WARNER MUSIC INDIA STRENGTHENS PRESENCE WITH CATALOGUE ACQUISITION AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS IN SOUTH INDIA

The deals cover Magic Frames, Gautham Vasudev Menon’s production company and Gemini Music, expanding Warner Music India’s repertoire and release pipeline in South India

MUMBAI, 16 OCTOBER 2026: Warner Music India is significantly expanding its footprint across South India through a series of major catalogue acquisitions and strategic partnerships across the Tamil and Malayalam music repertoire.

The strategic expansion includes the acquisition of the renowned Gemini Music catalogue, an exclusive long-term music deal with filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon covering past and future releases, and a partnership with prominent Malayalam film production and distribution house Magic Frames.

This expansion builds on Warner Music India’s majority investment in Divo in 2023, a pivotal move in establishing the company’s presence in the region. Under the leadership of Shahir Muneer, Founder and Director, Divo brings deep roots across the South Indian film and music industries, alongside extensive capabilities in distribution, publishing, label operations, and digital media, playing a central role in driving Warner Music India’s growth strategy.

Together, Warner Music India and Divo are investing in established catalogues, securing long-term partnerships, and expanding their repertoire across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada music. By pairing strong regional foundations with Warner Music’s global network, the combined forces are propelling South Indian music onto the international stage.

The acquisition of Gemini Music brings a catalog of iconic Tamil film soundtracks into the Warner Music folder, including massive hits like Thalapathy Vijay’s Nanban and Thuppakki, Dhanush’s Mayakkam Enna, Suriya’s Singam 2, and Bala’s Paradesi. The collection features celebrated scores from leading composers including Harris Jayaraj, G. V. Prakash Kumar, and Devi Sri Prasad.

The catalogue of acclaimed filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon, encompasses celebrated film soundtracks, independent music, and upcoming releases. Key highlights include chart-topping tracks such as “Maruvaarthai” (Enai Noki Paayum Thota) and A.R. Rahman’s “Thalli Pogathey” (Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada), alongside popular original independent releases such as “Bodhai Kodhai” and “Ulaviravu.”The deal also includes upcoming titles featuring music by Harris Jayaraj and Academy and Grammy Award-winning composer A.R. Rahman.

Expanding its footprint in Malayalam music, Warner Music’s exclusive long-term partnership with Listin Stephen’s Magic Frames combines a rich catalogue of more than 500 tracks with an ongoing pipeline of new releases. The repertoire features music from hit films such as Kaduva, Jana Gana Mana, Driving Licence, Gold, and Vilayath Buddha. Under the agreement, Warner Music will serve as the global release partner for all future soundtrack and music video releases from films produced, acquired, or distributed by Magic Frames.

Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Recorded Music and Publishing, India and SAARC, says: “South India’s vibrant regional markets are central to building a sustainable, future-forward music business in India. By combining marquee catalogue acquisitions with long-term creative partnerships, we’re strengthening our regional foundation while leveraging Warner Music’s global network to take these incredible soundtracks and artists to the world.”

Ashok Parwani, Head of Music for South India, Warner Music India, adds: “South Indian film music has a lasting cultural impact, with soundtracks that continue to find new audiences well beyond their original release. These partnerships allow us to build on that enduring appeal while investing in the next generation of releases, creating a stronger and more expansive repertoire across the region.”

In parallel, Warner Music India is rapidly scaling its regional new-release pipeline across the region. The momentum is led by the viral sensation “Mutta Kalaki” from G. V. Prakash Kumar and Ken Karunas, which peaked in the Top 3 on YouTube Charts India. Its upcoming film slate includes the Dhanush starrer OM, with music by breakout composer Sai Abhyankkar, Malayalam feature 40 Days of House Party, scored by Bibin Ashok, and Oru Startup Kadha featuring music by Paal Dabba, in addition to recently released blockbuster projects including Mandaadi starring Soori with music by GV Prakash, and Bethlehem Kudumba Unit starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju with music by Vishnu Vijay and produced by Bhavana Studios.

Through these strategic investments and partnerships, Warner Music India is solidifying its position across South India by championing both timeless catalogues and fresh releases. By deepening its engagement with the regional film and music ecosystem, the company continues to bridge South Indian repertoire with broader audiences across India and around the globe.