NEW YORK (TIP): Vikas Khanna, an award-winning Michelin-starred Indian chef, restaurateur, filmmaker, humanitarian and the host of the TV show Master Chef India along with Lake Isle Press, launched his new book “Return to the Rivers” at an exclusive event on Tuesday, January 28 at Junoon Restaurant in New York City.

Return to the Rivers boasts nearly 500 pages, and 100 full-color photographs of plated dishes, exotic travel experiences, and personal and thoughtful musings that preserve the traditions, values and simple gifts that the Himalayan people bestowed upon Khanna. Speaking at the launch event, in a personal interview Khanna said: The inspiration of the book came from within and it was the journey he had to take to explore himself.

His spiritual and culinary journey through the Himalayan heartland brought foodies and travel enthusiasts some of the best recipes and culture from northern India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet and western China. Also 60% of his book revolves around vegetarians. Khanna’s book explores a wide variety of cultural delicacies, as it is organized by Street Foods; Soups and Noodles; Grains; Vegetables; Fish; Poultry, Eggs and Cheese; Meats; Breads; Condiments; Desserts; and Beverages.

There’s even a section dedicated to the ever popular Momo, and the many ways in which to fold these iconic little dumplings. An exclusive evening Reception followed that evening at Junoon, attended by over 100+ people including several Media outlets. Guests enjoyed hand crafted appetizers and drinks while getting their books individually personalized from the author himself. The event was sponsored by Junoon Restaurant and organized by Jitin Hingorani of ZINGO Media.

About the Author
Born in India, Vikas Khanna learned to cook from his grandmother and opened his own catering company at a young age of seventeen. After apprenticing under the most renowned chefs of India, he moved to the United States in 2000 and has worked his way up to be one of New York City’s top-rated chefs. He was named one of StarChef’s “Rising Stars” in 2010 and is currently the Executive Chef of the Michelinstarred restaurant Junoon. Known to many as the host of MasterChef India and FOX Traveller’s Twist of Taste, Vikas is equally recognized for his humanitarian work with SAKIV, New York Chefs Cooking for Life and his documentary film series about food and religion, Holy Kitchens. Vikas currently resides in New York City.