Television actor Gaurav Khanna, celebrated for his role as Anuj in Anupamaa, has emerged as the winner of the first season of Celebrity MasterChef India. The grand finale, which aired on April 11, 2025, marked the culmination of a ten-week culinary journey. Gaurav claimed the winner’s title, along with a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh, a set of kitchen appliances, and the prestigious chef’s coat.
Nikki Tamboli and Tejasswi Prakash Secure Top Spots
The finale episode, currently airing on Sony TV and SonyLIV, showcased intense competition among the top five contestants. Nikki Tamboli secured the first runner-up position, while Tejasswi Prakash finished as the second runner-up. Faisal Shaikh (Mr. Faisu) and Rajiv Adatia, despite their efforts, could not make it to the top three. Judges Ranveer Brar and Vikas Khanna, filmmaker Farah Khan, and special guest chef Sanjeev Kapoor added to the grandeur of the evening.
Chef Ranveer Brar’s Spoon Taps Highlight Gaurav’s Progress
Gaurav’s journey on the show was far from smooth. In the very first episode, his dish was harshly criticized by Farah Khan, who called it “inedible.” However, he didn’t let this setback define him. Week after week, he improved his culinary skills and impressed the judges with his creativity. His willingness to experiment with ingredients and techniques earned him several “spoon taps” from chef Ranveer Brar, a gesture of appreciation for exceptional dishes.
Chef Vikas Khanna Commends Gaurav’s Resilience
Despite being color-blind, Gaurav never let his condition hinder his performance. Chef Vikas Khanna praised his resilience and determination, saying, “You’ve shown immense growth week after week.” The competition wasn’t without its share of drama. In the final week, Gaurav faced allegations of copying a Swiss chef’s dessert and presenting it as his own. While recreating the dish was within the rules, he was criticized for not acknowledging the original source. Nevertheless, he managed to stay focused and deliver impressive performances.
The pre-finale episode brought emotional highs as contestants were joined by their family members in the kitchen. For Gaurav, this moment was bittersweet. His wife, Akanksha, was unable to attend due to work commitments, and his parents were in Kanpur. To lift his spirits, the judges arranged a surprise visit from his long-time friend and actor Hussain Kuwajerwala. Overwhelmed with emotion, Gaurav said, “Yeh meri family hai. When I came to Mumbai toh Hussein ke ghar pe hi rehta tha, khaata tha.”
Gaurav’s win is a testament to his hard work and perseverance. From being labeled a novice to becoming a culinary champion, his journey has inspired many. The finale episode, currently on air, is a must-watch for fans of the show and food enthusiasts alike. It celebrates not just Gaurav’s victory but also the spirit of creativity and resilience.
