Culinary enthusiasts, mark your calendars! MasterChef India is back with its ninth season, premiering this week on January 5, 2026, on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV. The show will air from Monday to Friday at 9 PM. This season promises a delectable fusion of national pride, culinary innovation, and heartwarming cultural storytelling.
The highly anticipated season sees the return of the original and beloved judging trio: Chefs Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapur. Their camaraderie and expertise have been a cornerstone of the show's success, and fans have eagerly awaited their reunion. Vikas Khanna brings his Michelin-star experience and deep emotional connection to Indian culinary roots. Ranveer Brar is known for his extensive knowledge of regional flavors, blending traditional cooking with modern techniques. Kunal Kapur's precision and expertise in Indian cuisine have made him a favorite among viewers. Together, they will mentor and assess the contestants, searching for India's next MasterChef.
MasterChef India Season 9 adopts the theme "Pride of India," with the tagline "Desh Front Foot Par Chal Raha Hai". This theme aims to showcase India's rich culinary heritage, regional cuisines, and the stories behind family recipes passed down through generations. Contestants will face challenges that highlight local ingredients and unique cooking techniques from various parts of the country. The judges are looking for home cooks who can express their personal connection to India through their food.
The format of the show remains consistent, featuring amateur home cooks competing for the coveted MasterChef title. Contestants will participate in diverse challenges designed to test their creativity, speed, and ability to handle pressure in the kitchen. Each episode will showcase the contestants' journeys as they strive to impress the judges with their unique and flavorful dishes.
MasterChef India has become a significant platform for showcasing the country's diverse culinary landscape. The show's focus on regional cuisines, traditional recipes, and personal food stories resonates with audiences, celebrating India's cultural richness.
Viewers in the United States can stream MasterChef India Season 9 on Sony LIV by using a VPN to connect to an Indian server.
Following the success of Celebrity MasterChef India in 2025, which was won by Gaurav Khanna, the series returns to its original format, highlighting the talents of unknown, aspiring home cooks. The previous season, MasterChef India Season 8 (2023), saw Mohammed Ashiq emerge victorious.
