Celebrity MasterChef: Ranveer Brar, Vikas Khanna and others congratulate winner Gaurav Khanna, write ‘You’ve truly cooked your way into our hearts’

Celebrity MasterChef India crowned its very first winner, and it was none other than television actor Gaurav Khanna who walked away with the title, the coveted golden trophy, and a cash prize of Rs 20 lakh. Gaurav’s finale dish, titled ‘Dakshin Bharat’, featured jackfruit as the hero ingredient and left judges Sanjeev Kapoor, Ranveer Brar, Vikas Khanna, and Farah Khan deeply impressed with its soulful flavors, technical brilliance, and creative pairing.
Chef Ranveer Brar took to social media to pen a heartfelt note for the winner, writing, “Congratulations @gauravkhannaofficial. You’ve truly cooked your way into our hearts. Tumhari har dish mein zidd, passion aur creativity thi... and I can’t wait to see where your food journey goes next. All the best, our very first Celebrity MasterChef!”

Echoing the sentiment, renowned chef Vikas Khanna shared, “Never met anyone like you, @gauravkhannaofficial. I’ve been part of the television world for nearly two decades, but this was a first—watching someone say, ‘I will not accept an advantage that creates a disadvantage for someone else.’ In a world where we’re often racing to get ahead... you reminded me what it truly means to be a winner—with integrity, empathy, and grace.”

Vikas wasn't present during his winning moment as he had to leave for a pre-occupied emergency for his restaurant in New York.
Chef Kunal Kapur also congratulated Gaurav, saying, “Mubarakaan, @gauravkhannaofficial! Here’s to being the first #CelebrityMasterChef of India. You were truly amazing, your journey will inspire others for sure. It was a pleasure to see you cook.”

During the finale, Vikas praised the jackfruit dish as “technically sound and delicious,” while Ranveer was surprised and impressed by the bold pairing of walnuts and peanuts. Sanjeev Kapoor called the dish “mindboggling” for its precision and flavor.

Gaurav Khanna’s journey on the show has been a story of resilience and growth, inspiring viewers and fellow contestants alike. Nikki Tamboli was announced as the first runner-up, with Tejasswi Prakash securing the second runner-up position. Fans congratulated them for their success and journey on the show.
After the victory, Gaurav Khanna spoke about her victory and journey, "Winner 2025, first ever Celebrity Masterchef. The journey has been the most amazing one. Jaise Chef Ranveer Brar kehte hain, farsh se arsh tak ka ek safar hai joh complete hua hai.It’s been a full-circle journey — from an inedible dish to an unbeatable performance. I had once said that after giving an unbeatable performance, I want to become unstoppable, and today, that dream feels closer than ever. With the blessings of my loved ones, the unwavering support of my fans, and God's grace, I was able to lift the trophy, and my heart is full."