Universal Music Group just dropped $80 million into Bollywood, shaking things up in the local film scene.
Universal Music Group is taking a significant step in the Indian entertainment industry by investing $80 million for a 30% stake in Excel Entertainment Pvt, one of the country’s premier Bollywood production companies. This deal, announced on Monday, marks a strategic partnership aimed at combining forces on upcoming films, series, music, and other emerging formats.
As part of this collaboration, Universal Music India will gain global distribution rights for all original soundtracks linked to projects produced or owned by Excel. The partnership is not just about music; there are plans to establish an Excel-branded music label that will feature artists from Universal Music and Universal Music India in various Excel productions. This move illustrates the intent to integrate music with cinematic experiences, offering a unique avenue for artists and filmmakers alike.
The investment highlights the accelerating growth of the Indian entertainment sector, which stands as the 15th largest recorded music market worldwide. This growth presents an avenue for Universal Music to tap into a burgeoning audience eager for diverse content.
Founded in 1999 by producers Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, Excel Entertainment has produced over 40 films and scripted shows, with some of its most acclaimed titles being “Dil Chahta Hai,” “Don,” and “Talaash.” The company currently holds a market valuation of approximately $290 million. In their joint statement, Sidhwani and Akhtar expressed optimism about this partnership, stating, “India’s entertainment landscape continues to grow from strength to strength, and this is the perfect moment to build meaningful global collaborations. Together, we aim to take culturally rooted stories to the world.”
Universal Music Group, headquartered in the Netherlands and with an office in Santa Monica, was founded in 1996. Known for its roster of top talent, including Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish, Universal Music is valued at around $48 billion on the U.S. stock market, with shares currently trading at approximately $25.80.
