Universal Music Group Acquires Stake in Excel Entertainment
Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced a significant investment in the Indian entertainment sector by acquiring a 30% stake in Excel Entertainment, a prominent Bollywood production company co-founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. The deal values Excel Entertainment at approximately ₹2,400 crores (around $267 million) and highlights a crucial partnership between the global music leader and this well-established Indian studio.
The agreement, confirmed recently, positions Universal Music India (UMI) as a major minority stakeholder in Excel. This partnership is set to enhance collaboration across music, film, and digital content. As part of the deal, UMG will obtain global distribution rights for original soundtracks created for projects owned by Excel.
This agreement extends beyond just an equity investment. A new music label under Excel will be launched, with distribution handled by Universal Music globally. Additionally, Universal Music Publishing Group will act as the exclusive music publishing partner for Excel’s content, helping to promote Indian film music on a worldwide scale.
Devraj Sanyal, CEO of Universal Music India & South Asia, highlighted the exciting opportunities in the Indian film industry, stating that Excel is an ideal partner to explore these prospects together.
This deal also secures a position on Excel Entertainment’s board for Sanyal, while co-founders Akhtar and Sidhwani will maintain creative control and oversee content directions.
In their remarks, Akhtar and Sidhwani emphasized the growth of India’s entertainment landscape and the importance of building meaningful global partnerships. They expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with UMG, aiming to bring culturally rich stories to a broader audience.
Vishal Ramchandani, CEO of Excel Entertainment, viewed this partnership as a critical step in evolving Excel into a global creative studio, focused on telling Indian stories through a wider lens.
Founded in 1999, Excel Entertainment is known for its successful films and digital series, including hits like Dil Chahta Hai, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and Gully Boy. With a strong track record, the studio has established itself as a major player in India’s entertainment industry.
