A R Rahman

For being the most consistent melody-machine of the year, composing for Jodhaa Akbar, Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na, Slumdog Millionaire and Ghajini.

Arvind Adiga

For winning the Booker with his debut novel and highlighting the contradictions within a growing India.

Ashley Tellis

For being a strategic affairs expert whose forceful endorsement of Indo-US Nuclear deal was widely respected and heard.

Dev Patel

For the stunning portrayal of a Mumbai slum kid in Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire, a widely acclaimed film.

Salman Rushdie

For being the biggest Indian origin imprint on the western literary world and winning the Booker of Bookers.

Sanjay Gupta

For being asked to head the surgeon-general’s office and becoming one of the most important catalysts in ensuring the wellness of Americans.

Swaraj Paul

For creating history by becoming the first Indian to be appointed as the deputy speaker of the House of Lords.