Nagpur: Nagpur’s Vikram and Ajinkya Gandhe have won MasterChef India Season 9, bringing the prestigious culinary title to the city and putting Vidarbha’s flavours on the national map. The café-owner brothers were declared winners in the grand finale aired on March 6 on Sony TV and SonyLIV, after consistently impressing judges with their creativity, technique and strong focus on regional cuisine.

Throughout the competition, the Gandhe brothers stood out for blending traditional Maharashtrian flavours with modern culinary presentation. Their dishes frequently celebrated the authentic taste of Vidarbha while showcasing refined techniques that elevated regional food to a national platform.

Their journey on the show had already created excitement across Maharashtra after they entered the Top 9 contestants. Residents of Nagpur rallied behind the duo, who represented the city’s culinary identity on national television.

Several standout moments defined their run in the competition. During a potato challenge, the brothers created an impressive 11-link potato chain, surpassing even judge Chef Kunal Kapur’s attempt and drawing widespread praise. In another memorable task where contestants had to cook without gas, water or modern equipment, they produced a tropical dish using traditional techniques and natural heat sources, which judges described as “game-changing.”

Judges Vikas Khanna, Kunal Kapur and Ranveer Brar repeatedly appreciated their precision, presentation and ability to highlight Maharashtrian flavours.

Their success also drew appreciation from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and renowned Nagpur-based chef Vishnu Manohar, who congratulated the duo for promoting the region’s culinary heritage.

With this victory, the Gandhe brothers have etched a historic moment for Nagpur, transforming local flavours into a national culinary triumph.