Celebrity chef and first-ever ‘MasterChef India’ winner Pankaj Bhadouria has revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. On Wednesday, Pankaj shared a picture from a hospital bed on social media, where she appeared in a patient gown with medical wires attached while undergoing treatment and medical tests.Along with the photo, she wrote, “I have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Need your prayers and support folded hands emoji.”The post quickly drew reactions from fans and followers, many of whom sent messages of support and strength for the television chef.“Not a happy place to be”Pankaj also uploaded a short video from the hospital after undergoing several medical tests. In the clip, she could be seen sitting in a hospital robe with a cannula attached to her hand.The text shown in the video read, “Going for tests and more tests…..not a happy place to be.”In another video message, the chef personally addressed her followers and spoke openly about her diagnosis.She said, “I just wanted to share with you all that I have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Since all of you are like an extended family to me, I wanted to share this with you personally. Right now, I truly need your prayers and support. As they say, prayers work miracles. So please keep me in your prayers."From classroom teacher to household namePankaj Bhadouria became a familiar face across the country after winning the first season of ‘MasterChef India’ in 2010. The cooking reality show was hosted by Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, and her victory turned her into one of India’s earliest celebrity chefs on television.Before entering the competition, Pankaj worked as an English teacher. Reports at the time said she left behind a teaching career of 16 years to follow her passion for cooking and participate in the reality show.Her journey from a school classroom to a national television kitchen became one of the most talked-about success stories linked to the show.Popular face of cooking televisionAfter her win, Pankaj hosted several cooking shows and built a strong fan base among home cooks and food lovers. Her television appearances included shows such as ‘Chef Pankaj Ka Zayka’, ‘Kifayati Kitchen’, ‘3 Course with Pankaj’, and ‘Rasoi Se – Pankaj Bhadouria Ke Saath’.Over the years, she also created a large digital following through YouTube and social media platforms, where she regularly shared recipes, kitchen hacks and budget-friendly cooking ideas.Even as she battles a serious health condition, Pankaj’s emotional message and honest hospital updates have struck a chord with many of her followers online.