MasterChef Vikas Khanna on Struggles, Success, and Celebrating Indian Food Globally!

Vikas Khanna’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, he opens up about overcoming struggles, the emotional weight of leaving home, and his unwavering promise to his mother. From discovering South Indian flavors to meeting the Dalai Lama, his story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of purpose. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation!

👇 About the guest

Vikas Khanna, born in Amritsar, India, is a New York City-based celebrity chef, restaurateur, cookbook writer, and filmmaker, known as a judge on MasterChef India. Overcoming childhood challenges, he studied at the Culinary Institute of America and New York University after graduating from Manipal Academy of Higher Education. Khanna has worked with top hotel groups in India and opened the Michelin-starred Junoon in Manhattan. Author of over 25 books, including "Utsav," he is also the goodwill ambassador for Smile Foundation, launching the "Feed India" initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic.

👇 Top 5 takeaways:

Vikas reflects on his challenging childhood & bullying.

- Describing himself as an introverted child, Vikas faced skepticism for pursuing cooking, a non-traditional career.

- His mother's support helped him cope with bullying, emphasizing that everyone is special in their own way.

Culinary success and a Michelin star.

- Chef Vikas reflects on leaving a successful catering business to honor his mother's memory.

- Despite struggles in America, he remained committed to fulfilling his promise to his mother before she passed away.

Traveling to South India

- Chef Khanna discovered savory coconut dishes and unique flavors previously unknown to me.

- My experiences in South India challenged my assumptions about Indian cooking and cuisine diversity.

Adapting to life in New York.

- Chef Vikas Khanna describes the emotional challenges faced during their initial move to New York, highlighting the city's unforgiving nature.

- Personal anecdotes reflect a deep connection to the city, influenced by music and the historical context of post-9/11 job struggles.

Meeting with the Dalai Lama.

- Chef Vikas Khanna reflects on losing his restaurant during the economic recession, which left him financially broken.

- A meeting with the Dalai Lama provided a new perspective on freedom and opportunity after loss.

👇 Timestamps

[00:00] Chef Vikas Khanna- Intro

[02:47] Overcoming challenges and a tribute to a courageous mother.

[08:01] Vikas reflects on his challenging childhood & bullying.

[10:31] Emotional scars from childhood

[15:43] Emotional struggle of leaving home

[18:01] Culinary success and a Michelin star.

[22:43] Reflecting on personal journey and connection to spirituality.

[25:00] The Golden Temple- Amritsar

[29:44] Importance of spiritual guidance

[32:00] Traveling to South India

[36:47] Personal journey of discovering America and pursuing aspirations.

[39:10] Experiencing New York

[44:05] Adapting to life in New York.

[46:27] Cleaning houses, cooking, & caring for pets before 9/11

[50:52] The passion behind creating a restaurant

[53:01] Meeting with the Dalai Lama.

[57:44] Overcoming personal and cultural limitations

[59:59] Embracing heritage while defying stereotypes in cuisine.

[1:04:30] Inspiration & support from their sister and mother.

[1:06:46]Communication skills are vital

[1:11:43] Purpose over profit

[1:14:13] Heartfelt encounter with a fan!

👇 Connect with Chef Vikas Khanna

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vikaskhannagroup/

👇 Connect with Rodrigo and Something Bigger

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigocanelas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rodrigocanelas

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rodrigo_canelas

Web: https://www.somethingbigger.com

#masterchef #food #culinary #india #michelin