The South Asian Association (SAA) at Harvard University has named celebrated Indian chef, filmmaker, and author Vikas Khanna as its 2025 Person of the Year. This recognition honors his extraordinary contributions in taking Indian cuisine to international prominence and solidifying it as a powerful medium of cultural storytelling.
Receiving the award with deep gratitude, Khanna said, “This isn’t just an award—it’s a promise. A promise to keep representing our rich heritage through every dish.” His journey from the lanes of Amritsar to Michelin-starred kitchens in New York reflects his resilience, creativity, and commitment to his roots.
Beyond the kitchen, Khanna has used food as a storytelling tool, evident in his documentary The Last Color, and fine-dining ventures like Kinara in Dubai and Bungalow in New York. His efforts have connected communities and cultures, earning him admiration not only as a culinary expert but also as a cultural bridge-builder.
Khanna, also a judge on Celebrity MasterChef India, continues to inspire aspiring chefs across the country. He shared, “To be acknowledged by Harvard is incredibly moving. Every day at Bungalow is a tribute to India. I’m honored to carry this recognition back to New York.”
Admired for his humility and cultural pride, Vikas Khanna stands as a symbol of Indian excellence on the global stage. This award marks not just personal achievement but a historic moment for Indian cuisine and its growing influence worldwide.
