Indian-American culinary superstar

Maneet Chauhan is a celebrity chef, cookbook author and a TV personality. She was invited by President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama for the Annual Easter Egg Roll Hunt 2014 to the White House.
In an exclusive interview with The Times of India, Maneet Chauhan speaks about her inspiring journey in America so far:
1. Yours is an incredible success story that inspires hundreds of young people dreaming of making it big in America.Yet, your journey so far must have been a roller-coaster ride - strewn with successes and challenges. Trace your professional journey so far for aspiring young people who wish to emulate you.
My love of food started as a child, when I was very young I would eat at home and then go visit my neighbors and pretend I hadn't eaten so I could get another meal in! Food very naturally became the career direction I went in. Yes, there have been challenges along the way- it wouldn't be worthwhile if there weren't. I am so very fortunate that I am in an industry that I absolutely love and am very passionate about. It is a lot easier to stay focused and keep your head above water when you are pursuing your ultimate dreams!
2. Which were the most fulfilling moments on your way to achieving your professional goals?
I have had many fulfilling moments along the way however some of the most exciting ones include being invited by President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama to The White House for the Annual Easter Egg Roll as well as when I was asked to be a graduation speaker for The Culinary institute of America- one of the premier culinary schools in the entire world. Also, all the press and accolades i have been receiving in regards to Chauhan Ale and Masala House being one of the hottest and best restaurants in Nashville, Tennessee right now is something that I am very proud of.
3. What do you like best about your profession?
The thing that I love the post about what I do is that it is an extremely creative and dynamic profession- no two days are alike in the hospitality industry. Food is the one thing that brings the whole world together and I love being a part of something that unifies humanity in such a fantastic way.
4. What/who inspires you to scale greater heights and keep forging ahead?
I would not be where I am today without my family, they have had an incredible amount of faith in me over this journey and they indeed are my support system who inspire me to forge ahead- my, my husband parents, my sister, my family and my dear kids. Every time I look at both of my children I see a future which is very bright for them and I recognize that I need to be a role model. If they see me as someone who can achieve whatever I want, I believe that they will follow in my footsteps and that is something that I strive for every single day.

5. Name three people who've left a lasting impression on you and your career so far. How have they influenced you?
I find inspiration in each and every person that I cross paths with. Every human being I interact with offers me a significant insight on some aspect of life. I look at the biggest chef's in this industry and draw inspiration from them and I also am inspired by my contemporaries, my co workers, my line cooks, and even my dishwashers! I have realized that If I limit my view, I am the one missing out. You can learn something from every person on this planet.
6. How do you keep yourself motivated? What do you do to push yourself beyond the standards that you've set for yourself?
I think motivation is something that comes from within. I am very lucky that I am part of an industry that I love. It is creative, dynamic and ever changing, I LOVE what I do and fortunately that is keeps me moving. My children and family also are a strong driving force behind my motivation.
7. Some say 'Health', some say 'Family' and others say 'Spirituality'. What are the three priorities in life that you live by?
Family is extremely important! I can not stress that enough but also being true to yourself and having faith in yourself is equally as valuable when it comes to being successful in whatever it is you are setting out to accomplish. It is wonderful to have a good team and support system but if you don't fully believe in your self, your craft, your industry then what is going to get you through the hard times? Another priority I live by is never settling. No matter what wonderful things we can accomplish we can always do more, something bigger and something better is always on the horizon if you reach for it. Never give up and the sky is the limit!
8. How do you deal with challenges and stumbling blocks in your career as and when they come your way?
There is absolutely no path you can choose in life that will not include challenges or blocks. These are important because they are what make you appreciate your successes. When I come across a challenge I stop, analyze the situation, I look at in and realize that each and every problem has a solution. It is just a matter of thinking creatively. Problem solving is an art in itself. I find it is always better to sit down, calm down, clear your head and think the situation through rather than immediately fly off the handle and freak out about it.
9. What do you look forward to in the next few years of your career?
To me what is extremely important is to be a voice in America for Indian Cuisine and culture. I feel Indian cuisine has been grossly misrepresented. All the food trends that are so hot right now, farm to table, locally grown, organic, farmers markets and the like are the things that I grew up with. Indian food is beautiful, fresh and vibrant and I want the entire world to know about this. My next few years are aimed towards spreading this knowledge. Being fortunate enough to be a part of a successful TV show such as Chopped gives me the opportunity to do just that. I just opened a restaurant in Nashville, Tennessee and I am interested in being a part of more concepts all across the hospitality spectrum. More restaurants, a brewery and another book are all ideas that are in the works!
10. What's your message for young people who want to make it big in America?
My message to the young people wanting to make it in America is-Do not be afraid! There will always be hurdles and obstacles to overcome. Have enough faith in yourself to know that you will get through the hard times. Have an end goal in sight because having something feasible to work towards will keep you motivated and determined. Proving yourself in a country you did grow up in is extremely difficult and the only way you will be able to do it is by believing that you have the ability to succeed. Make sure you have a constant thirst and quest for knowledge. Study your industry, keep up with your contemporaries and do your homework- both in school and outside of it!
As interviewed by Babita Basu