Chennai, India – A family dispute has erupted at Sun TV Network, one of India’s largest media companies. DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran has sent a legal notice to his brother, billionaire Kalanithi Maran, the company’s chairman. The conflict centers on shareholdings and allegations of financial misconduct.
Dayanidhi, a former Union Minister, claims Kalanithi engaged in “fraudulent activities.” These include cheating and money laundering. The notice alleges Kalanithi paid just ₹12 lakh for shares worth ₹3,500 crore. This move gave him 75% control of Sun TV, reducing the family’s original 50% stake to 20%.
Dayanidhi demands the reversal of these share transfers. He also seeks repayment of dividends and asset appreciation since 2003. If unmet, he plans to approach the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) for a government inquiry.
Kalanithi, with a net worth of $2.9 billion, is among India’s wealthiest. Sun TV Network is a major player in India’s media industry. The dispute has drawn attention due to the brothers’ high profiles and their family’s political ties. Their niece, Kavya Maran, is the CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad, an IPL cricket team.
The Maran family is linked to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party. Their grandfather, Murasoli Maran, was a prominent DMK politician. The feud could impact both the company and the party’s image.
No official response has come from Kalanithi or Sun TV. The public awaits further developments in this high-stakes family and corporate drama.
