2022’s Biggest Moments for South Asians Globally

For South Asians around the world, 2022 was a big year — from the appointment of Rishi Sunak as U.K. Prime Minister to South Asian leads in Ms. Marvel and Bridgerton, to recognition in the literary and the chess worlds. This year also saw the loss of several icons, including Lata Mangeshkar and Bappi Lahiri, the marriage of two superstars (Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt), and a nude spread that left little to the imagination from one particular entertainer (Ranveer Singh).

This past August also marked the 75th anniversary of Partition and independence for India and Pakistan. The death of Queen Elizabeth II, who remains controversial for many South Asians for her support of the Commonwealth, also reopened dialogue about reparations and the return of royal jewels.

Below, we revisit, honor, and reflect upon some of this year’s most notable moments for South Asians globally — in politics, business, film and television, music, and more.