Pioneering Entertainment with Vision: An Exclusive Interview with Gayathiri Guliani, Founder & CEO of Kleos Entertainment Group

Gayathiri Guliani, Founder & CEO of Kleos Entertainment Group, is a seasoned leader with a stellar track record at industry giants like Lionsgate and Sony Pictures, Viacom and more. With decades of experience in transforming the global entertainment landscape, Gayathiri is now at the helm of Kleos, driving innovation and storytelling excellence.

In this interview with Broadcast & Film, she shares her journey, her vision for Kleos, and her perspectives on the evolving dynamics of the broadcast and film industry. From adapting to technological disruptions to crafting content that resonates globally, Gayathiri offers a masterclass in leading with creativity and strategy.

Can you walk us through your career journey from Sony Pictures and Lionsgate to founding Kleos Entertainment Group? What inspired this transition?

My career journey has been an incredible blend of learning, growth, and meaningful contributions to the entertainment industry, both in India and globally. Over the past 26 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with renowned organizations such as Viacom, Star, Reliance, Sahara One, and Lionsgate, each offering unique opportunities to understand deeper in various aspects and sides of the entertainment business closely.

At Sony, I honed my expertise in content distribution and international market strategies, learning how to effectively position stories on a global scale. My time at Lionsgate, known for its bold storytelling and iconic franchises gave me first-hand experience in building globally successful narratives and understanding the mechanics of engaging audiences across diverse markets.

While these experiences were immensely rewarding, I came to realize my true passion lies in bridging diverse storytelling voices with global audiences. I envisioned creating a platform that champions stories transcending borders, cultures, and languages—content that resonates universally and fosters meaningful connections.

This vision led to the founding of Kleos Entertainment Group (KEG). More than just a production house, KEG embodies my commitment to championing international films and co-productions. It’s a space where my industry expertise and entrepreneurial spirit converge, allowing me to shape narratives that connect deeply with audiences around the world and amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard.

For me, this transition wasn’t simply about establishing something of my own; it was about fostering creativity, driving cross-cultural collaboration, and ensuring that powerful stories are shared with the global audience they deserve.

How has your experience at major studios like Lionsgate and Sony influenced your leadership and vision for Kleos Entertainment Group?

My time at major studios like Sony, Reliance, Lionsgate and others was transformative, shaping both my leadership style and my vision for Kleos Entertainment Group (KEG).

These organizations exemplify in the business of entertainment, and they provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between creative innovation and commercial success.

In each of these studios, while there were defined vertical and role of content distribution, I learned the importance of the global perspective in content creation, the methodical approach from script to screen and the nuances. I was fortunate to be one of the first batch on overseas content distribution be in licensing, syndication and theatrical distribution.

At Viacom, Reliance, Sony, aligning the creative strategies with the international markets, getting the right ground partners to align to give great showcasing in that region and build long term business in those regions creating a definite commerce from each of the markets.

At Lionsgate, it was a different experience where I witnessed the power of bold, distinctive storytelling to captivate audiences worldwide. Had the opportunity to work on globally recognised franchises such as John Wick, Twilight, Now You See Me in the Domestic market but at the same time learning new vistas of revenue monetisation in more detailed manner. These experiences instilled in me a dual focus: championing creative excellence while building scalable, commercially viable business models.

At KEG, I’ve drawn on this foundation to create a company that is Creatively Spirited and Commercially Inclined, the catchphrase is KEG is in the business of Translating ART into COMMERCE. My leadership style is deeply collaborative, informed by the understanding that great stories are born from partnerships—whether between creators, studios, or cultures.

KEG’s vision of championing international co-productions and global stories reflects the lessons I learned at these major studios: that the future of entertainment lies in breaking down barriers and bringing diverse voices to the forefront. My goal is to build a company that not only delivers compelling stories but also empowers creators and connects audiences across the globe.

What was the core idea behind Kleos Entertainment Group, and how does it differentiate itself in the competitive entertainment landscape?

The core idea behind Kleos Entertainment Group (KEG) was born from a desire to create a truly global platform for storytelling—one that transcends borders, cultures, and languages. At its heart, KEG is about championing authentic, diverse narratives that resonate universally while nurturing collaboration across the world’s creative ecosystems.

What sets KEG apart in the highly competitive entertainment landscape is its dual focus  on international co-productions and meaningful partnerships. While many studios focus on local markets or purely commercial ventures, KEG aims to bridge cultural divides through storytelling. By aligning with trusted partners investing heavily in international collaborations, we ensure that every project reflects a unique blend of perspectives, making it both culturally rich and globally appealing.

KEG also emphasizes innovation in the way stories are created, funded, and distributed. In today’s digital-first, content-saturated world, we leverage data insights and strategic alliances to deliver content that is not only artistically compelling but also positioned for success in a crowded market. This approach ensures that we remain nimble, relevant, and forward-thinking.

Ultimately, KEG isn’t just a production house—it’s a movement to redefine how stories are told and shared globally. By empowering creators and focusing on narratives that connect deeply with audiences, KEG stands out as a bold and visionary player in an industry that thrives on reinvention.

How do you see the future of global content consumption evolving, particularly in a multi-platform, multi-genre world?

The future of global content consumption is poised for unprecedented evolution, driven by technological advancements, shifting audience preferences, and the rise of diverse platforms and formats. In a multi-platform, multi-genre world, audiences are no longer passive consumers; they are active participants, curating their entertainment experiences across devices, genres, and cultural boundaries.

One of the most exciting trends is the growing appetite for globally inclusive content. Stories rooted in local cultures but with universal themes are resonating with audiences worldwide. Streaming platforms have accelerated this shift, allowing viewers to discover and embrace stories from every corner of the world, from Korean dramas to Scandinavian noir to Indian epics.

Another defining characteristic of the future is the rise of immersive and interactive content. With technologies like AI, VR, and ,AR, storytelling is becoming more personalized and participatory, offering audiences unique ways to engage with narratives. This evolution challenges creators to rethink traditional storytelling, blending innovation with emotional resonance.

In this dynamic landscape, platforms play a critical role in amplifying voices and genres that were once marginalized. From short-form videos to long-form epics, the diversity of formats has created opportunities for creators to experiment and connect with niche and global audiences alike.

As consumption becomes increasingly fragmented, community-driven experiences  will also define the future. Audiences are gravitating toward stories that reflect their values and shared experiences, and creators who tap into this ethos will build deeper, more loyal connections with their viewers.

For players like Kleos Entertainment Group, this evolution presents immense opportunities. By focusing on culturally authentic, globally resonant stories and leveraging emerging technologies, we aim to stay at the forefront of this shift. The future is all about collaboration across borders, genres, and mediums, and I’m excited to be part of shaping this new era of content consumption.

What role does technology, such as AI and analytics, play in content creation and distribution strategies at Kleos?

Technology, particularly AI  and data analytics, plays a pivotal role in shaping content creation and distribution strategies at Kleos Entertainment Group (KEG). In an industry that thrives on creativity, these tools provide the intelligence needed to make informed decisions, ensuring that our stories resonate with audiences globally.

In content creation, AI enhances the storytelling process by offering valuable insights into audience preferences and emerging trends. For example, we use analytics to understand what themes, genres, or narratives are gaining traction in different markets. This helps us identify untapped opportunities and align our projects with the evolving tastes of diverse audiences. AI also supports creative workflows, from script analysis and casting recommendations to optimizing visual effects and post-production, enabling creators to focus on the artistic aspects of storytelling.

In distribution, technology allows us to strategically position our content for maximum impact. By leveraging data-driven insights, we can identify the right platforms, regions, and audience segments for each project. This ensures that our stories are not only seen but truly connect with the intended audience. Additionally, AI-powered tools help us refine marketing strategies, creating personalized campaigns that amplify engagement and drive viewership.

At KEG, we believe technology is a powerful enabler, but it will never replace the human touch. Great storytelling is fundamentally about emotion and connection, and while AI and analytics guide our decisions, they complement rather than dictate the creative process.

As the industry evolves, we’re also exploring how emerging technologies like blockchain can enhance transparency and fairness in revenue sharing, and how AR/VR can redefine audience experiences. By embracing technology thoughtfully, KEG stays ahead of the curve while staying true to its mission: crafting stories that inspire and resonate across the globe.

With your extensive background, what do you think are the most significant challenges and opportunities for independent production houses today?

Independent production houses today operate in an environment filled with both formidable challenges and exciting opportunities. Having navigated this dynamic landscape, I believe the key lies in understanding how to turn obstacles into stepping stones for success.

Challenges such as Funding and Resources Constraints is one of the main limitations accessing top-tier talent & leveraging state of art of the technology. Balancing the creative & budget realities are constant challenge.

Market Saturation: The content boom, fuelled by streaming platforms and digital media, has created an incredibly competitive market. Standing out in this crowded space requires not only unique storytelling but also strategic marketing and distribution.

Distribution Bottlenecks: Despite the rise of global streaming platforms, getting visibility and fair deals for independent content can be an uphill battle. Platforms often favour larger studios with proven track records, leaving independents to fight for screen space.

Navigating Evolving Audience Preferences: With fragmented audiences and rapidly changing consumption patterns, understanding what resonates with viewers requires constant adaptation and experimentation.

Opportunities are Growing content Demand for diverse and culturally rich content in on all time high. Streaming platforms are now global stage for content that were unable to reach the audience earlier.

Independents are in the era of Creative Freedom that were earlier constrained by corporate structures allowing them to express bolder and more experimental storytelling that often resonates deeply with niche and underserved audience, followed by Technological Advancements – Tools like AI, affordable production technologies and accessible distribution and Collaborations and Co productions partnerships across boarded with other independent entities offer a great way to leverage resources and positioning in global level.

How do you ensure diversity and inclusion are integral to the storytelling at Kleos Entertainment?

At KEG, diversity and inclusion are not just principles we aspire to—they are embedded in the core of our storytelling and creative processes. We believe that authentic, impactful stories come from embracing a wide range of voices, perspectives, and experiences.

Working with Diverse Voices, we actively seek out creators, writers and talent from underrepresented backgrounds ensuring that their stories are given a platform. Also, Global collaboration naturally lends itself to diversity. By collaborating with different countries and cultures there is a distinct blend of unique viewpoints on cultures and working styles such as engaging consultants, cultural advisors & collaborators who bring Authenticity to the table to avoid stereotypes and Inclusive hiring practices bringing together varied skills, backgrounds across the roles. By championing these values, KEG not only reflects the world we live in but also helps shape a more equitable and inclusive entertainment industry.

Can you discuss any specific projects that have championed underrepresented voices in the industry?

At  Kleos Entertainment Group (KEG), championing underrepresented voices is central to our mission, and our projects are a testament to this commitment. One example that stands out is our upcoming first ever Indo-Taiwan co-production, Demon Hunters. This project not only brings together talent from two distinct cultures but also highlights the unique storytelling traditions of India and Taiwan in an action-buddy comedy format.

The film features Indian and Taiwanese lead actors, creating a platform for cross-cultural representation and collaboration. By combining humour, action, and folklore, Demon Hunters celebrates the richness of two vibrant cultures while breaking stereotypes about both regions in global cinema.

Projects that are being planned with an intention of celebrating diversity and these initiatives are beyond just films, they are step towards fostering an inclusive and dynamic entertainment landscape.

What trends in storytelling excite you the most today, and how do you see them shaping the industry?

Storytelling is at an incredibly exciting juncture today, driven by trends that are not only reshaping the entertainment industry but also redefining how audiences engage with content. Several trends stand out as particularly transformative.

Audiences are more open to Cross Cultural Narratives from different parts of the world, whether it’s Korean dramas, Indian epics, or Nordic noir. Stories from the local and remote corners of the world, folklores teamed up with mysticism and horror comedies is an interesting space. Technologies like AR, VR, and AI are enabling a new wave of interactive and immersive storytelling. From choosing your own adventure paths to experiencing stories in virtual worlds, these innovations are transforming the way narratives are consumed. It excites me to think about how this trend will push the boundaries of creativity in storytelling.

Traditional genre boundaries are dissolving with creators experimenting by blending elements from multiple genres. This freedom Genre Blending allows for more nuanced, layered storytelling that captivates modern audiences. Long Form storytelling, Shorts and Verticals that are format catching 1.5 min to 3mins and engaging audience is new kind of format that is exciting.

What’s next for Kleos Entertainment Group, and how do you see its role evolving in the global entertainment ecosystem?

KEG is expanding on international collaborations in growing partnerships with talent, studios & markets around the world. Projects like Demon Hunters, our Indo-Taiwan co-production, mark the beginning of this journey. We are actively exploring collaborations in Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, regions rich with untapped stories and diverse creative voices.

Exploring Emerging Technologies like AI, AR, and blockchain offers exciting opportunities to innovate in storytelling and distribution. At KEG, we’re looking to integrate these advancements into our creative and business strategies, from immersive storytelling experiences to transparent and equitable revenue-sharing models for creators.

Nurturing New Talent a& Building Global Community by just not creating content but fostering a global community of audiences who value diversity and authenticity in storytelling. By leveraging digital platforms and personalized engagement strategies, we aim to create deeper connections between our stories and the people who experience them.

KEG’s Evolving Role In the global entertainment ecosystem is more than just a production company—we aim to be a cultural bridge. Our role is to connect stories to audiences across the world, foster meaningful collaborations, and set new benchmarks for creativity, inclusivity, and innovation and we’re excited to lead in this era of storytelling transformation, where boundaries are blurred, and stories truly unite us.