Devraj Sanyal, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music India & South Asia, has once again been featured on Billboard’s Global Power Players list—marking his fifth consecutive year on the prestigious roster. This remarkable achievement makes him the only Indian music executive to earn this distinction, highlighting his influential role in shaping the global perception of Indian music.
Since joining Universal Music Group in 2011, Sanyal has been at the forefront of redefining India’s music landscape. His “Artist First” approach has led to groundbreaking ventures such as VYRL Originals, India’s first artist-focused non-film music label, and Def Jam India, a dedicated platform for Indian hip-hop. These initiatives have not only elevated independent and regional artists but have also played a key role in the global expansion of Indian music genres.
Under Sanyal’s visionary leadership, Universal Music India has emerged as a powerhouse in promoting diverse sounds—from indie to regional, hip-hop to wellness music. His continued recognition on Billboard’s Global Power Players list is not just a personal accolade—it’s a celebration of India’s growing presence and influence in the global music arena.




