-
Celebrating Diversity and Community Impact: The honours list also celebrated cultural and sporting excellence
-
Leeds-based Kathak and contemporary dancer Balbir Singh received an MBE for his contribution to dance and cultural heritage
-
Fashion entrepreneur Mani Kohli, founder of the Khubsoorat Collection and costume designer for Bend It Like Beckham, was recognised for her impact on fashion
-
Former England cricketer Isa Guha and long-serving England women’s football team doctor Dr Ritan Mehta were also awarded MBEs, underscoring the diverse ways in which PIOs continue to enrich British society
The King’s New Year Honours List 2026 has once again highlighted the growing influence and contributions of people of Indian origin (PIOs) across the United Kingdom, with dozens being recognised for their exceptional service to society. This year’s list reflects a strong commitment to diversity, with ethnic minorities accounting for 14 per cent of recipients at the higher award levels among the total 1,157 honourees.
Leading the list are two distinguished women who were conferred damehoods for their remarkable achievements. Renowned Punjabi actress, author and screenwriter Meera Syal was honoured for her outstanding contribution to arts and culture. Born to parents who migrated from Delhi, Syal has played a defining role in shaping British Asian representation through iconic productions such as the satirical television comedy Goodness Gracious Me. Her work has not only entertained audiences but also challenged stereotypes and amplified multicultural voices in mainstream British media.
Also receiving a damehood was Professor Meena Upadhyaya, an India-born academic who moved to the UK from Modinagar in Uttar Pradesh at the age of 19. She was recognised for her services to community cohesion in Wales and her pioneering work in medical genetics. Over the years, Professor Upadhyaya has been instrumental in bridging science, healthcare and social inclusion, earning widespread respect in academic and community circles alike.
-
Several PIO leaders were honoured with Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
-
Dhruv Patel, founder of the City Hindus Network, received the award for his contributions to charitable initiatives, while Neeta Atkar, senior independent director at the British Business Bank, was recognised for her services to small business finance and economic development
At the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) level, Paavan Popat, CEO of the TLC Group and a leading figure in adult social care, was honoured for his contribution to the sector. Dr Harjinder Singh Lallie, founder and co-director of the Gurmat Sangeet Academy, a not-for-profit Sikh music school, was also awarded an OBE for preserving and promoting Sikh musical heritage. Professor Gurpreet Singh Jagpal of Aston University, another OBE recipient, expressed hope that the recognition would inspire people from all backgrounds to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
