Sony Pictures Networks India announced on June 24 that Gaurav Banerjee, a former Disney executive, will assume the role of Managing Director and CEO, effective on or before August 26, pending regulatory approvals. Banerjee will replace N.P. Singh, who will transition to the position of Non-Executive Chairman after 25 years.
Starting as an assistant producer and anchor at Aaj Tak, Banerjee then moved to Star News, producing and anchoring prime-time news shows. In 2009, he became head of content strategy for Star Plus, revitalizing the channel with successful shows such as “Diya Aur Baati Hum” and “Sasural Genda Phool.” He was promoted to general manager of Star Plus in 2013 and head of the content studio in 2015.
N.P. Singh will serve as non-executive chairman until the fiscal year’s end to ensure a smooth transition. Singh expressed pride in SPNI’s achievements and confidence in Banerjee’s capability to elevate the company’s portfolio, supporting content creation, audience engagement, and digital media initiatives.
Banerjee holds a Master’s degree in filmmaking and TV production from Jamia Millia Islamia University and a history degree from St. Stephens, Delhi. His previous roles include head of content for Hindi entertainment and Disney+ Hotstar, and business head for Star Bharat, overseeing content across multiple languages and leading original series and films.
