‘MasterChef India’ returned with its much-anticipated premiere, setting the tone for a season that celebrates not just culinary talent but the deeply personal stories behind the food. Among the most touching moments of the opening episode was the appearance of Mayank Raja and Alpana Agarwala, a couple whose journey together spans 33 years of marriage and three years of courtship, bound by a lifelong love for cooking and companionship.

As shared in a press release, the couple’s chemistry was evident from the moment they stepped into the ‘MasterChef kitchen’. Having spent decades together, they spoke fondly about how food has always been central to their relationship, serving as a constant through different phases of life. Their ease with each other and shared passion struck an immediate chord with the judges.

Chef Kunal Kapur was visibly moved as he reflected on their bond, remarking that the kitchen is often the most important space in a home. He acknowledged how the couple had cared not just for their kitchen but for their family, noting the happiness and warmth they clearly still share even after more than three decades together.

The emotional moment soon gave way to light-hearted banter among the judges. Kunal turned to Chef Ranveer Brar and asked how long he had been married. Ranveer replied with a smile that it had been twelve years, before jokingly calling himself a “useless, dysfunctional” husband and adding that he was grateful his wife tolerated him. Kunal was quick with a playful comeback, drawing laughter on set.

The conversation then turned to Chef Vikas Khanna, when Kunal asked, with a grin, when he would make a pair himself. Vikas responded with quiet admiration for the couple, saying that finding such love is rare. His words captured the sentiment of the moment, underlining just how special the bond between Mayank and Alpana appeared to everyone present.

Blending warmth, humour and nostalgia, the episode reinforced the idea that the kitchen is often where love is nurtured, tested and celebrated. ‘MasterChef India’ airs Monday to Friday at 9 pm on Sony Entertainment Television, with streaming available on Sony Liv.