Mumbai: TIME named Vikas Khanna to the 2026 TIME100, its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
An internationally acclaimed chef, restaurateur, author, filmmaker, humanitarian, and eight-time Michelin-starred culinary icon, Khanna’s work has significantly elevated Indian cuisine on the global stage. His latest restaurant ‘Bungalow’ in New York City, has emerged as a cultural tribute to India, celebrating its rich heritage, flavours, and storytelling through a deeply immersive dining experience, and has taken the city by storm. As the force behind the Michelin-starred restaurant Junoon in New York, he brought refined Indian dining into the world’s culinary spotlight, earning a Michelin star for several consecutive years.
Khanna went on to gain widespread recognition as a judge on MasterChef India, where his warmth and mentorship inspired millions. Beyond the world of cooking, he has authored over 41 books that beautifully document the richness of Indian culinary traditions. Vikas Khanna also made his directorial debut with ‘The Last Color’, earning international acclaim for its powerful storytelling, and his new film ‘Imaginary Rain’, a culinary-focused drama set in New York is slated for release later this year.
His contributions extend far beyond gastronomy through his humanitarian initiatives, including large-scale food relief efforts through ‘Feed India initiative’ where he helped provide more than 30 million across 135 cities during the COVID-19 pandemic and ‘South Asian Kid’s Infinite Vision’, his non-profit foundation.
Sharing his thoughts, Vikas Khanna said, “Being on the 2026 TIME100 list of the most influential people in the world is a matter of immense pride for me. I owe this recognition to my grandmother, mother, and sister, they always believed in me and it is their sacrifices, blessings, and guidance that has helped me reach where I am today. This achievement is a victory for India and our culinary legacy that is appreciated by people across the world. With this honour, I hope to inspire the people of my country to follow their ambition and represent India on the global stage.”
The full list and related tributes appear in the April 27, 2026, issue of TIME, available on newsstands on Friday, April 17, and now online here. The list recognizes the impact, innovation and achievement of the world’s most influential individuals.