Nita and Akash Ambani Join Viacom18 Board Ahead of Merger with Disney's India Business

Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani and Reliance Jio Infocomm Chairman Akash Ambani have joined the board of Viacom18 before its merger with Walt Disney's India business. The merger, expected to create India's largest media empire, recently received regulatory approval and includes several key appointments.

Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani, along with Reliance Jio Infocomm Chairman Akash Ambani, has been appointed to the board of Viacom18, industry sources revealed. This move comes in anticipation of Viacom18's merger with the Indian operations of global media powerhouse Walt Disney.

Viacom18, a subsidiary that manages the media and entertainment business of Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries and Bodhi Tree Systems, is on the brink of a major overhaul. The merger was recently greenlit by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), paving the way for final adjustments as directed by the CCI.

The board reorganization also welcomes notable figures such as James Murdoch, Mohammed Ahmed Al-Hardan, and others. The approved merger will create a media giant valued over Rs 70,000 crore, positioning Reliance Industries to compete with leading streaming and television services.

(With inputs from agencies.)