The entertainment line-up for this year’s Asian Achievers Awards has been revealed ahead of the announcement of the 2026 shortlist, with actor Nitin Ganatra OBE returning to host the ceremony.
The annual awards, which celebrate the achievements of British Asians across business, public service, arts, sport and community leadership, will also feature performances from acclaimed Pakistani vocalist Ustad Rafaqat Ali Khan and British Asian music producer Rishi Rich.
The pair will come together for a special jugalbandi, blending classical qawwali traditions with contemporary British Asian R&B influences in what organisers describe as one of the evening’s highlights.
Ustad Rafaqat Ali Khan, who comes from the renowned Sham Chaurasia gharana, has built a career spanning more than two decades. He has released 11 albums and is recognised for his playback singing in Bollywood films including Krrish, Dhoka and Youngistaan. His 2016 debut on Coke Studio Pakistan with Tu Kuja Main Kuja introduced his music to a global audience.
Joining him on stage is Rishi Rich, one of the architects of the British Asian urban music movement. Through the Rishi Rich Project, he helped launch the careers of artists including Jay Sean and Juggy D, while his production work has included the UK Top 20 hit Dance With You, official remixes for Britney Spears and Madonna, and music for Bollywood films such as Hum Tum and Gully Boy. Rich was recognised with the Special Contribution to Music award at last year’s Asian Achievers Awards.
Comedian, actor and author Tez Ilyas will also return to the awards. Best known for BBC comedy Man Like Mobeen, appearances on Live at the Apollo, and Channel 4’s The Tez O’Clock Show, Ilyas is also the bestselling author of The Secret Diary of a British Muslim.
Following the awards ceremony, guests will attend the official afterparty hosted by Enigma London, which is set to continue into the early hours. The award ceremony will take place on 18 September, 2026.
The announcement comes just days before organisers reveal this year’s shortlist, with nominees expected to be announced by 3 August, 2026.
