CNN-News18 is gearing up to host the 15th edition of its flagship ‘Indian of the Year Awards’ on November 28, celebrating individuals whose achievements have shaped India’s remarkable journey over the past year.

The event will begin at 6 pm and will honour changemakers under the theme ‘India’s Invincible Icons’, recognising those who have inspired millions through their work.

According to a CNN-News18 press release, the awards continue their legacy as one of the most respected honours in Indian news broadcasting. Since 2006, the Indian of the Year Awards have upheld a reputation for credibility, spotlighting personalities who push boundaries and fuel the nation’s aspirations.

The awards have grown into a nationally awaited annual celebration, known for its editorial integrity and the channel’s commitment to recognising excellence. Over the years, they have become a benchmark for honouring distinguished individuals across diverse sectors who have left a meaningful impact on society.

This year’s winners will be selected by an eminent jury panel comprising some of India’s most respected leaders, including Sanjiv Goenka, former CJI DY Chandrachud, Justice Indu Malhotra (Retd.), Prasoon Joshi, Mahesh Jethmalani, Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Amitabh Kant, Shefali Shah, Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Gagan Narang, and Lara Dutta. Their collective expertise ensures a rigorous and thoughtful evaluation process.

The awards span eight categories—Entertainment, Business, Influencer, Rising Sports Stars, Youth Icon, Global Indian, Iconic Woman Achiever, and Climate Warrior—each featuring five nominees who have made a striking impact this year. Some of the prominent names in the nominations list include Mohanlal, Rashmika Mandanna, Arijit Singh, Jaideep Ahlawat, Ananya Panday, Zakir Khan, Raj Shamani, Falguni Nayar, Manish Malhotra, Payal Kapadia, and Hanumankind, among others.

Adding to the grandeur of the awards night will be several special guests, including World Cup-winning cricketers Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma, coach Amol Muzumdar, and ICC Chairperson Jay Shah. The Blind Women’s T20 World Cup champions will also attend, symbolising a powerful moment of national pride. The cast of the recent blockbuster ‘Saiyaara’—Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda—will join the celebrations as well.

Speaking about the event, Zakka Jacob, Managing Editor, CNN-News18, said that the platform continues to celebrate personalities who encourage India to dream big and break boundaries. Smriti Mehra, CEO – English & Business News, Network18, added that this year’s achievers have set new benchmarks across sectors and brought global recognition to India.

The RP Sanjiv Goenka Group is the Presenting Partner for the awards, with Reid & Taylor as the Wardrobe Partner. The event is powered by Reliance Industries Limited, alongside Associate Partners Polycab, HDFC Sky, Air India Express, and LIC.

Viewers can watch the prestigious Indian of the Year Awards LIVE on November 28 from 6 pm on CNN-News18 and its YouTube channel.