iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-

Chef Vikas Khanna has added another major international recognition to his career after becoming the first Indian to receive a special honor from New York State during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrations.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul presented Khanna with a “Special Citation” at an event in Albany last week in recognition of his artistic and culinary contributions, as well as his wider cultural impact. The honor marked the first time an Indian has received such recognition during the state’s AAPI Heritage Month commemorations.

Khanna later described the moment as deeply emotional and meaningful, saying the recognition represented far more than a personal achievement. He said it reflected the importance of identity, representation and diversity for the growing Asian American and Pacific Islander community in the U.S.

“Today was a historic day in many ways. To be honored by the Honorable Governor Kathy Hochul during AAPI (Asian American & Pacific Islander) Heritage Month was deeply emotional and humbling,” Khanna posted on his social media account.

“What makes this recognition even more meaningful is that it marks the first time an Indian has received this honor in New York State history. AAPI is the fastest-growing community in the United States, representing more than 25 million people, cultures, stories, struggles, and dreams,” he said.

“This was never just a personal milestone. It was a statement of hope, identity, representation, and the power of diversity.
Today, inside the Governor’s home, many of us felt what true inclusion can look like. For every immigrant family that carried their traditions across oceans, this honor belongs to you too,” he said,

Speaking at the event on May 9, Khanna spoke about the role immigrants play in shaping cities like New York and said protecting vulnerable communities helps make the city a symbol of hope for people around the world.

Governor Hochul used the occasion to celebrate the contributions of AAPI communities across New York and stressed the importance of unity against hate and discrimination. She also said the state’s diversity strengthens New York and reaffirmed support for migrant communities.

“Proud to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in Albany today! While the forces of hate try to stoke division, we’re showing the world that here in New York, we stand united. Our diverse cultures and communities make us stronger. And we’ll never stop fighting for them,” she posted on X.

The citation recognized Khanna’s journey from Amritsar to New York and described him as a global culinary icon committed to excellence in food, art and public service.

Sibu Nair, New York’s AAPI Affairs Director, said the event was aimed at honoring the contributions of diverse communities across the state and recognizing their role in everyday life in New York.

The latest recognition comes only weeks after the Amritsar-born chef was named in TIME magazine’s 2026 list of the 100 Most Influential People in the world.

Photo: x.com/GovKathyHochul