From Kitchen to Stardom: Sanjeev Kapoor Reflects on Khana Khazana and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa
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Synopsis
Sanjeev Kapoor recalls his journey from launching the famous cooking show Khana Khazana in 1993 to participating in the dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. His experiences highlight the evolution of television and his unique approach to presenting content.
Key Takeaways
- 'Khana Khazana' debuted in 1993, making Sanjeev Kapoor a prominent figure.
- Sanjeev's unique style led him to deviate from scripted content.
- He joined 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' as a non-dancer, facing trained performers.
- His early experiences in debating helped him excel in spontaneous speaking.
- Television has transformed significantly since his initial appearances.
Mumbai, April 24 (NationPress) In 1993, Sanjeev Kapoor's initial show 'Khana Khazana' premiered, establishing him as a renowned figure in households. The esteemed chef evoked fond memories as he reflected on the creation of the longest-running cooking series.
Sanjeev appeared on the podcast hosted by Bharti Singh and Harssh Limbachiyaa on YouTube, discussing the production of 'Khana Khazana', directed by Hansal Mehta, which is primarily focused on Indian culinary traditions.
'I could never memorize a script. I never read from one. On the day my show began, they presented me with a paper containing an opening monologue. I still recall it vividly. They also provided me with an outfit resembling a raincoat — I was unaware that television had such specific clothing standards,' Sanjeev remarked.
He further shared, 'We were filming at Juhu Beach. It took me almost a month to memorize that monologue. Back in those days, television was not like it is today. After filming, I stated, 'We’ve done it your way — now let me try it my way.'
'Since childhood, I had been speaking thanks to debates and impromptu speaking challenges. I was adept at discussing any topic for a minute, so I was familiar with speaking. I didn’t jot anything down — I simply spoke whatever came to my mind. And from that moment, I made a lifelong rival: the show’s scriptwriter.'
In 2006, the 61-year-old celebrity chef participated in the reality show 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa', the Indian adaptation of the British competition 'Strictly Come Dancing' and part of the 'Dancing with the Stars' franchise.
He reminisced about being invited to join 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa' as a non-dancer, only to find himself up against skilled performers.
'During the inaugural season of Jhalak, someone from the channel approached me. I told them I lacked dancing skills. They responded, 'That’s precisely what we seek — individuals who cannot dance. You will be paired with a choreographer who will instruct and perform alongside you.'
'I inquired about the other participants. They mentioned names like Kapil Dev, Hariharan, and various news anchors. I thought, 'They’re just like me,' and agreed to join.'
He noted that before the show was launched, contestants were invited to a gathering at the channel's office.
'I looked around and realized I was unlike anyone else present. I asked about the others — the ones I had heard about — and they replied, 'They didn’t confirm.' Instead, I saw trained dancers like Mona Singh and Shweta Salve. I asked, 'How are they not dancers?' We had to rehearse for 7-8 hours daily.
