Ritesh Sidhwani

Biography:

Ritesh Sidhwani, born in 1973, is a prominent Indian film producer and co-founder of Excel Entertainment along with Farhan Akhtar. He began his producing career with the film “Dil Chahta Hai” (2001), which won the National Award and is considered a trailblazer in contemporary Indian cinema.

Excel Entertainment, under Sidhwani’s vision, has become a leading production company in the over-the-top (OTT) content space, with their first show “Inside Edge” (2017) being nominated for Best Drama Series at the 46th International Emmy Awards. Other notable series include “Mirzapur” (2018) and “Made in Heaven” (2019).

Sidhwani’s filmography spans a variety of genres, with successful films such as “Don” (2006), “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara” (2011), “Talaash” (2012), “Fukrey” (2013), and “Gully Boy” (2019), which was India’s official entry to the Academy Awards. Excel’s productions are known for both commercial success and critical acclaim, with “Rock On” winning another National Award in 2008.

Excel Entertainment expanded its reach with Excel Media & Entertainment, focusing on web shows. Their series “Dahaad” competed at the Berlinale International Film Festival, and “Bambai Meri Jaan” became the first Indian OTT series to premiere internationally in London.

Ritesh Sidhwani was born into a Sindhi family in Mumbai, where he received his education. He is married to Dolly Sidhwani, and they have two sons. Sidhwani is known for his visionary approach and for empowering debutant directors and filmmakers, ensuring Excel Entertainment remains a hallmark for innovative content and cutting-edge filmmaking.