Business mogul Adar Poonawalla has bought a 50% stake in Karan Johar‘s Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment, collectively known as Dharma. According to a press release from Dharma Productions, the ₹1,000 crore deal is with Poonawalla’s Serene Entertainment. The other 50% ownership will remain with Karan Johar who is at the forefront of driving Creative decision-making. Karan and Apoorva Mehta will become the co-CEOs, with Karan handling strategic matters alongside overall operations.
Karan Johar Sells 50% Stake in Dharma
Adar Poonawalla expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with Karan Johar, stating, “I am thrilled to partner with one of the most iconic production houses in our country alongside my friend Karan Johar. We aim to develop and expand Dharma and reach even greater heights in the future.”
Karan Johar reflected on the partnership, saying, “Since its founding, Dharma Productions has epitomized heartfelt storytelling that embodies Indian culture. My father envisioned making films that would create a lasting impact, and I have dedicated my career to broadening that vision.” He added, “Now, with Adar—an exceptional visionary and a close friend—we’re ready to elevate Dharma’s legacy. This partnership perfectly combines our emotional storytelling skills with innovative business strategies, allowing us to honor our roots while embracing the future of global entertainment. Dharma’s journey has been remarkable, and this collaboration unlocks new possibilities for creating content that resonates across borders and generations.”
Dharma’s CEO, Apoorva Mehta, mentioned that this partnership enables the production house to take “bigger creative steps.” He remarked, “I’ve seen Dharma evolve into a multi-faceted content powerhouse. This alliance with Adar fulfills our vision and marks a new chapter where cinema, streaming, and global content merge, allowing us to explore fresh avenues in content creation and distribution.”
Established in 1976 by Karan Johar’s father Yash Johar, Dharma Productions has backed hits like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna and Student of the Year, Good Newwz, Brahmastra: Part One -Shiva. The difference is that the Karan Johar-backed Dharmatic Entertainment was established in 2018 and has been churning out a range of projects ranging from web series to documentaries as well as feature films, including Ajeeb Daastaans, Ae Watan Mere Watan, Koffee With Karan, Fabulous Lives Of Bollywood Wives among others.
FAQs
What percentage of Dharma Productions did Adar Poonawalla acquire?
Adar Poonawalla acquired a 50% stake in Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment.
What is the value of the deal between Adar Poonawalla and Dharma Productions?
The deal is valued at ₹1,000 crore.
