From MasterChef India to Multi-Million Dollar Success
Pankaj Bhadouria made history as the first winner of MasterChef India in 2010, marking a turning point in her life. A former schoolteacher, she transitioned into the culinary spotlight with a unique blend of talent, warmth, and innovation that has since made her a household name across India.
Establishing the Pankaj Bhadouria Culinary Academy in Lucknow
In 2012, she launched the Pankaj Bhadouria Culinary Academy in Lucknow, aimed at training the next generation of chefs. The academy offers diploma and certificate courses in culinary arts and bakery. In 2023, it gained LAPT international accreditation, making its certifications globally recognized and boosting its appeal among aspiring chefs.
Television Career: Connecting with Audiences Through Food
Bhadouria quickly became a television favorite, hosting popular cooking shows such as:
- Chef Pankaj Ka Zayka on Star Plus
- Kifayati Kitchen on Zee Khana Khazana
- 3 Course with Pankaj on Living Foodz
In 2021, she launched Junior Menu on Zee Zest, a show promoting quick and nutritious meals for children, addressing the growing concern of childhood obesity and undernutrition in India.
Authoring Bestselling Cookbooks That Blend Tradition with Innovation
Bhadouria is also an accomplished author, having written several successful cookbooks. Titles like Barbie: I Am a Chef, Chicken from My Kitchen, and the official MasterChef India Cookbook reflect her wide-ranging culinary expertise and ability to present Indian cuisine in an approachable manner.
Going Global: Representing Indian Cuisine Internationally
Her talent and passion have led her abroad as well. Bhadouria has:
- Participated in the Varli Food Festival in New York
- Conducted food workshops at Cambridge University and the Medical Research Council, UK
- Appeared on BBC2’s Rick Stein’s India, showcasing the richness of Awadhi cuisine
These milestones have helped position her as a global ambassador for Indian food.
Partnering with Greenday for a Healthier India
In 2024, Pankaj Bhadouria joined hands with Greenday’s “Better Nutrition” brand as both investor and culinary advisor. The initiative focuses on biofortified food products to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Greenday’s robust agri-network ensures quality production through partnerships with over 15,000 farmers and 80+ distribution centers.
Awards and Recognitions for Culinary Excellence
Her exceptional contributions have earned her several awards:
- First Ladies Award by the Ministry of Women & Child Development
- OSM Kitchen Queen of the Year by Outlook magazine
- Chef of the Year – Right Choice Award by Brand Impact
These accolades validate her status as one of India’s most respected chefs.
Net Worth of $13.5 Million Reflects Her Culinary Empire
As of 2025, Pankaj Bhadouria’s net worth is estimated at $13.5 million. This figure reflects her diverse portfolio of ventures, including income from television shows, cookbook sales, brand endorsements, her culinary academy, and food innovation partnerships like Greenday. Her financial success highlights the impact of her entrepreneurial vision and consistent dedication to empowering people through food.