Warner Music India has appointed Ashok Parwani as Head of Music for South Indian Markets. The appointment follows Warner Music India’s majority acquisition of Divo, a South Indian digital media and music company.
Warner Music India and Divo will work together to expand regional catalogues, strengthen relationships with creators and partners, and support growth across the Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam markets.
Parwani has over four decades of experience across India, Sri Lanka and the UAE. During his time at Sony Music India, where he spent two decades, he worked on the development of the company’s South India business, including catalogue acquisitions and partnerships with producers, filmmakers and artists.
Divo operates across music distribution, publishing, digital content and influencer marketing in South India. Warner Music India acquired a majority stake in the company in 2023. Warner Music India manages a growing catalogue and has launched Loopd, an artist-first label focused on independent talent, supported by Warner Music Group’s global network. The company has also partnered with Sri Lanka’s M-Entertainments and Divo on initiatives aimed at international opportunities for regional artists.
Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Warner Music India & 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 & 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.”
Ashok Parwani, Head of Music, finishes: “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.”
The appointment forms part of Warner Music India’s plans to develop its South India operations and integrate Divo’s regional capabilities.
