Kavya Maran - The Progress Catalyst

Chief Editor's Desk
12 minutes ago
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The emerging face of Indian sports business

Kavya Kalanithi Maran is an Indian businesswoman and the CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kavya has carved a niche for herself in the sports industry, blending her business acumen with a passion for cricket. Kavya Maran, a progress catalyst, is known for her active involvement in SRH matches, often seen passionately supporting her team from the stands.

Kavya Maran - The Progress Catalyst (source: mykhel.com) — Kavya Maran

Nationality: Indian

Date of Birth: 6 August 1992

Hometown: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Parents: Kalanithi Maran, Kavery Maran

Spouse: Unmarried

Education:

Bachelor of Commerce, Stella Maris College, Chennai
MBA, Warwick Business School, University of Warwick, UK

Employment History:

Executive Director, Sun TV Network Limited (2019–present)
Chief Executive Officer, Sunrisers Hyderabad (IPL franchise) (2018–present)
Owner, Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SA20 franchise) (2022–present)

Impact Maker Kavya Maran

Kavya Maran's foray into the cricketing world as the CEO of SRH in 2018 marked a significant shift in the franchise's approach. Under her leadership, SRH reached the IPL finals in 2018 and 2024, showcasing a consistent performance in the league. Her strategic decisions in team management and player acquisitions have been pivotal in the team's progress, making her an impact maker in the realm of sports business.

Change Maker Kavya Maran

Beyond the IPL, Kavya Maran expanded her horizons by acquiring the Sunrisers Eastern Cape in South Africa's SA20 League. The team clinched the championship titles in 2023 and 2024 and were runners-up in 2025, reflecting her ability to replicate success across different platforms. Her ventures have been a catalyst for change, promoting the globalisation of Indian sports franchises

Progress Catalyst Kavya Maran

Kavya Maran's educational background, with a B.Com from Stella Maris College and an MBA from Warwick Business School, has been instrumental in her professional journey. Her role as Executive Director of Sun TV Network Limited further underscores her multifaceted capabilities. Recognised among Fortune India's "Most Powerful Women in Business" in 2025, she continues to be a catalyst for progress in the media and sports industries.

Career Highlights

CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad (2018–present): Led the team to IPL finals in 2018 and 2024.
Owner of Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Achieved consecutive SA20 League titles in 2023 and 2024, and runners-up in 2025.
Executive Director of Sun TV Network Limited: Oversees operations of one of Asia's largest media networks.
Expansion into The Hundred League: Acquired a 49% stake in Northern Superchargers, marking a significant step in global cricket franchise ownership

Awards & Recognitions

Devi Awards 2024: Honoured as the "Face and Force Behind Sunrisers Hyderabad" .
India Today’s ‘100 Women Achievers of India’ (2023): Acknowledged for her contributions to sports and media.
The Hollywood Reporter India’s “Women in Entertainment Power List” (2025): Recognised for her influence in the entertainment industry.
Fortune India’s “Most Powerful Women in Business” (2025): Ranked #46 for her leadership in business.