The Internet is Forever: Vikas Khanna’s Viral Response to Stereotype

Discover how Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna's 2020 response to stereotypes during a BBC interview went viral, highlighting the tradition of community kitchens in India and challenging global biases.

Jan 18, 2025 - 08:02
Jan 18, 2025 - 08:19
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The Internet is Forever: Vikas Khanna’s Viral Response to Stereotype

The internet has a unique ability to immortalize moments, bringing them back into public discourse long after they first occurred. Such is the case with a 2020 interview featuring Vikas Khanna, a Michelin-starred chef based in New York, whose thoughtful response to a biased comment has once again gone viral, sparking fresh discussions about stereotypes and global perspectives.

During the peak of the global pandemic in 2020, the world faced unprecedented challenges. Lockdowns restricted movement, economic hardship was widespread, and food insecurity affected millions. Amid this crisis, Vikas Khanna launched Feed India, a massive initiative aimed at coordinating meals for vulnerable populations across his homeland. This effort garnered global recognition, but it was Khanna’s sharp response to a casually prejudiced question during a media interview that has etched his words into the collective consciousness.

In the interview, Khanna was asked: “You’ve achieved so much, but it wasn’t always like this, was it? Coming from a less privileged background, you must have a deep understanding of hunger, especially growing up in a country like yours.”

The remark, though subtle, leaned heavily on stereotypes about India, implying that poverty and hunger were defining aspects of his upbringing. Khanna’s response was succinct yet profoundly insightful:

“I understand, but my perspective on hunger didn’t come from India so much. I was born and raised in Amritsar, where we have a massive community kitchen—one of the largest in the world. It’s a tradition that ensures everyone is fed. The entire city could eat there if needed. My true experience with hunger came much later, from living in New York.”


Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqBHLjRlrnQ

A Testament to Tradition: The Community Kitchen of Amritsar

Khanna’s mention of the community kitchen refers to the langar at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. This centuries-old Sikh tradition provides free meals to anyone, regardless of their background, religion, or social status. It embodies the spirit of inclusivity and compassion, feeding thousands daily. By bringing this up, Khanna not only dispelled the assumption of hunger being inherent to his upbringing but also shed light on a cultural practice that reflects the values of his community.

This response resonated deeply with audiences, challenging global perceptions of India as a place defined solely by struggles. It also emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and how traditions like the langar can serve as a model of humanitarian aid for the world.

Breaking Down Stereotypes

Khanna’s reply was more than a personal clarification; it was a direct challenge to the assumptions embedded in global narratives about his homeland. Media depictions often oversimplify regions like India, painting them as impoverished or struggling while ignoring their cultural, social, and economic richness. Such portrayals obscure progress and innovation, perpetuating outdated stereotypes.

For instance, when India achieved significant milestones, such as space exploration or economic growth, global media often responded with skepticism or mockery. These portrayals highlight a persistent bias that undermines the complexity and achievements of nations like India.

Exposing Double Standards

Khanna’s response also illuminated the double standards in how struggles like hunger are addressed globally. While food insecurity is a pressing issue in many developed nations, it often receives far less scrutiny. Millions in wealthier countries face challenges accessing basic necessities, but this reality is frequently downplayed in favor of narratives that focus on the shortcomings of other nations.

By stating that his sense of hunger came from New York, Khanna shifted the conversation. He drew attention to the fact that struggles are universal and that stereotyping only serves to obscure shared challenges.

An Enduring Legacy

Years later, Khanna’s words continue to inspire. His reply serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of challenging prejudice and embracing a more nuanced perspective in global conversations. By highlighting the langar tradition, he not only defended his heritage but also celebrated the power of community and compassion in addressing issues like hunger.

As the internet ensures that moments like this endure, Khanna’s response remains a beacon of dignity and truth. It challenges us to question assumptions, celebrate diversity, and recognize the shared humanity that connects us all.

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Shyamli Shyamli Chugh is a talented content creator and storyteller based in Delhi, India, known for her creative vision and passion for impactful storytelling. She began her academic journey at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, and later earned a degree in Humanities from Jesus and Mary College, University of Delhi, combining intellectual depth with artistic flair. Shyamli is a co-founder of the YouTube channel Honestly Talking, which she manages alongside her sister, Deepali Chugh—an MS graduate in Computer Science from New York University, now based in New York. Through Honestly Talking, Shyamli creates compelling content on travel, food, lifestyle, and culture, with a special emphasis on the vibrant life of Delhi. From uncovering the best local cuisines to curating unique experiences, her work reflects a deep love for storytelling and a keen attention to detail. In addition to Honestly Talking, Shyamli is also the co-founder of SouthDelhi.com, a platform dedicated to capturing the contemporary, urban lifestyle of South Delhi. By showcasing the area's dynamic culture, luxury, and innovation, Shyamli has crafted a space that resonates with the affluent class and young audiences, offering fresh insights and exclusive content about this iconic part of the city. Shyamli excels in scripting, filming, and editing, ensuring her projects are engaging and of the highest quality. Her vision for both Honestly Talking and SouthDelhi.com is to connect audiences across borders and create content that inspires and entertains viewers worldwide. With her dedication and creative approach, Shyamli continues to make a significant mark in the digital content space.