The Time Magazine’s annual list of most influential people has been announced, and Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has taken the top spot, beating out other notable personalities like Michelle Yeoh and Mark Zuckerberg. Over 1.2 million votes were cast in the TIME100 poll, with 4% of the votes going to the “baadshah (king) of Bollywood”.
Khan, one of India’s most popular actors, has made a massive comeback with the film ‘Pathaan’ this year, shattering box office records. The SRK-Deepika starrer has collected nearly $130 million worldwide. This achievement makes him one of the most influential personalities in the entertainment industry, both nationally and globally.
Protesting Iranian women came a close second with 3% of the votes. Women in Iran have been protesting since the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Their voices of dissent have been a prominent part of the global discourse on gender equality.
Healthcare workers stand at third place receiving 2% of the total vote. Their contribution to society, especially during the pandemic, has been exemplary, and their dedication to saving lives has been acknowledged by the public worldwide.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan, stood at third and fourth place, respectively. The couple has been making headlines for their philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of mental health and climate change.
Lionel Messi, one of the world’s most popular footballers, stood at fifth place with 1.8% of the vote. The football star won his first Fifa World Cup title in 2022, leading Argentina to a nail-biting victory over France.
The final list of the most influential people will be released on April 13 by the magazine’s editors. The TIME100 list is a testament to the impact of individuals on society, and their ability to inspire change. It celebrates people from all walks of life who have contributed to the betterment of society, either through their work, activism, or philanthropy.
Shah Rukh Khan’s achievement is particularly notable because he has been able to transcend national boundaries and appeal to a global audience, making him one of the most recognizable faces of Indian cinema worldwide. His success story is an inspiration to aspiring actors and filmmakers, and his influence in the industry cannot be understated.
As the final list of the TIME100 most influential people is released, we can only hope that these individuals continue to make a positive impact on society and inspire others to do the same.
