In the glitzy world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where cricket meets glamour and big business, one name stands out among the latest roster of team owners: Kavya Maran. The 32-year-old head of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has made waves not just for her lineage but for her impressive leadership in the highly competitive cricketing arena.
Kavya Maran, the daughter of media mogul Kalanithi Maran, has been at the helm of SRH since 2018, taking on the role of Chief Executive Officer. Under her stewardship, the franchise has become a formidable force in the league, boasting a success rate of 46.6% with 48 wins out of 103 matches played from 2018 to 2024. Despite not clinching the IPL trophy since 2016, when the team won under different leadership, Kavya has fostered a sense of pride and resilience within the squad.
"Don't be sad, you made me proud," she told her players after their narrow miss in the 2024 final, showcasing her ability to inspire and uplift her team in the face of adversity.
Kavya's journey into the cricketing world is as intriguing as it is inspiring. Born in Chennai, she completed her primary education at the DAV school and went on to earn a B.Com from Stella Maris College in 2012. She furthered her education with an MBA from Warwick Business School in the UK in 2016, a move that solidified her business acumen. Her family background in the media industry—her father founded the Sun Group, one of India's largest media conglomerates—set the stage for her future successes.
As the owner of SRH, Kavya Maran has not only embraced her role but has also become a beloved figure among fans. At matches, her presence is electrifying; fans often cheer, "Kavya is here!" as they eagerly await her appearance on screen. Her ability to connect with the audience has made her a standout personality in the IPL, where the blend of sports and entertainment is paramount.
But it’s not just her charm that keeps her in the spotlight. Kavya has actively participated in player auctions and strategic decisions, demonstrating her commitment to building a competitive team. Under her leadership, SRH has qualified for the playoffs three times (in 2018, 2020, and 2024), showcasing her strategic prowess.
In addition to her cricketing endeavors, Kavya Maran has been involved in various business ventures within the Sun Group, overseeing operations at Sun TV Network and Sun Music. The experience gained from these roles has undoubtedly contributed to her effectiveness as CEO of SRH, allowing her to navigate the complexities of managing a sports franchise.
Moreover, she has expanded her influence beyond the IPL, co-owning the Sunrisers Cape Town team in South Africa’s SA20 league, further diversifying her portfolio and showcasing her ambition.
The Maran family legacy is rich, with Kalanithi Maran being the son of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, which adds a layer of political and cultural significance to their business endeavors. Kavya’s mother, Kaveri Maran, serves as the Joint Managing Director of the Sun Group and is one of the highest-paid executives in India, further emphasizing the family's stronghold in the media landscape.
Despite her affluent background, Kavya Maran has demonstrated a dedicated work ethic, transforming SRH into a competitive team while also engaging in philanthropic efforts through the Kalanithi Maran and Kaveri Kalanithi Foundation, focusing on education, health, and rural development.
As the IPL 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Kavya Maran and the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Will they finally secure the elusive IPL trophy under her leadership? Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this dynamic young leader will navigate the challenges ahead.
In a league dominated by established billionaires and Bollywood stars, Kavya Maran’s story is a testament to the power of youth, ambition, and resilience in the face of competition. As she continues to carve her niche in the world of sports, her journey serves as an inspiration to many young women aspiring to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
With the IPL kicking off, the excitement surrounding the Sunrisers Hyderabad is palpable. Will Kavya Maran lead her team to victory this season? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: she is a force to be reckoned with in the IPL landscape.
