For actress Benaaf Dadachandji, best known for her role in Baa Bahoo Aur Baby and last seen in Sapnon Ki Chhalaang (2023), the kitchen is more than just a place to cook. It's the very foundation of her love story and her latest adventure. The actress has opened up about how a mutual passion for food brought her together with her husband, entrepreneur and chef Norman Hou, and how this shared interest is now taking them to the prestigious cooking competition, MasterChef India Season 9.
A Decade-Long Romance Forged Over Food
Benaaf's journey with Norman began over a decade ago, rooted in a simple, common love: eating out. Introduced by a mutual friend in 2009, their friendship blossomed as they explored restaurants together. This culinary connection eventually turned into romance. After dating for ten years, the couple solidified their bond in marriage in 2019.
"It was our passion for cooking and food that brought us together," Benaaf shares. She highlights that Norman, being a chef, excels at preparing excellent Chinese and Indian dishes. This shared culinary world became the cornerstone of their relationship, proving that sometimes, the way to the heart truly is through the stomach.
From Home Kitchen to MasterChef India Stage
While they both love food, their approach in the kitchen is distinctly individual. "At home, we cook independently. Norman loves Chinese food, and I enjoy Italian and Thai," Benaaf explains. This independence, however, is set for a collaborative test. Their shared foodie journey has now led them to participate as a 'jodi' (pair) in the upcoming MasterChef India Season 9.
She reveals that Norman had received offers to join the show for years, but the timing never felt right. "When the show invited jodi participants this time, we felt it was the right moment," she says. The transition from cooking separately at home to working as a team under pressure has been an eye-opener. With a laugh, Benaaf admits, "If we cooked together at home, I don’t think anyone would have anything to eat at the end of the day."
Navigating an Intercultural Marriage with Ease
Beyond the kitchen, Benaaf speaks fondly about her intercultural marriage to Norman, who is Chinese. She describes him as a "very solid human being and extremely supportive of his family." For her, cultural differences were never a barrier. "I never had a problem getting married to a Chinese guy. We both adapted to each other’s cultures and family traditions," she states, emphasizing mutual respect and adjustment as the keys to their harmonious relationship.
Eager for a Return to Acting
On the professional front, while the MasterChef experience is a new thrill, Benaaf is keen to return to her first love: acting. It has been two years since her last fiction show, and she is actively looking for compelling roles. "I want to do strong roles and am open to films, OTT or TV. I hope to return soon," the actress adds, signaling her readiness to make a comeback on screen.
Benaaf Dadachandji's story is a delightful blend of personal passion and professional aspiration. It shows how a simple love for food can recipe for a lasting relationship and an exciting new chapter on national television.
