MAM
Vikram Vijay Chandan steps down as Vice President of Sales at Sony Pictures Networks India
Sales veteran exits after 16 years with the media giant.
MUMBAI: Vikram Vijay Chandan has decided to change into a new pair of shoes after 16 years of striding through Sony Pictures Networks India. The experienced media executive has stepped down from his role as Vice President of Sales at Sony Pictures Networks Distribution India. He announced his departure via a LinkedIn post, describing it as “time to change into a new pair and step back into the game called life.”
Chandan joined Sony in 2010 and rose through the ranks, holding leadership positions across sales, affiliate partnerships, and business development. In his most recent role, he spearheaded national sales strategies and managed revenue responsibilities exceeding Rs 175 crore in the North region, while leading large cross-functional teams.
In his farewell note, he expressed a mix of emotions, “After spending 16 incredible years with Sony Pictures, I have decided to move on.”
Before joining Sony, Chandan gained valuable experience in sales and distribution at organisations including ESPN Star Sports, Lotte India, Cargill India, and Parle Products. He holds an MBA in Marketing from the Institute of Management Technology, Ghaziabad, and a B.Com degree from Delhi University.
Details of his next professional move have not been disclosed.
In the fast-paced world of media and entertainment, where deals move as quickly as content, Vikram Vijay Chandan has been a steady performer for over a decade and a half. As he steps away from Sony, the industry will be watching to see where this seasoned sales leader laces up next.
Brands
Funskool India crosses US$40 million turnover in FY 2025-26
Toy manufacturer posts steady growth despite global headwinds.
MUMBAI: Funskool India has played its cards well turning challenges into steady growth while keeping the fun alive in the toy business. The country’s leading toy manufacturer has reported a turnover of $40 million in FY 2025-26, demonstrating resilience in a difficult global environment. The company recorded an average growth of 14 per cent over the past two years, with exports growing at a healthy 19% year-on-year.
While domestic business grew at a modest single-digit pace, Funskool saw encouraging traction in key categories such as Fundough (dough) and Handycrafts (arts & crafts).
Funskool India Ltd. CEO K.A. Shabir said, “We successfully navigated the challenges posed by US tariffs last year and continued to grow both our export and domestic businesses. Given the ongoing geopolitical situation in West Asia, we are currently working with a moderate growth outlook of 12–15 per cent, with plans to revisit our targets after Q1 once the situation stabilises.”
He highlighted strengthened partnerships with global companies including Spin Master (Canada), Moose Toys (Australia), Melissa & Doug (USA), Asmodee (France), Learning Resources (USA), and Buffalo Games (USA). The expansion of the company’s Goa plant is progressing and is expected to be completed by the end of the current financial year.
Looking ahead, Funskool expects a significant shift in domestic growth momentum for FY 2026-27, driven by new categories such as friction vehicles under the brand “BlazeTrix”, remote-control cars under “VoltRush”, and the addition of popular licences like Paw Patrol.
In an industry where playtime never stops, Funskool has shown that even in turbulent times, a smart strategy and strong partnerships can keep the business ticking along nicely. As it gears up for the next financial year, the company appears well-positioned to build on its solid foundation and bring even more joy to children worldwide.
