Vikas Khanna stuns at TIME100 Gala in Louis Vuitton bandhgala

New York: Indian celebrity chef Vikas Khanna made a striking appearance at the prestigious TIME100 Gala, after earning a place in TIME’s list of the world’s 100 most influential personalities. The event, held on April 23, saw Khanna representing Indian culinary excellence on an international stage.

Dressed in a refined black bandhgala designed by Louis Vuitton, the chef combined traditional Indian tailoring with global luxury. The outfit featured understated pinstripes and was paired with a crisp white shirt, tailored trousers, and polished formal shoes, creating a sleek and elegant silhouette.

A highlight of his ensemble was a peacock-shaped brooch, a culturally rich accessory gifted by Nita Ambani and sourced from Swadesh. The accessory added a personal and symbolic touch, blending heritage with high fashion.

Sharing glimpses from the evening on Instagram, Khanna reflected on his journey, particularly addressing a phrase once used to belittle him — “Curry Boy.” He spoke about how the term, which once carried dismissive undertones, has now been reclaimed as a symbol of identity and resilience. According to him, years of perseverance and dedication have transformed it into a mark of pride representing his roots and achievements.

Online reactions to his appearance were overwhelmingly positive. Social media users praised not only his milestone achievement but also his humility and personality. Many highlighted his journey from a small town in Punjab to global recognition, calling it inspiring. Admirers also complimented his charm and presence, with several describing him as “graceful,” “genuine,” and even “heart-throb material.”

Khanna’s presence at the TIME100 Gala marks a significant moment for Indian cuisine on the global stage, reinforcing his influence beyond the kitchen and into cultural representation worldwide.