Nikhil Namit
Nikhil Namit is an Indian filmmaker, film producer, and entrepreneur from Aurangabad, Maharashtra. He is best known as the CEO of Reel Life Production Pvt. Ltd. and the founder of Urja Petroleum, Naadkhula Music, and NS Retails. Known for his strategic vision and creativity, he has produced major Bollywood hits such as Bodyguard, Bharat, Radhe, and Farrey. Beyond cinema, he has built a business empire spanning petroleum, fashion retail, music, infrastructure, and consulting.
Early Life
Born on 28 April in Aurangabad and raised in Kolhapur, Nikhil Namit grew up in an academic family; both his parents were professors at the University of Mumbai. Though raised with strong academic discipline, Nikhil discovered his passion for storytelling and cinema early in life. His father’s initial dream was for him to become an IFS officer, but Nikhil’s creative instinct led him toward filmmaking.
He recalls a defining childhood moment when he was caught cheating in school. His father’s disappointment became the driving force behind his lifelong pursuit of excellence. Two years later, he redeemed himself by making his parents proud when they were invited as chief guests at his school’s annual day ceremony.
Education
Nikhil completed his schooling at St. Xavier’s High School, Kolhapur, and later pursued Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering at Atharva College, Malad, Mumbai. Despite failing his first year, he rebuilt his confidence through perseverance and family support. He later refined his filmmaking and production expertise at the New York Film Academy, Los Angeles, where he developed a global perspective on creative management, production, and direction.
Career
Nikhil Namit’s journey from setbacks to success is a story of determination and reinvention. Beginning with no industry connections or financial backing, he built his career through resilience, strategic thinking, and an unyielding work ethic.
Reel Life Production Pvt. Ltd.
Under the mentorship of Atul Agnihotri and encouragement of Alvira Khan Agnihotri, Nikhil rose to become the CEO of Reel Life Production Pvt. Ltd. His leadership has been instrumental in producing several acclaimed films, including:
- Bodyguard (2011) – starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor; the highest-grossing Indian film of the year.
- Bharat (2019) – starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif; filmed across multiple international locations including Malta and Abu Dhabi.
- Radhe (2021) – starring Salman Khan and Disha Patani.
- Hello (2008) – based on Chetan Bhagat’s One Night at the Call Centre.
- Farrey (2023) – starring Alizeh Agnihotri, which won the Filmfare Award for Best Debut.
He credits Atul Agnihotri as his mentor and guide, calling him his “Godfather.” Nikhil believes that filmmaking is not just art but architecture built from patience, vision, and purpose.
Urja Petroleum
In 2008, Nikhil founded Urja Petroleum, an Indian Oil fuel station near Aurangabad. With no prior business experience, he personally managed daily operations, logistics, and customer relations. Within a few years, Urja Petroleum became one of the highest-performing fuel outlets in the region, later expanding into Urja Transport for logistics operations across Maharashtra.
NS Retails
In 2013, Nikhil entered the retail sector by launching NS Retails, which operates Being Human Clothing franchise stores in Pune, Nagpur, Indore, and Surat. Within a few years, NS Retails expanded to nine outlets and was recognized nationally for high performance and innovation in retail management.
Naadkhula Music
During the pandemic, Nikhil founded Naadkhula Music, a Marathi music label that quickly became a cultural success. The label’s releases such as Mi Naadkhula and Aapli Yaari have crossed over 100 million views, empowering emerging Marathi artists and reshaping the regional music landscape.
NNKK Global
Through his Dubai-based firm NNKK Global, Nikhil continues to bridge creativity, commerce, and technology across three major sectors:
- Creative, Arts and Entertainment Services
- Information Technology Consultancy
- Medical Treatment Facilitation
He is also venturing into the construction and infrastructure sector in India, integrating innovation and sustainability in all projects.
Leadership and Philosophy
Nikhil’s business philosophy is deeply influenced by the guidance of Atul Agnihotri. He believes that passion must be supported by purpose and sustainability. His ability to balance filmmaking with business has made him a model for modern creative entrepreneurship.
He says, “People often ask how I manage everything. The truth is, I don’t manage time — I master my priorities.”
Personal Life
After the passing of his father, spirituality brought Nikhil peace and focus. He credits his family — his wife Nisha and their children, Kiyaan and Kriday — as his greatest strength. “Nisha is my silent powerhouse. She keeps our world balanced while I chase my dreams,” he says.
Nikhil’s grounded nature and gratitude towards his roots reflect in his work. Despite his global ventures, he continues to live by humility and perseverance — values inherited from his family and mentors.
Achievements
- CEO, Reel Life Production Pvt. Ltd.
- Founder, Urja Petroleum and Urja Transport
- Founder, NS Retails and Naadkhula Music
- Founder, NNKK Global (Dubai)
- Produced major Bollywood hits including Bodyguard, Bharat, Radhe, and Farrey
- Gold Medalist in Film and Media Achievement Recognition
- Recognized for leadership in creative entrepreneurship
Future Plans
Nikhil Namit aims to continue producing meaningful cinema while expanding his businesses globally. His focus remains on bridging creativity and commerce through sustainable ventures that empower people and create long-term value.