Cinema VinesFilmmaker and producer Karan Johar will serve as the host for the sixth edition of the ELITE Most Influential awards, scheduled to take place on December 14, 2026, at the Bodleian Libraries of the University of Oxford in England. The ceremony, organised under the guidance of Puraskar Thadani – the founder and editor‑in‑chief of ELITE Magazine – will honour Indian achievers and personalities from a range of industries on an international stage.
Known for his work in Hindi cinema, Johar has built a reputation across filmmaking, production and television. As the master of ceremonies for ELITE Season VI, he will lead a gathering expected to feature business leaders, entertainers, fashion designers, media figures and other influential figures whose contributions span business, entertainment, fashion, media and beyond.
The choice of the Bodleian Libraries as the venue continues ELITE’s tradition of hosting its events at globally recognised landmarks. Previous editions have taken place at iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Tower Bridge in London, the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Museum of the Future. Oxford’s historic institution adds another prestigious location to the list.
Puraskar Thadani, who has steered the expansion of the ELITE Most Influential platform across international venues, has built the initiative around recognising individuals for their professional accomplishments and offering them opportunities for global recognition. He has earned the nickname “Mr. Impossible” for his ability to bring together diverse sectors and high‑profile partners, including luxury brands such as Rolls‑Royce Motor Cars and Jacob & Co. Watches.
Previous editions of the awards have celebrated a wide array of personalities, from television journalist Rajat Sharma and business leader Indra Nooyi to designer Masaba Gupta, entrepreneur Sabeer Bhatia, industrialist Adi Godrej, actor Vivek Oberoi, chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar, and entertainers Kanika Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez, Esha Deol, Lillete Dubey and Safa Siddiqui. While the list of honourees for the 2026 Oxford edition has not yet been announced, the event is expected to continue the tradition of highlighting excellence across multiple fields.
Details regarding the programme, attending guests and the full roster of award recipients for the sixth season of ELITE Most Influential remain to be disclosed. The event promises to bring together a global audience to celebrate the achievements of India’s most influential figures in a setting that blends cultural heritage with contemporary acclaim.
