Bringing together leading voices from entertainment, music, fashion, digital content, business, sports, and the creative industries, Headliners celebrated personalities whose work shapes conversations, inspires audiences, and leaves a lasting impact on society.
Adding a distinctive identity to the platform was the specially designed Headliners trophy. Inspired by the iconic Bombay Times newspaper, the trophy was created in the form of a rolled newspaper scroll, symbolising stories, achievements, and influence that rise above the ordinary to become headlines. The trophy honours visionaries, changemakers, and icons whose contributions have left a lasting mark across culture, business, entertainment, and society.
The inaugural edition witnessed the presence of celebrated personalities including Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Bhumi Pednekar, Maniesh Paul, Salim Merchant, Benny Dayal, Sophie Choudry, Ashnoor Kaur, and several other distinguished names from the entertainment and cultural ecosystem.
Reflecting the wide spectrum of excellence recognised by the platform, Headliners honoured an accomplished group of achievers whose contributions have shaped contemporary India. The award recipients included Kajol, who received the title of Cinematic Force, Shabana Azmi for Legacy of Excellence, Ayushmann Khurrana as Champion of Disruptive Storytelling, Manish Malhotra as Global Fashion Ambassador, Shankar Mahadevan as Melody Maestro, Suniel Shetty as Multifaceted Star, Jaideep Ahlawat as Acting Trailblazer for Cinema and Digital Streaming Platforms, Bhumi Pednekar as Social Impact Champion, Malaika Arora as Lifestyle Entrepreneur, and Vedang Raina as Rising Star, among several other notable achievers.
The evening witnessed several memorable moments. Javed Akhtar inaugurated the ceremony with the traditional lamp lighting. Shankar Mahadevan performed a few lines from Lakshya, while a special on-stage interaction between Udit Narayan and Taha Shah added to the celebratory atmosphere. The spirit of creativity, collaboration, and excellence remained central to the event, reinforcing the vision behind Headliners.
Sivakumar Sundaram, Chief Executive Officer of The Times of India, said, “For over three decades, Bombay Times has celebrated the people and moments that have shaped popular culture in India. With Headliners, we are recognising the individuals behind those defining stories whose influence extends far beyond their respective fields. We envision Headliners becoming a definitive platform honouring those who leave a lasting mark on audiences, industries, and society.”
With a successful debut, Bombay Times Headliners is set to emerge as a marquee annual property celebrating the people who shape conversations, influence culture, and create the moments that define the times.
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