Renowned Indian chef and author Vikas Khanna marked India’s 79th Independence Day with a proud moment in New York as he launched his 39th book, Festivals at the Bungalow, at the NASDAQ stock exchange.
The book launch event also included Khanna ringing the NASDAQ closing bell, a symbolic gesture celebrating India’s cultural presence on the global stage.
Sharing the occasion on Instagram, Khanna wrote, “Today was a historic day in a billion ways. On this sacred day of India’s Independence, I stood at the NASDAQ Closing Bell Ceremony – a moment I could never have imagined when I first began my journey 26 years ago in New York City.”
The new book, Festivals at the Bungalow, is a celebration of India’s festivals, traditions, flavours, crafts, and stories that connect the country to the world. Khanna said the work reflects decades of dedication to showcasing Indian culture through food and hospitality.
He revealed that the book was inspired by over 510 days of celebrations at his New York restaurant, Bungalow, where Indian festivals have been honoured through unique menus and experiences. “We gather those moments, those words, those emotions, and place them within the pages of a book. A true representation of us,” Khanna explained in an earlier post.
Alongside the book launch, Khanna’s restaurant Bungalow also celebrated both Independence Day and Janmashtami. Guests were treated to tricolour-themed décor and dishes, while Janmashtami festivities featured desserts inspired by Mathura Pedas, a sweet linked to Lord Krishna’s childhood.
About Vikas Khanna and Bungalow
An eight-time Michelin-starred chef, Khanna has long been recognised for bringing Indian cuisine to the global stage. Throughout his career, he has authored nearly 40 books that highlight India’s culinary heritage.
His restaurant Bungalow, which opened in March 2024 in New York, has quickly become a sought-after dining destination for contemporary Indian cuisine. It has hosted several high-profile guests, including Priyanka Chopra, Shah Rukh Khan, and the Ambani family.
Khanna said the launch at NASDAQ on Independence Day was not just a personal milestone but also a tribute to India’s culture and its growing influence worldwide. “This honour reflects sleepless nights, relentless hustle, and an undying love for sharing Indian cuisine and hospitality with the world,” he noted.