Celebrating the iconic Indian citizens who made a significant contribution to the society thereby inspiring the nation, Network18 felicitated the winners of ’CNN-News18 Indian of the Year’ 2015 today in New Delhi.
The awards night witnessed the presence of the most prominent personalities from all walks of life. The line-up of eminent guests included Arun Jaitley, Nitin Gadkari, Kiran Rijiju, Sheila Dixit, Balbir Singh Dosanjh, Sania Mirza, Kangana Ranaut, SS Rajamouli and Leander Paes to name a few. The event which saw a grand turnout of dignitaries from all walks of life, was followed widely on social media and trended on twitter with #IndianoftheYear all through the evening. The audience included not just the ones seated at the venue but also across the nation through LIVE telecast on CNN-News18 and the live blog on News18.com.
Speaking on the occasion, Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, Network18 said, “‘CNN-News18 Indian of the Year’ is our endeavor to laud the inspiring citizens of our country by honouring them with this prestigious title which has set exceptional standards during the last decade and is amongst the most coveted awards India has seen. Today we mark its 10th Anniversary and I take immense pride in announcing the winners for 2015. Every year turns out to be significant in the history of our nation when such role models, as true ambassadors of brand India contribute to strengthening our society in their own field of work. It is a privilege of Network18 to honour such achievers. “
Instituted in 2006, the CNN-News18 Indian of the Year has over the years achieved prestige and credibility unmatched by others in the media industry. The award distinguishes itself by celebrating not only exemplary individuals and their achievements but also the ideas that have inspired India and impacted lives of the citizens. The awards adhere to a transparent and robust selection process that includes the Editorial Board drawing up a list of nominees, further leading to the final selection of winners by a Jury comprising a select group of distinguished personalities. This year’s jury comprised eminent members like Soli Sorabjee, Harish Salve, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Deepak Parekh, Kiran Karnik, Leander Paes, Kunal Bahl and Mohanlal Nair.
Quotes of the key Dignitaries.
Honorable Finance Minister Arun Jaitely said,
· “India is back on the global radar. Perception about India is undergoing a change”.
· “Some change we are about to make in the film certification process. In the next few days a few radical changes will be announced.”
Actress Kangana Ranaut at the event,
· “The award means a lot to me at this time in my life”
· Kangana’s plea to Jaitley with regards to the censorship issue: Concerned with the way things are going. Hope the issue will be suitably addressed
Winners of CNN-News18 Indian of the Year:
SPORTS
Sania Mirza
BUSINESS
Bandhan Financial Services
PUBLIC SERVICE
The People of Chennai:
ENTERTAINMENT
SS Rajamouli
Outstanding Achievement (SWACHH BHARAT)
Bindeshwar Pathak
Outstanding Achievement (MAKE IN INDIA)
United Technologies
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Kangana Ranaut
Ranveer Singh
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Balbir Singh Senior
CNN-News18 INDIAN OF THE YEAR 2015
The People of Chennai
SPECIAL JURY AWARD
Leander Paes
Speaking on the occasion, Radhakrishnan Nair, Managing Editor, CNN-News18, said, “It is our great pride that Indian of the Year has achieved the 10-year milestone and is still considered one of the most prestigious awards in the country. From the People of Chennai to who worked selflessly during the floods to Bandhan banks who provided financial services to the poor, all the winners tonight make us proud Indians. I wish all of them hearty congratulations.”