India’s food scene has long been defined by its diversity and depth of flavor, and now, by the success of chefs who have taken those flavors across the world. From Michelin star winners to television icons, these culinary masters have built empires that go far beyond the kitchen. Here are seven of India’s richest and most influential chefs.
Sanjeev Kapoor
Sanjeev Kapoor is the undisputed face of Indian cooking. His landmark TV show Khana Khazana became the longest running cookery show in Asia and made him a household name in the 1990s. Over the years, he has written more than 150 cookbooks, opened restaurants across the world, launched food products, and built a business empire rooted in his passion for food. With a net worth of about ₹1165 crore, Kapoor stands as India’s richest chef and one of its most successful culinary entrepreneurs.
Vikas Khanna
Vikas Khanna is more than a chef. He is a filmmaker, author, television personality, and humanitarian. Best known for his work on MasterChef India and Celebrity MasterChef, he also directed the acclaimed film The Last Color and owns several restaurants around the world. Honored by Harvard University’s South Asian Association and recipient of the Michelin Bib Gourmand Award, Khanna’s estimated net worth is between ₹84 crore and ₹127 crore.
Kunal Kapur
Kunal Kapur’s rise from humble beginnings to national recognition is a story of skill and dedication. A judge on MasterChef India, he has worked to promote Indian cuisine through restaurants, books, and digital platforms. Known for blending tradition with innovation, Kapur has inspired many young chefs. His net worth is estimated to be between ₹8.7 crore and ₹43.6 crore.
Ranveer Brar
Ranveer Brar is one of the most popular chefs in India today. A restaurateur, television host, and judge on Celebrity MasterChef, he combines creativity with a strong media presence. His monthly earnings are around ₹45 lakh, and his total net worth is estimated at ₹41 crore. Brar continues to shape India’s food culture through shows, restaurants, and online content.
Harpal Singh Sokhi
Lively and instantly recognizable, Harpal Singh Sokhi is loved for his cooking shows Turban Tadka and Super Chef. His signature phrase “Namak Shamak” made him a familiar face in homes across India. Recently seen on Laughter Chef India, Sokhi has also expanded into restaurant ventures and product collaborations. His net worth is estimated at around ₹35 crore.
Garima Arora
Garima Arora made history as the first Indian woman to receive a Michelin Star and later became the only one to have two. A pioneer in global fine dining, Arora combines creativity, precision, and deep respect for Indian ingredients. Her estimated net worth stands at around ₹40 crore, reflecting her growing influence as both chef and entrepreneur.
Atul Kochhar
Atul Kochhar is an internationally acclaimed chef who brought Indian cuisine to the global fine dining scene. Based in London, he became one of the first Indian chefs to earn a Michelin Star twice. Through his Atul Kochhar Hospitality Group, he manages several successful restaurants and has written six popular cookbooks, including Curries of the World and Simple Indian. His net worth is estimated at ₹33.4 crore.
