"Every year, our finalists give me renewed optimism."
Karan Johar and Prince William met in London ahead of The Earthshot Prize, which will be hosted in Mumbai in November 2026.
Founded by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, The Earthshot Prize supports innovative solutions designed to address some of the world’s biggest environmental challenges.
Karan will become the first Indian host of the event and ahead of the ceremony, the filmmaker met Prince William to discuss environmental concerns affecting India.
During their meeting, Prince William highlighted the impact of inadequate rainfall in the country, saying several months without proper rain had placed pressure on farmers and strained water supplies.
He also noted that these conditions are encouraging more people to recognise water as an increasingly valuable resource.
Karan and Prince William also discussed the 15 finalists selected for the 2026 Earthshot Prize.
Five winners will ultimately be chosen, with each receiving £1 million to help expand their environmental solutions and increase their impact.
Prince William said the finalists demonstrate that practical progress is possible despite the scale of the environmental challenges facing the world.
He said: “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.
“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.”
Karan Johar said hosting the event in Mumbai was a source of pride and that India’s creativity and ambition could contribute to building a more sustainable future.
Clips of the meeting went viral and social media users expressed surprise.
One commented: “This is not a crossover I was prepared for. But digging it.”
Another said: “Karan Johar with Prince William was not on my bingo card. Can’t wait for the Earthshot Prize 2026.
“Mumbai, it’s going to be a massive hit!”
This year’s 15 Finalists were selected from The Earthshot Prize’s database of nearly 7,000 nominations across 169 countries.
They were supported by a global network of over 363 nominators and an Expert Advisory Panel of more than 150 specialists, alongside assessment and research by The Earthshot Prize’s selection team and partners.
The 2026 ceremony will bring the Earthshot Prize to India as the initiative continues to highlight environmental solutions from around the world.
Watch the Full Conversation
