Mumbai, January 2, 2026 – Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna has voiced his concerns regarding a potential health risk at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). Khanna, who is in Mumbai to film the upcoming season of "MasterChef India," took to social media on Friday to highlight the issue, posting a photo of the Terminal 2 carpet on his Instagram Stories.

Khanna expressed that the carpets in the terminal pose a significant health hazard, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues. He argued that the carpets trap dust and allergens, making them impossible to clean effectively. "Though I feel that MUMBAI AIRPORT is super efficient… I STRONGLY request the administration to remove this carpet. It is beyond cleaning. On behalf of every asthmatic & people with bronchial issues, this could be fatal," Khanna wrote.

Despite raising this concern, Khanna was quick to commend the airport staff for their overall efficiency. He suggested that removing the carpets would further enhance the airport's quality and bring it "a step closer to perfection".

Khanna's message has resonated with many online, sparking discussions about the importance of cleanliness, accessibility, and health-conscious infrastructure in public spaces. His advocacy extends beyond the culinary world, reflecting the empathy and responsibility that define his role on "MasterChef India," a show known for celebrating inclusivity, progress, and care.

The new season of "MasterChef India," premiering on January 5 on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony Liv, promises to showcase a diverse range of culinary talent. Among the contestants is a father-daughter duo, Venu and Avni Sharma, who bring a unique cultural blend to the competition. Avni, a food stylist, dreams of promoting her community's Karada cuisine on a global scale with a restaurant called "Karada Spice Box". Khanna expressed a deep personal connection to culinary heritage, stating, "Most of my life I have spent in countries abroad, the identity of food is not just my representation but it also represents my ancestors as well".

Khanna's concern over the Mumbai airport carpets highlights the need for maintaining high hygiene standards in busy public spaces. With thousands of travelers passing through the airport daily, even minor lapses in hygiene can impact public health. His message underscores the importance of prioritizing passenger health while upholding high service standards.