MasterChef India 2023’s Kolkata-based contestant Subhojit Sen was eliminated after failing to impress the judges in a ‘black apron’ challenge during the latest episode of the cooking reality show, streaming on SonyLIV.

The black apron challenge required the contestants to prepare celebrity chef Garima Arora’s signature dessert, mahua ice cream with caramelised malai and Khanom La, a fusion of Thai and Indian cuisines. The contestants had to keep up with Garima’s pace in the kitchen.

Initially Subhojit was keeping up with chef Garima’s pace, following the steps attentively. However, in the middle of the challenge, he accidentally spilled the ice cream. Ultimately, the final dish that he put up had several inconsistencies and didn’t impress the judges — chefs Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar and Pooja Dhingra.

Subhojit, a 29-year-old engineer from Kolkata, drew inspiration from vendors selling food on the streets of Kolkata. He pursued his passion for cooking and turned it into a profitable business with The Harmony Pot. Channelling his love for cooking, he transformed it into a successful venture. Despite falling short in the previous season of MasterChef India, Subhojit was given another opportunity by the judges this time around.

“Subhojit, your relentless spirit and passion for cooking has left an indelible mark on our hearts, forever! Here's to a wonderful journey ahead filled with many more culinary adventures,” the official handle of SonyLIV wrote on Instagram alongside a collage of Subhojit’s stills from the show.

“Needless to say, we love you. All the best for your future,” judge Ranveer said while announcing Subhojit’s name for elimination. “I really admire your spirit. You’ve won our hearts,” Pooja Dhingra added.

Chef Vikas Khanna also had words of encouragement for Subhojit. “This is the beginning of your business. A new identity, not just in Kolkata but all over India and the world. We cannot wait to celebrate what Subhojit becomes next,” he said.