Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), one of the most prominent teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has captured the attention of cricket fans not only for its on-field performances but also for the dynamic personality steering its operations. The lady at the helm of SRH is Kavya Maran, a name synonymous with business acumen, passion for cricket, and a legacy rooted in one of India’s most influential families. As the co-owner and CEO of SRH, Kavya has become a familiar face in the IPL circuit, often seen cheering from the stands or strategizing at auctions. But who is she beyond the spotlight? Here are the top 10 interesting facts about Kavya Maran that shed light on her life, career, and impact.
Who Is Kavya Maran?
Kavya Maran is an Indian businesswoman born on August 6, 1992, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. She is the daughter of Kalanithi Maran, the billionaire media mogul and founder of the Sun Group, which owns SRH. While her father is the official owner of the franchise, Kavya has taken on a hands-on role as co-owner and CEO since 2018, managing the team’s operations and representing it at IPL auctions. With a strong educational background and a keen interest in cricket, she has carved a niche for herself in the male-dominated world of sports management. Her infectious enthusiasm and sharp business sense have made her a fan favorite and a rising star in India’s corporate and sporting landscape.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Kavya Maran
- A Legacy of Power and Influence
Kavya hails from the illustrious Maran family, known for its deep ties to media and politics. Her father, Kalanithi Maran, is the chairman of the Sun Group, a conglomerate with interests in television, radio, film production, and sports. Her mother, Kavery Maran, is the Joint Managing Director of Sun Group and one of India’s highest-paid businesswomen. Additionally, Kavya is the granddaughter of M. Karunanidhi, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and the niece of Dayanidhi Maran, a Member of Parliament, making her part of a politically and financially powerful dynasty. - Educational Excellence
Kavya’s academic credentials are impressive. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Stella Maris College in Chennai, one of the city’s premier institutions. She then pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Warwick Business School in the United Kingdom, equipping her with the skills to navigate the complex world of business and sports management. - Stepping Into Cricket at a Young Age
Kavya’s association with SRH began long before she officially took charge. She first appeared on television during the 2018 IPL season, cheering for SRH during a match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Her passion for cricket and the team was evident, laying the groundwork for her eventual leadership role. - CEO and Co-Owner of SRH
In 2018, at the age of 26, Kavya was appointed CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad, a role that thrust her into the spotlight. Alongside her father, she co-owns the franchise, which was acquired by the Sun Group in 2012 for ₹85.05 crore per year after the Deccan Chargers were terminated by the IPL. Under her leadership, SRH has seen significant milestones, including a record-breaking 287-run total in the 2024 season. - A Net Worth That Turns Heads
Kavya’s personal net worth is estimated to be around ₹409 crore (approximately $50 million), a figure that reflects her stakes in SRH and her involvement in the Sun Group’s media ventures. While this pales in comparison to her father’s fortune—estimated at over ₹23,000 crore—it underscores her status as a successful young entrepreneur. - A Key Player in the Sun Group
Beyond cricket, Kavya plays a pivotal role in the family business. She oversees operations for Sun Music and various FM channels under the Sun TV Network, one of India’s largest media conglomerates. Her contributions have helped maintain the group’s dominance in South Indian media, with 33 television channels, 69 FM radio stations, and multiple publications under its umbrella. - Internet Sensation and “National Crush”
Kavya’s appearances at IPL matches and auctions have made her a social media darling. Her radiant smile, animated reactions—whether celebrating a victory or expressing frustration—and poised demeanor have earned her the title of “national crush” among cricket fans. Viral moments, like her irritation with camerapersons or her joy at key auction buys, have only added to her popularity. - Expanding the Cricket Empire
Under Kavya’s influence, the Sun Group has expanded its cricketing footprint beyond the IPL. The family owns Sunrisers Eastern Cape in South Africa’s SA20 League, which has won back-to-back titles, and recently acquired the Northern Superchargers in the UK’s The Hundred for over ₹1,000 crore in 2025. These ventures highlight her vision to build a global sports legacy. - Awards and Recognition
In January 2024, Kavya received the “Face and Force Behind Sunrisers Hyderabad” award at the Devi Awards, recognizing her significant contributions to the franchise. Her leadership has transformed SRH from a team known for its bowling prowess into a batting powerhouse, as seen in their aggressive 2024 IPL campaign. - A Private Life Shrouded in Mystery
Despite her public persona, Kavya keeps her personal life under wraps. Rumors have linked her romantically to music composer Anirudh Ravichander, but sources close to both have dismissed these as speculation, insisting they are just friends. With no official social media presence, Kavya remains an enigma, letting her work and passion speak for her.
Kavya Maran’s Impact on SRH and Beyond
Since taking the reins of SRH, Kavya has been instrumental in shaping the team’s strategy and identity. Her bold moves at IPL auctions—like securing Pat Cummins for ₹20.50 crore in 2024—demonstrate her willingness to invest in top talent. SRH’s journey under her watch includes a championship win in 2016, runner-up finishes in 2018 and 2024, and a record-setting start to the 2025 season with a 44-run victory over Rajasthan Royals. Her leadership has also elevated the team’s brand value, making it the eighth most valuable IPL franchise at ₹970 million in 2022.
Beyond cricket, Kavya’s role in the Sun Group positions her as a potential successor to her father’s vast empire. At just 32 years old, she balances tradition with innovation, blending her family’s legacy with her own ambitions. Whether she’s in the stands cheering for SRH or strategizing behind the scenes, Kavya Maran is a force to be reckoned with—a woman redefining leadership in sports and business.
Kavya Maran’s story is one of privilege, preparation, and passion. As she continues to steer SRH and expand her influence, cricket fans and business enthusiasts alike eagerly await her next move. Who knows? The lady who owns SRH might just be on her way to owning the global cricket stage.
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