Acclaimed chef, author, and humanitarian Vikas Khanna has been officially named to the 2026 TIME100 list of the world’s most influential people. This historic recognition makes him the first Indian culinary figure to join the prestigious annual ranking, alongside fellow Indians like Google CEO Sundar Pichai and actor Ranbir Kapoor.
A 41-Year “Act of Rebellion”
Khanna’s inclusion in the list celebrates more than four decades of culinary storytelling. On social media, he described his journey as an “act of rebellion,” tracing his path from the narrow lanes of Amritsar to the world’s biggest platforms.
- Humble Beginnings: Khanna learned the art of rolling bread at the Golden Temple and once sold chole bhature as a street vendor.
- The “Curry Boy” Identity: Long used as a derogatory term in the West, Khanna has reclaimed the word “curry” with pride, viewing it as a symbol of Indian heritage and the food that fueled his ancestors.
More Than Just a Chef: Humanity and Heritage
While his Michelin-starred success is well-documented, TIME’s recognition highlights his multifaceted influence:
- Humanitarian Work: Through his Feed India initiative, Khanna provided over 30 million meals across 135 cities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Bungalow NYC: His latest venture in New York, Bungalow, has become a cultural hub. It is described as a “living expression of storytelling,” paying homage to India’s vintage clubhouses and regional cuisines.
- Cultural Ambassador: Beyond the kitchen, Khanna is a bestselling author of 41 books and a filmmaker, with his directorial debut The Last Color receiving international acclaim.
The Power of Family
In his statement, Khanna dedicated the honor to his grandmother, mother, and late sister, Radhika Khanna. He noted that the news reached him on his sister’s birthday, making the milestone feel like a “spiritual victory.”
“This achievement is a victory for India and our culinary legacy… I hope to inspire the people of my country to follow their ambition and represent India on the global stage.” — Vikas Khanna