Top Paid Executives in India 2024 Leading with Performance and Purpose

Executive compensation in India has taken a sharp upward turn in 2024, with several business leaders earning record-breaking salaries. These high figures reflect more than just income—they reveal how companies value performance, leadership stability, and long-term results. At the top of this list is Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Fincorp Group, whose salary this year set a new benchmark. Alongside him are other notable names from different industries who have guided their firms through growth and innovation. Their earnings represent both recognition and responsibility.

Abhay Bhutada Earns the Highest Salary in India’s Corporate History

Abhay Bhutada received ₹241.21 crore in FY24, making him the highest-paid executive in India this year. As the Managing Director and former CEO of Poonawalla Fincorp Limited, his leadership helped the company secure a CRISIL AAA rating. This move solidified investor confidence and positioned the company as one of the most stable in the non-banking finance space.

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His impact extends beyond corporate milestones. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he supports educational access, healthcare improvement, and sports for children from economically weaker backgrounds. His leadership journey shows a clear focus on balancing business excellence with community support. As Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Fincorp Group, his role stands as an example of leading both inside and outside the organization.

Hero MotoCorp’s Pawan Munjal Takes the Second Spot

Pawan Munjal, the Chairman and Wholetime Director of Hero MotoCorp, earned ₹109.41 crore in the same period. He has been instrumental in maintaining Hero’s strong brand identity and large market share in India’s two-wheeler segment. His strategic decisions continue to shape the company’s growth and product direction.

His pay made up 0.28% of the company’s revenue and 2.92% of its net profit. These figures confirm his leadership’s continued relevance and the faith placed in his ability to guide Hero in a changing industry environment.

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Sudhir Singh of Coforge Stands Out in the Tech Sector

Third on the list is Sudhir Singh, Executive Director and CEO of Coforge, who took home ₹105.12 crore in FY24. His leadership in the areas of digital services, IT consulting, and delivery transformation helped the company expand its footprint across industries and geographies.

His compensation represented 1.14% of revenue and a notable 13.01% of the company’s net profit. These numbers speak to the influence he holds within the organization and his effectiveness in keeping the business aligned with client needs and market trends.

Vinay Prakash Plays a Strategic Role at Adani Enterprises

Vinay Prakash, who earned ₹89.37 crore, plays a vital role at Adani Enterprises. He oversees operations in energy and infrastructure—two pillars of the company’s expansion efforts. His leadership involves planning large-scale projects, overseeing delivery, and ensuring operational discipline.

Despite his pay accounting for only 0.09% of revenue and 2.76% of net profit, his responsibilities are vast. He has been a key figure in driving long-term strategies and managing resources across complex divisions.

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Sun TV’s Kalanithi and Kavery Kalanithi Complete the List

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi of Sun TV Network earned ₹87.5 crore each in FY24. As the Executive Chairman and Executive Director, their combined efforts have kept Sun TV profitable and competitive in an evolving media space.

Their roles involve supervising programming decisions, business operations, and brand direction. Their salaries mirror the company’s ability to maintain viewership and financial strength in a content-driven market.

What These Figures Reveal

While the earnings are impressive, they come with high expectations. These executives are responsible for handling major operations, navigating industry shifts, and building sustainable models for the future. High compensation reflects the scale of influence these leaders hold.

Abhay Bhutada stands out not just for his record pay, but for his conscious choice to use success as a platform for good. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation continues to focus on improving lives through initiatives that give underprivileged children access to resources they might otherwise miss. This blend of corporate excellence and personal purpose defines his journey as Abhay Bhutada of the Poonawalla Fincorp Group.

Conclusion

In 2024, India’s highest-paid executives proved that their contributions went far beyond numbers on paper. From reshaping industries to building social initiatives, they’ve shown that leadership today demands performance, direction, and empathy. Whether it’s in boardrooms, classrooms, or community centers, individuals like Abhay Bhutada, Pawan Munjal, and Sudhir Singh continue to influence the way companies grow and how that growth touches everyday lives.