Celebrity MasterChef: Archana Gautam presents her father’s special Holi dish; says 'As I recreate this dish, I’m trying to bring that same flavour to my cooking'

Each festival brings a unique flavour and spirit of celebration to Celebrity MasterChef. While traditional dishes remain at the heart of every festivity, our contestants add their own creative twists, transforming beloved recipes with innovative flavours. But beyond the food, every dish tells a story—woven with memories, traditions, and emotions that make each festival even more meaningful.
As Archana prepares her father’s signature Holi dish, she takes a heartfelt trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the vibrant celebrations of her childhood.
Archana shares, "Growing up in the police quarters, that place was my whole world. Holi was always a crazy celebration, with everyone playfully throwing each other into the mud. But I wanted something different — something just for us kids. So, I started saving up little by little and finally organized a special Holi function with a DJ, making it a celebration to remember. And amidst all the fun, my father, like always, made his delicious Dahi Bhalle, a dish that brought everyone together. Even now, that taste takes me right back to those cherished moments. Now, as I recreate this dish, I’m trying to bring that same flavour to my cooking, hoping to make the judges taste it and carry my dad’s legacy forward through his special recipe."
Archana hopes to not only impress the judges but also honour the love, tradition, and cherished memories that make this dish truly special.
Celebrity Masterchef features Chef Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar and Farah Khan as judges and celebrity contestants like Rajiv Adatia, Dipika Kakar, Tejasswi Prakash, Gaurav Khanna, Usha Nadkarni, Nikki Tamboli, Faisu and Archana Gautam.