Chef Vikas Khanna gives THIS gift from India to Anne Hathaway, know why it is special

In a heartfelt tribute to Indian heritage and cherished personal memories, celebrated chef Vikas Khanna gifted Hollywood star Anne Hathaway the iconic Mysore Sandalwood Soap during her visit to his famous New York restaurant, Bungalow. The gesture was not just a token of admiration but a deeply emotional tribute tied to Khanna's late sister, Radha.

The Mysore Sandalwood Soap, known for its unmatched purity and fragrance, holds a special place in Khanna's heart. Alongside the soap, he also presented Hathaway with a handcrafted marble box from Agra and a book titled Kiss in Kashmir. These gifts carried cultural significance and represented a blend of Indian craftsmanship and tradition.

Presenting Anne Hathaway the amazing Mysore Sandalwood Soap, handcrafted Marble box from Agra & my fav Kiss in Kashmir by Monica Saigal pic.twitter.com/PupFXZ68CA

— Vikas Khanna (@TheVikasKhanna) December 19, 2024

Khanna shared the emotional story behind the gesture on Instagram, revealing how his late sister, Radha, was a devoted fan of Anne Hathaway. During her time battling illness in the hospital, Radha found immense joy in watching Hathaway's films, particularly The Devil Wears Prada and Sex and the City. Those moments of shared laughter became a source of comfort for Khanna as he stood by his sister through her challenging journey.

After Radha's passing, Khanna found it painful to keep the movies on his computer and eventually deleted them. However, Hathaway’s visit to his restaurant brought back a wave of bittersweet memories, filling him with joy as he served her. To commemorate the moment, Khanna shared a heartfelt photoshopped image of his sister alongside Hathaway, symbolizing Radha’s presence.

The Mysore Sandalwood Soap team also recognized the significance of this gesture. They expressed their pride in being part of a moment that celebrated Karnataka’s heritage on a global stage. In a post on X, they highlighted how the soap continues to connect hearts worldwide with its timeless purity and rich legacy.

Khanna’s thoughtful gesture not only honoured his sister’s memory but also showcased the enduring beauty of Indian culture and its ability to bring people together, even across continents.