In December, just three weeks after the terror attacks in Mumbai, the Indian thriller "Delhi 6" had its world premiere at the Dubai International Film Festival and its star, actress Sonam Kapoor, was on hand to promote the film. Asked about her role in the drama -- which examines India's search for identity as it struggles with development and religious conflict -- Kapoor conveyed a message of hope to her fans by pointing out that her character, Bittu, represents them.


"India is predominately a young nation," she said. "I hope (the audience) can see this girl as the beautiful character she is, gain something from her and learn something from her mistakes, and see what they can do in their lives. Hopefully, this film gives the youth of this nation something to look forward to."


Pretty heady stuff for a 23-year-old starring in only her second film. But such is the case when you're part of the next generation of leaders in the rapidly evolving Asian entertainment sector: You had better be able to think quickly on your feet.

Kapoor does. So the decision to include her in The Hollywood Reporter's inaugural Next Generation: Asia class of 2009 was an easy one. Comprised of the best young writers, producers, executives, agents, directors and actors in film, television and new media today, THR's Asian Next Geners are boldly shaping the future of the media sector in Asia, and their influence over everything from food, clothes, music and gadgets could help keep the region's economies growing in the years to come.


-Hollywood Reporter