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McCain StarChef Season 2: Culinary battle returns in style
Mumbai: Get ready for a culinary spectacle like never before as McCain StarChef, India’s premier culinary battleground, returns for an epic season two to be broadcast on GOODTiMES, India’s first lifestyle channel. After the phenomenal success of the debut season in 2022, StarChef is turning up the heat and bringing a gastronomic extravaganza that promises to be a true feast for the senses.
Building on the success of the inaugural season, season two boasts an expanded format with five thrilling episodes. Four episodes are dedicated to the diverse culinary landscapes of each region in India, culminating in a spectacular grand finale that will determine the ultimate StarChef of the year. To add an extra layer of excitement, the season will also feature a wildcard entry, ensuring surprises at every turn.
The panel of judges for McCain StarChef Season 2 is a stellar lineup of culinary luminaries. Leading the charge in the grand finale is the renowned chef Manish Mehrotra, while the regional episodes will be graced by the discerning palates of Anahita Dhondy and Aditya Bal.
Commenting on the brand-new season McCain Foods India director – sales and marketing (food services, QSR and exports) Samantha Dutta said, “We are thrilled to bring McCain Star Chef Season 2 to audiences across the nation. This season represents a celebration of culinary diversity, talent, and innovation. The overwhelming response is a testament to the incredible pool of culinary expertise in our country. McCain StarChef is not just a competition; it’s a journey that brings together the rich tapestry of India’s regional cuisines. We are honoured to have esteemed judges, Manish Mehrotra, Anahita Dhondy, and Aditya Bal, guiding our contestants through this gastronomic adventure. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like never before. We’re thrilled to partner with GOODTiMES to bring this feast to the screens of every Indian household.”
This year, McCain StarChef received an overwhelming response from across the nation, with an astonishing 7000 entries from passionate and talented chefs vying for the coveted title. The competition promises to showcase the best of Indian cuisine, reflecting the rich and diverse culinary heritage that defines our nation.
GOODTiMES CEO Arati Singh said, “Reality shows are the heartbeat of entertainment, and we are thrilled to announce our continued partnership with McCain Foods India, for Season 2 of Star Chef, on GOODTiMES. The mini-series is packed to the brim with culinary adventures, kitchen artistry, a world of flavours and innovation as professional chefs enter a sizzling face-off to win the ultimate title of McCain Star Chef. This is not just another show but also a platform for seasoned chefs to carve their names into culinary history. Adding fire and crackle to the series will be celebrity chefs serving as judges elevating the competition and ensuring that every dish is a masterpiece.”
This partnership ensures that the culinary brilliance of StarChef reaches audiences across the country. GOODTiMES is available on Tata Sky (Channel 762), Airtel Digital (Channel 410), and Samsung TV Plus (Channel 1375). Tune in to catch the culinary showdown on GOODTiMES Saturday, 13 January 2024 onwards at 8 pm.
Get a mouthwatering sneak peek into the sizzling culinary showdown here:
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
