Keynote Speaker

We are thrilled to welcome Karan Brar as the keynote speaker at the 2026 New York State AAPI Summit!

Karan Brar continues to evolve as a multidimensional performer, building a career defined by range and cultural impact. He recently closed Data, starring as Maneesh in its second run Off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre following its world premiere at Arena Stage. The production garnered significant critical praise for its sharp, timely storytelling, with Brar’s performance noted for its emotional depth, nuance, and commanding stage presence — marking a major milestone in his theatrical and leading man debut.

Brar made his mark on the entertainment industry as Ravi on Disney Channel’s Jessie and its spinoff Bunk’d, making history as the network’s first Indian series regular and expanding representation for South Asian characters in mainstream media. Throughout his time at Disney, he directed several episodes of television, making him one of the youngest directors ever initiated into the DGA.

Born and raised in Bothell, Washington, Brar is a first-generation Indian-American actor whose family is originally from Punjab, India. He began acting at age seven before landing his breakout role in Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Offscreen, Brar serves as an advisory board member of The Cameron Boyce Foundation, helping to advance its mission to provide education, guidance, and community for young adults with epilepsy in honor of his late best friend Now based in New York City, Brar continues to work across film, television, and theater while developing multidisciplinary projects that extend beyond traditional mediums.