Usha Nadkarni gets emotional on Celebrity Masterchef

Sony Entertainment Television’s Celebrity MasterChef continues to serve thrilling culinary challenges and heartwarming, untold stories of its celebrity contestants. Hosted by the ever-charming Farah Khan, alongside esteemed chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar, the competition is reaching new heights. While contestants impress with their cooking skills, this week’s special episode takes an emotional turn, celebrating India’s rich festivals through food. Amid the festivities, veteran actress Usha Nadkarni, fondly known as Usha Tai, reveals a deeply personal and emotional chapter of her life, leaving everyone moved.

During a heartfelt conversation, Chef Vikas Khanna asks her, “Festivals are all about togetherness, but since you live alone, what do they mean to you?” Known for her resilience, Usha Tai opens up like never before. She shares, “My son lives with my brother, and before that, he stayed with my mother. Since I have always been busy with theatre, films, and television, I never got the chance to stay home with my family. I lost my elder brother on June 30, 2024, and this year, my younger brother also passed away. He was my world, and I miss him every single day.” As her voice trembles with emotion, the audience witnesses a rare glimpse of her vulnerability.

My son lives with my brother, and before that, he stayed with my mother. Since I have always been busy with theatre, films, and television, I never got the chance to stay home with my family

- Usha Nadkarni

Touched by her words, Chef Vikas Khanna shares his own grief, recalling how “Diwali was always special, but after my sister passed away, I spent my first Diwali in New York—alone. Since then, festivals have never been the same.” This heartfelt exchange strikes a chord with everyone, reminding us that behind every strong facade lies a story of love and loss.

As contestants prepare festival-inspired dishes, the kitchen turns into a space of remembrance and healing. This emotional episode beautifully highlights how food is more than just flavours—it carries memories, emotions, and untold stories