Sanjeev Kapoor recalls demanding Rs 1 more than Akshay Kumar’s fee for MasterChef India: “They were shocked and they did not...”

Renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor has opened up about a surprising incident from the early days of Indian reality television. In a recent interview, the culinary expert revealed that he was initially approached to be a judge on the first season of MasterChef India but was later replaced by Akshay Kumar.A Surprising Turn of EventsKapoor shared that he was eager to be part of the show and had started discussions with the makers when he was informed about Akshay Kumar's involvement. He recalled: “They had signed Akshay Kumar, a dear friend, a brilliant guy and a great professional. They said that now that we have signed him (Kumar), we want you as well. I said, 'Very good; I am very happy.” Intrigued by the decision, Kapoor asked to be paid Rs 1 more than the actor. He asserted, “They were shocked and were like, 'More than him?' I said, 'Yes, this is my field.' They were shocked and they did not, and I was okay.” A Return to MasterChefDespite the initial setback, Sanjeev Kapoor eventually joined the MasterChef India family in the second season. However, due to an imbalance between the time invested and the returns, he decided to step away after the fourth season.The current season of MasterChef India features Vikas Khanna, Pooja Dhingra, and Ranveer Brar as judges.Also Read: The Kapil Sharma Show: Comedian refuses to serve special food to chef Sanjeev Kapoor, gives stale cashews instead, watch