The 2026 edition of Time magazine’s annual TIME100 list of the world’s most influential people features a strong presence of Indians and people of Indian origin, alongside a wider cohort of South Asian leaders shaping global politics, technology, science and culture.
The list, considered one of the most prestigious markers of global influence, recognises individuals whose ideas, actions or visibility are shaping the world—across sectors and ideologies.
Indians and people of Indian origin on the list
Among the most recognisable Indian names is Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, whose inclusion reflects both his enduring cultural influence and the growing global reach of Indian cinema.
In politics, Zohran Mamdani—a Ugandan-born, Indian-origin Mayor of New York—continues to gain prominence as a progressive voice in US politics, representing a new generation of diaspora leadership.
Technology is represented by Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet and Google, whose continued presence on the list underscores the central role of Big Tech in shaping global economies and information ecosystems. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan also features, highlighting the growing power of digital platforms in media and public discourse.
In science and medicine, Kiran Musunuru is recognised for his pioneering work in gene editing and cardiovascular research, reflecting the increasing global influence of Indian-origin scientists in cutting-edge innovation.
The culinary world is represented by Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna, whose work bridges gastronomy, culture and humanitarian advocacy—further elevating Indian cuisine on the global stage.
Other South Asians rising in 2026
Beyond Indian-origin figures, the list also includes prominent South Asian political actors such as Tarique Rahman and Balendra Shah, reflecting shifting political dynamics across the region.
Their inclusion points to South Asia’s growing geopolitical relevance, particularly in a year marked by political churn, democratic contestation and rising youth-led movements across the region.
A mix of global power, culture and controversy
The TIME100 list also features a wide range of globally recognisable figures across politics, entertainment and business.
Among them are actor Ben Stiller and fashion icon Ralph Lauren, alongside political heavyweights including Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Mark Carney, Benjamin Netanyahu and Sanae Takaichi.
US political figures such as Gavin Newsom and diplomat Steve Witkoff also feature, reflecting ongoing global political tensions and policy shifts.
Diaspora influence continues to expand
The strong showing of Indians and South Asians in the 2026 TIME100 list underscores a broader trend: the rising influence of the South Asian diaspora across multiple domains.
From Silicon Valley boardrooms and global science labs to political offices and cultural industries, South Asians are increasingly shaping global narratives—not just as participants, but as agenda-setters.
As the TIME100 continues to evolve, this year’s list reinforces a clear message: influence today is not confined by geography, but amplified by networks, ideas and diasporic connections.
