Who: Founder and Chief Executive, PayTM
Where: India
Why: After demonetisation has struck our country, PayTM has become one of the most used financial apps on our phones, overnight. This hasn’t only increased PayTM’s networth but has also caused the app to come under scrutiny in terms of investments, stakeholders and ownership authorities. That’s why Vijay Shekhar Sharma has been at the helm of it all—shutting down rumours of a Chinese ownership, technical glitches as well as an alleged lawsuit against the brand by international brand, PayPal.
45. Devendra Jhajaria
Who: Paralympian Athlete
Where: India
Why: In the Rio Paralympics of 2016, Devendra created history by becoming the first Indian Paralympian to win two gold medals at the Paralympics. Having won his first gold medal in the 2004 Summer Paralympics, the Javelin thrower won his second gold medal this year.
46. Zorawar Kalra
Who: Founder and Managing Director, Massive Restaurants Pvt Ltd.
Where: India
Why: The heir to a legacy created by Jiggs Kalra, Zorawar has brilliantly carried forward the empire on his shoulders and taken it to newer heights—from Farzi Café to Masala Library and beyond. This year, Zorawar has added yet another feather to his cap by becoming one of the judges on Master Chef India.
47. Nucleya
Who: Indian Electronic Musician
Where: India
Why: He’s a pioneer in many aspects with his music. But, this time around, Udayan Singh has taken his musical prowess to other levels; what with his music becoming a part of ‘Kapoor & Sons’ and a stellar album launch done at such a grand scale this year. Indian electronic has become synonymous with Nucleya in 2016.