Who Made the Cut? TIME's 2026 List of Most Influential People Features Indian Icons!

TIME magazine has released its 2026 list of the '100 Most Influential People', featuring notable Indian figures like Google CEO Sundar Pichai, actor Ranbir Kapoor, and chef Vikas Khanna. This year's list emphasizes the impact of these individuals across various fields, showcasing their contributions to global narratives through innovation and creativity. Pichai's advancements in AI, Kapoor's transformative acting, and Khanna's culinary and humanitarian efforts highlight the growing influence of Indian voices on the world stage. Discover more about these remarkable personalities and their achievements in shaping conversations worldwide.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 16, 2026, 13:41 IST

TIME Magazine's 2026 Influential People List

New Delhi: TIME magazine has unveiled its latest compilation of the '100 Most Influential People of 2026', featuring notable figures such as Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor, and renowned chef Vikas Khanna.

This year's selection showcases a variety of individuals whose contributions are shaping global discussions through innovation, creativity, and leadership, highlighting the increasing prominence of Indian personalities on the international stage.

Sundar Pichai, recognized in the 'titans' category, has been acknowledged for his pivotal role in advancing artificial intelligence within Google's framework.

Under his guidance, AI technologies have been seamlessly integrated into various products, including Search, Android, and Chrome, with the company intensifying its efforts in this domain through the Gemini platform amidst fierce global competition.

AI specialist Andrew Ng, who penned Pichai's profile for TIME, emphasized that in a time when AI is transforming knowledge and work, Pichai's impact is evident in 'how extensively it is utilized'.

On the 'artist' front, Ranbir Kapoor has been celebrated for his unique acting approach and subtle performances, which have significantly altered audience expectations in Indian cinema.

His extensive body of work has also played a crucial role in introducing Indian narratives to a broader global audience.

Chef Vikas Khanna has been recognized for his culinary artistry and his humanitarian and cultural initiatives. His efforts have been highlighted for using food as a means to connect cultures while promoting Indian traditions worldwide.

Chef Eric Ripert, who wrote Khanna's profile, remarked that Khanna's influence extends beyond his achievements, focusing on 'uplifting and connecting with others'. He noted that through his restaurant Bungalow, Khanna has crafted an environment where food serves as a narrative rooted in memory and heritage.

The list also includes notable global figures such as YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Pope Leo XIV, Artemis II mission commander Reid Wiseman, US President Donald Trump, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Additionally, prominent Asian leaders like Japan’s first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Nepal’s young Prime Minister Balendra Shah are featured.

The annual 'TIME100' list honors influential personalities across various sectors, including politics, technology, entertainment, business, and culture, who are driving conversations and instigating change on a global scale.