Pankaj Bhadouria, MasterChef India Winner, Faces Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Pankaj Bhadouria, the first winner of MasterChef India, has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 54-year-old chef, who transitioned from teaching to cooking, is currently hospitalized for treatment. She has been sharing her health journey on social media and is seeking prayers for her recovery. Known for her culinary skills, Pankaj has authored cookbooks and hosted various cooking shows. Her daughter is a trained patisserie chef, while her son is an automobile enthusiast. This article explores her health update and her remarkable journey in the culinary world.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 28, 2026, 17:39 IST

Pankaj Bhadouria's Health Update

Pankaj Bhadouria, who gained fame as the inaugural winner of MasterChef India, has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 54-year-old chef from Lucknow, who previously worked as a teacher, has been openly documenting her health journey on social media. Following a comprehensive health check-up, she received the diagnosis, although details regarding the stage of her cancer remain private. Today, she shared the news with her followers on Instagram, requesting prayers and support for her upcoming treatments.

Pankaj Bhadouria's Background and Achievements

Pankaj Bhadouria diagnosed with breast cancer

Currently hospitalized for treatment, Pankaj expressed her emotions in a video, appealing for blessings for a swift recovery. She made a significant career shift from teaching to culinary arts, winning a prize of Rs 1 crore as the first winner of MasterChef India in 2010. Since then, she has become a well-known author and host of various cooking shows, including Chef Pankaj Ka Zayka and Kifayati Kitchen. Additionally, she founded the Pankaj Bhadouria Culinary Academy in Lucknow, aimed at nurturing aspiring chefs.

Her Culinary Journey and Family

Pankaj Bhadouria's journey on MasterChef

Pankaj's consistent performance on MasterChef India showcased her talent in home-style Indian cooking, winning the admiration of judges like Akshay Kumar and Chef Kunal Kapur. Reflecting on her journey, she once mentioned that pursuing her passion for food was the best decision she ever made.

All you need to know about Pankaj Bhadouria's family

Pankaj is a proud mother of two. Her daughter, Sonalika Bhadouria, is a trained patisserie chef and runs her own bakery, Bien Bake House, after transitioning from a career in investment banking. Her son, Siddhant Bhadouria, is passionate about automobiles. We extend our best wishes for Pankaj's speedy recovery.