For over two decades, NDTV Indian of the Year has remained one of the country’s most respected platforms, recognising individuals and institutions whose work has helped shape the idea of India. The 2025 edition continues this legacy, promising an evening that reflects achievement, influence and national impact.

According to an NDTV press release, this year’s event will be held in New Delhi on December 19 and will be themed ‘Ideas. Inspiration. Impact’. The gathering will bring together an exceptional cross-section of leaders, achievers and cultural icons, reinforcing the stature the event has built over the years.

Adding to the gravitas of the occasion, the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, will lead the distinguished assembly, underlining the credibility and national importance of the platform.

The evening will see participation from some of India’s most prominent voices across sectors. The guest list includes Sridhar Vembu, Founder of Zoho; Sunil Vachani, Founder and Executive Chairman of Dixon Technologies, known for driving India’s electronics manufacturing push; Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who symbolises India’s expanding ambitions in space. Together, they reflect India’s growing global footprint across business, sport and science.

Indian sport will have a strong presence, with ICC ODI World Cup-winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur attending alongside teammates Jemima Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma, and Amol Muzumdar, head coach of the women’s team. Their presence highlights a defining chapter in the rise of Indian women’s cricket on the world stage.

Cinema and popular culture will also feature prominently with Vicky Kaushal, Janhvi Kapoor, Aryan Khan and Ahaan Panday representing contemporary creative expression and the evolving face of Indian entertainment.

This year, NDTV Indian of the Year will honour excellence across 14 categories, spanning business leadership, innovation, philanthropy, governance, sports, entertainment, culture and science.

Commenting on the occasion, Rahul Kanwal, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, NDTV, said the platform has always been about recognising those who move India forward through ideas, conviction and leadership. He added that as India enters a defining decade, the 2025 edition reflects the energy of a renewed NDTV while celebrating individuals and institutions shaping the country’s future.