Gaurav Banerjee from Disney Star has been appointed as the new CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), succeeding NP Singh. Last week, Singh announced his decision to step down after 25 years at Sony. Banerjee managed content for Hindi entertainment and Disney+ Hotstar during his tenure at Disney Star. He also held the position of business head for various sectors, including Star Bharat, Hindi and English movies, children's programming, infotainment, and regional channels in the eastern region. He could not be reached immediately for comment.
Starting as a journalist, Banerjee initiated his career at Aaj Tak before joining Star News in 2004, where he served as a prime-time anchor and senior producer. His significant contribution came in 2005 when he played a key role in the launch of the Bengali news channel Star Ananda. Transitioning to Star India in 2008, he took charge of content strategy for the network's regional entertainment channels, facilitating the company's expansion into new territories with the introduction of Star Jalsha in Bengal and Star Pravah in Maharashtra.
In 2009, Banerjee assumed the role of leading the content strategy for Star Plus, where he played a crucial role in rejuvenating the channel with successful shows like Diya Aur Baati Hum and Sasural Genda Phool. This effort led to the channel reclaiming its top position in 2010. His contributions were recognized, and he was elevated to the position of general manager of Star Plus in 2013. Subsequently, in 2015, he assumed leadership of the Content Studio.
Banerjee obtained his master’s degree in filmmaking and TV production from the Mass Communications Research Centre at Jamia Milia Islamia University, Delhi. Prior to that, he completed his undergraduate studies in history at St. Stephens College, Delhi.