Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna has penned an emotional note for comedian Zakir Khan, who is set to make history with his first Hindi stand-up performance at New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden (MSG) on August 17, 2025. The celebrated chef, who has been living in New York for over 26 years, shared a video of the duo preparing sesame caramel barfi together to mark the occasion.
“One of the greatest moments of inspiration & honor”
In his caption, Khanna expressed immense pride at the milestone, calling it “one of the greatest moments of inspiration & honor” to witness an Indian artist perform at a sold-out MSG- and that too in Hindi. He emphasised the cultural significance of this moment, noting how rare it is for a Hindi-language stand-up to headline such a globally renowned venue.
“On August 17, 2025, Zakir Khan will make history as the first stand-up comedian to headline a Hindi-language show at MSG- a landmark moment for Indian comedy on the global stage,” Khanna wrote.
A friendship rooted in respect
The chef shared that he has known Zakir for years, admiring the comedian’s patriotic spirit and ability to inspire audiences. “I always knew that only he carried the patriotic fire to prove that ‘we are enough’ and ‘we have arrived,’” Khanna said, thanking Zakir for leading the way and making history.
Khanna also paid a personal tribute to Zakir’s roots, referring to him as “the son of Ismail Khan and Kusum Khan from Indore” and expressing confidence that he will “conquer New York City.”
Sweet celebration with sesame caramel barfi
To honor the special day, Khanna revealed that sesame caramel barfi- the traditional Indian sweet they were seen making in the video- will be served during the August 17 performance. The gesture, he said, was a way to pay homage to Zakir’s parents and celebrate his cultural heritage.
