In a world where influence is everything, eight Indians are taking the global stage by storm—no, not with spicy curry or Bollywood dance numbers, but with their groundbreaking contributions in various fields. From the glitz and glamour of Bollywood to the hallowed halls of academia, these trailblazers are making their mark on the world stage like never before.
Eight individuals of Indian descent have been recognized in Time magazine's esteemed compilation of the 100 most influential people of 2024. This celebrated list, unveiled on Wednesday, showcases a diverse spectrum of trailblazers across finance, entertainment, technology, activism, and academia, underscoring their impact on global discourse and progress.
The roster spans a remarkable range of luminaries—politicians, business magnates, artists, icons, movie stars, athletes, and scientists—whose contributions have reshaped their respective domains. The comprehensive list is divided into four categories: Leaders, Heroes, Artists, and Thinkers, encapsulating the multifaceted influence wielded by these remarkable individuals.
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Ajay Banga: Redefining Leadership at the World Bank
Ajay Banga, the President of the World Bank and a native of Pune, India, emerges as a standout figure. A graduate of St. Stephen's College in Delhi, Banga became a US citizen in 2007. His transformative leadership at the World Bank has garnered acclaim for its visionary approach to combating poverty and addressing climate change challenges. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen aptly described Banga as a leader of unparalleled skill and determination, navigating the institution through an era of profound transformation.
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Alia Bhatt: A Force in Bollywood and Beyond
Alia Bhatt, a Bollywood luminary and British citizen, was acknowledged for her formidable talent and philanthropic endeavors. With over a decade of contributions to Indian cinema, her international debut in Netflix's "Heart of Stone" solidified her global stature. British film director Tom Harper extolled Bhatt's unique ability to blend star power with authenticity and sensitivity.
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Satya Nadella: Shaping the Future of AI with Integrity
Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, secured his place on the list for the third time, recognized for his pivotal role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Nadella's commitment to ethical AI development underscores his role as a steward of technological progress, ensuring innovation aligns with humanity's best interests.
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Sakshi Malik: Pioneering Spirit in Indian Wrestling
Sakshi Malik, India's first and only female wrestler to win an Olympic medal, was honored for her courageous advocacy against sexual harassment in sports. Her vocal stance against misconduct within the Wrestling Federation of India has galvanized widespread support. Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker Nisha Pahuja hailed Malik's ascent as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, particularly young girls.
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Dev Patel: A Versatile Voice in Cinema
Dev Patel, a British actor of Indian descent, earned acclaim for his impactful contributions to cinema, both as an actor and director. Patel's directorial debut in "Monkey Man" showcased his versatility and storytelling prowess, drawing praise from Oscar-winning actor Daniel Kaluuya for radiating goodness on screen.
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Priyamvada Natarajan: Illuminating the Cosmos Through Research
In the academic realm, Priyamvada Natarajan, a professor at Yale University, was recognized for her groundbreaking research in astronomy, particularly in the study of dark matter and dark energy. Astrophysicist Shep Doeleman praised Natarajan's creative pursuit of astronomical research, noting her latest breakthroughs in understanding cosmic origins.
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Asma Khan: Culinary Innovator Celebrating Heritage
Asma Khan, a British restaurateur of Indian origin, was lauded for her culinary prowess and innovative approach at Darjeeling Express in London. Khan's culinary journey celebrates culture, tradition, and innovation, drawing inspiration from her upbringing in Kolkata, India.
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Jigar Shah: Driving Global Economic Development
Jigar Shah, Director of the US Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office, was recognized for spearheading economic development initiatives on a global scale. Richard Branson hailed Shah's leadership in steering transformative economic programs worldwide.
In celebrating these influential figures, Time's 100 list reaffirms the profound impact of individuals of Indian origin on global discourse, innovation, and societal progress.
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