The Global Prestige of the TIME100 List
Every year, the world pauses to acknowledge the individuals who have shaped our collective history over the past twelve months. The TIME100 is not just a list of names; it is a definitive ranking of the most influential people on the planet. From world leaders and industry titans to artists and icons, being named to this list is one of the highest honors in modern culture. For readers in India, the interest in this event has grown exponentially, especially as Indian talent continues to dominate the global stage. Whether it is a Bollywood superstar, a pioneering scientist, or a fierce social activist, India’s presence on the list makes watching the TIME100 Gala a high-priority event.
The gala itself is a star-studded affair that brings together the most powerful people in the room. It features moving speeches, exclusive musical performances, and rare interactions between people who are changing the world. If you are wondering how to watch the TIME100 in India, you are in the right place. This guide will walk you through the platforms, timings, and technical steps needed to ensure you do not miss a single moment of this historic celebration.
When is the TIME100 Broadcast?
The TIME100 event usually consists of two distinct parts: the reveal of the list and the televised gala special. While the list is published online first, the gala special is what most viewers are eager to see. For 2024, the special was recorded and broadcast shortly after the live event. In the United States, the primary broadcast typically takes place on the ABC network during prime time. For viewers in India, this presents a unique challenge due to the significant time zone difference.
Calculating Indian Standard Time (IST)
Since the gala is usually broadcast at 8:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the United States, Indian viewers need to adjust their clocks. India is 9 hours and 30 minutes ahead of New York. This means a Sunday night broadcast in the US will actually air on Monday morning in India, typically around 5:30 AM or 6:30 AM IST depending on Daylight Saving Time. To watch the event live or follow the social media buzz as it happens, you will need to be an early riser. However, most Indian viewers prefer to watch the recorded version or catch the highlights later in the day when streaming platforms update their libraries.
Official Streaming Platforms for Indian Viewers
Watching international award shows in India has become much easier with the rise of global streaming giants. Since the TIME100 special is an ABC production, its availability is tied to Disney’s distribution networks. Here are the primary ways you can watch the show from India.
Disney+ Hotstar
Disney+ Hotstar is the most reliable platform for Indian viewers to watch the TIME100. Because ABC is a subsidiary of Disney, many of their high-profile specials eventually make their way to Hotstar. While it may not always be a simultaneous live stream, the gala special is often uploaded to the platform’s 'Premium' or 'Super' tier within 24 to 48 hours of the US broadcast. It is recommended to check the 'English Entertainment' or 'Special Events' category on the app to find the latest TIME100 content.
Time.com and Social Media
If you do not have a paid subscription to a streaming service, the official TIME website is your best friend. TIME often hosts live-streaming segments of the red carpet on their website and YouTube channel. While they might not broadcast the full edited musical performances due to licensing restrictions, they provide extensive coverage of the speeches and the arrival of celebrities. Following TIME on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook is also a great way to see real-time updates and short clips of the most impactful moments.
Hulu via VPN (For Advanced Users)
For those who are tech-savvy and want to watch the US broadcast exactly as it airs, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access Hulu is an option. Hulu carries the ABC live stream in many regions. By setting your VPN location to a US city like New York or Los Angeles, you can log into a Hulu account and watch the event. However, keep in mind that this requires a Hulu subscription and a stable internet connection to handle high-definition video streaming.
The Significance of Indian Representation in 2024
The 2024 TIME100 list was particularly special for Indian viewers because of the diverse range of talent represented. Seeing Indian names on this global stage is a moment of immense pride and is often the primary reason why so many people in the country search for ways to watch the event. In 2024, figures like actress Alia Bhatt, wrestler Sakshi Malik, and actor Dev Patel were featured, showcasing the depth of talent emerging from the subcontinent.
Alia Bhatt: A Global Icon
Alia Bhatt’s inclusion in the list was a testament to her growing international footprint. From her debut in Hollywood to her continued dominance in the Indian film industry, her speech and presence at the gala were highly anticipated. Fans across India were eager to see her walk the red carpet and represent the country’s cinematic heritage.
Sakshi Malik and Social Impact
The inclusion of Sakshi Malik highlighted the intersection of sports and social justice. Her bravery and resilience have inspired millions, and her presence in the TIME100 Pioneers category brought global attention to the issues she has championed. For many Indian viewers, her segment was the emotional highlight of the year.
Step-by-Step Guide to Watching the Event
To ensure a smooth viewing experience, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Check the Date. Confirm the official broadcast date on the TIME website. Remember to add one day for the Indian calendar.
- Step 2: Update Your Apps. Ensure your Disney+ Hotstar or YouTube app is updated to the latest version to avoid playback errors.
- Step 3: Monitor Social Media. On the day of the event, follow the hashtag #TIME100 on X and Instagram for real-time red carpet photos and quotes.
- Step 4: Search for Highlights. If you cannot find the full special, search for 'TIME100 Gala Speeches' on YouTube. Individual honoree speeches are almost always uploaded separately for free viewing.
What to Expect from the Red Carpet and Gala
The TIME100 Gala is known for being more intimate and prestigious than typical Hollywood award shows. The red carpet is a mix of high-fashion and intellectual heavyweights. You might see a tech billionaire chatting with a pop star, or a human rights lawyer sharing a moment with a world-renowned chef. This unique blend of attendees makes the red carpet coverage fascinating to watch.
During the gala, the focus is on the honorees. Instead of traditional awards, people on the list often give 'toasts' to one another. These speeches are frequently deeply personal and provide a glimpse into the minds of the people who are shaping our future. Musical performances are also a major draw, with previous years featuring legendary acts like Dua Lipa, John Legend, and Taylor Swift. The combination of glamour and substance is what sets the TIME100 apart from any other televised event.
Conclusion
The TIME100 list serves as a reminder of the power of individual influence and the collective progress of humanity. For Indian viewers, watching the event is a way to stay connected with global trends and celebrate the incredible achievements of our own citizens on the world stage. Whether you choose to watch through Disney+ Hotstar, follow the highlights on social media, or use the official TIME website, the experience is sure to be inspiring. By following this guide, you now have all the tools necessary to catch every moment of the next TIME100 celebration. Stay tuned to the official announcements and get ready to witness history in the making.
Is the TIME100 gala live-streamed for free in India?
While the full televised special is usually behind a subscription on platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, many segments, including red carpet interviews and individual honoree speeches, are available for free on TIME's official YouTube channel and website.
What time does the TIME100 usually air for Indian viewers?
Because the event broadcasts during prime time in the US (Eastern Standard Time), it typically airs in India very early the following morning, usually between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM IST.
Can I watch the TIME100 on my mobile phone?
Yes, you can watch the event on your mobile phone through the Disney+ Hotstar app or the YouTube app. Ensure you have a stable data connection for the best streaming quality.
Who were the Indian honorees in the 2024 TIME100 list?
The 2024 list featured several prominent Indians, including actress Alia Bhatt, Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik, actor Dev Patel, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, among others.
Will the full TIME100 special be available on YouTube?
Generally, the full edited special is reserved for television networks and major streaming partners. However, TIME uploads the most significant clips and performances as individual videos shortly after the broadcast.

