Kartikeya Sharma: The making of a new-age visionary

In an era where influence is measured not just by wealth but by the ability to shape industries, drive national conversations and impact governance, Kartikeya Sharma stands apart as a force of transformation.

A media mogul, entrepreneur, sports patron and Member of Parliament, Sharma’s reach extends across real estate, hospitality, distilleries, sugar, film distribution, and media. As the founder and promoter of iTV Network, one of India's largest and most influential media houses, he has redefined journalism in a hyper-digital world, commanding an empire of nine news channels, five newspapers, and 1,200 journalists across major bureaus.

But Sharma’s influence doesn’t stop at the newsroom. He has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s sporting ecosystem, owning and managing three professional sporting leagues in wrestling, boxing and polo. His leadership extends to the country’s highest legislative body, the Rajya Sabha, where he contributes to critical policymaking on Communication & IT, Subordinate Legislation and Rules & Privileges.

Born into a family deeply entrenched in governance—his grandfather was a former President of India and his father, a Union Cabinet Minister—Sharma’s ascent has been marked by intellect, strategy and a relentless pursuit of excellence. A graduate of Oxford University with an MBA from King’s College, London, he brings a global perspective to business, media and governance.

From rewriting the rules of Indian media to fueling entrepreneurship and shaping national discourse, Sharma’s trajectory is one of unstoppable ambition and nation-building at scale.

Mastering the Art of Influence: The iTV Network Legacy

At the heart of Sharma’s vast empire is iTV Network which has emerged as one of the country’s most influential news conglomerates, operating news channels such as NewsX and India News, alongside major publications like The Sunday Guardian.

He has championed cutting-edge digital transformation, ensuring that iTV remains at the forefront of the media revolution, integrating AI, social media trends and real-time analytics to engage India’s ever-evolving audience.

His sharp editorial focus and a business model designed for agility have future-proofed iTV Network in an industry that is being rapidly disrupted. Under his leadership, the network has become a benchmark for journalistic excellence while staying ahead of the curve in an era of digital-first consumption.

Beyond Business: The Sports Entrepreneur Changing the Game

Few business leaders in India have bridged the gap between commerce and culture as seamlessly as Sharma. His investment in Indian sports is a testament to his commitment to building national pride and global recognition for Indian athletes.

As the owner of professional sports leagues, he has created platforms for grassroots talent, revived the legacy of polo and secured strategic partnerships that have elevated these sports to mainstream status. His vision is not just about competition but about fostering a sporting culture that celebrates excellence while offering financial sustainability to athletes and the ecosystem.

By bringing structure, visibility and corporate sponsorship to these leagues, Sharma has helped rewrite India’s sports narrative. His efforts have turned lesser-highlighted sports into commercially viable ventures, offering a glimpse into how he views business—not merely as a revenue-generating endeavor but as a means to create long-term impact.

A Strategic Mind in India’s Political Arena

While Sharma’s media and business achievements are formidable, his political acumen and governance expertise make him a truly multi-dimensional leader.

Beyond national politics, his engagement with the Indian Council of World Affairs highlights his involvement in global diplomatic discussions. Few leaders possess the ability to navigate the intersections of business, media and politics as effectively as Sharma, making him an influential voice in India’s evolving power structure. His presence in governance reflects a commitment not just to corporate success but to national progress, using his expertise to influence policy at the highest levels.

A Legacy of Impact: Philanthropy Through the Sunday Guardian Foundation

True leadership is measured not just by what one builds, but by what one gives back. Sharma’s commitment to philanthropy is reflected in the work of the Sunday Guardian Foundation, which actively supports healthcare access and community development in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra.

His initiatives focus on improving healthcare facilities, providing medical aid to underprivileged communities, and raising awareness about public health. Education and skill development programs form another pillar of his philanthropy, reflecting his belief that long-term societal progress is anchored in knowledge and empowerment.

Rather than limiting himself to traditional philanthropy, Sharma ensures that his business ventures contribute meaningfully to the communities they operate in. His approach to social impact is rooted in sustainability, ensuring that every initiative leads to tangible, long-term benefits.

The Road Ahead

At just the beginning of what promises to be a long and powerful journey, Kartikeya Sharma’s roadmap for the next decade is marked by growth, innovation, and deeper national impact. His vision extends beyond scaling existing businesses; he aims to expand iTV Network into global digital markets, further diversify his business empire into emerging industries, and strengthen his role in policymaking to contribute to India’s economic and technological future.

The future of Indian sports also forms a key part of his blueprint. As a strong advocate for athlete development, Sharma is focused on building world-class sporting ecosystems that will not only nurture Indian talent but also make India a formidable force on the global stage.

His leadership is characterized by a rare blend of strategic thinking, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In an era that demands leaders who can navigate change, embrace innovation, and build ecosystems that extend beyond profit-making, Sharma is not just keeping up—he is defining the pace.

With an expansive vision, sharp business instincts, and an inherent drive to contribute to India's progress, his journey is far from reaching its peak. The rise of Kartikeya Sharma is not just a success story—it is a masterclass in ambition, leadership and the power of strategic influence.

Expanding the Horizon: The Next Chapter with NXT Next

Kartikeya Sharma’s vision for the future extends beyond traditional industries, as he now sets his sights on the next frontier of digital innovation with NXT Next. As a next-generation media and entertainment venture, NXT Next is redefining content consumption, blending technology, storytelling, and immersive experiences to create a future-ready media ecosystem. Positioned at the intersection of AI-driven content, digital storytelling, and multi-platform engagement, the company is set to revolutionize how audiences interact with media. With its foundation rooted in Sharma’s expertise in media and technology, NXT Next is not just another content platform—it is a bold statement on where the future of media is headed. By integrating cutting-edge innovations in AI, mixed reality, and data-driven engagement, Sharma’s newest venture is poised to set new benchmarks in the media and entertainment landscape, both in India and globally.