Universal Music Group acquires 30 per cent stake in Farhan Akhtar-owned Excel Entertainment

Hollywood music giant Universal Music Group (UMG) has purchased a 30 per cent minority stake in Excel Entertainment, co‑founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, according to an official statement issued here on Monday.

The partnership was officially announced at a press conference in the presence of the Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

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As per the deal, Excel Entertainment co-founders Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani will continue to retain creative control and majority ownership, ensuring Excel’s artistic vision remains in their hands, while UMG’s 30 per cent minority stake is expected to bring new strategic energy to Excel’s upcoming projects across film, music and digital platforms, according to the statement.

Headquartered in the US, with offices in the Netherlands, Universal Music Group is one of the world’s leading music and entertainment conglomerates. The company’s investment in Excel Entertainment is among the largest minority-stake deals for an Indian production house.

Under the deal, Excel Entertainment’s value will cross Rs 2,400 crore and will accelerate the Farhan Akhtar-owned banner while also strengthening Universal Music India’s (UMI) domestic operation in a high-growth and strategically important market.

“The deal will provide the foundation for a new strategic partnership between UMI and Excel to accelerate Excel’s growth and further enhance UMI’s position in the important Indian market,” the statement mentioned.

As per the terms of the deal, UMG will gain global distribution rights for all future original soundtracks created for projects owned or controlled by Excel. The alliance also includes the launch of a dedicated Excel music label, to be globally distributed by UMG.

Universal Music Publishing Group will also become Excel’s exclusive music publishing partner, creating opportunities for existing UMG and UMI artists and repertoire to be included in Excel’s future productions.

The announcement came as Excel Entertainment marked its 25th year, having debuted with ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ in 2001. The banner has backed several noted titles over the years, including the ‘Don’ franchise, ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’, ‘Gully Boy’ and the ‘Fukrey’ series.