Celebrity chefs Ranveer Brar and Kunal Kapoor, who have joined Vikas Khanna as judges on ‘MasterChef India’ season 9, believe the popular cooking reality show has played a pivotal role in transforming how everyday cooking is perceived in the country. According to them, the show has not only spotlighted home cooks but also brought recognition, respect and structured knowledge to the food industry at large.

As per a PTI report, Brar spoke about the cultural shift triggered by ‘MasterChef India’, particularly in how home cooking is valued. He noted that before the show aired, cooking at home was rarely seen as something worthy of admiration or professional respect. “Pre-‘MasterChef’, if you were cooking at home, you weren’t respected or recognised for it. I think the beacon of respect and recognition to everyday cooking came through ‘MasterChef’,” Brar said.

He added that the show helped elevate cooking into a larger movement, creating a ripple effect across the food ecosystem. From professional kitchens to food media and digital platforms,‘MasterChef India’ brought together diverse stakeholders and helped build an entire industry around food storytelling. Brar pointed out that the show also contributed to the growth of smaller food-focused channels and the rise of food content on social media.

Kunal Kapoor echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how the format has empowered passionate cooks by giving them visibility and confidence. According to him, ‘MasterChef India’ has helped demystify professional cooking, making it more accessible and aspirational for people from different backgrounds.