The Maharaja Mac - It conjures up images of richness, of sumptuous Indian flavours. Two chicken patties lavishly covered in that familiar orange sauce, with double decker sesame buns - the middle one thinner than the other two. acting as a moist-maker (as fans of the TV show FRIENDS will know). Something the rajas of old would choose if they entered a modern day McDonald's.

Or that's what it used to do. McDonald's has recently changed the Maharaja Mac. The new Maharaja Mac, to quote the McDonald's India website has "delicious grilled chicken double patty enveloped in rich habanero sauce that mingles with fiery jalapenos, juicy tomatoes and crunchy shredded onions placed on cheddar cheese and a bed of iceberg lettuce – all packed between sesame double decker buns."

Sounds good? It isn't. There is no cohesion to this burger. The sauce is bland, the jalapenos over-much and unnecessary and the new grilled chicken patties are dry and seasoned badly

What about the word 'Maharaja' makes you think of jalapenos and habanero, McDonald's? 

The Maharaja Mac used to be a favourite of many. The new one simply doesn't compare. It may seem a trivial issue, but a relatively inexpensive, delicious burger is something we all deserve. We, the petitioners, demand that you bring back the old version. 

Sign my petition, ask McDonald's India to return India's favourite burger to its people. Bring back our Maharaja Mac!

Photo courtesy of Sean Ellis via Creative Commons.