Highlights:
- Vikas Khanna became the first Indian honored during New York’s AAPI Heritage Month.
- Governor Kathy Hochul presented him with a “Special Citation” in Albany.
- Khanna called the recognition “deeply emotional and humbling.”
- TIME magazine recently named him among the “100 Most Influential People” of 2026.
- The citation described Khanna as a “global culinary icon.”
Chef Vikas Khanna has become the first Indian in New York State history to be honored during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month for his artistic and culinary contributions.
Last week, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul presented Khanna with a “Special Citation” during an AAPI Heritage Month event held in Albany, the state capital.
Khanna later shared his reaction on social media and described the recognition as “deeply emotional and humbling.” He added, “what makes this recognition even more meaningful is that it marks the first time an Indian has received this honour in New York State history."
Khanna said the recognition was larger than a personal achievement. He noted that the Asian American and Pacific Islander community is the fastest-growing community in the United States and represents more than 25 million people from different cultures and backgrounds.
“This was never just a personal milestone. It was a statement of hope, identity, representation, and the power of diversity,” Khanna said.
Speaking during the May 9 event, Khanna said, “to bring an Indian chef to this table, this is not just an honour for me, it's a representation - that our stories matter, our culture matters.”
He also spoke about the importance of immigrants in New York City and the need to protect vulnerable communities.
Khanna said New York City becomes a symbol of hope for the world “because we protect the most vulnerable and in this city, most of the time, the immigrants are the most vulnerable.”
Governor Hochul marked AAPI Heritage Month by calling for unity against hate and division. She highlighted the importance of diverse cultures in strengthening New York and promised continued support for migrant communities across the state.
The official citation honored Khanna’s journey from Amritsar in India to New York and described him as a “global culinary icon.”
“New York State is proud to join in honouring Vikas Khanna for his outstanding contributions and inspiring commitment to artistic, culinary and personal excellence,” the citation stated.
Sibu Nair, New York’s AAPI Affairs Director, said Governor Hochul was proud to host communities from different backgrounds to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and recognize their contributions across the state.
The recognition adds to a growing list of achievements for Khanna. Last month, TIME magazine included him in its 2026 list of the “100 Most Influential People” in the world.
TIME described Khanna as a “man of extraordinary heart."
Award-winning chef Eric Ripert praised Khanna in the TIME profile and highlighted his generosity and his ability to use food to connect people from different backgrounds.
The profile also said Khanna carries his culture with “immense pride” and shares Indian traditions with audiences around the world in a meaningful and accessible way.
Khanna, who was born in Amritsar, has built an international reputation through his work as a chef, author, filmmaker, and humanitarian. His recognition during AAPI Heritage Month reflects both his professional success and his role in representing Indian culture on a global stage.
