India, June 8 -- Thus far, India's startup IPO story has mostly remained dominated by startups in sectors like ecommerce, fintech and SaaS. But with Kuku filing its draft IPO papers, this paradigm is all set to change. Its planned listing could add a new category to that list altogether, entertainment.

Earlier this week, Bengaluru-based Kuku (parent co of Kuku FM and Kuku TV) filed for an IPO via the confidential route to raise Rs.3,500 Cr. It seeks a valuation of up to Rs.15,000 Cr ($1.56 Bn). With this, Kuku has emerged as the country's biggest bet on microdramas, shorts, and mobile-first shows, which is already a multibillion-dollar business in China.

If the listing sails through as planned, i.e. before this financial year, Kuku may ...