Warner Music India has appointed Ashok Parwani as Head of Music for South Indian markets. He has taken on the role at a time when the company has been expanding its regional operations following its majority acquisition of South India–based digital media and music company Divo.
The company has focused on scaling its regional catalogue, strengthening artist and partner relationships, and building its presence across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam markets. The appointment has come as Warner Music India and Divo have been working more closely to integrate distribution, publishing and digital capabilities across the southern region.
Parwani has brought over four decades of experience across India, Sri Lanka and the UAE. He has spent nearly two decades at Sony Music India, where he has played a key role in building the company’s South India business, leading catalogue acquisitions and working closely with producers, filmmakers and artists in the region.
Warner Music India has continued to expand its regional and independent music footprint. The company has managed a growing catalogue, launched artist-first label Loopd for independent talent, and collaborated with Sri Lanka’s M-Entertainments alongside Divo to create international opportunities for regional artists. Divo has operated across distribution, publishing, digital content and influencer marketing, and its acquisition in 2023 has formed a central part of Warner Music India’s regional strategy.
Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Warner Music India and SAARC, says: “Ashok brings unparalleled regional expertise and industry relationships that align perfectly with our long-term vision for South India. South India is an essential, high-growth pillar of our national strategy, and his proven leadership will be vital as we accelerate our mission to build world-class pathways for local artists and take the incredible sounds of India to a global audience.”
Shahir Muneer, Co-Founder and Director, Divo, adds: “Ashok’s experience and industry relationships bring tremendous value to Warner Music India’s South strategy. His leadership will also strengthen Divo’s work within the Warner Music network as we scale our catalogue, deepen partnerships, and unlock stronger commercial opportunities for artists across the region.”
Parwani, Head of Music, said: “I’m excited to join Warner Music India at such a dynamic moment. South India is a powerhouse of creativity, and together with Divo’s strong regional presence, we have a remarkable opportunity to take this music to wider audiences across India and globally. I look forward to expanding our reach and creating new pathways for South Indian music to thrive worldwide.”
