Asha Bhosle, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?

According to a well-placed source, Melody Queen Asha Bhosle is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the singer's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.

UPDATE 11/04/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Why not Bhosle for Person of the Year?

The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 92-year-old singer, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.

“What makes Bhosle so important is the potential and influence she now has, rather than anything she has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the singer have already been named ‘Indian Of The Year’ by some major Indian newspapers and even ‘Sangli Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Sangli (Asha Bhosle's hometown).

Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year

A representative for the singer was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:

“Asha Bhosle Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 10 Apr 2026

“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveAsha”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 10 Apr 2026

“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Asha Bhosle?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 10 Apr 2026

Could 2026 officially be the Year of Asha Bhosle?

Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.

Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?

© 2026 MediaMass All rights reserved. Do not reproduce (even with permission).

Celebrity Central