Global Music Group Deepens Ties to Bollywood with Strategic Investment in Excel Entertainment
Universal Music Group (UMG) is substantially expanding its presence in the Indian entertainment landscape with a major deal announced january 5, 2026. The music giant has taken a 30% equity stake in Excel Entertainment, a leading Indian film production house adn digital studio. This partnership signals a growing convergence between music and film in one of the world’s fastest-growing entertainment markets.
This isn’t UMG’s first foray back into Indian film. Just months prior,in August 2025,they launched “Mad For Mussic” – a record label created in partnership with Maddock Films. The Excel Entertainment deal, though, represents a much deeper integration.
What Dose This mean for Excel Entertainment & UMG?
The collaboration is multifaceted, designed to benefit both companies and, ultimately, the audience.Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
* Soundtrack Distribution: UMG gains global distribution rights for all original soundtracks from Excel Entertainment’s future films and shows. This provides wider reach for the music and increased revenue potential.
* New Music Label: A dedicated music label will be created specifically for excel projects, further amplifying their musical output on a worldwide scale.
* Exclusive publishing: Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) becomes Excel’s exclusive music publisher,managing and monetizing their musical copyrights.
* Artist Collaboration: The deal opens doors for UMG’s extensive roster of global artists to collaborate on Excel Entertainment productions, possibly creating unique and exciting cross-cultural projects.
* Board Representation: Devraj Sanyal, CEO of Universal Music India & South Asia (and Senior VP of Strategy for Africa, Middle East & Asia), will join Excel Entertainment’s board of directors, providing strategic guidance.
A Powerhouse Partnership Built on Success
Excel Entertainment, founded in 1999 by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, boasts a remarkable track record. Over 25 years, they’ve delivered a string of critically acclaimed and commercially triumphant Bollywood hits.
You likely recognize titles like:
* Dil Chahta Hai
* Rock On!!
Beyond film, Excel has also found success with popular series such as Mirzapur, Made In Heaven, and inside Edge. This proven ability to create compelling content is a major draw for UMG.
Why Now? The Growing Indian Entertainment Market
According to Sidhwani and Akhtar, “India’s entertainment landscape continues to grow from strength to strength, and this is the perfect moment to build meaningful global collaborations.” They are right. The Indian entertainment market is experiencing explosive growth, fueled by increasing digital access and a burgeoning middle class.
Sanyal echoes this sentiment, stating that Excel is “the perfect partner for us to work with going forward.” He emphasizes the “hugely exciting opportunity” presented by the Indian film scene for music and music-led entertainment.
What’s Next? A Focus on Global Storytelling
Both companies are committed to maintaining creative control. Sidhwani and Akhtar will continue to lead Excel’s creative and content strategy. Their vision is to leverage this partnership to “take culturally rooted stories to the world.”
They envision a future where this alliance unlocks “fresh opportunities for artists and repertoire across music, film, and emerging formats.” This collaboration isn’t just about business; it’s about amplifying Indian storytelling on a global stage.
This deal underscores a significant trend: the increasing synergy between music and film, particularly in rapidly expanding markets like India. For UMG, it’s a strategic investment in a thriving creative ecosystem. For Excel Entertainment, it’s a pathway to broader global reach and enhanced creative possibilities.
Worth a look