MasterChef India’s Beloved 'Baa' Urmila Asher Passes Away at 79

Urmila Jamnadas Asher, known lovingly as “Gujju Ben”, passed away in Mumbai at the age of 79. The news of her passing was shared on April 7 on her official Instagram page. Urmila had become a symbol of strength and warmth during her appearance on MasterChef India in 2023. Her last rites were performed on Tuesday, April 8 at 8 am at the Chandan Wadi crematorium in Mumbai.

MasterChef India’s Beloved Urmila Asher Passes Away at 79

The Instagram post announcing her death paid a heartfelt tribute to her journey and legacy. “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, or to inspire. From her kitchen to your hearts, her warmth, laughter, and wisdom changed lives," the post read.

It further added, “Let us not remember her with tears but with the strength she showed us. The strength to be fearless. To love fully. To live joyfully. Baa’s journey doesn’t end here — it lives on in every person she touched, every laugh she shared, and every soul she inspired. We will carry her light forward.”

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A Life Full of Tragedy and Resilience

Urmila’s life was not easy. She faced immense personal loss over the years. She lost all three of her children in separate tragedies. Her daughter, just 2.5 years old, died after falling from a building. Later, her elder son passed away due to a brain tumour, and her younger son died of heart failure.

Despite all this, Urmila remained strong. She became a pillar of support for her grandson, Harsh Asher, who suffered a serious accident that left him without an upper lip and led him into depression.

Instead of letting these tragedies break her, Urmila chose to rebuild her life with purpose. Along with her grandson, she started a food venture called “GujjuBen Na Nasta”. The small business offered fresh homemade snacks and meals across Mumbai and was led passionately by Urmila herself.

In 2023, Urmila appeared on MasterChef India, becoming an instant favourite with her warm personality and inspiring story. Though she was the first to be eliminated, her presence left a lasting impression on viewers.

Her story continues to inspire many, reminding people that it’s never too late to follow your dreams and spread kindness.