Why Celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor Held Out for More Than Akshay Kumar on MasterChef India

Celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares his journey to joining MasterChef India, revealing that he turned down multiple offers until his salary surpassed that of Akshay Kumar. In a candid podcast discussion, he emphasizes the importance of valuing expertise in the culinary field and explains how his presence significantly contributed to the show's success. Kapoor's insistence on proper recognition for his years of experience highlights the ongoing conversation about compensation in the entertainment industry. Read on to learn more about his negotiation and the impact of his role on the show.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 16:02 IST

Sanjeev Kapoor's Journey to MasterChef India

Renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor recently revealed that he turned down multiple invitations to join MasterChef India before finally agreeing to be a judge on the show. His acceptance came with a unique condition: he insisted on a salary that surpassed that of Bollywood star Akshay Kumar.

In a conversation with Vir Sanghvi on his podcast, Kapoor recounted how the show's producers repeatedly approached him to take on the judging role, but he was initially hesitant. He stated, “I declined the show several times, saying, ‘If you want me, you need to pay me more than Akshay Kumar.’”

Kapoor clarified that his request was not about rivalry with actors but rather about recognizing expertise in a specialized field. He expressed, “This is my domain. If an actor steps into my area, why should he earn more than I do?”

Kapoor emphasized that professionals who have invested years in building their credibility deserve proper acknowledgment, especially in a show that highlights their skills. When asked if his demand stemmed from ego, he clarified that it was fundamentally about valuing specialized knowledge and experience.

The producers first approached him for the inaugural season of MasterChef India, but when they did not meet his payment expectations, he chose to withdraw. “I told them, ‘I am not participating. I will not do it,’” he recalled.

However, the situation changed a few years later. By the time the third season was being planned, the producers were eager to have him on board and were willing to meet his financial demands. “By the third season, they actually said, ‘It’s not working. We need you. If MasterChef fails in this country, we are in trouble,’” he remembered.

Ultimately, the producers agreed to compensate him more than any other participant on the show, a condition he considered crucial. Kapoor's presence became a defining aspect of MasterChef India, significantly enhancing its appeal to viewers. His extensive knowledge and reputation in the culinary world played a vital role in establishing the show's credibility and resonating with both aspiring home cooks and seasoned chefs.

As one of India's leading culinary personalities, Sanjeev Kapoor has built a diverse career that spans television, publishing, and the hospitality industry.