Universal Music India Buys 30% Stake in Excel Entertainment for ₹2,400 Cr

MEDIA-AND-ENTERTAINMENT
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AuthorAarav Shah|Published at:
Universal Music India Buys 30% Stake in Excel Entertainment for ₹2,400 Cr
Overview

Universal Music India is acquiring a 30% equity stake in film and digital content studio Excel Entertainment. The deal values the Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar-founded firm at ₹2,400 crore, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating Excel's growth and expanding UMI's presence in India. The alliance includes global distribution rights for future soundtracks and the launch of a dedicated music label.

Universal Music India announced Monday it will acquire a 30% equity stake in Excel Entertainment, a prominent film and digital content studio. The transaction values the company founded by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar at ₹2,400 crore (approximately €257 million).

Strategic Partnership Forged

This definitive agreement marks a significant move by Universal Music India (UMI), a division of global music giant Universal Music Group (UMG). The partnership is designed to accelerate Excel Entertainment's growth trajectory and bolster UMI's position within the crucial Indian market. UMI's Chairman and CEO, Devraj Sanyal, will join Excel Entertainment's Board of Directors.

Global Music Integration

The alliance grants UMG global distribution rights for all future original soundtracks produced by Excel. Furthermore, a dedicated Excel music label will be launched, with UMG handling its worldwide distribution. Universal Music Publishing Group will also serve as Excel's exclusive music publishing partner, fostering new opportunities for artists across film and emerging media formats.

Leadership Continuity

Excel Entertainment's founders, Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, will continue to oversee the creative direction and content decisions. Established in 1999, the studio has produced over 40 films, including the acclaimed 'Dil Chahta Hai', and various original series, accumulating significant industry recognition.

UMG CEO of Africa, Middle East and Asia, Adam Granite, stated the investment further solidifies UMG's presence in India, a dynamic and strategically vital music market. He emphasized UMG's unique position to contribute to Excel's future endeavors from the earliest stages of the creative process, benefiting both parties.

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