Nagpur: The dream of seeing a MasterChef India winner from Nagpur feels closer than ever as brothers Ajinkya and Vikram Gandhe storm into the Top 9 of MasterChef India Season 9. Their dedication to showcasing Vidarbha’s authentic culinary soul has not only impressed the judges but ignited massive support across Maharashtra — including praise from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and celebrity chef Vishnu Manohar.

Nagpur’s Rising Stars of the Culinary World

The Gandhe brothers have consistently proven that regional flavours can shine at a national level. Their journey is marked by extraordinary achievements that have made them household names in Nagpur:

A Potato Challenge That Shocked Even Chef Kunal Kapur

In one unforgettable moment, the duo crafted an 11-link potato chain, surpassing even Chef Kunal Kapur’s attempt — a historic highlight in MasterChef India’s kitchen.

Mastering the Impossible: The No Gas, No Water Challenge

Episode 26 featured one of their most admired dishes — a refreshing tropical creation crafted without gas, water, or modern equipment, using only traditional methods and natural heat. Judges called it “game-changing.”

First Immunity of the Season

Their technically challenging dish won them the season’s first immunity, celebrated with the prestigious “bang of taps” — the judges' ultimate gesture of respect.

Judges Praise Their Precision & Maharashtrian Identity

Chefs Vikas Khanna, Kunal Kapur, and Ranveer Brar have consistently praised:

• their dessert precision
• their discipline
• their ability to elevate Maharashtrian flavours with finesse

Nagpur’s Big Names Step Forward: Gadkari & Vishnu Manohar Lead the Cheer

Support for the brothers has surged in Nagpur, with prominent personalities openly celebrating their journey:

Nitin Gadkari – Union Minister

Gadkari shared a special video message appreciating their commitment to representing Maharashtra’s culinary heritage. He added that their achievements reflect the growing prominence of Nagpur’s talent in the hospitality sector.

Chef Vishnu Manohar – Nagpur’s Culinary Icon

Vishnu Manohar, known worldwide for his record-breaking cooking feats, praised the brothers as the “Pride of Nagpur.”

He urged the entire city to back them, emphasizing that they are competing at the highest culinary level in India and putting Nagpur on the national food map.

Business Community Joins the Momentum

Local leaders including Nitin Khara (Director, Confidence Petroleum) and members of the Londe Jewellers family have publicly encouraged the duo, calling their journey an inspiration for young talent in the city.

Will Nagpur Finally Bring Home the MasterChef Title?

With growing national recognition, local pride, and endorsements from renowned personalities, the Gandhe brothers have become symbols of Nagpur’s culinary excellence. As they push forward into tougher rounds, the central question intensifies:

Is this the moment when Nagpur finally gets its first MasterChef India champion?

For now, Nagpurians are glued to their screens, cheering for two brothers who transformed local flavours into a national sensation — and who may soon make history for their hometown.