Popular chef Sanjeev Kapoor has revealed an interesting behind-the-scenes story about why he initially refused to join the hit cooking reality show MasterChef India.

According to him, the show’s first season featured Bollywood star Akshay Kumar as a judge, and he was also approached by the makers. However, Kapoor said he put forward a firm condition regarding his remuneration—he should be paid just one rupee more than Akshay Kumar.

He explained in an interview that his demand was based on principle and confidence in his own standing as a chef and television personality at the time. The producers, however, did not agree to the condition, leading him to walk away from the offer.

Kapoor also shared that even after refusing the main role, he declined repeated requests to appear as a guest on the show, choosing not to be associated with the project in any capacity at that stage.

Later, when the show gained further popularity, the makers approached him again by the third season. This time, negotiations changed, and he eventually joined the franchise, becoming part of MasterChef India in its later run.

The show, which has since become one of India’s most recognized cooking competitions, went on to feature multiple seasons with strong audience engagement, with Kapoor eventually becoming a familiar face on it.

The story highlights how early decisions, negotiations, and timing shaped one of television’s most popular culinary shows.