‘Big Achievement’: Chef Vikas Khanna Reacts to TIME 100 Recognition

Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna has been named in the popular TIME magazine's 2026 list of the 100 most influential people, marking a proud moment for Indian culinary artistry on the global stage.

Celebrating the remarkable milestone with the coveted spot, Vikas Khanna, in a conversation with ANI, expressed much gratitude and pride.

He spoke about how the recognition brings a "big honour for the years of consistency" for him.

"Even if people don't show up, I believe Indian food is the game," Vikas Khanna added.

As the recognition sparked a wave of joy for proud Indians, Khanna received one of the first greetings from Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

"Priyanka Chopra is among the first people in the world to text me for such a big moment. She is one of the first people I told when we heard the news," Khanna said, adding that in her text, she said, "This is a big moment for our cuisine and our culture right now."

Released on Wednesday, TIME magazine's 2026 list of the 100 most influential people featured Vikas Khanna alongside the likes of Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai.

What Did Vikas Khanna Say About Being on TIME’s 100 Most Influential People List 2026?

Sharing his thoughts, Vikas, in a press note 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 have 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,” Khanna said.

“With this honour, I hope to inspire the people of my country to follow their ambition and represent India on the global stage,” he added.

The coveted list also features the names of Ralph Lauren, Kate Hudson, Ethan Hawke, Mark Kelly, and Hilary Knight, among others.

(With inputs from ANI)