Mukesh Ambani eyes stake in Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions

Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions has been in the news for various reasons of late. Last week, there was a surprise among trade, industry members and also moviegoers when it was reported that Saregama India, owned by the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, was in talks to acquire a majority stake in film producer Karan Johar’s company.

The report, however, categorically mentioned that the deal had not reached its final stage. Meanwhile, today, October 14, the Economic Times has reported that KJo is in talks with another industry giant.

As per the article, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) is in talks to acquire a stake in Dharma Productions.

However, the article stated that the size of the stake on the table is not clear. It also quoted a source who said that Karan Johar has been looking to sell a chunk of a stake in Dharma for some time. However, it hasn’t been an easy ride as the past deals have fallen through due to disagreements over valuation.

Reports by sources also revealed that Dharma Productions is owned 90.7% by Karan Johar and 9.24% by his mother, Hiroo Johar.

If the Dharma Productions-Reliance Industries Limited deal materializes, it’ll strengthen the portfolio of the latter in the entertainment sector big time.

At present, RIL has backed Jio Studios, Viacom18 Studios and Colosceum Media. Moreover, Mukesh Ambani-owned RIL also has a 25% minority stake in Ektaa R Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms.