This new award for Chef Khanna isn’t just a physical prize. Governor Hochul gave the chef, who was born in Amritsar, a Special Citation during AAPI Heritage Month. In fact, he’s the first Indian in New York State’s history to be given this. It’s a very visible moment, full of both pride and a sense of purpose.
Why this honour matters
Khanna said being given this award was “deeply emotional and humbling,” and added that it’s even more meaningful because it’s the first time someone from India has received it in New York State. He sees it as an accomplishment for everyone, not just for himself.
He pointed out how large and varied the AAPI community is: over 25 million people, lots of different cultures, life stories, difficulties, and hopes. He said this wasn’t just about him personally, but showed hope, a sense of who people are, having a voice, and how good it is when there’s diversity.
The Albany ceremony and the state’s message
Last week, at the state capitol in Albany, Governor Hochul gave Khanna the Special Citation while they were celebrating AAPI Heritage Month. The citation called Khanna a “global culinary icon” and said, “New York State is happy to celebrate Vikas Khanna and all he’s done, and his dedication to being amazing in his art, cooking and as a person.”
At a glance
Here are the core messages underscored at the event:
– First Indian honoured in New York State during AAPI Month
– Unity against divisive hate stressed by Governor Hochul
– Pledge to protect migrant communities in New York
– AAPI communities recognised for daily contributions
Sibu Nair, who is New York’s AAPI Affairs Director, said the Governor was pleased to have many different communities over to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and to acknowledge how much they contribute to the state.
Khanna’s voice on culture and community
On May 9th, Khanna explained how important the occasion was. He said having an Indian chef “at this table” isn’t just an honor for him, but shows that the stories and culture of Indians are important. What he said really captured how proud many people were that cooking is being seen as a way to express culture.
He also tied the award to the difficulties of moving to a new country. He said New York City is successful because it looks after the people who are most in need, and “in this city, most of the time, it’s the immigrants who are the most in need.” So, the award also recognizes the communities who build things despite facing problems.
From Amritsar to global recognition
Khanna has always connected food with telling stories, and his cooking is influenced by the flavors of his hometown and his experiences around the world. What happened in Albany builds on this idea, showing that a kitchen can be a place to explore who you are, understand others, and appreciate cultures.
Lots of attention is being given to Khanna right now. Last month, TIME magazine included the chef (who was born in Amritsar) on their 2026 list of the “100 Most Influential People”. For those who admire him, these two awards one after the other mark an important part of his career.
Why it resonates now
This award comes at a time when it’s especially important for immigrant communities to be represented, feel safe, and be accepted. Governor Hochul used the celebration to say how important it is to stand together against hatred, and said she will work to defend migrant communities.
For people from India and the larger AAPI community, Khanna’s citation makes all the usual cultural things people do — from cooking at home to running restaurants in the neighborhood — feel more valued. It shows New York is becoming more open to celebrating people who share the state’s story through their food, art and what they’tve experienced.
For Khanna himself, the most important thing is this: being recognized is much more satisfying when everyone is included.
