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Newsmakers of the Week APRIL 25, 2025 | The Indian Eye 30

NEWSMAKERS OF THE WEEK

Selected stories about Indian diaspora from our website www.theindianeye.com

CHANDRA ARYA VIKAS KHANNA

Canadian Liberal MP Chef honored as

bids farewell ‘Person of the Year’ by Harvard

South Asian Association

iberal MP Chandra Arya bid farewell to his constituents in Nepean, On-
tario, after nearly a decade of service. He called for bold economic re-
Lforms to address Canada’s growing inequality amid US President Donald
Trump’s tariff decisions. he South Asian Association (SAA) of Harvard University has honored
“Today, however, our country stands at a critical juncture. The challenges renowned chef, novelist, and filmmaker Vikas Khanna Person of the
we face are not only driven by external threats to our economic security--particu- TYear, adding another feather to his already impressive cap. The honor
larly from developments in the United States--but also by deep-rooted structural celebrates Khanna’s enormous commitment to showcasing India’s rich culi-
issues that have been building within Canada for years,” Arya said in his final nary legacy on the international scene and is a historic acknowledgement for
letter, which he shared on X. Indian cuisine in general as well as for Khanna specifically.
Arya reflects on his tenure in Parliament since 2015 and outlines the press- Chef Vikas beaming with pride and honor, claimed, “What a milestone for
ing challenges facing Canada. Indian cuisine! To be named Person of the Year by Harvard University’s SAA
“It has been a profound honour and privilege to serve the people of Nepean- is beyond words. This recognition is not just an award—it’s a promise. A com-
-and all Canadians--as a Member of Parliament,” Arya wrote. He emphasised the mitment to continue honoring our culture through every dish, every detail.”
dedication and integrity with which he has represented his community, noting the From laboring in tiny kitchens in India to earning a Michelin star in New
political and personal challenges faced along the way. Arya’s message also con- York, Khanna, who was born in the bustling streets of Amritsar, has gone re-
veyed pride in his work, stating that the values he upheld throughout his service, ally far on success path taking along Indian culinary skills to the global stage.
even when it was difficult, were central to his commitment to the people of Nepean. Vikas has continuously used food as a potent vehicle to communicate stories,
Arya’s departure comes after he was dropped as the Liberal candidate unite cultures, and elevate voices, whether it is through his renowned docu-
ahead of the federal election, paving the way for Prime Minister Mark Carney mentary The Last Color, his fine-dining restaurant Kinara in Dubai, or his
to potentially run in the Nepean riding. Reflecting on Canada’s achievements, position as a popular judge on Celebrity MasterChef India.
Arya noted, “Canada is the greatest country in the world--a nation built by the Chef Vikas ecstatically said, “No words to express my feelings today—
hard work, resilience, and vision of generations before us.” However, he also from the bylanes of Amritsar to the stage at Harvard University. Thank you,
pointed out that Canada stands at a critical juncture, with deep-rooted structural Boston, for so much love. Heading back to New York with a full heart.”
challenges threatening its future prosperity. Vikas Khanna is a cultural ambassador in addition to being a chef, and
Arya emphasised the need for urgent economic changes, citing issues like he is well-known for his friendliness, modesty, and strong ties to his Indian
lack of pension coverage, falling real wages, and rising wealth inequality. heritage. His popularity has grown even further as a judge on Celebrity Mas-
He highlighted several pressing issues facing the nation, including the lack of terChef India, motivating young chefs all throughout the country.
workplace pensions for over 13 million working Canadians, which leaves many at As per Chef Vikas, “This is amazing. Because Harvard recognizes excel-
risk of retiring into poverty. lence in representation. Every single morning at my restaurant, Bungalow, is
He also noted that real wages for 40 per cent of Canadians have been falling a tribute to India. I’m thankful to everyone involved for choosing me for this
behind, with these individuals earning on average 25 per cent less than those in honor.”
both the top and bottom 20 per cent of income brackets. Continued on next page... >>

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