MasterChef India Finalist Urmila Jamnadas Asher Aka Gujju Ben Passes Away at 79 Due to Heart Attack in Mumbai
Urmila Jamnadas Asher, affectionately known as Gujju Ben, and a beloved finalist on MasterChef India 2023, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025, in Mumbai at the age of 79 due to a heart attack. Her sudden demise has left a void in the hearts of millions who admired her zest for life, boundless energy, and passion for cooking. Fondly referred to as “Baa” by her fans and well-wishers, Urmila Asher was not only a culinary inspiration but also a symbol of resilience and late blooming dreams, proving to the world that age is never a barrier to success or happiness.
The heartbreaking news of her passing was confirmed through an emotional post on her official Instagram account late Monday night. The post read, “With profound sorrow, we share the passing of Mrs. Urmila Jamnadas Asher – lovingly known to the world as Gujju Ben / Baa – on 07/04/2025. 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, to inspire. From her kitchen to your hearts, her warmth, laughter, and wisdom changed lives.” The message also urged her admirers not to remember her with tears, but with the strength and joy she radiated, adding, “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.”
According to renowned paparazzo Viral Bhayani, Urmila Asher suffered a heart attack that led to her untimely demise. Her last rites were performed on the morning of Tuesday, April 8, at Chandan Wadi crematorium in Marine Lines, Mumbai. The ceremony was attended by close family members and loved ones, while tributes poured in from MasterChef India contestants and fans across the country who mourned the loss of a true icon.
Urmila Jamnadas Asher’s life story is one of remarkable courage, resilience, and undying spirit. Despite facing unimaginable personal tragedies — including the loss of all three of her children — she continued to find purpose and joy in life. Her daughter died in a tragic fall at just two-and-a-half years old. Her elder son passed away due to a brain tumour, and her younger son reportedly died of heart failure. These devastating losses would have broken the spirit of most, but Urmila found a renewed purpose in cooking.
Alongside her grandson Harsh, she launched a successful homegrown food venture named Gujju Ben Na Nasta, which specialized in traditional Gujarati snacks. Her delightful recipes and charming personality quickly won hearts on social media, turning her into a popular food blogger and internet sensation. She consistently used platforms like Instagram to share her cooking secrets, life experiences, and positivity with her growing fanbase.
Her entry into MasterChef India 2023 as a senior contestant was met with admiration and love from viewers across the country. She not only made it to the finals but also inspired countless people with her creativity, storytelling, and culinary brilliance. Her warm presence, iconic smile, and authentic Gujarati flavors made her a standout personality in the Indian culinary scene.
Urmila Asher’s legacy goes beyond the kitchen. She became a beacon of hope, especially for those who feel it’s too late to chase their dreams. Her story will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us of the power of perseverance, love, and joy, no matter the age or circumstance.
For video news and a tribute to Gujju Ben’s inspiring journey, visit our YouTube channel THE OLIGO.
