Universal Music Group Acquires 30% Stake in Excel Entertainment Valued at Rs 2,400 Crores
Universal Music Group (UMG) has made a strategic entry into the Indian entertainment sector by acquiring a 30% stake in Excel Entertainment, a leading Bollywood production house co-founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. The deal values Excel Entertainment at Rs 2,400 crores (approximately USD 267 million) and marks a significant partnership between the global music powerhouse and one of India’s top content studios.
Finalized on January 5, the agreement appoints Universal Music India (UMI) as a major minority shareholder in Excel, enhancing collaboration across music, film, and digital content. Under this partnership, UMG will hold global distribution rights for all future original soundtracks of projects owned or controlled by Excel. Beyond equity, the deal includes launching a dedicated Excel music label, with Universal Music managing worldwide distribution.
Universal Music Publishing Group will also become the exclusive music publishing partner for Excel’s content, expanding the global footprint of Indian film music and content. Devraj Sanyal, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music India & South Asia, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity: “The Indian film scene offers immense potential for music-led entertainment, and Excel is the ideal partner for this journey.”The investment grants Sanyal a seat on Excel Entertainment’s board, while Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani will continue to lead creative and content decisions.
Speaking on the collaboration, Excel founders Akhtar and Sidhwani shared, “India’s entertainment landscape is thriving, and this partnership with UMG will foster meaningful global collaborations. We are excited to unlock new creative opportunities across music, film, and emerging formats, bringing culturally rich stories to worldwide audiences.
”Vishal Ramchandani, CEO of Excel Entertainment, called the alliance “a pivotal step in evolving Excel into a global creative studio, broadening creative horizons and telling Indian stories with a global perspective.”Since its founding in 1999, Excel Entertainment has produced acclaimed films and digital series such as Dil Chahta Hai, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Gully Boy, Inside Edge, and Mirzapur. The studio’s success has established it as a leading creative force in India’s entertainment industry.
