The landscape of global influence is painted with the actions and creations of notable individuals who continuously push the boundaries of excellence. Among these distinguished personas, two Indian-origin luminaries—Alia Bhatt and Dev Patel—have made their mark on TIME magazine’s prestigious list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2024.
The list, curated annually by the American news magazine, features personalities who have made significant contributions across various fields, impacting societies far beyond their immediate circles. This year, the entertainment industry beholds the entry of two paragons of Indian descent, who have been recognized for their far-reaching impact.
Joining the eclectic mix of prominent figures such as the gifted singer-songwriter Dua Lipa, the multifaceted actor Jeffrey Wright, and the visionary filmmaker Sofia Coppola, Bhatt and Patel are celebrated for their extraordinary talent and unwavering commitment to their art.
Alia Bhatt, a tour de force in Indian cinema, ventured into Hollywood with her debut in Tom Harper’s action thriller ‘Heart of Stone’, cast alongside international stars Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan. Bhatt took to the Instagram platform, where she relayed her heartfelt gratitude for being included in the TIME100 list, underscoring it as a distinct honor.
Harper, in his acclaiming tribute, highlighted Bhatt’s versatility as an actor, her decade-spanning prominence in the Indian film industry, and her entrepreneurial and philanthropic initiatives led with integrity. Her performance on the global stage has not just carved a niche but erected a monument to her prowess.
Dev Patel, whose acting career skyrocketed following his lead role in ‘Slumdog Millionaire’, the Oscar-winning film of 2008, and who touched hearts once more with the acclaimed ‘Lion’ in 2016, has been lauded by his peer, Daniel Kaluuya. Kaluuya extols Patel’s inherent goodness and captivating humanity that captures viewers, anchoring them in empathy. Patel’s directorial debut effort in ‘Monkey Man’ has further underlined his dynamic capability in the realm of cinema.
Alongside Bhatt and Patel, the TIME100 list is embellished with other Indian-origin trailblazers, showcasing the diverse contributions of the diaspora. Among the luminaries are Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft; Olympic champion wrestler Sakshi Malik; Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank; Yale professor Priyamvada Natarajan; Asma Khan, the restaurateur behind Darjeeling Express; and Jigar Shah, Director of the US Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office.
Recognition on such a global platform signifies not just personal accolades but the representation and inspiration for the Indian community worldwide. The blend of culture, charisma, and commitment exhibited by Bhatt and Patel has established them as standard-bearers and aspirational figures across nations.
Moreover, their contributions extend beyond the screens—they influence culture, promote diversity, and inspire the young generation to aspire towards greatness. The terrain of English and World cinema gains richer dimensions through their endeavors, paving the way for a more inclusive and holistic representation within international media narratives.
As we witness the rise of global citizens breaking the confines of borders and barriers, Bhatt and Patel exemplify the cultural amalgamation that the 21st century epitomizes. Their recognition by TIME is reflective of a world where influence and inspiration draw from a well of global diversity.
As Bhatt and Patel continue to trailblaze in their respective journeys, the reverberations of their influence resonate, encouraging others to leap forward and crafting a legacy that transcends time. The world will undoubtedly remain eager to chart the ongoing impact of these outstanding personalities, as they mold the contours of the entertainment landscape and set new benchmarks for excellence.
