Top Executive Payouts in India 2024 Led by Abhay Bhutada

In 2024, top Indian executives were awarded some of the most notable compensation packages ever seen in the country. These figures highlight the importance of leadership in building businesses that are stable, profitable, and forward-thinking. It isn’t just about the size of the salary—it’s about the responsibility that comes with it. From finance and technology to automobiles and media, some of India’s most trusted names took home significant rewards this year. Leading this list is Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Group, whose income stood out for more reasons than one.

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Abhay Bhutada Earns the Top Spot in Executive Compensation

With a total remuneration of ₹241.21 crore in FY24, Abhay Bhutada ranked as the highest-paid executive in the country. His leadership as Managing Director and CEO helped his company secure a CRISIL AAA rating, which reflects financial strength and operational clarity.

Bhutada’s time at the top involved consistent decision-making, keeping costs in control, and enhancing lending quality. His work has helped position the company as a trusted name in financial services. But his journey doesn't stop at corporate results. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he supports key social initiatives across India, especially in education, public health, and sports development.

Pawan Munjal Continues to Guide India’s Leading Two-Wheeler Brand

Pawan Munjal, Hero MotoCorp’s Chairman and Wholetime Director, was paid ₹109.41 crore in FY24. His leadership has been key in keeping the company ahead in a rapidly evolving automobile sector. He has overseen the development of new models, expansion in global markets, and adaptation to electric mobility trends.

His earnings represented 0.28% of the company’s total revenue and 2.92% of its net profit, indicating the level of trust and responsibility tied to his position. His consistent performance and direction have helped Hero MotoCorp maintain its position as a household name in India.

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Sudhir Singh Drives Innovation at Coforge

Sudhir Singh, Executive Director and CEO of Coforge, earned ₹105.12 crore in FY24. Singh has guided the company through a competitive IT and consulting market, delivering strong numbers and growth. His strategies helped the firm scale up its digital transformation offerings and expand globally.

His compensation represented 1.14% of the company's revenue and 13.01% of its profit—an indication of how much his work contributed to the company’s bottom line. Singh’s focus on aligning delivery with client expectations helped Coforge meet its financial and operational goals.

Vinay Prakash Manages Key Sectors at Adani Enterprises

Earning ₹89.37 crore, Vinay Prakash plays a critical role at Adani Enterprises as its Executive Director. He leads the energy and infrastructure segments, two of the most vital areas of the business. These sectors demand precise execution, long-term planning, and strong team coordination.

Although his earnings were 0.09% of revenue and 2.76% of net profit, they reflect the scale of his responsibilities. His work supports some of the largest and most resource-intensive parts of the Adani Group’s activities and has been essential in maintaining the group’s growth curve.

Kalanithi and Kavery Kalanithi Maintain Sun TV’s Media Strength

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi, leading Sun TV Network as Executive Chairman and Executive Director respectively, each earned ₹87.5 crore in FY24. Their leadership has kept Sun TV relevant and profitable in a competitive and content-heavy media environment.

Together, they’ve helped the company evolve with shifting viewer habits, diversify its content offerings, and retain its loyal audience. Their consistent results reflect steady management and a clear understanding of the regional broadcasting market.

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Understanding the Weight of These Numbers

While the earnings of these top executives make headlines, they are closely linked to the demands and expectations of their roles. They lead companies with thousands of employees, manage resources at scale, and navigate risks that affect entire industries.

Among them, Abhay Bhutada stands out not only for receiving the highest salary but for extending his success into meaningful public initiatives. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he has built a track record of supporting people who need it most. This connection between earnings and contribution strengthens his position as a modern business leader.

Conclusion

The five highest-paid executives in India this year—Abhay Bhutada, Pawan Munjal, Sudhir Singh, Vinay Prakash, and the Maran duo—are more than just high earners. They are decision-makers who are trusted to guide large organizations through changing markets and increasing complexity. Their compensation reflects their contributions, their foresight, and their ability to lead in times of both growth and uncertainty. With Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Group leading this list, 2024 marks a year where leadership and responsibility were truly recognized.