'This feels like a temple': Vikas Khanna reveals Shah Rukh Khan’s heartwarming remark on ‘Bungalow’

Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna is venturing further into filmmaking with his upcoming project ‘Imaginary Rain’, featuring Shabana Azmi. The film traces the triumphs and challenges of Indian cuisine in New York. Lately, Khanna opened up about a memorable compliment from Shah Rukh Khan that he'll never forget.

Vikas Khanna on Shah Rukh Khan compliment

In a Variety India interview, when asked about the emotion he wants guests to take away from a meal at Bungalow, Khanna shared: “I will never forget what Shah Rukh Khan said when he entered Bungalow: “Every restaurant I have been to before this seemed like a shop, and this feels like a temple.” I think it is because the vision of the restaurant was much bigger than my winning awards. It was about uplifting the entire cuisine and culture.”

Vikas Khanna's ‘Imaginary Rain’ plot

In ‘Imaginary Rain’, Shabana Azmi stars as a famed chef from Manhattan who journeys home to India after suffering a devastating loss. With Prateik Patil in a key role beside her, the film delivers a poignant narrative on processing sorrow, mending family bonds, and rediscovering joy through cooking.

Vikas Khanna's excitement for ‘Imaginary Rain’

Speaking to PTI, Khanna said, “My next movie is coming out in a few months. It’s called ‘Imaginary Rain’, it’s with Shabana Azmi, A R Rahman, and Prateik. It’s about a chef in New York. I think it’s my life’s best work. And to direct Shabana Azmi has been one of the biggest privileges of my life. I’m very proud of it. For me to convince her to play this role will possibly be one of the greatest highlights of my life.”

Shah Rukh Khan's next project

Meanwhile, on the work front, Shah Rukh will next be seen in ‘King’. The film is helmed by Siddharth Anand, who directed SRK in ‘Pathaan’.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”