In a remarkable display of Odisha’s cultural magnificence on the international stage, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik extended his warm appreciation to celebrity chef Vikas Khanna. The occasion was the unveiling of an awe-inspiring replica of the iconic Konark Sun Temple wheel in the vibrant heart of New York City’s Times Square.
Amid the bustle of the Big Apple, a slice of Odisha’s rich heritage took center stage. On the 77th Independence Day of India, celebrated Michelin star chef and visionary entrepreneur Vikas Khanna unveiled an imposing replica of the revered Konark wheel. This event captured the attention of none other than Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who took to social media to convey his admiration and gratitude for this captivating feat.
Patnaik’s message reverberated with pride, as he lauded Vikas Khanna for his exceptional effort in bringing a piece of Odisha’s timeless culture to the global spotlight. The Chief Minister’s post encapsulated his deep gratitude not only to Khanna but also to the talented artists whose craftsmanship adorned this masterpiece.
The Konark wheel, an embodiment of Odisha’s cultural heritage, resides within the iconic Sun Temple of Konark. This temple showcases 24 wheels, symbolizing each month of the year, while the eight spokes on each wheel depict the divisions of the day.
Vikas Khanna, amidst the presence of a vibrant Indian community, unveiled the specially crafted Chakra Sculpture during the Independence Day festivities at Times Square. Khanna’s relentless efforts spanning nearly five years culminated in the realization of a dream: the unveiling of this sculpture in one of the world’s most prominent locations on India’s Independence Day. For Khanna, it was not just a moment of triumph, but an emotional connection to his roots.
The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), in collaboration with The Consulate General of India in New York and The City of New York, orchestrated the Inauguration Ceremony of The Indian Independence Exhibition. The Chakra Sculpture, a symbol of India’s rich heritage and shared values, stood as a testament to the deep connections between the two nations.
This captivating sculpture will soon find its home in Khanna’s upcoming restaurant in New York City, offering a touch of India’s purity and grandeur to the diaspora and younger generations. As Khanna eloquently put it, this endeavor offers a reference point for encountering India’s essence, a blend of purity and majesty.
Hailing from Amritsar, Vikas Khanna’s culinary journey has been one of perseverance and accomplishment. Scaling the heights of the culinary world through hard work and dedication, he earned a coveted Michelin Star for his restaurant Junoon in 2010. Additionally, his role as a judge on MasterChef India has further solidified his influence and contribution to the world of cuisine.
Through events such as this, Odisha under the visionary guidance of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik continues to shine on the global stage, connecting cultures and generations in a tapestry of shared heritage and appreciation.
Prasanta Patnaik