Universal Music India (UMI), the Indian arm of Universal Music Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with Maddock Films and its newly launched music label, Mad For Mussic, founded by producer Dinesh Vijan.

Under the deal, UMI becomes the global strategic partner for Mad For Mussic, covering upcoming film soundtracks as well as other music-led businesses and products. 

The tie-up strengthens UMI’s artist-first approach and expands its footprint in film music. At the same time, Maddock’s catalogue will gain international reach through UMG’s global distribution network.

Adam Granite, UMG’s CEO Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, said, “This landmark partnership with Maddock Films signals a crucial step forward for our India business. Dinesh Vijan is not just a veteran of the Hindi film industry; he is a first-class storyteller with an unparalleled ear for music. It is a great privilege for UMI to be able to work on the studio’s forthcoming slate of films, and bring even more incredible Hindi music to audiences the world over.” 
 
Vijan added, “We live and abide by the ‘Content-first’ approach. Our cinema is the cinema of real India – emanating from the smallest of towns and impacting audiences in the biggest of cities – in India and abroad. Music is – and has always been – one of the central pillars of my films. UMG is a perfect partner for our ambitions, as we step into the next growth phase of Maddock, developing some of the most sought-after movie franchises and creating new genres.” 
 
Sanujeet Bhujabal, managing director, India & South Asia - UMI, said, “Dinesh Vijan has successfully turned Maddock Films into a content powerhouse with a fearless and forward-thinking approach to storytelling. Their ability to weave tales from our rich and diverse culture, keeping music at the centre, has captivated audiences of all backgrounds. The strategic alliance between the creative prowess of Maddock Films and the global reach of Universal Music Group will bring the essence of Indian culture and context to a global audience. Movies and their music are the central pillars of the rapidly growing Indian music market. With this move, Universal Music India will be at the forefront of the ever-expanding soundtrack market in India.”
 
Devraj Sanyal, chairman and CEO, India SA; SVP Strategy, Africa, M. East & Asia, UMI said, “This is the perfect time and the perfect partner for us to re-enter the Indian film music space. We have enjoyed great success at UMI in making ipop and desi hiphop culturally relevant and globally resonant, and it’s time for us to give that same love and respect to film music.  We couldn’t have hoped for a better partner than Dinesh, and there is much more to come from us in this space.”