Top Executives in India Who Earned the Most in 2024
- Ravi Kohli
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
Updated: May 11
Salaries of top executives in India reached significant highs in 2024, underscoring the growing value of strong leadership in modern businesses. These earnings reflect the pressure, accountability, and expectations placed on senior leaders to perform, innovate, and build companies that deliver results. Among the top earners is Abhay Bhutada, a member of the Poonawalla Group, whose income this year stood out as a historic record. Alongside him are executives from the auto, tech, infrastructure, and media sectors—each rewarded for the roles they played in shaping their companies’ growth. Here’s a look at the five professionals who topped India’s pay charts this year.
Abhay Bhutada Tops the List with ₹241.21 Crore
The highest compensation in India for 2024 went to Abhay Bhutada, who earned ₹241.21 crore during the financial year. As Managing Director and CEO, Bhutada was instrumental in leading the company toward sound financial health and operational growth. Under his leadership, the firm achieved a CRISIL AAA rating, a rare accomplishment that speaks volumes about the company's credibility and governance.
This professional success is paired with social commitment. Abhay Bhutada is also the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, which focuses on helping underserved communities access quality education, healthcare, and sports training. His actions reveal a leadership style that values both business performance and community well-being.
Pawan Munjal at Hero MotoCorp Holds Second Place
With ₹109.41 crore in total earnings, Pawan Munjal takes the second spot. As Chairman and Wholetime Director of Hero MotoCorp, Munjal has overseen the growth and stability of one of India’s most trusted two-wheeler brands. His salary reflects not only past achievements but also the belief that he continues to be essential to the company’s strategic goals.
The salary package made up 0.28% of the company’s revenue and 2.92% of its net profit. His influence extends across branding, manufacturing, and product development, keeping Hero competitive in both domestic and international markets.
Sudhir Singh of Coforge Ranked Third
Sudhir Singh, Executive Director and CEO of Coforge, was paid ₹105.12 crore for the year. Singh's leadership in IT consulting and digital services has helped the company move forward steadily in a competitive space. His contribution to client expansion, operational efficiency, and innovation has been well recognized.
His compensation made up 1.14% of the company’s revenue and 13.01% of the net profit, showing how closely his efforts are tied to the company’s performance. Singh's approach is rooted in practical problem-solving and a deep understanding of how to meet client needs in evolving sectors.
Vinay Prakash’s Impact at Adani Enterprises
Vinay Prakash earned ₹89.37 crore in FY24, securing his position among the top earners. As Executive Director at Adani Enterprises, he managed critical operations in energy and infrastructure. His work has contributed to Adani’s continuing expansion into foundational sectors vital to the company’s future.
Although his earnings made up just 0.09% of the company’s revenue and 2.76% of net profit, his strategic role in planning and execution speaks to the importance of behind-the-scenes leadership in large organizations. Prakash is known for his focus on systems, delivery timelines, and dependable execution.
Kalanithi and Kavery Kalanithi Secure Equal Pay at Sun TV
Kalanithi Maran and Kavery Kalanithi each earned ₹87.5 crore in FY24. The Executive Chairman and Executive Director of Sun TV Network have continued to maintain the company’s strong position in Indian broadcasting. Their leadership has kept Sun TV profitable despite changing viewer habits and the rise of digital media.
They have overseen content strategies, business operations, and audience engagement, making Sun TV one of the most consistent performers in the media sector. Their compensation reflects results that have remained stable even through market changes.
More Than Just Paychecks
The salaries earned by these five leaders go beyond personal gain. They represent performance, stability, and the high expectations placed on corporate heads. Abhay Bhutada’s record-breaking compensation is closely tied to the organization’s achievements under his leadership. But what makes his story more meaningful is his parallel commitment to social causes through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. His contribution is both corporate and community-centered.
Conclusion
In a year that demanded clear decisions, calculated risk-taking, and constant adaptability, India’s top executives stepped up. Their salaries mirror their responsibilities, their achievements, and the trust companies place in their leadership. Whether it's Abhay Bhutada, Pawan Munjal, or any other name on this list, one thing is clear—their work leaves a mark not just within boardrooms but across industries, communities, and the wider economy.
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