29 Dec – Alia Bhatt has recently been named 2021 Person of the Year by PETA India ("People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals") for her efforts in supporting animal-friendly fashion industry. The news was announced by PETA India Director of Celebrity and Public Relations, Sachin Bangera, who said, "Alia Bhatt is not only helping to advance vegan fashion but also encouraging the next generation to be kind to animals." "She doesn't hesitate to speak up, whether she's rallying her fans to adopt a dog or cat or calling for action on crimes against animals," he added.
Alia joins the likes of past recipients of the said title that include veteran star Hema Malini, fellow actress Sonam Kapoor, actor John Abraham, as well as cricketer Virat Kohli. It is noted that the actress has done a lot to encourage vegan fashion, from investing in Phool, the company behind vegan leather maker Fleather, establishing her own sustainable kidswear brand, Ed-a-Mamma, as well as advocating for stronger animal protection laws.