Hersh Bhandari Birthday: A three-decade career across India’s media industry

As Hersh Bhandari celebrates his birthday today, exchange4media looks back at a career that has spanned nearly three decades across some of India’s leading media organisations.

Bhandari recently began a new chapter with NDTV, joining the network as Brand Advisor and Head, NDTV CoLab. The role also marks a return to an organisation where he had earlier spent several important years of his career.

His professional journey began with Pepe Jeans London before he moved into the media industry. Over the years, Bhandari has worked across organisations including Star Group, NDTV Media, Times Network, India Today Television, Adhikari Brothers and Republic Media Network.

His career has covered a wide spectrum of functions including advertising sales, revenue, marketing, strategy, operations and business leadership.

During his earlier stint at NDTV between 2003 and 2009, Bhandari held senior roles across NDTV India, network sales and new business initiatives. He was involved in business development, channel launches and growth initiatives at the network.

He later spent several years at Times Network and also held a senior leadership position at India Today Television, strengthening his experience in revenue management and advertiser partnerships.

A significant chapter in Bhandari’s career came at Republic Media Network. He joined the organisation ahead of the launch of Republic Bharat as Executive Vice President – Revenue.

Over the years, his responsibilities expanded significantly. In 2022, he was elevated as Group Chief Operating Officer and subsequently took charge as Chief Executive Officer of the broadcast business.

His progression at Republic reflected his transition from a revenue specialist to a broader business leader overseeing operations, strategy and growth.

After nearly eight years with Republic Media Network, Bhandari moved on from the organisation in 2025.

His return to NDTV brings his career full circle while also placing him at the centre of the rapidly evolving branded-content and partnerships business.

In his current role, he is expected to work across brand partnerships, branded content, intellectual properties and cross-platform opportunities spanning television, digital and social media.

Over the years, Bhandari has built a reputation for combining commercial understanding with strong industry relationships and an ability to identify new business opportunities.

His journey also reflects the transformation of the Indian media business itself — from traditional television advertising to integrated brand partnerships, digital platforms and content-led solutions.