I will rather motivate the kids than judge them - Surjan Singh aka Chef Jolly

The ever jolly and smiling chef, Surjan Singh, better known as Chef Jolly will now enter Star Plus’ Junior MasterChef- Swaad Ke Ustaad to be on the panel of judges. In a hearty conversation with Tellychakkar.com, the Chef talked about coming on board the prestigious culinary based show. “When I got a call from them, I was pretty much surprised, but then a show like MasterChef is hard to let go and I jumped on to the offer,” said the chef. When asked whether the makers chose him for his ability to charm the kids, he smiled and said, “I am good with everyone. I love people as that is part of my nature, and I think that somehow comes across the first thing in me.” The chef was surprised by the talent of the young kids, as he averred, “They are superb. They are not ‘junior’ master chef but ‘genius’ master chefs. Such a powerhouse of talent at such a young age is marvellous.” The chef, who cooked for the international beauty and hotelier Paris Hilton on her visit to India, said his food echoes his passion of travelling. “I love travelling and I try to include my travelling experience in my cooking. You can find a mix of spices and tastes in my food.” Detailing further, the chef who masters in royalty food said, “There are some lesser known tribes who cook with some of the best exotic spices, so you need to know about them too. So there is a healthy mix of methods involved in my cooking. The contrast in recipes and procedures makes the difference.” Talking about his childhood memories he quipped, “I never desired to become a cook. I was pampered by my mother and sisters, so I never tried my hands in cooking. My father made the best kheer and my mother the best alu paratha; I still cherish them so much. The first time I entered the kitchen was to make tea for my mother.” “I wanted to become an army air force pilot, but that didn’t work out, and wanting to have a flashy lifestyle I chose hotel management as a career option, and then there was no looking back,” he informed us. Chef Jolly said he was really looking forward to this new experience and with kids he is sure to have lots of fun. “I have been hosting shows for ZEE’s cooking channel, but with this show I will get to appreciate the talent of such young kids.” So how will be as a judge, we asked him. “I am sure I will be a friendly one. I am honest, but not brutal, so I will let the kids know about their shortcomings but in a way they do not get discouraged. I will rather motivate them than judge them.” The chef who is also penning a book on royalty food concluded by saying that Junior MasterChef will bring a revolution of youngsters enjoying food and cooking. And with such talent stored in our country, the going will be great fun. We too await to see the little bundle of talents perform!!!