Universal Music India (UMI), a key arm of Universal Music Group (UMG), has strategically acquired a 30% stake in Excel Entertainment, the iconic Bollywood banner founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. Consequently, this landmark deal values Excel at an impressive ₹2,400 crore (roughly €257 million or $290 million), thereby forging a pivotal partnership amid India’s rapidly expanding entertainment landscape. Moreover, announced on January 5, 2026, the agreement positions UMI as a significant minority shareholder, while importantly, the founders retain complete creative autonomy.
Furthermore, the collaboration grants UMG exclusive global distribution rights for all upcoming original soundtracks from Excel’s diverse projects, including films and digital ventures. In addition, a bespoke Excel Music label will emerge, backed by worldwide UMG distribution, and Universal Music Publishing Group steps in as Excel’s sole publishing ally. Meanwhile, Devraj Sanyal, UMI’s Chairman and CEO, joins the Excel board to actively champion the company’s ambitious growth trajectory.
As a result, this infusion bolsters UMG’s presence in India, now the world’s 15th-largest recorded music market, where original soundtracks reign supreme alongside 375 million OTT viewers and 650 million smartphone users. Therefore, Excel—renowned for timeless hits like Dil Chahta Hai, Gully Boy, and Mirzapur—gains vital resources to amplify culturally resonant narratives on the global stage. Additionally, the alliance unlocks exciting avenues for UMG artists to collaborate on Excel productions.
In response, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani hailed it as a “transformative alliance” poised for worldwide synergies. Similarly, Excel CEO Vishal Ramchandani underscored the mission to broadcast Indian stories globally. For instance, UMG’s Adam Granite highlighted their early involvement in Excel ventures, while Sanyal lauded the firm’s stellar track record. Finally, the Mumbai unveiling, graced by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, marked a celebratory milestone.
