Billionaire Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India, has acquired a 50% stake in Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment for $120 million. This major deal, announced on October 21, values Karan Johar’s iconic production company at $240 million.
Karan Johar will retain the remaining 50% stake and continue as Executive Chairman, while Apoorva Mehta remains the CEO of Dharma Productions. Poonawalla’s investment, made through his private firm Serene Productions, marks his expansion into the entertainment industry.
Adar Poonawalla’s entry follows Dharma’s efforts to forge new partnerships, having engaged with various conglomerates like Sanjiv Goenka’s Saregama, Reliance Industries, and Jio Cinema. This financial backing is anticipated to enhance Dharma’s reach, particularly in producing content for digitally savvy consumers and global platforms.
In a joint statement, both Johar and Poonawalla expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership. Poonawalla hailed Dharma as “one of the most iconic production houses” in India, while Johar emphasized that the collaboration represents a blend of “emotional storytelling” and “forward-thinking business strategies.”
Johar noted that this partnership would elevate Dharma’s legacy and help continue creating content that resonates across borders and generations.
Celebrating 44 Years of Dharma Productions
Karan Johar recently celebrated 44 years of Dharma Productions, which was founded by his father, Yash Johar, in 1976. Over the years, Dharma has established itself as one of India’s leading film production and distribution companies, producing major blockbusters like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kal Ho Naa Ho, My Name is Khan, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Shershaah, and Brahmāstra, solidifying its legacy in Indian cinema.
