Ayup Khan (born 15 September 1980), popularly known as Links Ayup, is an Indian entrepreneur, film producer, and actor from Tamil Nadu. He is a Tirupur-based businessman who expanded from the textile industry into film production and entertainment. He is the founder of the Links Group of Companies and currently serves as the Corporate Relations Manager (CRM) of Lyca Productions.

He is also an Executive Committee Member of the South Indian Artistes’ Association (Nadigar Sangam) and has worked on several Tamil film projects as producer and actor.

Early Life and Background

Ayup Khan was born on 15 September 1980 in Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, India. He is the son of Sowkath Hayath Khan, a well-known textile businessman and founder of Links Garments, and Munira Kaathun, a homemaker.

Growing up in a business-oriented family, Ayup developed an early interest in entrepreneurship. His exposure to the textile industry during childhood laid the foundation for his future ventures.

Education

  • Studied at Park School, Tamil Nadu
  • Fashion and textile studies at Royal Institute of Fashion

Business Career

Textile and Export Ventures

Ayup Khan began his professional journey by working in his father’s textile business. In 1995, he established his own identity by founding the Links Group of Companies.

His major business ventures include:

  • Link Garments – a government-recognized export house
  • Textile manufacturing and apparel exports
  • International trade and fashion sourcing

The Links Group gradually expanded into multiple sectors including textiles, exports, entertainment, and media.

Film Industry Career

Entry into Cinema

With a strong passion for cinema, Ayup Khan developed close professional ties with Tamil film director Saran. He later became a partner in Gemini Productions, a production house associated with films starring major South Indian actors.

Production Companies

He founded his own film production banners:

  • Links Cine Creations
  • Cinema Inc.

Under these banners, he has contributed to Tamil cinema as a producer and creative collaborator.

Film Credits

Ayup Khan has been associated with several Tamil films, including:

  • Irumbu Thirai
  • Vantha Rajavathaan Varuven
  • Thittam Poattu Thirudura Kootam

Role at Lyca Productions

Ayup Khan serves as the Corporate Relations Manager (CRM) at Lyca Productions, one of India’s largest entertainment companies, internationally known for blockbuster Tamil films such as 2.0 starring Rajinikanth.

His responsibilities include:

  • Corporate partnerships
  • Industry relations
  • Production coordination
  • Strategic brand management

Industry Associations

  • Executive Committee Member – South Indian Artistes’ Association (Nadigar Sangam)
  • Company Director – SS Music Company

Controversies and Public Attention

Ayup Khan came into national media attention during the Indian Premier League (IPL) spot-fixing controversy when his brand partner, Indian cricketer S. Sreesanth, was implicated in the case.

Both had jointly launched the fashion brand S36. Although Ayup Khan was not accused in the case, the association brought public visibility to his brand.

Recognition

  • Recipient of UAE Golden Visa for business and cultural contributions
  • Recognized for entrepreneurship in textiles and entertainment sectors

Personal Life

Ayup Khan resides in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He continues to manage his business operations while actively participating in film production and industry organizations.

Summary

Ayup Khan represents a modern multi-industry entrepreneur who successfully transitioned from textiles to cinema. Known as Links Ayup, his career spans:

  • Textile exports
  • Government-recognized manufacturing
  • Tamil film production
  • Corporate leadership at Lyca Productions
  • Active participation in Nadigar Sangam

His journey reflects the blend of traditional business roots with contemporary media entrepreneurship.

Filmography

  • Irumbu Thirai
  • Vantha Rajavathaan Varuven
  • Thittam Poattu Thirudura Kootam

External Links