MasterChef India returns with Season 9 on January 5, 2026, airing on Sony Entertainment Television and streaming on SonyLIV. The flagship format comes back with home cooks at the centre, along with a fresh structure designed to add emotion and teamwork to the competition.
Theme: “Pride of India”
Season 9 is built around “Pride of India,” with the tagline “Desh Front Foot Par Chal Raha Hai.” The focus this year is on Indian culinary identity—regional flavours, family food traditions, micro-cuisines, and lesser-known recipes—presented through personal stories and plate-by-plate innovation.
Judges: The original trio returns
The judging panel reunites Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar and Kunal Kapur, bringing back the familiarity and mentorship-driven approach viewers associate with the show’s most popular seasons.
Biggest twist: Jodi (duo) format
For the first time, contestants will compete as jodis—pairs that can include family members, spouses, friends, or intergenerational duos. The format is expected to add new pressure points: coordination, role-splitting, and decision-making under time limits—especially during eliminations and team challenges.
When it airs
New episodes roll out Monday to Friday at 9 PM, making it a weeknight appointment show for food and reality-TV fans.
By – Manoj