Humble Beginnings in Amritsar

Born in Amritsar, India, on November 14, 1971, Vikas Khanna was born with a clubfoot, making it difficult for him to walk in his early years. Despite this challenge, he found solace in cooking alongside his grandmother, who introduced him to the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. His early love for food set the foundation for his incredible culinary journey.

Early Struggles and Culinary Education

Vikas Khanna pursued a degree in hospitality at the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration in Manipal. After completing his education, he worked in several hotels and restaurants across India, refining his skills. However, he dreamt of making a name for himself on the global culinary stage.

Journey to the United States

With big aspirations, Vikas moved to the United States in the early 2000s. However, his journey was anything but easy. He initially took up small jobs, including washing dishes and working as a line cook, to make ends meet. Facing financial struggles and cultural adjustments, he persevered, never letting obstacles deter him from his goals.

Rise to Culinary Fame

Through relentless dedication, Vikas Khanna eventually landed an opportunity to work with some of the finest chefs in the world. His big breakthrough came when he became the Executive Chef at Junoon, an upscale Indian restaurant in New York. Under his leadership, Junoon earned a coveted Michelin star, marking his arrival in the global culinary elite.

Beyond the Kitchen: Humanitarian and Author

Vikas Khanna is not only a celebrated chef but also a philanthropist and author. He has written numerous cookbooks, including Flavors First and Utsav, showcasing Indian cuisine to the world. His humanitarian work, particularly his Feed India initiative, helped provide millions of meals to those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, solidifying his status as a chef with a heart.

A Source of Inspiration

Chef Vikas Khanna’s journey from washing dishes to earning Michelin stars is an inspiring testament to the power of dreams and perseverance. His story motivates aspiring chefs and individuals worldwide to chase their passion, work hard, and never give up, no matter the challenges they face.

From a young boy in Amritsar learning to cook in his grandmother’s kitchen to a globally recognized culinary icon, Vikas Khanna's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. His relentless spirit, love for food, and dedication to humanitarian efforts continue to inspire millions, proving that with hard work and passion, anything is possible.