MAM
India’s fandom economy may hit $10 billion by 2028: Report
Myfandom report tracks rise of fan power across music, OTT and live
MUMBAI: Myfandom is betting big on the business of being a fan. Its latest India Fandom Report suggests the country’s fandom economy could touch $10 billion by 2028, fuelled by a surge in concerts, streaming, films and music culture.
The report captures a shift that is hard to miss. Fans are no longer passive spectators. They are active participants, shaping trends, driving demand and, increasingly, opening their wallets for experiences that go beyond the screen.
From official merchandise to live events and community-led engagement, fandom has become a full-fledged ecosystem. According to the study, 45 per cent of fans say official merchandise brings them the most joy, while 40 per cent are keen on meet-and-greet experiences with their favourite artists.
Calling the report a timely initiative, Devendra Fadnavis said it highlights the growing influence of fan communities and their role in shaping cultural narratives, while also recognising platforms that connect Indian audiences with global entertainment.
Myfandom co-founder Jinal Ajmera said, “India’s influence on global culture is now visible across media and entertainment. The influx of international artists, festivals and collaborations made 2025 the year of fandom.”
She added that the report aims to document and celebrate the rapid rise of India’s soft power through fan-driven engagement.
Myfandom co-founder Vivek Ajmera said, “We are on a journey to empower fans to live their fandom. As India’s economy grows, the fandom economy offers a powerful lens to understand the country’s orange economy and its next wave of growth.”
The report also brings together voices from across the industry, including Jay Mehta, Perry Farrell and Anjula Acharia, who manages Priyanka Chopra Jonas, alongside leaders from platforms like Netflix India.
It also shines a light on fan moments that blur the line between audience and artist, from singing on stage with global stars to being invited into exclusive fan circles.
At its core, the report positions India firmly in what it calls the “fandom era”, where cultural influence, commerce and community collide. For brands, artists and platforms alike, the message is clear. The fans are not just watching anymore. They are driving the show.
Brands
Maharashtra panel orders Lodha to refund Rs 5 crore to homebuyers
Consumer court flags unfair practices in long-running property dispute case
MUMBAI: In a sharp rebuke to one of India’s biggest real estate players, the Maharashtra State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed Macrotech Developers to refund nearly Rs 5 crore to a senior citizen couple, Uttam and Anindita Chatterjee. The ruling, delivered on March 13, 2026, calls out the developer for “deficiency in service” and “unfair trade practices”, bringing closure to a dispute that has stretched over a decade.
The case traces back to 2015, when the couple booked a 3-BHK flat at World Towers in Lower Parel for Rs 12.22 crore, with possession promised within a year. What followed was a series of changes that complicated matters. After deciding to exit the project, they were persuaded to shift to a 4-BHK in another development priced at Rs 8 crore, with delivery scheduled for 2018. However, within months, the price was allegedly increased to Rs 10 crore. After demonetisation reshaped the market, similar flats were reportedly being offered at lower prices, but the couple were not given the benefit.
Despite paying over Rs 2.83 crore, the couple neither received possession nor clarity. Instead, in 2018, the developer unilaterally cancelled the booking, retained part of the amount as earnest money, and argued that the buyers were investors rather than consumers. The commission rejected this claim, observing that casual references to “investment” do not take away consumer rights when the purchase intent is residential.
The bench also held that the developer could not penalise buyers for payment delays while failing to meet its own delivery commitments. It noted the lack of formal documentation for revised terms and termed the prolonged retention of funds without delivering a home as exploitative.
As part of its order, the commission directed the developer to refund Rs 2.83 crore paid by the couple, along with interest at 10 per cent per annum, amounting to around Rs 2.12 crore. In addition, Rs 1 lakh has been awarded for mental agony and Rs 50,000 towards litigation costs, taking the total payout to over Rs 5 crore. The developer has been asked to comply within two months.
For now, the ruling serves as a reminder that in real estate, shifting terms and delayed promises can carry a significant cost.
