2017 was Jinder Mahal's year on Smackdown Live, and has been subsequently endorsed by Stephanie McMahon as a result.
WWE's effort to break into the Indian market last year led to Jinder Mahal reaching heights in his career he'd not experienced prior. While many panned the results -- both as it relates to money and quality in the ring -- Stephanie told The Times of India that the project was a successful one.
?I think his Championship run was incredibly interesting and successful to our global audience and not just to India. If he became a bit of a hero in India as a result, well that is awesome too? Jinder of course is playing the antagonist here in the States. I think he was received as a homecoming hero when he performed live in India and whenever there is a local star there is significance to the audience there. Our audience is so much bigger, it is global, so we have to entertain everyone," McMahon said.
WWE ran planned two events in India last December, but ended up only running one. That show saw Mahal defeated by Stephanie's husband, Triple H. Since then, Mahal has been moved to the United States Title picture.