MG ROAD:Cooking is a celebration of flavours, textures, spices, stories and memories. This becomes evident when one talks to Shazia Khan, runners-up MasterChef India Season Two. She belongs to a joint family and believes that food is an integral part of life. She grew up around elaborate food menus and community tables laden with delicacies and fell in love with cooking.
It is her childhood acquaintance with cooking which has made her a celebrity MasterChef today. She will be in the city on Friday at Foodhall, 1 MG Road at 3 pm to impart her love for food to fans.
Excerpts from an interview:
What made you apply to MasterChef India?
My passion for cooking. I used to cook at home for the joy it gave me. I was just like any other woman who would cook with passion for her family. But when MasterChef India Season One was on, everyone in the family used to tell me that they want to see me in the next season. Especially, my sons who were very keen to see me in the show. So, I would give the entire credit to my family for who I am today.
Have you undergone any formal training in cooking?
Not at all. I am self-taught. It is my love for food and cooking that has brought me so far. The whole experience of trying new recipes at home is what has helped me. It is a hobby which has turned into a profession.
Tell us about your life after MasterChef...
Life has changed a lot. God has been very kind to me. I am travelling across the country conducting small workshops. I have also made small videos for a food brand. I am also hosting two shows for television. I am the host of K for Kids on FoodFood channel. I am also hosting a show called The Good Food Guide for Star Plus, Middle East.
Are you planning to write a book?
Yes. I am working on two books. One is based on recipes which I have picked up from my grandmother. Every recipe in this book has a story behind it. I am also working on another book about various Muslim cuisines in India. This book covers all type of Muslim cuisines ranging from Hyderabadi to Lucknowi and more.
We heard you have taken up a project for teaching underprivileged children and women..
Yes, it is my mission to teach culinary skills to underprivileged women looking to make a career out of cooking. It is a way to empower women and hence make them independent. The project also undertakes placements for women after they undergo training. For kids, it is a way to make their hobby more refined.