Content space (non-News) CEOs to watch out for in 2025

As India’s content landscape continues to evolve and expand, the role of visionary leaders steering the industry toward growth and innovation becomes paramount. The mega merger between Reliance and Disney, resulting in the creation of JioStar, has generated significant anticipation in the content space.

As the industry braces for the changes this partnership will bring, the emergence of new roles and opportunities is sparking considerable interest. All eyes are now on what innovations and transformations the year ahead will bring for the entertainment and digital sectors.

From driving strategic transformations in broadcasting to shaping the future of digital entertainment, these CEOs are redefining the rules of the game.

Here are the top 10 leaders making waves in the Indian content space (non-news) in 2025.

Kevin Vaz, CEO-Entertainment, JioStar
Kevin Vaz, with his extensive experience at Viacom18 and The Walt Disney Company India, has taken charge of JioStar’s Entertainment division. His leadership is already impacting the broader media landscape through his roles at IBDF and FICCI’s Media & Entertainment Committee. Vaz assumed the role of CEO-Entertainment at JioStar. Previously, he served as CEO of Broadcast Entertainment at Viacom18 since 2023, managing renowned brands like Colors and MTV. With over a decade of experience in the media and entertainment industry, Vaz also held key positions at The Walt Disney Company India, where he played a significant role in driving its multi-platform success.

Kiran Mani, CEO-Digital, JioStar
Bringing over three decades of tech and media expertise, Kiran Mani’s leadership in JioStar’s digital operations is transforming the company’s online strategy, setting new benchmarks in digital content delivery. While assuming the role, Mani had said that the collective ambition is to create a thriving, innovative ecosystem that delivers new value to consumers and stakeholders.

Sanjog Gupta, CEO-Sports, JioStar
Sanjog Gupta has reshaped sports broadcasting in India, from delivering global events like the IPL to nurturing homegrown leagues. Previously leading Star India’s Sports division, he managed 17 channels and delivered marquee events like the IPL and ICC Cricket World Cup to audiences in over 200 countries. Gupta has also championed the growth of homegrown leagues, including the Pro Kabaddi League and Indian Super League. Known for his strategic vision, he continues to redefine sports as a core pillar of entertainment, blending global reach with local appeal to shape the future of sports broadcasting and engagement in India.

Gaurav Banerjee, CEO, Sony Pictures Networks India
Gaurav Banerjee took over as CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) in August 2025, succeeding NP Singh after his 25-year tenure. Banerjee has since driven transformative changes, including revamping Sony TV's content strategy to enhance viewership and securing exclusive ACC media rights for 2023–2031. With over 16 years at Star India, he played a pivotal role as Head of Content for Hindi Entertainment at Disney+ Hotstar and Business Head for Star Bharat, shaping Star's entertainment portfolio and driving significant growth. Known for his bold and strategic approach, Banerjee’s leadership is positioning Sony Pictures as a formidable player in the competitive Indian entertainment industry. It will be interesting to see how the year pans out, especially after the merger with Zee fell out.

Punit Goenka, CEO, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL)
Punit Goenka has been the CEO of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL) since 2005, making his tenure over 18 years as of 2025. Despite challenges, Punit Goenka remains committed to driving Zee’s growth. His vision for enhanced profitability and societal impact positions Zee as a formidable player in India’s media ecosystem. Embroiled in several legal battles relating to the merger deal with Sony which eventually did not work out, it will be interesting to see how Zee shapes itself in the coming months.

Apoorva Mehta, CEO, Dharma Productions
Leading Dharma Productions through a transformative phase, Apoorva Mehta’s strategic acumen ensures the brand continues to thrive, even as it ventures into new territories under a partnership with Serene Productions.

Deepak Dhar, Group CEO and Founder, Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India
From producing blockbuster reality shows to venturing into space-themed entertainment, Deepak Dhar’s innovative strategies are setting new trends in content creation.

Sameer Nair, CEO, Applause Entertainment
With three decades of experience, Sameer Nair has been a driving force behind Applause Entertainment’s rise as a leader in premium storytelling, continuously pushing the boundaries of Indian content.

Akshay Widhani, CEO, Yash Raj Films
At the helm of India’s iconic film studio, Akshay Widhani is leading Yash Raj Films into its next phase of global expansion, ensuring the brand remains synonymous with excellence in cinema.

Sanjay Dwivedi, Group CEO, Balaji Telefilms
Sanjay Dwivedi’s steady rise within Balaji Telefilms culminated in his appointment as Group CEO in 2024. His financial and operational insights are now driving the company’s growth trajectory.

These leaders are not just navigating the changing dynamics of the Indian entertainment industry—they’re setting the course for its future. Keep an eye on their journeys as they shape the next chapter of India’s content revolution.