Amit Khanna

Amit Khanna was a pivotal figure in the evolution of modern Indian cinema and media, primarily through his multifaceted roles as a lyricist, filmmaker, media executive, and visionary thinker. His career trajectory began in the 1970s, where he made his mark as a lyricist for films like 'Karz' (1980), penning the iconic song 'Om Shanti Om'. However, his most profound contribution lies beyond creative writing. He was a foundational architect of the post-studio system, corporatized Indian entertainment industry. As the Chairman of Reliance Entertainment and a key advisor within the Reliance ADA Group, he played an instrumental role in shaping large-scale production, distribution, and digital media strategies. Khanna was also a respected industry leader, serving as President of the Film & Television Producers Guild of India. His forward-thinking perspective was encapsulated in his concept of 'the third wave', predicting the convergence of media, telecommunications, and technology long before it became a reality. He championed the cause of intellectual property rights and was a vocal advocate for industry reforms. Through his leadership at Plus Channel, one of India's first media consulting firms, and his writings, he educated and guided a generation of media professionals. Amit Khanna's legacy is that of a bridge-builder and a strategist who helped transition Indian cinema from a fragmented, family-run business into a globally competitive, organized sector, fundamentally altering its economic and structural landscape.