"I’m so proud that this event is considered the leading one"
The winners of the 2026 Asian Achievers Awards were announced in a glittering ceremony at Hilton Park Lane in London.
The event brought together nearly 600 guests from around the world to honour the outstanding contributions of leading South Asians in the UK.
Hosted by ex-EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra, the Asian Achievers Awards were a testament to the exceptional achievements within the British Asian community.
The Asian Achievers Awards were organised by advisory firm EPG.
They were supported by State Bank of India (UK), AI firm Lorefully, drinks partners Kingfisher Drinks and Indri whisky, think tank Bridge India and others.
Pratik Dattani, Managing Director of EPG, said: “At a time when Britain is facing a continued cost-of-living crisis, frequent changes in government and an anti-immigrant sentiment, our Awards showcase the very best of what our community has to offer.
“I’m so proud that this event is considered the leading one of its kind in the UK, even after 24 years.”
Among the winners were Rajiv Batra, the Executive Chairman of the Batra Group, which represents over 20 brands, including Fila, Reebok and Vera Wang, and supplies more than 5,000 retailers worldwide.
Former Arsenal FC Medical Director Dr Zafar Iqbal won ‘Sports Personality of the Year’.
The Community Service awards went to Dr Pam Gosal, who was the first Indian Sikh woman elected to Scottish Parliament.
The event also featured performances from Asian-R&B pioneer Rishi Rich and Ustad Rafaqat Ali Khan.
Comedian Tez Ilyas had the audience laughing with a hilarious stand-up performance.
In a statement, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:
“For more than two decades, these awards have celebrated the outstanding contribution of British Asians.”
He also acknowledged the ceremony as “such an important occasion in the calendar”.
Leader of the Conservative Party Kemi Badenoch added:
“Britain succeeds when hard work, ambition and contribution are rewarded. I am delighted to see that celebrated tonight.”
Leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Ed Davey said:
“These awards are a vital way of celebrating how South Asians in the UK have shown resilience, innovation and foresight to tackle the biggest economic and societal challenges facing Britain today.”
The Full List of Winners
Arts and Culture
Pravesh Kumar MBE
Community Service
Dr Pam Gosal MBE
Media
Balvinder Singh Sanghera
Sports Personality of the Year
Dr Zafar Iqbal
Business Person of the Year
Rajiv Batra
Entrepreneur of the Year
Sanjeet Manek
Professional of the Year
Chaitanya Tatineni
Woman of the Year
Professor Sunita Toor
Lifetime Achievement Award
Nonita Kalra
Special Award for Contribution to Media
Manish Tiwari
Special Award for Contribution to Art
Gaurav Khullar
DESIblitz congratulates all the winners at the Asian Achievers Awards!
