Vikas Khanna: Indian Cuisine in the West is Transforming
Synopsis
Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna discusses the dynamic evolution of cuisines, particularly Indian, and their cultural significance in the global landscape. His insights reflect on culinary transformations and the essence that remains rooted in tradition.
Key Takeaways
Vikas Khanna emphasizes the evolving nature of cuisines .
Indian cuisine is experiencing a transformative phase in the West .
Culinary arts reflect broader societal changes.
Comfort remains a core essence in evolving cuisines.
Vikas is active in food diplomacy and charitable work.
Mumbai, March 8 (NationPress) Renowned chef Vikas Khanna, who has just concluded the 9th season of the popular culinary competition 'MasterChef India', shared his insights on the transformation of cuisines and their significant impact on cultures globally.
While filming the finale alongside fellow chefs Ranveer Brar and Kunal Kapur, Vikas expressed his views to IANS, emphasizing that culinary arts are always in a state of flux, unlike static art forms.
He remarked, “Cuisines are perpetually evolving; they will never be static or confined like the Mona Lisa. They possess life, continually changing and adapting. I observe Indian cuisine in the West as being on the verge of a remarkable transformation.”
Vikas elaborated, “It is experiencing a dynamic metamorphosis, altering its colors, forms, flavors, and presentations, while the essence remains rooted in comfort. As we often say on 'MasterChef India', ‘You didn’t just cook for me, you cooked for my childhood.’ The origin and evolution of any cuisine stem from these pivotal moments.”
“This evolution mirrors our growth as humans, and societal changes inevitably reflect in our culinary traditions,” he added.
Having honed his culinary skills and establishing a successful career in the United States, Vikas Khanna served as the executive chef and co-owner of the acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant Junoon in New York City, which has maintained its Michelin star for several years. In India, he is widely recognized as a judge on 'MasterChef India', appearing alongside numerous culinary experts.
Beyond television, he has written several cookbooks that highlight Indian cuisine and its diverse culinary traditions. He is also active in food diplomacy and charity initiatives aimed at combating hunger, showcasing traditional Indian cooking techniques and ingredients to a global audience through his restaurants, literature, and television appearances.
Point of View
Vikas Khanna's insights shed light on the evolving nature of cuisines, particularly Indian cuisine in the West. His observations underline the importance of cultural exchange and the dynamic nature of culinary arts, reflecting broader societal changes.
NationPress
30 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Vikas Khanna say about Indian cuisine?
Vikas Khanna stated that Indian cuisine is undergoing a significant transformation in the West, evolving continuously while maintaining its roots in comfort.
What is Vikas Khanna known for?
Vikas Khanna is known for his role as a judge on 'MasterChef India' and for his Michelin-starred restaurant Junoon in New York City.
How does Vikas Khanna view the evolution of cuisines?
He believes that cuisines are alive and always evolving, reflecting human growth and societal changes.
What initiatives is Vikas Khanna involved in?
He is engaged in food diplomacy and charitable initiatives aimed at hunger relief, promoting traditional Indian cooking techniques.
Has Vikas Khanna authored any cookbooks?
Yes, he has written several cookbooks that focus on Indian cuisine and its regional culinary traditions.
