Michael Jackson has been regarded as one of the most significant figures of the 20th century. The singer, often dubbed the ‘King of Pop’, broke all records and barriers in his musical career of over four decades. From his songs to stage presence, style statements, and iconic dance moves, he has been deemed the greatest entertainer of all time.
Michael Jackson started his career at the age of six and silently bid adieu to the world soon, 2 months before his 51st birthday. However, in his short life and massive career, he started a chain of change with his music. Nonetheless, did you know that while the singer spent his entire life entertaining people, who were that one person that Michael Jackson wouldn’t go anywhere without?
Michael Jackson’s personal cook, Mani Singh Khalsa
Michael Jackson met Mani Singh Khalsa before he blew the world over with his 1982 album, Thriller. The singer visited the restaurant where Mani worked as a prep chef. However, when he tried his preparations, he was impressed. So, when the singer was offered his first world tour in 1983, he decided to take the chef with him.
Mani Singh Khalsa would spend five hours cooking for the musical legend
In a conversation with People Weekly magazine, Mani Singh Khalsa, who was 25 years old at the time, revealed that cooking for just Michael Jackson was a big challenge. He added that the musical magician had a very specific requirement, including the fact that MJ had turned vegetarian by the time, and adhering to the same would be extremely difficult at times as he felt like even a pepper was too big for the man to eat alone.
Mani Singh Khalsa, in the same conversation, revealed how his efforts were appreciated by the singer. He added that his sweet potato pie was a massive hit among the team while they were on tour. However, Michael’s personal favourite was enchiladas with cheese, tortillas and hot sauce.
Mani Singh Khalsa accompanied Michael Jackson on all of his world-tours
Mani Singh Khalsa was a Sikh born and raised in California. After the success of Thriller, Michael Jackson asked him to accompany him on all his tours, including the ‘Victory Tour’ in 1984, the Bad World Tour in 1987 and the HIStory World Tour in 1996. While the singer focused on entertaining his audience, Mani relentlessly worked to ensure that the superstar was well-fed. He was supposed to accompany Michael on his This Is It World Tour as well. However, the tour was cancelled after the singer’s sudden demise.
Mani Singh Khalsa worked in the Golden Temple Conscious Cookery
Chef Mani Singh Khalsa normally works for the Golden Temple Conscious Cookery and Catering Company in Hollywood, which supplies Jackson’s food at home. The chef and his co-worker, Akasha Kaur Khalsa, clicked with the star icon, Michael Jackson, in a 1982 “Interview” Magazine.
Where is Mani Singh Khalsa now?
While there are no official confirmations of what happened to Chef Mani Singh Khalsa after the death of Michael Jackson. Some believe that he went on to open his own Sweet Bar Bakery in Oakland. It is said that he since has written several cookbooks, including Sweet And Natural Baking and goes by the name Mani Niall.
What are your thoughts on Michael Jackson’s chef, Mani Singh Khalsa? Let us know.
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