MasterChef India Season 9 contestant Mini's inspirational journey amidst Parkinson’s diagnosis leaves judges in awe

MasterChef India Season 9 showcases contestants vying for the title, with judges Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapoor.

Updated on: Jan 10, 2026, 18:53:01 IST

By Ritika Kumar

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In the latest episode of MasterChef India Season 9, contestant Mini took centre stage with her powerful story and impressive culinary skills. During her conversation with judges Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapoor, Mini revealed that she had been diagnosed with secondary Parkinson’s disease. "Cooking is therapy for me," she explained, sharing how it helps her feel better despite the challenges she faces.

The latest episode features Mini, who shares her journey with Parkinson’s disease, emphasizing cooking as therapy and her desire to inspire others.

Mini talks about her Parkinson's journey

Mini also spoke about her journey in the culinary world, having worked at Zepto Café and starting her own venture, Mini’s Magic Kitchen. When asked why she wanted to be part of MasterChef India, she explained it wasn’t just about cooking, but about self-improvement and inspiring others. "Parents won’t feed you forever. You have to do it on your own," she said, showcasing her determination to push forward.

Impressed by her resilience, Chef Vikas Khanna praised her, saying, "We want to sign an apron and give it to Chef Mini." Her story has been a source of inspiration for many, proving that passion can help overcome the most difficult challenges.

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More about MasterChef India Season 9

MasterChef India Season 9, which began on 5 January 2026, features an eclectic mix of contestants competing for the title of India’s best home cook. With Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Kunal Kapoor as judges, the show continues to captivate audiences with its blend of culinary excellence and heartfelt stories. The show airs on Sony TV and is also available to stream on the Sony Liv app.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ritika Kumar
Ritika Kumar is a seasoned journalist with over 15 years of experience, having written for newspapers, magazines, and online platforms, catering to a diverse range of audiences. Over the years, she has covered general news, lifestyle, and entertainment, building a reputation for sharp observation, compelling storytelling, and an ability to connect with readers across multiple formats. She holds a graduation degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University and a postgraduate diploma from the Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media, Bangalore. Before joining Hindustan Times, Ritika worked with prominent media organizations including The Times of India, Press Trust of India, NDTV, and the Malayala Manorama Group. These roles allowed her to refine her skills across various beats, mastering the nuances of different formats and tailoring her writing to readers of newspapers, magazines, and digital platforms alike. Beyond journalism, Ritika is deeply passionate about poetry, drawing inspiration from voices ranging from Faiz Ahmed Faiz to T.S. Eliot. She is also a keen cinephile, enjoying discussions about cinematography, acting, and the subtle layers of storytelling on screen. A lover of travel and the outdoors, Ritika often finds inspiration in nature, where she reflects on life’s rhythms. When not working, she can be found soaking in the serene glow of sunsets and reflecting on the intricate workings of the human heartRead More

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