New Delhi, April 15: Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor, and renowned chef Vikas Khanna have earned spots in Time Magazine’s prestigious 2026 list of the 100 most influential people. Unveiled on Wednesday, this year’s list celebrates a dynamic range of leaders from sectors like technology, entertainment, finance, sports, activism, and academia.
Ranbir Kapoor’s profile was penned by actor Ayushmann Khurrana, who lauded the actor’s profound impact on Indian cinema. “There are actors who chase legacy, and then there are those like Ranbir Kapoor, who create it through their art. In the fast-paced world of Indian cinema, greatness is often measured by box office hits and fan fervor. But every so often, an actor emerges who touches something deeper—our emotional vocabulary as an audience. Ranbir has been doing this, film after film,” Ayushmann wrote. He further described Ranbir as an actor who embodies “quiet restraint” and reflects a rapidly evolving India—one that is learning to listen to itself while leaving an indelible global impact. According to Khurrana, Kapoor’s performances make him a vital cultural bridge, helping to showcase the changing landscape of Indian cinema to the world.
While Ranbir has yet to comment on this recognition, Vikas Khanna, India’s celebrity chef, expressed immense pride in his inclusion on the TIME 100 list. In a statement, he shared, “Being featured on the 2026 TIME 100 list is a moment of immense pride for me. I dedicate this recognition to my grandmother, mother, and sister. Their unwavering belief in me, along with their sacrifices, blessings, and guidance, has made this journey possible. This achievement is a triumph for India’s culinary heritage, celebrated around the world. With this honour, I hope to inspire others to chase their dreams and represent India on the global stage.”
Other prominent names featured in the list include fashion icon Ralph Lauren, actors Kate Hudson and Ethan Hawke, astronaut Mark Kelly, and Olympic hockey star Hilary Knight, among others.
