India’s cooking reality show MasterChef India returned to television on Monday, January 5, with the premiere of its ninth season. Carrying forward the same emotions and spirit that the format is known for, the show welcomed back its much-loved celebrity chefs as judges: Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapoor. The opening episode focused on quick auditions, while also introducing a key twist this season: contestants will compete in pairs.
Running close to an hour, the episode travelled across regions, from Mumbai to Punjab, Delhi to Rajasthan, in search of people who not only cook well but also represent something larger. The show looks for stories, for individuals who stand for an idea, and for those eager to showcase the beauty of their culture through food. In that sense, MasterChef India holds on firmly to its original essence.
At its heart, the show remains a television reality show that largely caters to the heartland audience. Every episode leans into emotion, every dish becomes more than just food. The season opener follows the same template, setting the emotional tone early on.
In the absence of actual competition and a deeper exploration of innovation or technique, the first episode can only do so much. What it does instead is introduce its contestants as people keen on breaking barriers: a chef from Bikaner who wants to prove that age is no limitation for women showcasing their talent; a YouTuber home cook from Maharashtra hoping her fancy recipes will finally be taken seriously; a father-daughter duo representing the cuisine of their small community. Through these stories, MasterChef India attempts to tap into the vibrancy of Indian culture and its many colours.
The idea is simple and historically effective, especially in a country that thrives on emotion-led storytelling. Even before the competition officially begins, contestants are framed in a way that nudges the audience to pick favourites, to invest early, and to look forward to watching their skills unfold.
What truly anchors the show, however, is the warmth of its judges and their immediate connection with the contestants’ stories. That emotional engagement turns MasterChef India into a family watch — even an inspiring one. Conversations around gender equality, education, social equity, and women empowerment find space within the format, and for an audience still tuning into appointment television, these themes matter. The show understands this responsibility and leans into it without hesitation.
The premiere doesn’t promise reinvention for now, but honestly, it doesn’t need to. By leaning into emotion, culture and familiarity, MasterChef India reminds viewers why the format continues to work. What lies ahead will determine whether the season can move beyond sentiment and truly challenge its cooks.
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