Ajay Bhalwankar Takes Charge of Sony SAB and Movies Cluster at SPNI

Earlier, Ajay Bhalwankar was the Business Head - Sony SAB

e4m by e4m Desk
Published: Jan 16, 2026 1:30 PM  | 2 min read
Ajay Bhalwankar Takes Charge of Sony SAB and Movies Cluster at SPNI
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  • Ajay Bhalwankar has been appointed to lead Sony SAB, Movies cluster, FTA, and Infotainment channels as part of a leadership realignment at Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI).
  • Previously the Business Head of Sony SAB, Bhalwankar has been with SPNI since 2014, contributing to the channel's strategic growth and creative vision.
  • His career includes significant roles such as Chief Creative Director for Sony Entertainment Television and leadership in the success of Sony Marathi.
  • Bhalwankar has extensive experience in the media industry, having worked with Zee TV and Music Asia, and holds an M.A. in French Literature from the University of Mumbai.

As part of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI)’s leadership realignment, Ajay Bhalwankar will now lead Sony SAB, Movies cluster, FTA & Infotainment channels. Earlier, Ajay Bhalwankar served as the Business Head - Sony SAB, where he played a pivotal part in driving strategic growth and shaping the creative vision of the channel, further solidifying its reputation for quality entertainment.

Ajay is a prominent figure within the leadership team at SPNI, contributing his expertise since 2014. His commitment to delivering innovative and engaging content for diverse audiences allows him to leverage his extensive experience and creative acumen to enhance the viewer experience continually.

Throughout his decade-long journey at Sony Pictures Networks India, Ajay has held significant positions, including Chief Creative Director for Sony Entertainment Television (SET), the company's flagship channel. His leadership has also propelled Sony Marathi to notable success, cultivating a loyal viewership through high-quality, relatable programming and establishing the channel as a key player in the Marathi entertainment industry.

Before his tenure at SPNI, Ajay gained considerable experience across various channels including Zee TV and Music Asia, where he launched both Marathi and Hindi channels and produced Marathi films, in addition to setting up a film production studio. At Zee Network, he served as the Content Head for Hindi General Entertainment Channels, where he was instrumental in creating and delivering captivating content marked by popular shows and memorable characters across multiple genres. Additionally, Ajay began his career as a journalist at Mumbai's leading Marathi newspaper, 'Aapla Mahanagar,' and the fortnightly sports magazine, 'Ekach Shatkar'

Ajay holds an M.A. in French Literature from the University of Mumbai and has completed an advanced media management course at MICA, Ahmedabad. A passionate cinephile, he enjoys exploring films across various genres and he is an avid reader of literary works. In his leisure time, he cherishes precious moments with his family and relishes the adventures of road trips together.

Published On: Jan 16, 2026 1:30 PM