MUMBAI: Urmila Jamnadas Asher, affectionately known to many as “Gujju Ben”, and one of the most cherished contestants to grace the MasterChef India kitchen, has passed away at the age of 79. The heartwarming cook, whose culinary passion and vibrant spirit captivated millions, breathed her last on Monday in Mumbai.
The news was confirmed in a poignant post shared late Monday night on her official Instagram page. Accompanied by a smiling portrait of the beloved home chef, the caption read: “Urmila Jamnadas Asher, the 79-year-old former contestant from MasterChef India fondly called ‘Gujju Ben’, died on Monday in Mumbai.”
Her final rites were carried out with dignity and love on Tuesday morning at 8 am at the Chandanwadi Crematorium in South Mumbai.
Urmila’s journey was one of quiet resilience and boundless inspiration. Despite a life marked by profound personal tragedies including the heart-breaking loss of all three of her children she remained a beacon of positivity and strength.
Her daughter tragically passed away at just two and a half years old following a fall from a building, while her elder son succumbed to a brain tumour and her youngest died of heart failure.
Yet, it was her indomitable spirit that stole the hearts of both viewers and MasterChef judges alike. On the show, she quickly became a fan favourite not only for her traditional Gujarati dishes but for her infectious enthusiasm and endearing humour. She reminded everyone watching that age is merely a number and that dreams can bloom at any stage of life.
In a touching tribute on Instagram, the post continued: “At 79, she became a symbol of courage, joy, and late-blooming dreams. She reminded us that it’s never too late to start, to smile, to inspire. From her kitchen to your hearts, her warmth, laughter, and wisdom changed lives.”
Urmila Jamnadas Asher leaves behind a legacy far beyond the realm of reality television. She leaves behind a legacy of hope, perseverance, and the reminder that it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams—or to share love through the simple act of cooking.
May her soul rest in peace.
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