Sanjeev Kapoor Reveals Why He Rejected 'MasterChef India' Initially

Celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor has revealed an interesting behind-the-scenes story about his association with ‘MasterChef India'. In a recent interaction, the culinary icon opened up about why he initially declined the offer to join the popular cooking reality show and the non-negotiable condition he had set for the makers.

A Condition That Could Not Be Ignored:

Speaking about the early days of the show, Kapoor shared that he was clear about his expectations from the very beginning. He said, “When they first came to me, they did not meet my condition. My condition was that I should be paid more than Akshay Kumar, just one rupee more. This was the first season, and there was nobody else who could do it but me. It was quite obvious.”

For Kapoor, this was not just about money, but about valuing his expertise and position in the culinary space.

Choosing Not To Compromise:

When the makers did not agree to his demand, Kapoor decided to walk away from the project without hesitation. Reflecting on his decision, he said, “But when they came to me, I said, ‘There is a condition.' They did not agree, and I didn't want to compromise. I was happy with my decision.”

Despite the show's popularity and reach, Kapoor stood firm, prioritising self-worth over opportunity.

Photo Credit: Instagram

Makers Kept Reaching Out:

Even after he turned down the offer, the producers continued to approach him for appearances. However, Kapoor did not change his stance. He recalled, “I would still get feelers. They would say, ‘Sir, please come for one episode.' I said, ‘No, I will not do it.'”

A Turning Point In Season Three:

The situation eventually shifted by the time the third season of ‘MasterChef India' came around. Kapoor revealed that the makers acknowledged that the show was not working as expected and sought his guidance.

He said, “By the third season, they actually said, ‘Sir, it's not working. We need you. What do you think we should do?' I said, ‘I don't think I can…' They replied, ‘No, we'll do exactly what you say,' and all of that.”

Standing By His Value:

When asked whether his original condition was finally met, Kapoor made it clear that it was. He said, “Oh, obviously they did. Obviously. That was not negotiable. If I can't command that, then what's the point?”

For Sanjeev Kapoor, being part of ‘MasterChef India' meant being recognised not just as a celebrity, but as a culinary authority. His journey with the show is a reminder that knowing your worth and standing by it can shape how opportunities come your way.