TIME’s 100 most influential people: Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has added another milestone to his career after being named in TIME magazine’s 2026 list of the world’s 100 most influential people. The annual TIME 100 list highlights global figures shaping culture, politics, business and entertainment, and this year Kapoor stands out as the only actor from India’s film industry to make the prestigious ranking.
TIME unveiled its 2026 list on Wednesday (April 15), recognising pioneers, artists, leaders and innovators who have made a significant global impact. Alongside Ranbir, celebrity chef Vikas Khanna also features on the list, representing Indian creativity in the culinary world.
Indian celebrities who made the TIME 100 before
Several Indian celebrities had already secured a place on TIME’s 100 most influential people list long before Ranbir Kapoor’s inclusion in 2026. Over the years, actors, filmmakers and musicians from India have been recognised for their cultural influence and global impact. Alia Bhatt (2024) was honoured for her versatility and entrepreneurial ventures, while Shah Rukh Khan (2008, 2023) appeared twice, reflecting his global stardom.
Director S.S. Rajamouli (2023) was recognised after RRR’s worldwide success. Ayushmann Khurrana (2020) was praised for socially disruptive roles, while Deepika Padukone (2018) earned recognition for both cinema and mental-health advocacy. Earlier honourees include Priyanka Chopra Jonas (2016), Aamir Khan (2013), A.R. Rahman (2009) and Aishwarya Rai (2004).
| Name | Year(s) featured | Recognition / Role |
|---|---|---|
| Alia Bhatt | 2024 | Actor, producer and entrepreneur |
| Shah Rukh Khan | 2008, 2023 | Global Bollywood superstar |
| S.S. Rajamouli | 2023 | Director of RRR, “Pioneers” category |
| Ayushmann Khurrana | 2020 | Actor known for socially disruptive roles |
| Deepika Padukone | 2018 | Actor and mental-health advocate |
| Priyanka Chopra Jonas | 2016 | Actor and global entertainer |
| Aamir Khan | 2013 | Actor known for socially impactful cinema |
| A.R. Rahman | 2009 | Oscar-winning composer |
| Aishwarya Rai | 2004 | International film star |
Global leaders and icons also featured
The 2026 TIME 100 list also includes prominent global figures such as Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Mark Carney, alongside innovators, artists and cultural leaders. According to TIME, those featured this year are individuals who are “changing culture in unprecedented ways.”