New York State Honors Chef Vikas Khanna as First Indian Culinary Trailblaze

Michelin star chef and author Vikas Khanna has been honored by New York State for his pioneering culinary work and humanitarian outreach, becoming the first Indian to receive a Special Citation from Governor Kathy Hochul.

The recognition, presented during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrations at the state capital in Albany, hails Khanna as a global culinary icon whose journey from Amritsar to New York reflects grit, creativity and service. The citation praises his inspiring artistic and culinary contributions and his commitment to excellence.

Khanna called the honor deeply emotional and humbling, noting that it symbolizes hope and representation for immigrant communities and Indian cuisine on the world stage. The accolade follows his inclusion in TIME magazine’s 2026 list of the 100 most influential people, where he was lauded for using food as a universal language to build cultural bridges and support vulnerable communities worldwide.

Proud to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in Albany today!

While the forces of hate try to stoke division, we're showing the world that here in New York, we stand united. Our diverse cultures and communities make us stronger. And we'll never stop fighting for them. pic.twitter.com/UaWdWRxMzw

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) May 9, 2026