About Ronnie Screwvala

Ronnie Screwvala is one of India’s most influential entrepreneurs, film producers, and media pioneers. He is best known for building a media empire with UTV Group and later transitioning into education and philanthropy.

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📌 Quick Profile

• Full Name: Rohinton Soli Screwvala
• Born: 8 September 1956, Mumbai
• Profession: Entrepreneur, Film Producer, Investor
• Known For: Founder of UTV Group, Co-founder of UpGrad
• Spouse: Zarina Screwvala

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🎥 Career in Media & Films

Ronnie started his journey by manufacturing toothbrushes before entering the entertainment industry. He founded UTV Group in the 1990s, which became one of India’s biggest media companies.

Key Highlights:

• Built UTV into a powerhouse in TV, film production, and digital content
• Sold UTV to The Walt Disney Company in a landmark deal (around $1.4 billion)
• Produced several critically acclaimed and commercial films under UTV Motion Pictures

Notable Films Produced:

• Rang De Basanti (2006)
• Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
• Barfi! (2012)
• Chennai Express (2013)

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🎬 RSVP Movies (New Venture)

After exiting UTV, he launched RSVP Movies, focusing on content-driven cinema.

Popular Films:

• Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
• The Sky Is Pink (2019)
• Sam Bahadur (2023)

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🎓 Education & UpGrad

Ronnie co-founded UpGrad, one of India’s leading online higher education platforms.

What UpGrad Does:

• Offers online degrees and certifications
• Focuses on career-oriented education
• Partners with global universities

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🤝 Philanthropy

Through the Swades Foundation, Ronnie and Zarina Screwvala work on rural development in India.

Focus Areas:

• Education
• Healthcare
• Water & sanitation
• Livelihood programs

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🏆 Awards & Recognition

• Featured in Time 100 most influential people (2010)
• Honored with multiple entrepreneurship and media awards

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📚 Author

Ronnie Screwvala wrote the book:

• Dreamers — A guide for aspiring entrepreneurs on building successful businesses

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💡 Legacy & Impact

Ronnie Screwvala is often called a “first-generation entrepreneur” who transformed India’s entertainment and edtech industries. His journey—from a small manufacturing business to billion-dollar ventures—makes him a major inspiration for startups and young entrepreneurs.