Sanjeev Kapoor reflects on stereotypes in cooking shows back in the day: ‘Cooking host toh lady honi chahiye…’

Recalling how producer Hansal Mehta wanted to start the show on a “good note” by featuring Kapoor, he said, “First episode jo hai, aapke saath karenge. Maine kaha, ‘very good, chalo.’ Hotel mein ek kitchen humne… waha pe humne kia aur ek actress thi famous uss samay… she was the host kyuki cooking show toh host wohi honi chahiye… lady honi chahiye. (Mehta said we will do the first episode with you. I said, ‘very good, let’s go.’ There was a kitchen in the hotel I was working at and there was a famous actor at the time… she was the host because in a cooking show, a lady should be the host.)”

The perception of cooking as a gender-specific task rather than a fundamental life skill that everyone should possess, is a widespread issue in Indian society. Addressing and challenging these stereotypes is crucial, especially in today’s world, where traditional gender roles are being redefined.

How societal stereotypes impact the way both men and women perceive their ability to cook

Chef Sunil Chauhan, founder at Chefs United, tells indianexpress.com, “Societal stereotypes that view cooking as a woman’s role significantly affect how men and women perceive their cooking abilities. Men often feel intimidated or disinterested in cooking, while women may feel pressured to handle most cooking responsibilities.”

Tarveen Kaur, restaurant consultant and head chef, adds that such stereotypes end up making men dependent and increase the workload on women. “Owing to the fact that cooking is viewed as a gendered activity, men don’t do it as they are not expected to partake in it and women avoid learning it because they don’t want to succumb to the stereotype.”

Cooking skills can enhance health by promoting nutritious meals and fostering independence (Source: Freepik)

Long-term benefits of viewing cooking as a life skill rather than a gendered activity

“Viewing cooking as a life skill rather than a gendered activity offers long-term benefits for individuals and society. Cooking skills can enhance health by promoting nutritious meals and fostering independence, as those who cook are more adaptable in various situations. Sharing meals strengthens relationships, while understanding cooking deepens appreciation for diverse cuisines,” Chef Chauhan mentions. 

In the absence of cooking skills, ordering can of course be expensive and makes cooking a more cost effective and sustainable way to live, states Chef Kaur, adding that cooking can also be a “great medium of communal bonding, with recipe exchange and discussions around food garnering fond rapport among people.”

According to Chef Chauhan, for society, promoting cooking as a life skill creates an inclusive environment where everyone can nourish themselves and their loved ones. By breaking down gender stereotypes and encouraging cooking skills for all, we can build a more egalitarian society where everyone contributes to their families and communities.

Practical steps that educational institutions as well as parents can take to promote cooking

To challenge stereotypes, Chef Chauhan asserts that we must promote cooking as a fundamental life skill for everyone, regardless of gender. “This can be achieved in schools by incorporating cooking classes into the curriculum, inviting diverse culinary professionals to speak, and organising cooking competitions that foster teamwork among all students. At home, parents should involve their children in meal preparation, celebrate male chefs’ achievements, and actively participate in cooking to demonstrate its enjoyment.”

“Cooking should be incorporated as a fun activity with a reward in the end and not as a task which might make the kids repulsive,” adds Chef Kaur.