Saina Group, the Kerala-based media company behind Malayalam OTT platform Saina Play, has appointed Akhil T.J. as Chief Growth Officer as it looks to expand its digital, content monetisation and brand partnerships businesses.
Akhil will lead growth and revenue across the company’s OTT, YouTube and digital network, including Saina Play, Saina South Plus, Saina Movies, Saina Music and Ludo Originals, alongside its events and IP businesses. He will report to Aashiq Bava.
Founded in 1985 by P.M. Bava, Saina Group operates across film distribution, streaming, music, digital content and live entertainment. The company manages a catalogue of more than 700 Malayalam films alongside a regional music library and a large YouTube distribution network. Its OTT platform, Saina Play, launched in 2019 with a focus on Malayalam-speaking audiences in India and overseas markets, particularly the GCC region.
The company’s portfolio also includes live entertainment properties such as Ocha Festival, alongside branded content and on-ground activations.
Prior to joining Saina, Akhil worked across media, OTT, telecom and consumer-facing businesses, with experience spanning brand strategy, digital growth and regional market expansion.
Speaking on the appointment, Akhil T.J. said: “Saina sits on a rare combination – a 40-year content legacy, one of Malayalam’s deepest film and music libraries, a fast-growing OTT in Saina Play, a strong digital network, and IPs like Ocha Festival that connect directly with audiences. The opportunity is to convert that depth into scaled commercial momentum – for Saina, and for the brands that want to engage Malayali audiences in Kerala, India and the GCC.”
Commenting on the appointment, Aashiq Bava said, “We are glad to welcome Akhil onboard. As we embark on expanding in this digital world, Akhil’s experience will add immense value to us as a company. We look forward to working with him and creating exciting outcomes.”
As part of his mandate, Akhil will oversee subscription and AVOD growth for Saina Play, content syndication and rights, brand partnerships, influencer-led campaigns and the expansion of the company’s events and IP businesses.
