Nagpur-based brothers Ajinkya and Vikram Gandhe were crowned the winners of MasterChef India Season 9 during the grand finale aired on Friday, March 6, 2026. The duo made history as the first "jodi" (pair) to win the prestigious culinary title and the MasterChef trophy. The finale, which aired on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV, featured legendary Chef Sanjeev Kapoor as a special guest judge alongside the regular panel of Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapur. MasterChef India 2026: Chef Vikas Khanna Pens a Heartwarming Note Ahead of Season 9; Kunal Kapur Returns to the Show As Judge.

Nagpur’s Gandhe Brothers With ‘MasterChef India’ 2026

The Gandhe brothers, who run a cafe in Nagpur, Maharashtra, consistently impressed the judges throughout the season with their ability to blend traditional Maharashtrian flavours with modern culinary techniques. Their journey was marked by a record number of "spoon taps" a gesture of high praise from the judges, and they were the first contestants to secure a spot in the finale week. They also secured a cash prize of INR 25 lakh, the iconic Golden Chef Coat,

Ajinkya Gandhe and Vikram Gandhe are ‘MasterChef India 9’ Winners - Watch Video

 

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During the final cook-off, the brothers faced intense pressure but ultimately triumphed by showcasing a menu that reflected their regional roots and technical precision. Their victory marks a significant milestone for the show, which adopted a new "jodi" format this season, highlighting the power of collaborative cooking and family bonds.

‘MasterChef India 9’ First Runner Up

 

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Runner-Up and Finalist Rewards

The competition was a closely contested battle between three final pairs. The sisters from Odisha, Anju Pradhan and Manju Ojha, finished as the first runners-up. Known for their quiet confidence and innovative use of regional spices, they were awarded a cash prize of INR 5 lakh for their second-place finish.

The mother-daughter duo from Hyderabad, Chandana and Sai Sri Rachakonda, placed third in the competition. They were widely praised for their structured approach and soulful Telangana-inspired dishes, which had made them fan favourites throughout the two-month journey.

A Season of 'Pride of India'

Season 9 was centred around the theme "Pride of India," focusing on diverse regional cuisines and the stories behind them. The finale was a star-studded event, with Chef Sanjeev Kapoor noting that the season reflected a "confident, forward-moving India" that remains proud of its culinary heritage. ‘MasterChef India 2026′: ’Food Becomes Powerful When It Tells a Story,’ Says Ranveer Brar As the New Season Celebrates India’s Heritage, Diversity and Culinary Pride.

With their win, Ajinkya and Vikram Gandhe not only take home the prize money but also the opportunity to feature their original recipes in a leading global food magazine, further cementing their transition from local café owners to national culinary icons.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 06, 2026 10:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).