shot-button

Ridhima Pandit on The 50 controversy: I came to play, not create drama

Reality show The 50 has been grabbing attention with its intense challenges, shifting alliances, and dramatic confrontations among contestants. One of the participants, actress Ridhima Pandit, recently opened up about the controversies surrounding the show in an exclusive conversation. She spoke candidly about her clash with Vanshaj Singh, her disappointment with Krishna Shroff, and her overall experience on the reality series. Reflecting on her time on the show, Ridhima said she genuinely enjoyed the experience despite the tensions that surfaced during the competition. “I enjoyed. That’s what I’m saying. This show is to be enjoyed by the viewers and by us as players too,” she said. However, she also pointed out that certain situations on the show became unnecessarily unpleasant. “But some people tend to make it ugly. And then they consider you weak.” Ridhima Pandit addresses the controversy The actress emphasized that she has always maintained a controversy-free career and does not appreciate being dragged into unnecessary drama. “I am here to say that I have worked incessantly for the past 10-12 years without having a controversy on my name. I do not wish for someone else to use my name for a controversy and enjoy the attention,” she stated. According to her, responding firmly to such situations is sometimes necessary. “And hence, it’s important to give a quick answer to what I’m giving.” Ridhima also revealed that she was not aware of many pre-existing rivalries among contestants before entering the show. “I didn’t even know. When Rajat and Digvijay also had a fight, I thought, why are they fighting? I don’t even know anything about their past,” she explained. Observing these clashes made her realize how intense reality shows can become. “I thought, hey, these are the trends in reality shows these days. They hit each other and all.” However, she made it clear that she did not join the show for such conflicts. “Now, I didn’t want to do something like that. I came in to play the games,” she said. Ridhima referenced her earlier appearance on Khatron Ke Khiladi, where she finished as the second runner-up, highlighting her focus on performance. “Because if you’ve seen my journey in Khatron Ke Khiladi, I was the second runner-up for a reason. Because it was purely on physical performance basis.” On Krishna Shroff backstabbing her She also expressed frustration that internal alliances often prevented her from participating fully in tasks. “I didn’t get that opportunity. I didn’t get to play the game… it was like, I wasn’t enjoying it. It was taken away from me.” Speaking about Krishna Shroff, Ridhima said her behaviour was unexpected and disappointing. “No one has the power to trouble anyone. But I would like to say that Krishna’s behavior was very, very shocking,” she said. Ridhima further claimed that she later discovered Krishna had been speaking negatively about her behind her back. “For me, I just felt like, you were very nice to me on my face. And I have given you no reason to speak ill about me. So, she was saying so many bad words about me behind my back.” Calling the situation unfortunate, she added, “That was very, very unfortunate that she was speaking ill about me for no reason.” Ridhima concluded by sharing her personal interpretation of the situation. “I personally think she is very entitled. She suffers from some sort of superiority complex, wherein she just wants to bring down people for no reason… she lost in this and I won. She couldn’t tolerate it and she was so competitive. So, this is wrong.”

10 March,2026 08:41 PM IST | Mumbai | Shruti Sampat
Munmun Dutta

Taarak Mehta fame Munmun Dutta uses casteist slur in social media rant

Television actress Munmun Dutta recently expressed strong concern about the way some people behave at popular tourist spots, saying the careless actions of a few individuals are damaging India’s natural and cultural destinations. The actress, widely known for her role in the long-running sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, shared her thoughts on social media after witnessing irresponsible behaviour during her travels. Munmun Dutta uses yet another castiest slur Munmun pointed out that while India is home to many breathtaking tourist locations, the actions of certain visitors often spoil the beauty of these places. She said it deeply frustrates her to see people treating scenic spots carelessly and leaving behind litter or damaging the surroundings. Expressing her disappointment, the actress wrote that such behaviour affects not only the environment but also the overall experience for other travellers. “This infuriates me to the core. Too many chhapris at loose. Wonder why someone would rather spend money abroad vacationing but not here in India. Because this beautiful country is being ruined by these disgusting people. That’s why these people attract racism abroad with such nasty behaviour,” she said, explaining how upsetting it is to see people disregard the value of these destinations. Munmun further explained that tourism should be about appreciating nature and culture rather than damaging it. She noted that several picturesque places in India have been affected by irresponsible visitors who fail to maintain cleanliness or follow basic civic sense. Highlighting the issue, she said that a small group of people often ends up ruining places that many others travel long distances to see. The actress stressed that tourists should understand their responsibility while visiting public spaces. She also pointed out that maintaining cleanliness is a shared duty and that every traveller must contribute to preserving the beauty of tourist destinations. According to Munmun, awareness and respect for nature are essential to ensure these places remain enjoyable for future visitors. On her former case on making derogatory remark However, the slur that she used 'Chhapri' is casteist and Munmun had earlier also been pulled up for making such derogatory remarks. Mumbai Police had registered a case against Munmun Dutta after she allegedly used a derogatory term for a community in a makeup video posted on social media in May 2021. The video went viral, prompting a complaint by a community leader and the registration of an FIR.  Chhapri is a disparaging term used in Indian slang to make fun of people, usually young guys, who are thought to have bad, ostentatious, or cringe taste in conduct and fashion, such as riding customized bikes or dressing in neon. Labeling someone as a wannabe or low-class is a common practice on the internet. It origins from the Chapper Band or Chhapri community, a historically marginalized nomadic group that worked as roof-makers. 

10 March,2026 06:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Divyaa Agarwal, Prince Narula

Divyaa Agarwal calls out Prince Narula’s fans: ‘Hate is fine, but rape threats?’

Reality shows are known for their twists, unexpected eliminations and dramatic comebacks, and The 50 recently witnessed one of its most powerful moments with Divyaa Agarwal’s return to the game. Divyaa Agarwal recently took to social media to address the wave of hate and rape threats she has received from the fans of Prince Narula after her fallout with him. Divyaa Agarwal calls out Prince Narula’s fans Divya took to her Instagram story to say, "Recently I have been receiving a lot of hate from my ex-brother's (Prince Narula) fans." She then added that hate was fine, but she is receiving alleged "rape threats." Divya added, "Hate ki problem nahi hai, but rape threats." She also revealed that she has been receiving messages where trolls say to her, "Hamko pata hai tu kaha rehti hai...10 ladke le kar aayenge...rape karenge, video banayenge. You deserve all of that." Divyaa then called out the "so-called" celebrity, hinting towards Prince, for having so much time that he watches the entire The 50 episodes and says, "Aaj ka episode bhot jyada funny tha." Calling Prince Narula "self-obsessed," Divya accused him of "instigating fans" to send her hate messages. She further criticized Prince for helping people, keeping them in his house, and then speaking about it publicly, saying, "Maine paala hai." About Prince Narula’s video Divya addressed the hate she has been receiving after Prince uploaded a video claiming that she performed only one task during her time on the show. He also recalled how Divya returned to The 50 house after watching five episodes and then started believing that Prince was dominating the game. Prince also blamed Divyaa for lying to him in the show.  As the conversation around the fallout continues among fans, Divyaa’s statement highlights the emotional toll reality show contestants can face outside the game, especially when their opinions or decisions trigger strong reactions from viewers online. Apart from fight with Prince, Divyaa has also been in news after Bhavya Singh claimed she has been living separate from Apurva Padgaonkar. In an interaction with Free Press Journal, Divya Agarwal spoke about the divorce rumours surrounding her husband, Apurva Padgaonkar, and shared that he is the best thing that has happened to her. When asked about their equation of living separately, Divya stated that he lives with his parents and she lives closer to her workplace.

10 March,2026 04:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Vanshaj Singh and Ridhima Pandit

The 50: Ridhima Pandit takes the legal route against Vanshaj Singh's threat

Television actress Ridhima Pandit has reportedly taken legal action against fellow reality show contestant Vanshaj Singh after a heated confrontation between the two escalated beyond the show and allegedly led to online harassment. The dispute initially began during an episode of the reality series The 50, but the situation intensified on social media soon after the episode aired. Ridhima Pandit takes legal action According to reports, Pandit has sent a legal notice to Singh and also filed a complaint with the cyber police after she started receiving abusive and threatening messages online. The actress’ legal team claims that the hostility increased after Singh’s social media activity allegedly encouraged his followers to target her. Sources suggest that Pandit began receiving a large number of offensive messages shortly after the on-screen argument between the two contestants was shown. These messages reportedly included derogatory comments and serious threats across social media platforms. Concerned about the growing severity of the situation, the actress decided to pursue legal action. Through her lawyers, Pandit has now formally approached the authorities and requested an investigation into the matter. The complaint filed with the cyber police aims to identify the individuals responsible for the threatening messages and ensure that appropriate action is taken. Confirming the development, Pandit’s team said, “Yes, it’s true. We have taken legal action against Vanshaj and the legal proceedings are underway.” All about the controversy The controversy reportedly stems from a verbal spat between Pandit and Singh during The 50. The reality show is known for its competitive format and intense challenges, which often lead to dramatic exchanges among contestants. However, the disagreement between the two participants appears to have extended beyond the show and sparked heated discussions online. Following the legal notice, Vanshaj Singh also reacted on social media. Addressing the situation in a post, he wrote, “You have no concept of the forces you have just set in motion,” while referring to the legal action taken against him. The current season of The 50 features several well-known personalities, including Karan Patel, Divya Agarwal, Prince Narula, Urvashi Dholakia, Nikki Tamboli, and Faisal Shaikh, among others. With multiple strong contestants and intense competition, the show has already been generating headlines for its dramatic moments and unexpected twists. As the dispute now moves into the legal arena, the controversy has attracted significant attention from viewers and fans of the show. Authorities are expected to review the complaint and determine the next steps as the investigation into the alleged online harassment continues.

10 March,2026 03:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Krushal Ahuja and Kanikka Kapur

Kanikka Kapur returns to TV with Taara, calls the story inspiring for her

Taara and the makers have been dropping promos about the show, viewers are excited to see the new show because of its intriguing plot and the lead actors. Starring Krushal Ahuja as Yuvraj and Kanikka Kapur as Taara, the show revolves around two individuals who belong to different societal status and develop a feeling of emotional connection which later transforms into love. Taara is a story of resilience, friendship and the changing dynamics of relationships along with social divides. Kanikka Kapur returns to TV after a long gap Kanikka Kapur, who plays Taara, recently shared her experience working on the show and the excitement that it is finally reaching the viewers. She said, “I’m extremely excited for Taara to finally reach the audience. Television has the power to create a real impact, and this show carries many meaningful messages within its story. Taara herself is emotionally very strong and wise beyond her years because she has seen hardships since childhood. She wasn’t born with a silver spoon, and those struggles have shaped her resilience, while her faith in God gives her the strength to keep going even in her toughest moments.” The actress also spoke about her bond with Yuvraj, a relationship that is seen evolving with time. “Her bond with Yuvraj is beautiful because they have practically grown up together. Taara’s nani works in his house, so their friendship is built on years of trust and comfort. As they grow older, that friendship begins to evolve into something deeper. Through Taara’s journey from being born in a basti to where life eventually takes her, I hope the audience feels inspired, finds strength in her story, and perhaps even begins to break the barriers of class divide.” On her return to TV Speaking about her association with the channel, Kanikka shared that this project holds a special place in her journey. She said, “I was a contestant on the acting-based reality show India’s Next Superstars on Star Plus, so in a way this isn’t my first association with the channel. That show truly marked the beginning of my acting journey, where I was trained and groomed by acting coaches who taught me the craft of acting. I’ll always be grateful to Star Plus for being the platform where my journey began.” Taara is a heartfelt story of love and passion despite social differences, portraying a relationship that challenges the barriers of society.

10 March,2026 01:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Akshay Kumar

Wheel of Fortune: Akshay Kumar recreates 'Hi Rupa, Naha Liya' meme

When nostalgia meets perfect comic timing, the internet tends to lose its mind. That’s exactly what happened when Akshay Kumar revived one of Bollywood’s most random yet beloved meme lines - “Hi Rupa, naha liya?” during a recent episode of Wheel of Fortune India. Akshay Kumar revives his iconic line The iconic line originally comes from the 2006 comedy Bhagam Bhag, directed by Priyadarshan, where Akshay’s character blurts it out mid-chaos. At the time, it was just another absurd gag in line with the film’s frantic humour. But years later, the line took on a life of its own online, becoming a staple reaction meme across WhatsApp groups, Instagram reels and GIF keyboards. On the game show stage, the actor surprised the audience by launching into a playful musical riff built around the now-famous phrase. The quirky track had the studio audience erupting in cheers. As soon as the words “Hi Rupa, naha liya?” landed, the crowd instantly recognised the reference and responded with the kind of gleeful chaos only an Akshay Kumar meme can trigger. Fans in the studio started celebrating the fact that Akshay himself was revisiting the joke that the internet has kept alive for years. There is a loyal following of Akshay Kumar’s comic legacy. His early-2000s run of ensemble comedies, including films like Phir Hera Pheri, Welcome, and Bhagam Bhag, has become one of the richest sources of Indian meme culture and happy movies for the internet generation.  By revisiting this on national television, Akshay acknowledged what the internet's hat tip towards him. And judging by the crowd’s reaction, the meme still lands exactly the way it did the first time, Akshay Kumar style! Akshay Kumar on how marriage changed his life  Summing up the essence of married life with a heartfelt yet humorous observation, Akshay says, “Lekin kamaal hai yaar, biwi ghar par aati hai, sab kuch badal jaata hai. Aadmi jo istemaal karta tha aur kya istemaal karne lag jaata hai. Kya khata tha, phir ek settlement aa jaati hai.” (But it’s amazing, yaar. When a wife comes into the house, everything changes. The things a man used to use change, and the things he starts using change too. What he used to eat changes as well, a kind of settlement comes into life) He added, “Ghar mein apne aap achha khana banna shuru ho jaata hai. Biwi ke aane se… wakai mai jab kehte hai ki Lakshmi aati hai gharme, wo sahi kehte ki hai ki jab biwi aati hai tab Lakshmi aati hai.” (Good food automatically starts being cooked at home. When a wife comes… people truly say that Goddess Lakshmi enters the house, and they are right. When a wife comes into the home, Lakshmi comes with her)

10 March,2026 01:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
A still from Anupamaa

Anupamaa Promo: Here's how Sachin Tyagi's character will meet Anu in Goa

The latest development in one of Star Plus’ most loved shows, Anupamaa, has sparked major buzz as the much-speculated new entry is finally revealed,  and it is none other than Sachin Tyagi. While the newly dropped teaser confirms his arrival, the makers have kept details about his character under wraps, leaving fans curious and intrigued about how he will influence Anupamaa’s journey and what he brings to the storyline. Sachin Tyagi on joining Anupamaa The teaser offers only a dramatic glimpse, raising questions about his connection with Anupamaa. Who is he? And what new twist might his presence bring to her already turbulent life?  Sachin Tyagi is no stranger to the audience. He previously won hearts with his portrayal of Manish Goenka in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. As the dignified and emotionally layered father of Kartik Goenka, his character became a cornerstone of the long-running show, earning immense love and appreciation from viewers.  Talking about his entry in the show, Sachin shared, “It is an absolute pleasure to be joining the cast of Anupamaa. It is the same production house that i have been working with since 2014, it doesn't feel like I’m stepping into unfamiliar territory; DKP is my home, my family. Rajan ji/shahi continues to be an inspiration with the kind of passion he has for storytelling, the love he has for the characters, and how he lives and breathes this medium. My association with DKP has been 12 years and counting.” Sachin gets candid about his character Sachin gave a slight peek into his character’s traits and what audiences will get to see, revealing, “However, the journey in Anupamaa is a new chapter for me, and I believe it will be incredibly interesting for the fans and loyal viewers of the show. My character is complex, written with many layers and different shades. While I cannot reveal the specific details of the role just yet, I am confident that the audience will truly enjoy the depth and impact this character brings to the story.” Now, Sachin’s entry into Anupamaa hints at a significant narrative shift, promising new drama and emotional depth as the story unfolds. With this powerful casting move, Anupamaa once again proves why it continues to dominate conversations by blending surprise, star power, and storytelling finesse in perfect measure.

10 March,2026 12:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Akshay Kumar and Viraj Ghelani

Wheel of Fortune: Akshay Kumar reveals how his life changed post marriage

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar will be seen opening up about the transformative power of marriage during a candid conversation with the guests on an upcoming episode of the quiz reality show Wheel of Fortune. Akshay Kumar on how marriage transforms men's lives Akshay Kumar will be seen reflecting on how a partner can positively transform everyday life, bringing better habits, routines, and even good fortune into the home. Summing up the essence of married life with a heartfelt yet humorous observation, Akshay says, “Lekin kamaal hai yaar, biwi ghar par aati hai, sab kuch badal jaata hai. Aadmi jo istemaal karta tha aur kya istemaal karne lag jaata hai. Kya khata tha, phir ek settlement aa jaati hai.” (But it’s amazing, yaar. When a wife comes into the house, everything changes. The things a man used to use change, and the things he starts using change too. What he used to eat changes as well, a kind of settlement comes into life) He added, “Ghar mein apne aap achha khana banna shuru ho jaata hai. Biwi ke aane se… wakai mai jab kehte hai ki Lakshmi aati hai gharme, wo sahi kehte ki hai ki jab biwi aati hai tab Lakshmi aati hai.” (Good food automatically starts being cooked at home. When a wife comes… people truly say that Goddess Lakshmi enters the house, and they are right. When a wife comes into the home, Lakshmi comes with her) Viraj Ghelani reveals how his life has changed post-marriage The conversation sparks when influencer Viraj Ghelani who recently got married, opens up about the unexpected lifestyle and grooming changes that came with married life. Akshay asks Viraj about his routine. Sharing his experience, Viraj adds, “I have a separate soap for my forehead, a separate shampoo for my hair, a separate soap for my elbows, and a separate soap for my knees.” Surprised, Akshay quips, “Why is that? I also don’t have such richness.” Viraj further shares how the new routines can be overwhelming, adding, “I have married such a girl; she knows everything. Today you have to use sunscreen SPF. I applied sunscreen before going to sleep. When I was about to go to sleep, she told me to wash my feet and go to sleep. I said I have been sleeping like this since childhood." "First, she made me wash my feet and then told me to apply niacinamide, salicylic acid, and all these are expensive things.” Reacting in disbelief, Akshay laughs and says, “Bhagwan kasam humko to yeh pata hi nahi hai abhi tak.” Bringing music influencer Yashraj Mukhate into the conversation, Akshay playfully asks him about his grooming habits as well, keeping the banter going on stage. Talking about Akshay Kumar, the actor got married to former actress, author and interior designer Twinkle Khanna in January 2000, after dating for a few months. The couple is blessed with a son, Aarav and a daughter, Nitara.

10 March,2026 12:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Navjot Singh Sidhu and Malaika Arora. Pics/Yogen Shah

Malaika Arora says Navjot Singh Sidhu sends her 'White Makhan' every few days

Actress Malaika Arora revealed that Navjot Singh Sidhu sends 'White Makhan' for her every 15-20 days.  During her appearance on the latest episode of The Great Indian Kapil Show, host Kapil Sharma was heard telling Malaika, "Ma'am, Amritsar's food is very famous - Kulcha. Have you seen the white butter (Makhan) on kulcha? It reminds me of you." Before Malaika could react, Navjot Singh Sidhu asked her, "Malaika mam, what do you get from my house?" Malaika then revealed that within a gap of every 15-20 days, Navjot Singh Sidhu sends her white butter, some snacks, along with some Jaggery (Gud). "Every 15 or 20 days, he sends me white butter from his house, along with some snacks and jaggery," said Malaika. To this, Kapil objects, saying that Navjot Singh Sidhu met Malaika only last year and sends her so much stuff, and they have known each other for almost 20 years now, still, he has never even given him even fennel seeds and jaggery (Saunf and Gud). Kapil even admitted to being extremely jealous of Malaika. During the episode, as Kapil asked Malaika, “What is more important in life, being good or mischievous?” Navjot Singh Sidhu quickly jumps in with a playful remark, saying, “Malaika mam is very mischievous, I can’t tell you how much.”  Sensing the opportunity, Kapil joked that Malaika’s mother might not even know her as well as Navjot Singh Sidhu seems to. Towards the end of the fun episode, actor and comedian Sunil Grover arrived dressed as Navjot Singh Sidhu. Keeping true to the character, he even flirted with Malaika. He presented her with roses and even proposed to her while Malaika laughed and played along. Navjot Singh Sidhu also praised Sunil Grover’s impersonation of himself. He made a hilarious remark saying, “Manjot Singh tere aage Navjot fail.” 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

10 March,2026 09:47 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
Mannara Chopra and Anurag Dobhal

Mannara Chopra breaks down after Bigg Boss 17's Anurag Dobhal's car crash

YouTuber Anurag Dobhal, popularly known as UK07 Rider, was recently injured in a car crash. The YouTuber was admitted to Subharti Hospital in Meerut. He allegedly faced multiple fractures after crashing his Toyota Fortuner on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway. The incident took place during an Instagram livestream on Saturday. The accident has led to an outpouring of support on social media, with many fans hoping for his speedy recovery. Among those visibly affected by his accident was his former Bigg Boss 17 co-contestant Mannara Chopra.  Mannara Chopra breaks down The actress shared an emotional video message on her Instagram Stories, in which she was seen dressed in a pink kurti and holding back tears. She spoke about her bond with Anurag Dobhal in the video, saying, "When you have spent so many days in one house, you develop some human connection. I don't cry because I feel crying doesn't help, but I don't know that my personal feelings, what has happened to me in the last two years and what is happening to him now are getting mixed up. I hope his parents support him."  Recalling his time in the Bigg Boss house, the actress shared, "He had fought a lot at the house for his parents to let him talk to them, to let him talk to his sister, his future wife, he had even taken her name." Mannara also opened up about Anurag's health after the crash, urging people to prioritise emotional support over chasing material success. "What is money? If you don't have anyone to love you, what will you do with that money? This is what I just want to tell his family. What will you do with that money?" she questioned.  The actress further shared his health update, revealing that he has sustained multiple injuries. “He has a fracture. I don't know why this happened at such a young age, he must be 28-29. I felt very bad because I have also gone through that phase for two years," she concluded.  About Anurag Dobhal's car crash Before the incident, Anurag had shared a two-hour-long video on YouTube, wherein he accused his parents of torture and harassment. He alleged that his parents targeted him over his marriage to Ritika, who belongs to a different caste. He also said in the video that he had been contemplating suicide. Anurag Dobhal tied the knot with his longtime girlfriend, Ritika, in May 2025. The couple announced their first pregnancy in September that same year. 

10 March,2026 08:55 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
(L-R) ‘MasterChef India’ season 9 winners Vikram Gandhe and Ajinkya Gandhe

MasterChef India 9 winners Ajinkya and Vikram Gandhe are coping and learning

Hailing from Nagpur, brothers Ajinkya Gandhe and Vikram Gandhe transitioned from running a local bakery to becoming national culinary champions after winning MasterChef India season 9. They reintroduced Maharashtrian flavours with innovative modern twists, and at every stage they proved their expertise through teamwork. In conversation with mid-day, Ajinkya and Vikram not only share their signature recipe with us, but also discuss the secret that helped them outclass professionally trained chefs. Excerpts from the interview. Vikram has a background in commerce, and Ajinkya studied architecture, so how did the precision of balance sheets and blueprints translate into baking and winning MasterChef?Vikram: I think architecture, especially designing, has helped us a lot in conceptualising and ideating the dish. Food is considered art on a plate. In architecture, it was all [about] a concept or an art translated into a blueprint. Detailing and precision are things I’ve learned by making blueprints. Everything comes around in life, which played a major role in our MasterChef kitchen journey. Ajinkya: [We have a] passion for food and we enjoy trying new things. We kept learning to bake. And since I like to eat a lot of desserts, my interest in baking kept me going. Rass Omlet Chavanmushi — the Gandhe Brothers’ winning dish How are you both handling the transition from being local bakers to national TV celebrities?V: We are still coping and learning because we have received immense love, not just from India, but from outside India as well. You two beat Chef Kunal Kapur in the potato chain challenge with 11 links. Was that the moment you realised you weren’t just participants anymore?A: It was a very memorable moment for us in the MasterChef kitchen because we were challenging the legends in the kitchen. So, at that time, we thought now we are the serious contenders in this kitchen, but it started during the second and third week challenges and we received immunity. You both won without formal culinary schooling. What is the one self-taught secret that helped you outclass professionally trained chefs?A: The one hack is just to keep on observing things around you. One can learn from anyone and anywhere in the country. [I take mental notes] wherever I go, even if it is to a small street paani puri vendor. I started my cooking journey from home. My daadi and maami ke nuskhe helped me a lot. I kept challenging myself in every situation. What’s the one Gandhe Brothers’ signature dish that summarises your entire MasterChef journey on a single plate?V: If Ajinkya and I have to make a signature dish, it would be called Blast of Flavours. You will taste sourness, sweetness, some spice, and salt.A: I think we’ve already made that in the kitchen — Bhaarat ki meethi hawa because that [dish] combines ingredients from different parts of our country on the plate. Malaiyo has different names all over India. In some parts it’s also called Nimish, Makhan Malai. That dish gained our confidence in the kitchen, especially after the spoon tap. We’re immensely proud of that dish because it represented us. Signature dish: Bhaarat Ki Meethi Hawa Roasted Moong Dal Halwa (The Base)Soak 1 cup moong dal for 4 hours; grind to a coarse paste. In a heavy pan, heat 1 cup ghee. Add dal and stir constantly on low heat until it turns golden-brown and grainy. Add 1 cup hot milk and saffron strands. Stir until absorbed.  Add 1 cup sugar and 1/2 tsp cardamom powder. Cook until the ghee separates and the halwa is glossy. Keep warm. The Saffron Malaiyo (The Cloud)Mix 1 cup chilled full-fat milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 2 tbsp powdered sugar. Chill the mixture in the freezer for 15 minutes. For the froth, add saffron-infused milk. Use an electric whisker or a hand frother to beat the mixture vigorously until a thick, stable foam forms on the surface. Carefully scoop off only the light foam into a chilled bowl. Now assemble! Rs 25 lakhsWinning amount of ‘MasterChef India’

10 March,2026 07:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Letty Mariam Abraham
This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK