Others recognised include Russell Westbrook and Shailene Woodley.
National Geographic has named Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra to its 2026 “National Geographic 33” list of global changemakers.
The annual list honours 33 individuals tackling urgent global issues, including climate change, healthcare access, sustainability and social impact.
It positions both actors among a select group using influence to drive meaningful change beyond entertainment.
Their inclusion highlights a growing crossover between celebrity culture and purpose-led advocacy on a global stage.
For South Asian audiences, the recognition reflects how Desi voices are shaping conversations around the world’s most pressing challenges.
The “National Geographic 33” initiative was launched in 2025 to honour the 33 founders of the National Geographic Society.
It celebrates visionaries, innovators and icons whose work is making a tangible difference across industries and communities.
Honourees are selected by editors following recommendations from contributors and the wider National Geographic community.
The list spans sectors including science, sport, film, fashion and environmental activism.
Profiles are shared across the brand’s magazine, website and social platforms to amplify each individual’s impact.
Alia Bhatt was recognised for her work in environmental sustainability and youth engagement around climate awareness.
National Geographic highlighted her fashion-resale initiative “Mi Wardrobe Is Su Wardrobe” as a key example of her eco-conscious efforts.
The platform allows her to sell personal clothing while raising funds for environmental charities and reducing landfill waste.
Her initiative reflects a wider shift towards sustainable fashion within celebrity culture.
Bhatt has also used her platform “Coexist” to amplify organisations focused on animal welfare and environmental protection.
Her approach was described as intentionally varied, rooted in long-standing compassion and curiosity about ecological issues.
Priyanka Chopra was honoured for her advocacy around healthcare access, particularly her focus on diabetes awareness.
Her work has been shaped by her personal connection to the condition through her husband Nick Jonas, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 13.
National Geographic noted that Chopra has worked to challenge perceptions that the condition limits opportunities or quality of life.
She has spent five years serving on the board of Beyond Type 1, the nonprofit co-founded by Jonas.
Through this role, she has supported campaigns in India promoting early detection and education.
These include viral videos and ambassador programmes aimed at tackling stigma and misinformation around diabetes.
Bhatt and Chopra join a global cohort of changemakers across entertainment, sport and activism.
The 2026 list includes names such as Harrison Ford, Idris Elba and Ewan McGregor.
Others recognised include Russell Westbrook and Shailene Woodley, all noted for their commitment to global causes.
Each honouree is described as a bold thinker and problem solver addressing challenges from sustainability to health.
The initiative continues to bridge entertainment influence with real-world impact.
Previous editions of the list have featured figures such as Jason Momoa and Michelle Yeoh.
These selections reinforce the platform’s focus on individuals working at the intersection of activism, culture and environmental leadership.
National Geographic states that its honourees believe the world needs imaginative solutions and urgent action.
The recognition places Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra among a small group shaping conversations about the planet’s future.
For Desi audiences, their inclusion marks a significant moment of representation within a globally influential platform.
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