What is the new deal between Excel Entertainment and Universal Music Group?

Excel Entertainment has partnered with Universal Music Group (International), with Universal acquiring a minority stake in the Indian production house.

Who owns Excel Entertainment?

Excel Entertainment is co-owned by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar.

What is the significance of the Universal Music Group deal for Excel Entertainment?

The deal strengthens Universal's presence in India and positions Excel Entertainment as a leading production house, while maintaining creative control.

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Excel Ent. Partners With Universal Music Group

3 Jan

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Summary

Excel Entertainment formed a strategic alliance with Universal Music Group.
Universal Music Group acquired a minority stake in Excel Entertainment.
Excel Entertainment retains creative control and majority equity.

Excel Ent. Partners With Universal Music Group

Excel Entertainment, co-owned by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, has entered into a strategic partnership with Universal Music Group (International). This alliance involves Universal Music Group acquiring a minority stake, a move that has been in negotiation for months, aimed at strengthening Universal's presence in the Indian film market.

The deal strategically positions Excel Entertainment as India's most valued production house, while crucially, Sidhwani and Akhtar retain complete creative control and a majority equity stake. This significant development occurs as Excel Entertainment celebrates its 25th anniversary, having debuted with "Dil Chahta Hai" in 2001.

As Excel Entertainment looks towards 2026 with anticipated projects like "Don 3" and "Jee Lee Zaara", this global partnership signifies a new chapter for the production house. The company has a rich history of delivering iconic films and pioneering acclaimed OTT content.