By Entertainment Desk| April 4, 2025
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Ronnie Screwvala has made it to Forbes’ World’s Billionaires List 2025. With a net worth of $1.5 billion, he is now the richest figure in Hindi cinema. His wealth surpasses even Bollywood’s biggest stars.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
Screwvala’s fortune exceeds the combined wealth of SRK, Salman & Aamir. Together, the Khans are worth $1.38 billion—less than Screwvala alone. It’s a major shift from stardom to entrepreneurial success.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
Born in Mumbai, Ronnie began his career manufacturing toothbrushes. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Mumbai University.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
In 1990, Screwvala launched UTV, later rebranded as UTV Motion Pictures. He produced a string of landmark films over two decades. The company became a powerhouse in Indian entertainment.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
He backed celebrated movies like Rang De Basanti, Swades, Barfi, and Delhi Belly. Also produced hits like Jodhaa Akbar, Fashion, Khosla Ka Ghosla, Sam Bahadur, and Tejas. These films defined modern Hindi cinema.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
UTV also created iconic TV shows like Shanti, Khichdi, and Shararat. Youth hits like Hip Hip Hurray and Shaka Laka Boom Boom were fan favourites. His impact spanned both big and small screens.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
In 2012, Screwvala sold UTV to Disney for over $450 million. He then headed Disney India as its managing director. It marked one of the biggest deals in Indian media.
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Ronnie Screwvala co-founded upGrad, a leading online education platform. He currently serves as its Chairperson. His vision continues to shape India’s startup ecosystem.
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He credits theatre for his soft skills and confidence. During his schooling days, he acted in professional plays with Bombay theatre as a hobby. It laid the foundation for his career in storytelling.
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Image Credit: Instagram.com
Ronnie and his wife Zarina lead the Swades Foundation. The NGO focuses on rural development and empowerment. His journey is a blend of business success and social impact.
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