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Shemaroo Entertainment appoints Suryadeep Basiya as head of Gujarati category
Mumbai: Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd, a leading name in the Indian media and entertainment sector, is pleased to announce the appointment of Suryadeep Basiya as the head of the Gujarati category. This strategic move reflects Shemaroo’s commitment to further enrich its content offerings and create engaging experiences for its audience in the dynamic entertainment landscape.
With a demonstrated track record in the media and entertainment industry, Suryadeep has made significant contributions during his tenure at CineMan Productions Ltd and Zibanka Media Services. Notably, in 2021, he co-founded Oho Gujarati and served as the CEO, successfully establishing it as a prominent player in the Gujarati content domain. Suryadeep Basiya’s appointment is effective immediately, and he will report to Arpit Mankar.
Shemaroo Entertainment head of non-Bollywood category Arpit Mankar commented, “We’re excited to extend a warm welcome to Suryadeep, who joins Shemaroo as the Head of the Gujarati Category. His impressive journey and achievements stand as proof of his visionary prowess in the media and entertainment realm. His deep experience in the Gujarati Entertainment industry across films, web series and digital content will play a pivotal part in nurturing a strategic direction for our Gujarati category. We look forward to the fresh perspectives he brings to the table and his role in expanding the Gujarati content portfolio.”
Expressing his excitement, Basiya shared, “I’m thrilled to embark on a new chapter with Shemaroo, aiming to have a significant impact on the brand and its operations. The rich cultural tapestry of Gujarati content holds immense potential, and together with the talented team at Shemaroo, I am committed to delivering experiences that resonate with audiences far and wide. This journey presents an incredible opportunity to redefine the Gujarati entertainment landscape and create meaningful connections through storytelling.”
Suryadeep Basiya’s appointment aligns with Shemaroo’s strategic vision to continuously adapt and cater to the evolving preferences of its viewers. His proven ability to drive successful ventures and his entrepreneurial spirit will be instrumental in shaping the future of Shemaroo’s Gujarati content offerings.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
