Excel Entertainment Launches Dedicated Music Label Excel Music with Universal Music Group

Excel Entertainment has announced the launch of a new music label, Excel Music, in partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG). The label will serve as a platform for original film soundtracks and scores from Excel’s own productions and from other Indian filmmakers.

According to the company’s statement, UMG will hold a 30 % equity stake in Excel Entertainment and will act as the global distributor for all future original soundtracks produced by the studio. UMG will also manage marketing and distribution for the new label. The partnership follows UMG’s recent investment of ₹2,400 cr (US$267 m) in Excel, a deal that gives the music giant a minority share in the Mumbai‑based production house.

Excel Music’s inaugural release is the soundtrack album for Mirzapur: The Movie, scheduled for theatrical release on 4 September 2026. The album will feature the first song by Haryanvi rapper Dhanda Nyoliwala, marking his debut in Bollywood. The track is slated for release this week and is expected to set the tone for the film’s gritty, crime‑driven narrative.

The launch of the label follows a long history of music in Excel’s filmography. The studio’s early successes—Dil Chahta Hai, Rock On!!, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Dhadakne Do, Raees, and Gully Boy—have all been noted for their memorable soundtracks. The new label will continue that tradition, offering a dedicated outlet for music that complements Excel’s storytelling.

"Music has always held a special place in our creative journey," said founders Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar. "Launching Excel Music is a natural extension of that passion, and we look forward to collaborating with some of the finest creative talent and creating music that resonates with audiences across generations."

Sanujeet Bhujabal, Managing Director of India & South Asia at UMG, added: "Excel Entertainment has shaped contemporary Hindi cinema for over two decades through storytelling that has resonated across generations. As strategic partners in the company we are delighted to partner with Excel on the launch of Excel Music and help build a distinctive destination for exceptional music across genres. Leveraging Universal Music’s global artist roster, iconic catalogue, and world‑class marketing and distribution capabilities, we look forward to taking Excel Music to audiences across India and around the world."

UMG’s involvement extends beyond equity and distribution. The company’s global reach will enable Excel Music releases to be available on major streaming platforms worldwide, while UMG’s marketing teams will coordinate promotional campaigns for each album. The partnership also aligns with UMG’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in India, a market that has seen a growing link between on‑screen content and soundtrack performance.

The first release, Mirzapur: The Movie soundtrack, will accompany the film’s theatrical launch on 4 September 2026. The film, directed by Gurmeet Singh and written by Puneet Krishna, is the cinematic adaptation of the popular Amazon Prime Video series Mirzapur. The series, produced by Excel, has become one of India’s most watched streaming shows, and the movie is expected to bring that audience to the big screen.

The soundtrack’s lead single, featuring Dhanda Nyoliwala, is expected to reflect the film’s raw, urban tone. Dhanda, known for his high‑energy rap in the Haryanvi music scene, has already gained national attention with tracks such as “Kohram” and “Not Guilty.” His collaboration with Excel Music marks his first foray into Bollywood.

Excel Music will also host scores and soundtracks from other projects that Excel Entertainment produces, as well as from external filmmakers. The label’s catalogue will therefore span a range of genres, from contemporary pop and hip‑hop to orchestral scores.

In summary, the launch of Excel Music represents a strategic expansion of Excel Entertainment’s creative output into the music domain. With Universal Music Group’s investment, distribution network, and marketing expertise, the label is positioned to deliver high‑profile soundtracks to both domestic and international audiences.

The next steps for the label include the release of the Mirzapur: The Movie soundtrack in September, followed by the rollout of additional albums from Excel’s upcoming film slate. The partnership will likely continue to grow as more projects are added to the label’s catalogue.