World-renowned chef , filmmaker, and author Vikas Khanna recently opened up about a formative moment early in his culinary career—one that could have broken his spirit, but instead ignited a lifetime of purpose and perseverance.
In 1992, while training at the Mughal Sheraton in Agra, Khanna was working the tandoor during the lunch buffet. One afternoon, as he placed fresh rotis on a guest’s table, he overheard a mother scolding her son: “If you don’t take your studies and summer homework seriously, you’ll end up like him.” The table turned to stare. Khanna simply smiled and walked away.

That moment, painful yet pivotal, stayed with him. “When I returned home to Amritsar, I told my grandmother what had happened,” he recalled. “She simply said: ‘Listen to your heart and choose happiness over money. Choose purpose over business.’”
Her words became a guiding light. Rather than letting shame define him, Khanna doubled down on his passion. Over the next four decades, he honored his roots, culinary heritage, and craft with relentless dedication. His journey—from Amritsar’s bustling kitchens to Michelin-starred acclaim in New York—became a testament to self-belief and resilience.
Today, Vikas Khanna is celebrated globally for his contributions to Indian cuisine and culture. His flagship restaurant Junoon earned a Michelin star for several years, and he has authored over 25 books. His humanitarian efforts during the pandemic, distributing millions of meals through his “Feed India” initiative, earned widespread praise.

Reflecting on a more recent high point, Khanna recalled a conversation with Nita Ambani during her visit to his Bungalow restaurant. “She said, ‘This place represents us—our traditions—and honors our ancestors,’” he shared. “That reminded me of my grandmother’s words and made me realize how far that young boy at the tandoor had come.”
From being mocked for his dreams to becoming a culinary icon, Vikas Khanna’s journey is a masterclass in choosing purpose, pride, and passion over everything else.