is very fast and you have to be emotionally prepared, technically strong and consistent every single day. Unlike films, there is no extra time to ease into a scene. Television has taught me how to hold my character through long scenes, manage continuity and stay connected to the emotion despite quick turnarounds. I felt these were areas I needed to work on, and TV is helping me build a strong foundation. Instead of rushing into films, I wanted to focus on sharpening my craft. Every day on set feels like a classroom, especially while working with such experienced actors, and it’s making me more confident as an actor overall.” Recent track of Pushpa Impossible The recent track marked the exit of Anshul Trivedi from the show, as his character gets killed by his own wife and now Pushpa heads into a courtroom drama to seek justice for her friend Jugal. She vows to punish Kadambari for killing Jugal and ruining her family.
05 January,2026 01:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij ended months of rumours by announcing their separation 14 years after their marriage on Sunday, January 4, 2025. Now, a day after the heartbreaking announcement, the actress has slammed media reports for linking her recent stories to her separation. She shared some cryptic notes on her Instagram stories, which many believed were directed towards Jay Bhanushali. Mahhi Vij slams media reports After Mahhi shared stories about being a good person and prioritising self, everyone assumed that she was trying to convey something and that the notes were directed towards Jay. However, Mahhi has rubbished all such claims by sharing a picture with Jay. The actress shared a selfie with Jay Bhanushali and wrote, “Yeah, this is us." She further continued, “For likes n comments, media can stoop to any level. My stories are not for Jay. Stop making it dirty, just like your journalism." (sic) She posted another story wherein she slammed the media for their assumptions, saying, “Chalo logon ke b**bs se nikal ke kuch toh mil raha media ko post karne ke liye. Cryptic post, hahahaha… kitne bure haal hain logon ke, p**ties tak ke videos daal dete hain." (sic) Mahhi Vij and Jay Bhanushali announce divorce Mahhi Vij and Jay Bhanushali tied the knot on November 11, 2011. They have three children together, daughter Tara, born in 2019, and foster children Rajveer and Khushi. The pair took to their social media profiles to announce their separation and wrote, “Today, we choose to part ways on a journey called life, yet we continue to have each other’s back. Peace, growth, kindness, and humanity have always been our guiding values. For the sake of our children, Tara, Khushi, and Rajveer, we commit to being the best parents, the best friends, and whatever else it takes to do what is right for them." “Though we walk separate paths, there is no villain in this story and no negativity attached to this decision. Before any conclusions are drawn, please know that we choose peace over drama and sanity above all else. We continue to respect one another, support one another, and remain friends, as we always have been. With mutual respect, we ask for your respect, love, and kindness as we move forward. Mahhi Vij & Jay Bhanushali," their official statement read.
05 January,2026 12:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVeteran actress Sudha Chandran recently organised her annual Mata Ki Chawki, continuing her long-standing tradition of devotion and seva. The spiritually charged evening brought together family members, close associates, and several personalities from the television industry. The Naagin actress was seen completely immersed in devotion as she offered her prayers to Maa Kali. A video from the celebration has gone viral, and it shows the actress in a trance-like state during a Devi bhajan. Sudha Chandran gets possessed during Mata Ki Chowki In the video, Sudha Chandran is seen dressed in a white and red saree. The clip shows Sudha visibly unable to control her emotions, jumping around while three people try to hold her still. The actress is also seen biting people, at one point breaking down as she bows before the goddess. In another moment, she is seen performing a spontaneous devotional dance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by mid-day (@middayindia) While commenting on the viral reel, one user wrote, “Kabhi hasna nahi chahiye, galat baat hai. Har kisi ka apna dharm hai.” Another commented, “Ye jo comment mein has rahe hain na, unhe shayad nahi pata ki Mata Rani apne sacche bhakton mein pravesh karti hain, jaise ki Sudha ji mein Mata Rani aayi hain. Jai Mata Di.” Meanwhile, a third user wrote, “This is a private moment and should not have been posted for the public.” Sudha Chandran on hosting the spiritual evening The event was attended by several TV celebs, including Jaswir Kaur, Anurag Sharma, Kiran Kumar, and several others. Speaking on the occasion, Sudha Chandran shared that organising Mata Ki Chawki every year is a deeply personal spiritual practice for her. Expressing gratitude, she said the divine power has consistently guided her journey and blessed not only her but everyone around her. More about Sudha Chandran Sudha Chandran is an acclaimed Bharatanatyam dancer and a familiar face on Indian television. She shot to widespread fame with her iconic portrayal of Ramola Sikand in Kaahin Kissii Roz. Over the years, she has been part of popular shows such as Naagin, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, and Mata Ki Chowki: Kalyug Mein Bhakti Ki Shakti, among others. In addition to her television work, Sudha has also featured in several Bollywood and regional-language films.
04 January,2026 03:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij were one of the most adored couples on television. However, they have been in the news for all the wrong reasons for quite some time. Reports were rife that the couple had parted ways and were living separately. They remained tight-lipped about it for a long time. Looks like the cat is out of the bag now, as Jay Bhanushali has shared an official statement confirming that he and Mahhi have parted ways and continue to co-parent their kids while requesting privacy. Jay Bhanushali confirms divorce with Mahhi Vij Taking to his Instagram Stories, Jay penned a long note that read, “Today, we choose to part ways on a journey called life, yet we continue to have each other’s back. Peace, growth, kindness, and humanity have always been our guiding values.” He stated how they will continue to co-parent their kids. “For the sake of our children — Tara, Khushi, and Rajveer — we commit to being the best parents, the best friends, and whatever else it takes to do what is right for them.” Jay continued, “Though we walk separate paths, there is no villain in this story and no negativity attached to this decision. Before any conclusions are drawn, please know that we choose peace over drama and sanity above all else.” Urging all to respect his privacy, the actor concluded, “We continue to respect one another, support one another, and remain friends, as we always have been. With mutual respect, we ask for your respect, love, and kindness as we move forward.” About Jay and Mahhi Jay and Mahhi first met at a friend’s party and later reconnected at a nightclub, where their friendship blossomed into love. After a dreamy proposal, they tied the knot in 2010. Breaking stereotypes, Jay and Mahhi adopted their house help’s children, Rajveer and Khushi, in 2017. Two years later, they welcomed baby girl Tara on August 3, 2019. In October, a report in HT stated, “It’s over? After 14 years of marriage, Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij are heading for a divorce. Sources confirmed that the divorce papers were signed and finalised between July and August 2025. The custody of their three children has also been decided.” Reacting to the claims, Mahhi warned of legal action against those who spread false narratives. On the work front, she made a comeback with Seher Hone Ko Hai, which airs on Colors TV.
04 January,2026 01:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentExcitement is steadily building among television and OTT viewers as the upcoming reality show The 50 gears up for its much awaited launch. The show is expected to premiere on 1 February 2026 and will be available for viewers on Colors TV as well as Jio Hotstar. With a fresh concept and a large scale format, the series is already being talked about as one of the most anticipated reality shows of the year. Farah Khan to be a part of the show The recently released teaser has sparked curiosity, especially because of filmmaker Farah Khan’s presence. While the makers have not clearly revealed her role, fans are speculating whether she will be hosting the show or guiding the contestants in some capacity. Farah’s involvement alone has added to the buzz, with viewers eager to see how her personality and experience will influence the show’s dynamics. The rumoured list of contestants As the title suggests, The 50 will feature fifty contestants competing against one another. These participants are expected to come from a mix of backgrounds, including social media influencers, content creators, and well known digital personalities. Names like Orry, Kusha Kapila and Tanya Mittal are being widely discussed as probable contestants, although no official confirmation has been made yet. Social media users have also begun campaigning for their favourites to join the show, with many urging the makers to bring in popular faces like Khanzaadi. While the format of the show remains under wraps, industry chatter suggests that the competition will focus heavily on strategy, alliances and intense challenges. With such a large number of contestants, viewers can expect frequent twists, shifting dynamics and unpredictable eliminations that will keep the drama high throughout the season. The show will follow a dual release model, airing on television while also streaming online, allowing it to reach a wider audience across different viewing preferences. This approach reflects the growing demand for reality content that blends traditional television reach with digital convenience. With its ambitious scale, intriguing lineup and Farah Khan’s association, The 50 is already generating strong interest. Fans are now eagerly waiting for the official contestant list and further details, hoping the show lives up to its promise of delivering entertainment, drama and high stakes competition.
03 January,2026 09:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
