Indian celebrity chef Vikas Khanna has stepped into one of the most prestigious global recognition circles. He has been named in ‘TIME magazine’s 2026 list of the 100 most influential people in the world’.
Khanna, who has built a strong identity as one of the most respected faces of Indian cuisine abroad, called the honour deeply emotional and meaningful. Speaking to ANI, he reflected not just on his personal achievement but on the people who supported him throughout his life.
The chef said he feels this success belongs to everyone who stood by him over the years. He described the recognition as something that strengthens India’s voice in global food culture.
He also highlighted that the honour is not just about one moment, but about years of hard work and consistency. According to him, the recognition is a reward for staying committed to his craft through ups and downs.
Khanna also added that Indian food itself holds unmatched power and global appeal, saying that even when attention comes and goes, “Indian food is the game.”
Priyanka Chopra was the first to congratulate
The celebration became even more personal when Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra Jonas reached out to him almost immediately after the news broke.
Vikas Khanna revealed that Priyanka was among the first people to text him after the announcement. He also shared that he had informed her early when he first heard about the honour.
According to Khanna, Priyanka’s message carried a strong sense of pride for Indian culture. She told him that the recognition is a “big moment for our cuisine and our culture right now.”
TIME 100 list puts Indian talent alongside global icons
The ‘TIME 100 Most Influential People of 2026’ list, released on Wednesday, places Vikas Khanna among some of the biggest names in the world. This year’s list includes personalities like Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, tech leader Sundar Pichai, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, actors Kate Hudson and Ethan Hawke, astronaut Mark Kelly, and athlete Hilary Knight, among others.
Khanna also shared a personal note after being named on the list. He said the recognition fills him with immense pride and that he dedicates the achievement to his grandmother, mother, and sister.
He credited them for their sacrifices, guidance, and belief in him throughout his journey. According to him, their support played a key role in shaping his success.
He further said that this moment is not just his personal victory but also a win for India’s rich culinary heritage. He hopes the recognition inspires young people in the country to follow their dreams and represent India on global platforms with confidence.