Besides being a celebrity chef, Vikas Khanna is also an author, a filmmaker, and a television personality. Well, he could have been an actor too.
We usually reserve the term 'icon' for artists, industrialists, sportspersons, and in some cases, politicians. But Vikas Khanna, a celebrity chef, has achieved the status of an icon with his own rights. Born in Amritsar, and now based in New York City, Khanna has successfully taken the craft of cooking to the next level. He understands both the art and science of cooking and believes that food is an integral part of culture. And that's where his preparations stand out, and win hearts. He is an inspiration for anyone who loves food and anyone interested in the stories behind food.
Born on November 14, 1971, Vikas Khanna celebrates his 53rd birthday today. On this occasion, we share an interesting fact about him that you didn't know.
Well, it certainly comes as no surprise that Vikas Khanna has been offered a film role. He is good-looking, charming, and has a very pleasant screen presence. However, what's interesting is he was once reportedly approached by none other than Karan Johar for a role.
We don't know details about the film or the role. But it was reported that the role wasn't a cameo, but a full-fledged one. And Khanna turned it down, saying his priority would be culinary arts.
It's worth noting that there's much more to Khanna than his work as a chef. First of all, he is an incredibly popular face on television and has hosted several shows over the years. From 2011, he has hosted seven seasons of MasterChef India - 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. Also, he has hosted four seasons of the show Twist of Taste on Fox Life. On the other hand, he appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia in Season 6. He has appeared as a judge on shows like Hell's Kitchen, Kitchen Nightmares, and The Martha Stewart Show as well.
Besides, Khanna is also an accomplished author with numerous books (mostly on food) to his credit. Some of his notable books are Mango Mia - Celebrating the tropical world of Mangoes, Ayurveda - The Science of Food and Life, The Cuisine of Gandhi - Based on the beliefs of the Legend, New York Chefs Cooking for Life, The Spice Story of India, Flavors First: An Indian Chef's Culinary Journey, My Great India Cookbook, Modern Indian Cooking, Savour Mumbai: A Culinary Journey Through India's Melting Pot, Bliss of Spices - The Essence of Indian Kitchen, Amritsar - Flavours of the Golden City, UTSAV - A Culinary Epic of Indian Festivals, Essence of Seasoning - My All Time Favorite Recipes, and PÃTRA - Heritage of the Indian Kitchen.
Credit: kinaradxb
On the other hand, Khanna is a filmmaker as well. His documentary 'Kitchens of Gratitude' was featured at Marche du Film at the 69th Cannes Film Festival. And he has directed a feature film, titled 'The Last Color', based on his own book of the same name. He has produced a documentary series titled 'Holy Kitchens' which explores the relationship between faith and food.
This feeling is surreal.
— Vikas Khanna (@TheVikasKhanna) January 9, 2021
SUPERRRRR excited to share that my film - The Last Color is now streaming on AMAZON PRIME in INDIA, USA, UK, and Germany with more countries to follow.
It almost feels like my child has found her home. #Grateful #TheLastColor pic.twitter.com/PA6OkcCsFi
Credit: Vikas Khanna
Moreover, he is an active philanthropist, who works for societal welfare with his foundation, "South Asian Kid's Infinite Vision" (SAKIV).
Happy Birthday, Vikas Khanna. Wish You A 'Delicious' Year Ahead!
