Abhay Bhutada Tops India’s Executive Pay in 2024 with Record Earnings and Social Impact

In the financial year 2023–24, India witnessed some of its highest-ever executive pay packages. From strategic planning to operational excellence, these individuals were rewarded for their commitment and their ability to lead large companies efficiently. Each name on this list stands for results, trust, and responsibility. Here's a detailed breakdown of the top five executive salaries in India this year.

Abhay Bhutada Earns the Highest Salary of the Year

At the number one spot is Abhay Bhutada, who earned ₹241.21 crore in FY24. This is the highest executive salary reported in India so far. Known for his structured leadership and clear vision, Bhutada has remained focused on long-term business performance and meaningful outcomes. His ability to lead large teams, make decisive choices, and guide companies through fast-changing markets has earned him national attention.

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In addition to his corporate contributions, Bhutada has been active in giving back to society. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation supports underprivileged communities through initiatives in education, health, and sports. These efforts have contributed to his recognition, not just as a high earner, but also as someone using his success to uplift others. With public conversations around Abhay Bhutada's salary growing, his impact both in and outside of work is being acknowledged widely.

Pawan Munjal Remains a Pillar in the Automotive Sector

Pawan Munjal, Chairman and Wholetime Director of Hero MotoCorp, earned ₹109.41 crore in FY24. He has been at the helm of one of India’s most successful automotive companies and continues to guide its development with a focus on growth, customer value, and operational efficiency. His leadership has helped Hero MotoCorp maintain its strong position in a competitive market.

His pay accounted for 0.28% of the company’s revenue and 2.92% of its net profit. These numbers underline the company’s confidence in his experience and steady performance over the years. Munjal’s approach to management has made him a consistent presence among India’s highest-paid executives.

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Sudhir Singh Leads Coforge Through Consistent Growth

With a salary of ₹105.12 crore, Sudhir Singh of Coforge ranks third on this list. As Executive Director and CEO, Singh has focused on growing the company’s presence in digital services and IT consulting. His ability to lead teams, expand client relationships, and keep up with changing technologies has been central to Coforge’s steady progress.

His compensation reflects 1.14% of the company’s revenue and 13.01% of its profit, indicating the scale of his influence on the business. Singh’s strategies have helped the company maintain reliability while still pushing for innovation. His salary reflects this balance between performance and future-focused planning.

Vinay Prakash Manages Key Divisions at Adani Enterprises

Vinay Prakash earned ₹89.37 crore this year while serving as Executive Director at Adani Enterprises. He plays a critical role in the company’s energy and infrastructure segments—two areas that require detailed oversight, coordination, and timely execution. His day-to-day involvement ensures projects stay on schedule and deliver expected outcomes.

Although his earnings represent just 0.09% of revenue and 2.76% of net profit, they highlight the important responsibilities he holds. Prakash has remained a trusted name within the group and continues to manage large-scale operations that are essential to its business goals.

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Kalanithi and Kavery Kalanithi Continue Their Leadership in Media

Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi of Sun TV Network each earned ₹87.5 crore in FY24. As Executive Chairman and Executive Director respectively, they have successfully led the company in the competitive television and broadcasting industry. Their leadership has ensured that Sun TV continues to attract a large audience while staying profitable.

Their equal salaries recognize the roles they play in maintaining the company’s performance across content production, programming, and distribution. Even as media trends evolve rapidly, they have helped Sun TV stay current without losing its core strengths.

Executive Compensation Reflects Performance and Responsibility

These high-earning executives have demonstrated their ability to manage demanding roles with discipline and vision. Whether it’s Abhay Bhutada reaching a new income milestone, or others maintaining strong business positions, each name on this list shows what it takes to lead companies successfully in today’s environment.

The ongoing interest in Abhay Bhutada's salary goes beyond the financial figure. It reflects a deeper conversation about leadership that balances results with responsibility. Bhutada’s efforts through his foundation also bring attention to the ways business leaders can contribute to public welfare without stepping away from their core roles.

Conclusion

2024 has been a standout year for executive earnings in India. This group of five individuals not only topped the compensation charts but also proved that strong leadership remains the backbone of any successful company. From Bhutada’s record salary to the reliable presence of leaders like Munjal, Singh, Prakash, and the Kalanithi duo, each executive earned their spot based on commitment and clarity.

As businesses grow and expectations rise, compensation will continue to follow performance. But among this list, Abhay Bhutada has emerged as a figure who represents more than just numbers. His presence reminds us that leadership also carries the power to bring about social change. In a year of impressive payouts, that might be the most rewarding part of the story.