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In the prestigious lineup of the top 100 most powerful Indians for 2024, cricketing stalwarts Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma stand tall. As the nation gears up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, The Indian Express has curated a list that spans diverse fields, ranging from politics and entertainment to sports.
Political powerhouses steer the list
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat continued to dominate the list, representing the pinnacle of political influence in India. Their unwavering commitment to social and developmental initiatives placed them at the forefront of the nation’s political landscape.
Entertainment icons illuminate the stage
Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, superstar Shah Rukh Khan, actor Alia Bhatt and filmmaker Karan Johar take center stage in the world of entertainment. Their stellar contributions, transcending borders and platforms, have not only smashed box office records but have also solidified their positions as influential figures and social media icons.
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India’s cricket powerhouses shine among Top 100 Influential Indians in 2024
1. Virat Kohli: Cricket’s unmatched icon (Rank: 38)
In the realm of Indian cricket, Kohli stands as an unparalleled icon, securing the 38th spot among the most powerful Indians in 2024. Despite stepping down from the captaincy, Kohli’s influence remains unmatched. His resurgence in 2023, marked by stellar performances in crucial moments, solidified his status as the best of his generation. Kohli’s impact extends beyond the cricketing field, with a massive Instagram following of 266 million, making him a potent force in shaping opinions and influencing habits. The iconic Kohli brand, revered by fans globally, continues to be a driving force for broadcasters, stadiums, and the cricketing world.
2. MS Dhoni: IPL Maestro and Guiding Light (Rank: 58)
While Dhoni may have bid farewell to international cricket, his presence in the Indian Premier League (IPL) months remains unmatched. Leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Dhoni guided the team to a record-equalling fifth IPL title in the previous year. His strategic prowess and unwavering influence make him one of the most influential captains in the history of the game. Dhoni’s role in CSK goes beyond on-field performances; he holds sway over team decisions and served as a mentor for aspiring cricketers. As the summer of 2024 potentially marks his last, Dhoni’s legacy in Indian cricket is set to evolve into a larger, advisory role, contributing to the sport’s future.
3. Rohit Sharma: Visionary captain and influential leader (Rank: 68)
Rohit, the captain across formats, emerges as an influential leader, securing the 68th spot among the most powerful Indians in 2024. Guiding the young Indian side during the World Cup to the final, Rohit showcased not just cricketing prowess but a visionary approach to leadership. His influential role extended to shaping critical decisions, from phasing out seniors to prioritizing domestic cricket over IPL. Despite losing the franchise captaincy, Rohit’s leadership record in the IPL remains stellar, making him a strong voice in the Mumbai Indians dressing room. As the designated World T20 captain, Rohit will aim to secure an ICC event title, further enhancing his leadership legacy.
In the vibrant landscape of Indian cricket, Kohli, Dhoni, and Rohit shine not just for their on-field brilliance but for the indelible impact they have on the sport’s narrative, shaping its future with each strategic move and inspiring generations to come.
