In the bustling kitchens of Mumbai, where the sizzle of a tadka can command more respect than a corporate email, a local “maharaj” (cook) has set social media abuzz with reports of his earnings — a jaw-dropping ₹1.8 to ₹2 lakh per month for whipping up meals in affluent city homes.
30 Minutes, ₹18,000—Cooking Up Riches?
The debate simmered online after city resident Ayushi Doshi posted on X about her “maharaj” charging ₹18,000 per household for a 30-minute cooking session, claiming he caters to 10–12 homes each day. With the math of his daily rounds, the cook’s monthly income rivals — or even surpasses — cushy white-collar salaries. While Doshi admits the price tag seemed steep at first, she stands by the hefty fee, stressing he’s worth every rupee for his culinary prowess.
Netizens Stir the Pot: Is the Math Realistic?
The post, naturally, sparked a spicy conversation. Many Mumbai residents chimed in, some skeptical that a cook could fit 10–12 houses into a single morning or pull off a meal in just 30 minutes.
“Charge of 18k per family per month is acceptable, but you mentioned he works for 10 to 12 families daily — that’s unrealistic ☺️,” replied one commenter.
Others claimed most cooks take at least an hour with rates of ₹7–14k per month for families of four to five.
On the flip side, some supported Doshi’s claims, sharing their own experiences of paying cooks between ₹15,000 and ₹23,000 per month, plus perks like bonuses, free meals, and afternoons off.
One user quipped about South Mumbai realities, “We are paying 15K for a cook who comes once a day in the morning—so yeah, I get it!”
It’s Just Mumbai, Darling: A City of Contrasts
Doshi, meanwhile, defended her high-flying cook’s rates, saying such fees are the norm in “decent localities” in India’s priciest city. She pointed out that what seems extravagant in other states—where ₹5 thalis still exist—is just life in Mumbai.
“If you can’t relate, maybe just accept the difference in cost of living and keep scrolling instead of shouting ‘fake’ in the comments,” she retorted.
Culinary Class Struggles: Across India
The debate also shone a light on the work ethic and expectations of domestic help across the country. Comparing her experiences in Chennai and Delhi, another social media user observed stark differences in honesty, accountability, and leave policies, offering a recipe for further food—or management—for thought.
So, the next time you microwave your own dinner, remember: in Mumbai, a good “maharaj” can be worth his weight in saffron. Just don’t expect him to come for cheap.
