In a resounding celebration of influence and inspiration, TIME magazine has unveiled its 100 Most Influential People of 2024, a list honoring individuals who have shaped the cultural, political, and social fabrics of the world we live in. Amongst this distinguished lineup, Indian-origin stars Alia Bhatt and Dev Patel have emerged as prominent figures, reflecting their powerful impact across the globe.
The eminent American newsweek publication took to social media to share the news, showcasing a post that befits the recognition extended to these luminaries. On the TIME (@time) Instagram handle, the magazine highlighted the entertainment industry’s pivotal role in connecting disparate cultures, commending Bhatt and Patel for their extraordinary talent and the weight of their achievements.
Alia Bhatt, an actress revered for her versatility and range, ventured into Hollywood with Heart of Stone, directed by Tom Harper, in 2023. The film, starring along Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan, marked a turning point for Bhatt as she showcased her mettle on an international platform. Grateful for the acknowledgment, Bhatt took to her Instagram account, expressing her honor in being part of such a prestigious list and sharing her sentiments with her adoring fans.
Tom Harper, in paying homage to Bhatt, lauded her as “one of the world’s leading actors.” He praised her for her longer than a decade’s worth of acclaimed performances in the Indian film industry and her efforts off-screen. Harper also pointed out her accomplishments as a businesswoman and a philanthropist, embodying leadership through her integrity and commitment.
Parallelly, Dev Patel, who first captured the hearts of audiences with his role in Slumdog Millionaire and later the critically acclaimed Lion, has earned the admiration of his peers, including Oscar-nominated actor Daniel Kaluuya. Kaluuya, in his tribute, remarked on Patel’s innate ability to emit warmth and authenticity onscreen, compelling viewers to empathize with his characters, regardless of their flaws. He highlighted Patel’s directorial debut with Monkey Man as further proof of the latter’s multifaceted prowess, suggesting that his talent knows no bounds.
TIME’s acknowledgment of Bhatt and Patel is complemented by the inclusion of six other Indian-descended individuals, each a titan in their respective field. The illustrious cohort features Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella; Sakshi Malik, an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling; Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank; Priyamvada Natarajan, a distinguished Yale professor; culinary star Asma Khan of Darjeeling Express fame; and Jigar Shah, helming the US Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office.
Joining such a diverse and esteemed assembly, including the likes of Dua Lipa, Jeffrey Wright, and Sofia Coppola, Bhatt and Patel do not just represent the apex of Indian-origin talent, but they also signify the increasingly significant interface between English and world cinema.
The TIME 100 list does not merely catalog noteworthiness but commemorates the stories, endeavors, and triumphs that resonate and inspire globewide. Bhatt and Patel’s presence on this list underscores their substantial contribution to the arts, empowering narratives that transcend borders and reinforcing the transformative power of cinema.
As the world watches on, Bhatt’s star continues to rise, dazzling audiences from Bollywood to Hollywood, while Patel’s journey from actor to director exemplifies the dynamic evolution of artists brave enough to traverse boundaries and challenge themselves in an ever-expanding global theater.
Their accolades bear testimony to their impact and their ability to touch hearts and challenge minds. As 2024 presses on, Alia Bhatt and Dev Patel stand not only as exemplars in the entertainment industry but as cultural beacons, shaping the celluloid dreams and real-world dialogues that define our times.
