Bollywood filmmaker and television host Karan Johar will host the sixth Earthshot Prize Awards Night in Mumbai on November 17, becoming the first Indian to take on the role for the annual environmental awards.

Founded by Prince William in 2020, The Earthshot Prize recognises environmental solutions across areas including nature conservation, clean air, ocean protection, waste reduction and climate action. The 2026 ceremony will be held in Mumbai for the first time.

Karan Johar on hosting Earthshot Prize

Reacting to his appointment, Johar said hosting the ceremony in Mumbai made the occasion particularly significant for him. He drew a parallel between filmmaking and the work being recognised by the Earthshot Prize, saying innovators were helping create a better future for the planet.

Johar also highlighted India's role in driving ideas and solutions around sustainability and said he was looking forward to welcoming international guests to Mumbai.

Known for his work across films, television and streaming, Johar has hosted Koffee with Karan and the Indian edition of The Traitors, in addition to his work as a filmmaker and producer.

Prince William welcomes 2026 finalists

Prince William, who founded and serves as president of The Earthshot Prize, said the annual finalists continued to provide optimism about the possibility of environmental progress.

The 2026 edition features 15 finalists selected from nearly 7,000 nominations spanning 169 countries. Five winners will be announced at the Mumbai ceremony, with each winner set to receive £1 million to help scale their solutions.

Earthshot Prize Summit also planned in Mumbai

The awards will be part of a wider programme in Mumbai. The Earthshot Prize Summit will bring together environmental leaders, innovators, investors, businesses and communities to explore partnerships and support solutions aimed at tackling environmental challenges.

India has had a significant presence in the Earthshot Prize. According to the organisation, the country is home to more Earthshot Prize winners and finalists than any other nation, with seven finalists and four winners to date.

The event is expected to bring together figures from entertainment, business, climate action and environmental innovation when the Earthshot Prize makes its India debut in November.

With inputs from Gulf News and agencies.