IAA Leadership Awards 2026 Brings Together India’s Icons Of Leadership, Creativity And Impact

Mumbai, August 7, 2026 - The International Advertising Association (IAA) India Chapter held the 13th IAA Leadership Awards ceremony on August 7, 2026. Over 250 distinguished leaders from business, marketing, advertising, media, and entertainment gathered under the theme 'The Power of Balance'. The awards recognized leaders who navigate complexity, embrace change, and balance competing priorities while creating meaningful impact.

The event highlighted that contemporary leadership requires integrating diverse imperatives into a coherent, responsible leadership strategy.

Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, the Honorable Governor of Maharashtra, was the chief guest. He emphasized the advertising industry's role in shaping aspirations, influencing consumer behavior, driving innovation, and strengthening brands. He also stressed the importance of truthfulness, transparency, ethics, and building trust in an era of artificial intelligence and data-driven marketing.

Nandini Dias, the Chairperson of IAA Leadership Awards, stated that leadership is about being stretched to respond to circumstances, making difficult choices, and creating momentum in a shifting environment. The IAA Leadership Awards recognize leaders who can balance many things exceptionally well and build enduring success.

Abhishek Karnani, President of IAA India Chapter, highlighted the industry's mission to celebrate excellence, spark conversations, and shape the future of marketing, media, and advertising. He emphasized that leadership is about moving the industry forward.

The highest honor, the IAA Business Leader of the Year 2026, was awarded to Dilip Shanghvi, Founder and Managing Director of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., for his visionary leadership in building a leading pharmaceutical company and making affordable medicines accessible worldwide. Dilip Shanghvi expressed his gratitude for the award and credited his success to the hard work and dedication of his team.

Neeraj Roy, Founder of Hungama Digital Media Entertainment Ltd., was inducted into the IAA Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to the advertising, digital, and creative industries. Sidharth Malhotra was named IAA Brand Endorser of the Year 2026 for his authenticity, strong brand associations, and influence on younger audiences.