Urmila Jamnadas Asher Aka Gujju Ben Dies At 79 Due To Heart Attack
Urmila Jamnadas Asher, widely known as “Gujju Ben” and a finalist on MasterChef India 2023, passed away on Monday, April 7, at the age of 79 in Mumbai. Her death was confirmed through an emotional post on her official Instagram account late Monday night.
The post described her as a “symbol of courage, joy, and late-blooming dreams,” highlighting how she inspired millions with her warmth, wisdom, and resilience. It urged fans to remember her strength and positivity, stating, “Baa’s journey doesn’t end here—it lives on in every person she touched.” Her last rites were conducted on Tuesday morning at Chandan Wadi crematorium in Marine Lines, Mumbai.
Urmila’s life was marked by profound personal tragedies. According to The Quint, she lost all three of her children under heartbreaking circumstances: her daughter died in a fall from a building at 2.5 years old, her elder son succumbed to a brain tumor, and her younger son passed away due to heart failure. Despite these losses, Urmila found solace in cooking and launched a successful venture called “Gujju Ben Na Nasta” with her grandson Harsh during the COVID-19 lockdown. The business focused on delivering traditional Gujarati snacks across Mumbai.
Her journey to fame began when she participated in MasterChef India at the age of 78. Known for her infectious energy and culinary talent, Urmila was affectionately called “Baa” on the show. Though she was the first contestant eliminated, she left an indelible mark on viewers and judges alike. Chef Ranveer Brar expressed his condolences on social media, along with heartfelt tributes from fellow contestants and fans.
Urmila also gained recognition as a food blogger and YouTube creator during the pandemic, sharing recipes that resonated with thousands online. Her legacy continues to inspire people across generations.