Those who know him say he keeps a close tab on every aspect of business, especially finance, and holds costs on a tight leash. “Even a Rs 100-bill has to have his endorsement,” says someone who has known him for years. Also, while his father had promoted new talent like Anuradha Paudwal under the T-Series banner, Kumar prefers to keep away from such commitments.

On August 12, 1997, businessman Gulshan Kumar was murdered outside a temple at Andheri (West) in Mumbai. It was left for his 19-year-old son, Bhushan Kumar, to run the privately-held “T-Series” empire that comprised music, consumer electronics, FMCGs and even packaged water. Bhushan knew the grave responsibility that had fallen on his young shoulders. “Chane bechunga,” he had said when asked if he had a Plan B ready in case his inexperience ruined the business. Sixteen years later, it is clear that no Plan B is required.

“I learnt from him that a music company has to work on the conviction of its owner. You cannot leave this job to a professional. He must understand the public taste and not get swayed by his own,” says Bhushan.

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