Ronnie Screwvala
Ronnie Screwvala (born Rohinton Soli Screwvala on 8 September 1956) is an Indian entrepreneur, investor, and film producer. He is best known for founding UTV Software Communications, co-founding upGrad, and his contributions to India’s media, education, and startup ecosystem.
| Ronnie Screwvala | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | Rohinton Soli Screwvala 8 September 1956 |
| Birthplace | Bombay (now Mumbai), Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, investor, film producer |
| Years active | 1981–present |
| Known for | UTV Group, upGrad, Swades Foundation |
| Spouse | Zarina Mehta (m.); Manjula Nanavati (div.) |
| Children | 1 |
He is widely regarded as a pioneer of cable television in India and has played a significant role in shaping the country’s entertainment industry. Screwvala has also been featured in global influence lists, including Time 100 and Esquire’s Most Influential People.
Early Life and Education
Ronnie Screwvala was born in Mumbai, India into a Parsi family. His father worked as an executive in a British firm.
He studied at:
- Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai
- Sydenham College, Mumbai
During his school years, Screwvala developed a strong interest in theatre and participated in stage productions. He performed in plays such as Othello and Death of a Salesman, which helped shape his creative interests.[1]
Career
Early Entrepreneurship
Ronnie Screwvala began his entrepreneurial journey with a toothbrush manufacturing business. In 1981, he entered the entertainment sector by pioneering cable television in India, at a time when Doordarshan was the only television channel available.
This early venture laid the foundation for his future in media and entertainment.[2]
UTV Software Communications
In 1990, Screwvala founded UTV Software Communications, which grew into one of India’s leading media and entertainment companies.
UTV expanded into:
- Television content production
- Film production
- Gaming and digital media
- Broadcasting channels
The company produced several successful television shows and films, including early Indian reality content and popular daily soaps.[3]
UTV partnered with major global companies such as:
- News Corporation
- 20th Century Fox
- The Walt Disney Company
- Bloomberg
In 2012, Screwvala sold UTV to The Walt Disney Company in a deal valued at approximately $1.4 billion.
Film Production
Ronnie Screwvala has produced and co-produced numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful films.
Some notable films include:
- Rang De Basanti (2006)
- Khosla Ka Ghosla (2006)
- Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
- Barfi! (2012)
- Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
- Kedarnath (2018)
After exiting UTV, he founded RSVP Movies in 2017, focusing on content-driven cinema and digital productions.
upGrad
Ronnie Screwvala co-founded upGrad in 2015, an online higher education platform.
upGrad provides:
- Professional certification programs
- Degree courses
- Skill-based learning in technology and management
The platform serves millions of learners across 100+ countries and collaborates with universities and companies worldwide.
Unilazer Ventures
Screwvala founded Unilazer Ventures, an investment company focused on early-stage and growth-stage startups.
The firm invests in sectors such as:
- Consumer businesses
- Education
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Agriculture
Through Unilazer, Screwvala has invested in several startups including Lenskart, TrueFan, and Lido.
U Sports
Ronnie Screwvala also founded U Sports, focusing on sports development in India.
Key initiatives include:
- U Mumba – Kabaddi team in Pro Kabaddi League
- U-Dream – football training and development program
- Expansion into e-sports
Philanthropy
Ronnie Screwvala co-founded The Swades Foundation with his wife Zarina Mehta.
The foundation focuses on rural development in India, working in areas such as:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Water and sanitation
- Livelihood development
The foundation aims to empower rural communities and improve quality of life for millions of people.
Shark Tank India
Ronnie Screwvala joined the panel of investors (Sharks) in Shark Tank India Season 3.
His presence on the show brought extensive experience in entrepreneurship, investment, and media to the panel.
Awards and Recognition
Ronnie Screwvala has received numerous awards and recognitions, including:
- Featured in Time 100 (2009)
- Listed among Esquire’s 75 Most Influential People of the 21st Century
- Named among Fortune Asia’s Most Powerful People
- National Film Award for Rang De Basanti (2007)
- Multiple Filmfare and IIFA Awards
Net Worth
Ronnie Screwvala’s estimated net worth is over $1.5 billion, making him one of the prominent entrepreneurs in India’s media and startup ecosystem.
Personal Life
Ronnie Screwvala is married to Zarina Mehta, his second wife. She was also a co-founder of UTV and is actively involved in the Swades Foundation.
He was previously married to Manjula Nanavati, with whom he has a daughter, Trishya Screwvala.
Legacy
Ronnie Screwvala is regarded as one of India’s most influential entrepreneurs. From pioneering cable television to building a global media company and advancing online education, his contributions span multiple industries.
His journey reflects innovation, adaptability, and long-term vision, making him a key figure in India’s entrepreneurial and entertainment landscape.