Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has announced a significant leadership transition within its Kids and Animation portfolio. Leena Lele Dutta, who has led the portfolio since the launch of the kids’ linear channel Sony YAY! in 2017, will step down as Business Head toward the end of this fiscal year.

According to SPNI, Sony YAY! has become a premier destination for children’s entertainment, recognized for its engaging animated series, original content, and expansion into animation production and ancillary business streams under the leadership of Dutta. Her strategic vision and dedication have been pivotal in building a thriving kids and animation ecosystem, making a substantial contribution to SPNI’s overall success.

Succeeding Dutta in this role is Ambesh Tiwari, who recently joined Sony YAY! as Business Operations Head. Tiwari brings extensive experience from his previous roles at Star India, Life OK, and Zee Entertainment, where he played a crucial part in launching channels like Zee Keralam and Zee Punjabi. His academic credentials further bolster his readiness for this leadership position, including an MBA from the University of Oxford, a Young India Fellowship from Ashoka University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Media Law and Public Policy from NALSAR University.

In the coming months, Dutta will work closely with Tiwari to ensure a seamless transition. SPNI expresses its gratitude for Dutta’s remarkable contributions to the business and wishes her success in her future endeavors.

With Tiwari at the helm, SPNI is optimistic about Sony YAY!’s continued growth and success as it strives to deliver exceptional entertainment for young audiences.