Glamorous award nights, celebrity celebrations, government programmes and global stages have all been part of Simran Ahuja’s journey. Built on adaptability, instinct and a flair for bringing energy to every room, her career reflects a belief that every occasion deserves to be memorable.

By Amber Dias

A career spanning some of the biggest stages in India and abroad has made adaptability second nature to Simran Ahuja. From events for ‘Society Achievers’, ‘Society Interiors & Design’, ‘Stardust’, ‘Filmfare’ and IIFA to international events in Dubai, Los Angeles and Times Square, USA, she has built her reputation on presence, connection and the ability to become part of every occasion. Her philosophy is simple: whatever happens behind the scenes, the show must go on.

Excerpts from the interview…

You’ve become one of the most sought-after hosts in the live events space. Looking back, what do you think has earned you the trust to lead some of the biggest stages?

It has been a truly soulful journey. It began with a simple dream of doing something in the MC space, and I never imagined I would reach this stage. My intention has always been that wherever I go, people should leave happy, carrying wonderful memories with them. Every celebration should be special enough to be remembered.

I’ve had sponsors fight on stage just before an Honourable Minister was due to arrive, and I had to step in and ensure the show continued. Experiences like these have built my confidence and taught me that whatever happens behind the scenes, the show must go on. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who trusted me, from hosting events for ‘Society Achievers’, ‘Society Interiors & Design’, ‘Stardust’ and ‘Filmfare’ to welcoming Oscar Academy President John Bailey to India, and from Dubai to Hollywood and Times Square, USA.

Every presenter develops their own style over time. How would you describe yours, and how has it evolved through the years?

My style has always been a little different. Initially, I saw hosting simply as my work, but soon realised it was my love, my first love, and became deeply soulful.

I’ve been fortunate to host diverse platforms – from media and celebrity events, to major weddings, spiritual and wellness events and government programmes. I’ve hosted over 35 shows at the Governor’s House, including an event with Her Excellency, the Honourable President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmuji, as well as 421 television episodes.

Through it all, my soulful presence remains constant. I believe in becoming part of the occasion rather than simply hosting it. If I had to describe my style in one word, it would be soulful.

You’ve shared the stage with celebrities, business leaders, policymakers, and changemakers. Is there one interaction that has stayed with you long after the event ended?

That is difficult to answer because I’ve had the privilege of interacting with so many extraordinary personalities. I don’t simply listen to people; I feel their words and try to understand the journey behind their achievements.

I’ve interacted with Prime Ministers of different countries, the Honourable President of India, and some of Bollywood’s biggest names – including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal, Varun Dhawan, Karan Johar, Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh. Every interaction has given me knowledge, perspective or inspiration.

Two international moments that remain especially close to my heart are receiving a medallion from US Congressman Danny K Davis and the proclamation celebrating Simran Ahuja Day on June 1 in Chicago. Being recognised for my work as a global MC and for bringing different cultures and communities together mean a great deal to me.

And then there was legendary Hollywood actor Michael Douglas, who simply told me, “You’re very good at your work.” I was completely blank. When a living legend says something like that, all you can feel is gratitude and divine grace.

You’ve been part of events ranging from high-profile celebrations to serious business forums. What do you enjoy most about working across such different worlds?

I love them all. For me, it is about understanding the event, feeling its energy and dressing for the occasion. A spiritual event calls for a soulful, relaxed tone; a corporate event needs elegance and firmness, while entertainment is about smiles, laughter and energy. I also believe in listening. When I meet people for the first time, I understand them before finding a way to connect. My work is seasonal too. On International Yoga Day, I conduct workshops around the world, while during Navratri I become a cultural ambassador. I’ve also hosted prayer meetings, where creating a dignified, comforting atmosphere is paramount.

Live events are full of unexpected moments. Can you share an experience that tested your quick thinking and taught you an important lesson?

Absolutely. Live events can change completely at the last minute, and that is their beauty. I rely on my presence of mind and give the event 100 percent.

In Bahrain, I was travelling with 10 celebrities from Mumbai, while both cricket teams were already there. I hadn’t met the organisers, had no script or briefing, yet was asked to start the four-hour show. I simply read the backdrop, understood the energy and went on stage.

Something similar happened at the W Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles, when I suddenly had to host solo. These experiences taught me: whatever happens behind the scenes, the show must go on.

Confidence comes naturally to you on stage, but has there ever been a moment that pushed you out of your comfort zone? How did you handle it?

There are moments when you see the who’s who in the audience and feel a little nervous. But I think nervousness is good because it keeps you focused. You breathe deeply, stay present, and give the moment 100 percent of your attention.

Losing confidence on stage is something I don’t think I’ve experienced. There have been situations where people have deliberately tried to unsettle me, but I’ve learnt not to react. Once in Dubai, I was invited to present an award at a major event, but the MC deliberately didn’t call my name. Eventually, the organisers called me on stage themselves. I simply smiled and carried on. I believe in forgiving, forgetting and moving forward rather than allowing someone else’s behaviour to affect my energy.

Your job demands energy, focus, and a smile no matter what. How do you switch off and recharge when you’re away from work?

People often ask me how I manage the constant travel and whether I ever need a break. The truth is, for me, hosting is not work; it is love. When you are doing something you love, it becomes a source of rejuvenation rather than exhaustion.

I’ve never reached a point where I feel I need a break from hosting because hosting itself gives me energy. It elevates me and allows me to smile, connect with people and live a happy life.

What continues to inspire and excite you about what you do?

What inspires me most is the trust and appreciation I’ve earned as someone people can rely on. Last year, I hosted four shows in four countries in two days, each with a completely different energy. One of my most memorable experiences was hosting at Times Square for four hours and 15 minutes, managing three fashion sequences, changing outfits within minutes and performing Garba with dancers from my academy. Whether I’m in a glamorous avatar, ghagra choli or a formal look, I become part of the occasion. Being featured in ‘Society Achievers’, one of my absolute favourites, makes the journey even more special.