Karan Johar becomes first Indian host of Earthshot Prize Awards
Filmmaker Karan Johar has been confirmed as the host of The Earthshot Prize Awards Night in Mumbai this November, making him the first Indian to host the annual ceremony.
The appointment comes as the global environmental prize prepares to hold its first edition in India on November 17.
Founded by Prince William, The Earthshot Prize champions solutions aimed at protecting and restoring the planet. India has previously contributed to the prize, with Indian innovations featuring among its winners and finalists.
"To be the first Indian to host The Earthshot Prize Awards Night is a moment of immense pride for me, and to do so in Mumbai makes it all the more meaningful," Johar, known for directing films such as "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai", "Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham" and "Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani", said in a statement.
"In cinema, we imagine new worlds. The innovators celebrated by Earthshot are showing us how to build a better one. That is what makes HRH Prince William's vision so compelling: it gives us not just reasons to hope, but ideas we can act on. India has the creativity and ambition to be an important part of that future. I'm honoured to welcome the world to Mumbai and help give these remarkable people the recognition they deserve," he added.
William said he is excited to have The Earthshot Prize Awards Night in Mumbai.
"Every year, our Finalists give me renewed optimism. They show us that, even as the environmental challenges remain urgent, extraordinary people around the world are already proving that progress is possible," said the 44-year-old Prince of Wales and heir to the British throne.
"Seeing solutions work gives us all confidence to act. When they succeed, they inspire others and accelerate change. I'm proud to welcome these 15 Finalists to the Earthshot Prize community and look forward to celebrating their stories in Mumbai this November," he added.
The two-day Earthshot Prize Summit will bring together global leaders, innovators, funders, businesses and communities to build connections and support environmental solutions.
The programme will culminate in the Awards Night on November 17, when 15 Finalists will be celebrated and five 2026 Winners announced.
Each winner will receive GBP 1 million to help scale their solution and expand its impact.
