Introduction
Vikas Khanna is a world-renowned chef, restaurateur, television personality, and author who has made a significant impact on the culinary world. He is known for his creativity, innovation, and passion for food, which has earned him numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Vikas Khanna, from his early years in India to his rise to fame on the global culinary stage.
Early Life
Vikas Khanna was born on November 14, 1971, in Amritsar, Punjab, India. He grew up in a large joint family and developed a love for cooking at a young age. His grandmother was his first culinary mentor, and he learned traditional Indian recipes from her, including how to make roti, dal, and chutney.
At the age of 17, Vikas moved to Delhi to attend college and pursue his passion for cooking. He enrolled in the Welcomegroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration and completed a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. During his time in college, Vikas worked at various restaurants and hotels to gain practical experience in the culinary arts.
Career in India
After completing his studies, Vikas worked at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Delhi, where he gained valuable experience in the kitchen. He then moved to the United States to pursue his dream of becoming a chef and enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York.
In 2000, Vikas returned to India and opened his first restaurant, called “Junoon,” in New Delhi. The restaurant quickly became popular and earned critical acclaim for its innovative menu and exquisite presentation. Vikas also appeared on several cooking shows in India, including “MasterChef India” and “Twist of Taste,” which helped to raise his profile and cement his status as one of India’s top chefs.
International Success
In 2008, Vikas moved to the United States to expand his culinary career. He worked at several top restaurants in New York City, including the Michelin-starred Junoon, which was named one of the best Indian restaurants in the world by Condé Nast Traveler. In 2011, Vikas was invited to the White House by President Barack Obama to cook a special dinner for the Obamas and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Vikas has also appeared on several popular television shows in the United States, including “MasterChef” and “Hell’s Kitchen,” which helped to introduce him to a wider audience. He has also published several cookbooks, including “Flavors First,” “My Great India Cookbook,” and “Return to the Rivers,” which showcase his unique style and approach to cooking.
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work
In addition to his culinary career, Vikas is also a passionate philanthropist and humanitarian. He founded the “Cooking for Life” program, which provides culinary training to underprivileged children in India and other parts of the world. He also founded the “South Asian Kid’s Infinite Vision,” which helps to provide eye care and education to children in need.
Vikas has also worked with several organizations to provide disaster relief and aid to those in need. In 2012, he organized a massive food relief effort in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, which provided meals to over 250,000 people in New York City. He has also worked with the United Nations and other organizations to provide food aid to refugees and other displaced persons.
Personal Life
Vikas is a private person and does not often discuss his personal life in public. He is believed to be single and does not have any children. In interviews, he has spoken about the influence of his family and upbringing on his culinary style and approach to cooking.
