CNN News18 set to honour India’s invincible icons in Delhi

NEW DELHI: CNN News18 is gearing up for one of its biggest nights of the year as it hosts the 15th edition of the Indian of the Year Awards in New Delhi on 28 November. The annual celebration shines a spotlight on extraordinary Indians whose courage, creativity and commitment have shaped the nation’s story over the past year. This time, the theme India’s Invincible Icons sets the tone for an evening dedicated to those who inspire millions to dream a little bigger.

Launched in 2006, the awards have long been regarded as the gold standard of credibility in Indian news television. Known for spotlighting excellence with rigor and integrity, the event has become a sought after honour for leaders across industries and a yearly fixture for viewers across the country.

This year’s winners will be chosen by an elite jury featuring some of India’s most respected figures, including Sanjiv Goenka, DY Chandrachud, Indu Malhotra, Prasoon Joshi, Mahesh Jethmalani, Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Amitabh Kant, Shefali Shah, Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Gagan Narang and Lara Dutta. Their task is to evaluate nominees across eight categories that reflect India’s talent and tenacity.

The categories include entertainment, business, influencer, rising sports stars, youth icon, global indian, iconic woman achiever and climate warrior. Each category features five standout nominees whose work has created impact and sparked national admiration. Among the names in contention are Mohanlal, Rashmika Mandanna, Arijit Singh, Jaideep Ahlawat, Zakir Khan, Ananya Panday, Ishaan Khatter, Raj Shamani, Payal Kapadia, Falguni Nayar, Manish Malhotra and rapper Hanumankind.

The guest list promises to add even more sparkle to the evening. World Cup winning cricketers Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma, along with coach Amol Muzumdar, are set to attend. ICC Chairperson Jay Shah will also be present. Fresh from their historic victory, the Blind Women’s T20 World Cup champions will join as a proud symbol of perseverance. Adding a dash of Hindi cinema charm, Saiyaara stars Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda will walk the red carpet.

CNN News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob, said the event celebrates those who dare to stand apart. He added that the awards continue to deliver a platform that mirrors the channel’s own drive for excellence. Network18 CEO of English and business news  Smriti Mehra, said this year’s nominees have raised the bar across fields and inspired the nation with their achievements.

The event is presented by the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group with wardrobe partner Reid & Taylor, powered by Reliance Industries Limited and supported by Polycab, HDFC Sky, Air India Express and LIC.

Viewers can catch the grand celebration live on 28 November from 6 pm on CNN News18 and its YouTube channel.