Veteran chef Sanjeev Kapoor, who has spent decades teaching India how to cook through iconic shows like Khana Khazana, recently shared a little-known story from his career. During an appearance on journalist Vir Sanghvi’s podcast Culinary Culture, Kapoor revealed that he repeatedly turned down the offer to host the popular cooking reality show MasterChef India during its initial seasons. The reason behind his refusal was a unique payment condition: he wanted to be compensated more than Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar.

The symbolic condition that stalled his entry

According to Kapoor, the show’s producers had been approaching him since its very first season. While most professionals would readily accept such an opportunity, Kapoor did the exact opposite because the makers initially refused to meet his specific condition.

“I told them that if you want me on the show, you have to pay me more than Akshay Kumar,” Kapoor recalled during the podcast.

Clarifying his stance, the culinary expert explained that his demand was never about the money itself. Instead, requesting an extra rupee was a symbolic gesture aimed at securing professional recognition and respect for his expertise in the culinary field. When the show’s producers refused to comply with this demand during the early stages, Kapoor firmly declined the project, stating, “I am not coming. I will not do it.”

A change of stance in season 3

The deadlock eventually broke when the makers approached him again while preparing for the third season of MasterChef India. This time around, the producers felt his presence was absolutely necessary for the show’s success. Kapoor remembered being told that it would be a major setback if the MasterChef format failed to succeed in India. Understanding his value, the producers ultimately accepted his condition for the third season, and Kapoor confirmed that they paid him more than everyone else.

How social media reacted to the revelation

After video clips from the podcast circulated online, internet users largely supported the chef’s historical stance. Many commentators pointed out that his demand was not a reflection of arrogance, but rather a justified move to protect the dignity of his profession.

Social media users noted that a specialized cooking show should naturally position a culinary expert ahead of a mainstream actor in terms of authority and financial compensation. One user commented that an actor earning more than a professional chef on a culinary show is not a positive sign, while another praised Kapoor for knowing his worth and maintaining humility by demanding just Re 1 more rather than an exorbitant amount.

The latest installment in the acclaimed Drishyam franchise, directed by Jeethu Joseph and starring Mohanlal, is now available for streaming. The film is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video, making the latest installment accessible to subscribers.

Mohanlal’s Drishyam 3 has officially made its OTT debut, allowing audiences to watch the latest chapter of the popular thriller franchise from home. 

Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the film continues the story of Georgekutty, one of Malayalam cinema’s most recognisable characters.

The third installment revisits Georgekutty’s life as fresh developments bring renewed attention to events from the past. Known for its suspense-driven storytelling and unexpected twists, the franchise has built a strong following among viewers over the years.

Jeethu Joseph returns as writer and director for the latest film, reuniting key cast members from the previous installments. Alongside Mohanlal, the film features Meena, Ansiba Hassan and Esther Anil, all reprising their roles in the story.

The release has generated interest among fans eager to see how the narrative unfolds in its newest chapter. With the film now available on OTT, viewers can continue following Georgekutty’s journey and the mysteries that surround him.

Fans of the franchise can stream Drishyam 3 on Amazon Prime Video and follow the latest chapter in the celebrated thriller series. 

Television actor Sanchita Ugale, known for her appearances in Kumkum Bhagya, Wagle Ki Duniya and Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi, died by suicide at her residence in Nalasopara East near Mumbai on June 14. She was 22.

According to police officials, the incident took place at her home in Achole village, Nalasopara East. Authorities said Ugale had locked herself inside her bedroom and was later found hanging from a ceiling fan. Family members and local residents rushed her to a hospital, where doctors declared her dead.

Police have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. Officials said inquiries are underway and the exact reason behind the incident has not yet been established.

Career across television, OTT and films

Ugale had built a growing presence in the entertainment industry through television, streaming projects and films. Apart from Kumkum Bhagya and Wagle Ki Duniya, she played a lead role in Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi. She also appeared in OTT projects such as Crime Aaj Kal and Silence 2.

The actor was also associated with the film Chhaava, which contributed to her growing recognition among audiences.

Last social media post draws attention

Following news of her death, social media users shared and commented on Ugale’s final Instagram post, which had been uploaded hours before the incident. The post showed the actor in traditional attire lip-syncing to a classic Bollywood song. Fans expressed shock and grief after learning of her death.