Kristina Roberts
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, was one of the most famous musicians in history. His music, dance moves, and unique style made him a global superstar. But behind the scenes, there were people who took care of his daily needs, including his food. Did you know that for three years, a Sikh chef named Mani Singh Khalsa was Michael Jackson’s personal cook? From 1982 to 1985, Mani traveled with Michael on all his tours, preparing special vegetarian meals that suited the singer’s unusual eating habits.
Mani Singh Khalsa was not just any chef—he was someone who understood Michael’s tastes and needs. At the time, Michael was at the peak of his career, especially around the release of his legendary album Thriller. Mani’s job was to make sure Michael ate healthy, even though the singer was not very fond of vegetables. In an interview with People Magazine, Mani shared his experiences, saying, “It was like watching someone caught up in a tidal wave of culture.” He saw firsthand how Michael’s fame grew, but he also got to know the quieter, more personal side of the superstar.
Cooking for Michael Jackson was not easy. Mani revealed that Michael had a very limited palate, meaning he didn’t like many foods. Even though he was vegetarian, he didn’t enjoy most vegetables. He loved pizza but disliked pasta. Surprisingly, even though Michael had a sweet tooth, he avoided sugar and chocolate. This made Mani’s job quite difficult because he had to find ways to make meals that were both healthy and enjoyable for the pop icon.
Despite the challenges, Mani came up with creative dishes that Michael loved. One of his specialties was spicy smoked red chile enchiladas, which matched Michael’s preference for strong, bold flavors. Another favorite was tofu shish kebabs served with couscous and a rich Moroccan sauce. These meals were not just about taste—they also had to give Michael the energy he needed for his long rehearsals and performances. Mani shared that Michael often skipped meals during rehearsals and would become extremely hungry afterward, so the food had to be both satisfying and nutritious.
Mani’s time with Michael Jackson was a unique experience. While the world saw Michael as a larger-than-life performer, Mani saw the person behind the fame. He witnessed Michael’s dedication to his craft, his long hours of practice, and his need for meals that kept him going. Today, Mani Singh Khalsa owns a bakery called Sweet Bar Bakery in Oakland, but his years with the King of Pop remain a special part of his life.
Michael Jackson’s legacy continues to live on through his music and the stories of those who knew him. Mani’s account gives us a glimpse into the daily life of one of the greatest entertainers of all time. It shows that even superstars have their own preferences, challenges, and routines. And for three years, it was Mani Singh Khalsa’s job to make sure Michael Jackson ate well, no matter where in the world they were.
This story reminds us that behind every famous person, there are people who work hard to support them. Whether it’s a chef, a trainer, or a manager, these individuals play a big role in helping stars shine. Mani’s time with Michael Jackson was more than just a job—it was a chance to be part of music history. And through his memories, we get to see a side of Michael that fans rarely knew about.
Michael Jackson’s influence on music and pop culture will never fade, and stories like these keep his memory alive. They show us that even the biggest stars are human, with their own likes, dislikes, and everyday needs. And for Mani Singh Khalsa, being Michael Jackson’s personal chef was an unforgettable chapter in his life—one that he will always cherish.
As we look back on Michael Jackson’s incredible career, it’s these little details that make his story even more interesting. From his record-breaking albums to his unique eating habits, every part of his life was extraordinary. And thanks to people like Mani, we get to know the man behind the legend just a little bit better.
The next time you listen to a Michael Jackson song or watch one of his iconic performances, remember that there was a team of people working behind the scenes to make it all possible. And for a few years, one of those people was a talented chef who made sure the King of Pop never went hungry. That’s a story worth remembering.
