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Sony Pictures Networks India announces leadership reshuffle
Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has announced three leadership changes, highlighting the company’s focus on growth and operational efficiency. These appointments are crucial for SPNI’s progress, with each leader bringing relevant expertise and new perspectives to their roles.
Nachiket Pantvaidya, an industry veteran with a rich and diverse career spanning multiple leading media companies, is now taking over as the business head of Sony Entertainment Television (SET). This marks his third stint with SPNI. While he joins SET, he will also continue to manage his role as general manager at Sony Pictures International Productions (SPIP). Nachiket has consistently demonstrated strategic prowess and leadership in his previous roles at SPNI, including managing P&L for SET, developing iconic franchises, and boosting advertising and distribution revenues. His broader role will enable him to leverage his extensive expertise to deliver exceptional entertainment experiences across both platforms.
Ajay Bhalwankar, who has been with SPNI since 2014, currently heads its Marathi channel. He previously served as the chief creative director for SPNI’s flagship general entertainment channel, Sony Entertainment Television (SET). Under his leadership, Sony Marathi has seen significant growth, delivering high-quality, engaging content that resonates with Marathi audiences. Ajay’s strategic vision has enabled Sony Marathi to carve a niche in the crowded Marathi GEC market. His emphasis on progressive and relatable content has helped the channel capture a nine per cent market share. Moving forward, Ajay will additionally spearhead Sony SAB as its business head. With his experience and creative acumen, Ajay is well-positioned to bring fresh and engaging content to Sony SAB’s diverse audience, further strengthening the channel’s reputation for quality entertainment.
Tushar Shah is the business head of English, Bengali, and infotainment channels and the chief marketing officer (CMO) at Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI). He oversees prominent channels such as Sony PIX, Sony AATH, and Sony BBC Earth. With nearly 18 years of experience across two tenures at SPNI, Tushar has driven significant growth and profitability and enhanced viewership. His strategic leadership has also been crucial in the successful reach and expansion of Sony AATH in West Bengal. Going forward, Tushar will additionally oversee Sony MAX, Sony MAX HD, Sony MAX 2, Sony WAH and Sony PAL. His expertise will fuel further innovation across these channels, enhancing their market presence.
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.
