Foodpharmer: Indian of the Year Award
In a moment that has captured national headlines and lit up social media timelines, Revant Himatsingka, popularly known as Foodpharmer, has been named Indian of the Year 2025 in the Influencer / Digital Changemaker category at the prestigious CNN-News18 Indian of the Year Awards. His win places him in the company of India’s most celebrated figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and cricket legend Virat Kohli, who are among past recipients of the award.
From Digital Advocate to National Icon
Image: @foodpharmer
Foodpharmer’s journey began not in a boardroom but on the crowded feeds of Instagram and YouTube. What started as a personal mission to decode food labels and demystify nutrition facts blossomed into a nationwide movement for food transparency, health awareness and consumer empowerment. His simple, research-backed breakdowns of complex food information; from hidden sugars to misleading marketing claims, resonated with millions of Indians fed up with unclear packaging and dubious product claims.
His voice became especially influential among:
- Health-conscious parents,
- Young consumers making smarter food choices,
- Advocacy groups seeking greater corporate accountability.
Standing Among Legends
Being named Indian of the Year places Foodpharmer alongside an illustrious list of past winners. Iconic leaders, sports stars and global influencers; including Narendra Modi and Virat Kohli have previously been honoured for their impact on Indian society and culture.
Modi received his Indian of the Year recognition in 2014 for his political leadership, and Kohli won in 2017 in the sports category, cementing their status as national icons.
More Than Just an Award
For Himatsingka, the award is more than a trophy; it’s a validation of a movement. By encouraging millions to “read beyond the label,” he helped spark conversations about nutrition that extend beyond mere food trends. Parents say they now scrutinize packaged foods more carefully, teenagers demand healthier snacks, and even some consumer goods brands have been nudged toward clearer, more honest communication.
In his acceptance moments, shared widely across social media; Foodpharmer expressed gratitude, saying this award isn’t just his, but belongs to every everyday Indian who chose informed choice over blind convenience.
What This Means for India’s Health Narrative?
Foodpharmer’s win signals a shift in how India views influence and impact in the digital age. Whereas awards traditionally celebrated political achievements, sporting excellence or business leadership, this year’s recognition spotlights the role of digital advocacy in public health and consumer rights. It underscores how content creators can drive real-world change; whether by improving nutritional literacy or holding powerful brands to account.
As India grapples with rising lifestyle diseases and an increasingly competitive packaged-food market, voices like Foodpharmer’s play a vital role. His award reflects not just his personal journey, but a growing national appetite for authenticity, transparency and informed living.
