Warner Music India Appoints Ashok Parwani as Head of Music for South India

Warner Music India has announced the appointment of Ashok Parwani as Head of Music for South Indian Markets, marking a significant leadership move as the company accelerates its regional growth strategy. The strategic hire follows Warner Music India’s majority acquisition of Divo, one of South India’s most influential digital media and music companies, and signals a renewed focus on regional language music.

Driving Growth Across South Indian Music Markets

In his new role, Parwani will oversee Warner Music India’s music strategy across the Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam markets. Together with Divo, Warner Music India aims to expand its regional catalogue, deepen partnerships with artists and creators, and unlock new commercial opportunities across South India’s rapidly evolving music ecosystem.

South India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments of India’s music industry, driven by streaming growth, film music demand, and a thriving independent artist community. Warner Music India’s leadership believes Parwani’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment to capitalize on this momentum.

A Veteran With Four Decades of Industry Experience

Ashok Parwani brings over 40 years of experience across India, Sri Lanka, and the UAE. During his two-decade tenure at Sony Music India, he played a central role in building the company’s South India business, leading major catalogue acquisitions and forging long-standing relationships with leading producers, filmmakers, and artists.

His deep understanding of regional markets and proven track record in talent development make him a key addition to Warner Music India’s leadership team as it looks to scale its presence in culturally rich, language-driven markets.

Warner Music India Appoints Ashok Parwani

Strengthening the Warner–Divo Ecosystem

Divo has become a major force in South India’s music landscape, offering services across distribution, publishing, digital content, and influencer marketing. Warner Music India’s majority acquisition of Divo in 2023 underscored its commitment to investing in authentic regional cultures and creator-first ecosystems.

The company also manages a rapidly growing music catalogue and recently launched Loopd, an artist-first label focused on independent talent, supported by Warner Music Group’s global network. Warner Music’s regional footprint has further expanded through a collaborative initiative with Sri Lanka’s M-Entertainments and Divo, aimed at creating international opportunities for South Asian artists.

Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Warner Music India & SAARC, said Parwani’s expertise aligns perfectly with the company’s long-term vision. “South India is an essential, high-growth pillar of our national strategy. Ashok’s leadership will be vital as we build world-class pathways for local artists and take India’s sounds to a global audience.”

Shahir Muneer, Co-Founder & Director of Divo, added that Parwani’s appointment would strengthen Divo’s integration within the Warner Music network and accelerate catalogue and partnership growth.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Ashok Parwani said South India is “a powerhouse of creativity” and highlighted the opportunity to take regional music to global audiences.

Parwani’s appointment marks a key step in amplifying South Indian music on the global stage.