Vikas Khanna Celebrated as One of TIME's 100 Most Influential People of 2026

A Milestone for Indian Cuisine

Renowned chef Vikas Khanna has earned a prestigious spot on TIME magazine’s 2026 list of the 100 most influential individuals, a significant achievement for Indian culinary arts on an international level. Reflecting on this honor, Khanna expressed deep appreciation and pride, stating, “I feel immense gratitude for everyone who has supported me throughout these years. This recognition is a monumental achievement for our Indian culture and cuisine. I believe it will amplify our voices in the realm of Indian gastronomy,” he remarked.

Khanna emphasized that this acknowledgment represents a significant tribute to his unwavering dedication over the years. “Regardless of attendance, I firmly believe that Indian cuisine is the true star,” he noted. The announcement has ignited a wave of pride among Indians, with Khanna receiving early congratulations from actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas. “Priyanka was among the first to reach out to me about this incredible news. She was one of the first people I informed when we received the announcement,” Khanna shared, adding that her message highlighted, “This is a pivotal moment for our cuisine and culture.” Released on Wednesday, TIME’s 2026 influential list also includes notable figures such as Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor and Google CEO Sundar Pichai.