Chef Vijay Kumar Wins Global Indian of the Year 2025

Chef Vijay Kumar Crowned Global Indian of the Year 2025

Renowned Tamil-origin chef Vijay Kumar has been named Global Indian of the Year 2025 at the CNN–News18 Indian of the Year ceremony, further cementing his status as one of the world’s most influential culinary voices. The award comes at a time when South Indian cuisine is experiencing unprecedented international recognition, propelled in part by Kumar’s creative revival of traditional Tamil flavours.

A Culinary Journey Built on Heritage

Born in Natham, a rural village in Tamil Nadu, Kumar grew up surrounded by farming culture, open-fire cooking and seasonal ingredients. His cooking philosophy is deeply rooted in these early experiences—firewood heat, hand-ground spices, village greens, and recipes preserved through generations. Today, those flavours form the backbone of his sophisticated global menus, which pay homage to tradition while embracing contemporary techniques.

Global Recognition and Cultural Impact

Kumar’s recent accolades include the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: New York State (2025) —a milestone that placed South Indian regional cuisine firmly in the global spotlight. Food critics view his recognition as symbolic of a wider culinary shift, where regional Indian flavours are being celebrated as world-class rather than niche.

An emotional highlight at the award ceremony came when his mother joined him on stage. Kumar credited her and his grandmother for the lineage of taste and discipline that shaped his career, turning the moment into a national symbol of cultural pride.

EXAM ORIENTED FACTS

• Chef Vijay Kumar named Global Indian of the Year 2025 by CNN–News18

• Winner of James Beard Award: Best Chef – New York State (2025)

• Known for elevating Tamil/South Indian cuisine internationally

• Currently leads an acclaimed restaurant in Manhattan’s West Village