Indian celebrity chef Vikas Khanna needs no introduction, not only in India, but around the world, has he has made a mark for himself in so many different ways that his inclusion in the `100 Most Influential People in the World` 2026 is just another feather in his cap.
Known to share glimpses of his journey over the years, the US-based chef recalled his journey through humble beginnings. In a post on social media, he spoke about how he started selling bhature chole at Vivek Public School in 1989, and has been included in the prestigious list earlier this April. This year`s list also includes Indian actor Ranbir Kapoor, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai. Over the years, the renowned world personalities on it including Indian-born British chef Asma Khan, who was included in the list in 2024.
When God has a plan…
From selling bhatura chole at Vivek Public School in 1989,to opening Lawrence Garden Banquet from the back of my house in Amritsar in 1990.In 1991, I chose culinary arts—a decision that embarrassed almost everyone except my grandmother.
There were years… pic.twitter.com/8j8dNSZni8
— Vikas Khanna (@TheVikasKhanna) April 17, 2026
The post on X reads, “When God has a plan…
From selling bhatura chole at Vivek Public School in 1989,to opening Lawrence Garden Banquet from the back of my house in Amritsar in 1990.In 1991, I chose culinary arts—a decision that embarrassed almost everyone except my grandmother.
There were years of humiliation I rarely speak about.Moments that nearly broke me.In 2000, when my banquet was torn down, I almost gave up.Instead, I moved to the United States and started over.
Cleaning homes.Selling food on the streets of TriBeCa.Sleeping at Grand Central.Experiencing homelessness at NYC Rescue.Sleepless nights.Being called “Curry Boy” on the 7 train.
And still, I kept going.From there…8 Michelin stars.Then losing myself again.Then starting over—one last time as a promise to my sister—with Bungalow.
And now…TIME100 Most Influential People in the World 2026.I’m still trying to process it.The journey continues.”
