Warner Music India is 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 Gemini Music catalogue, an exclusive long-term music deal with filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon covering past and future releases, and a partnership with Malayalam film production and distribution house Magic Frames.
This expansion builds on Warner Music India’s majority investment in Divo in 2023 – a key step in driving Warner Music India’s growth strategy.
Under the leadership of Shahir Muneer, founder and director, Divo has roots in the South Indian film and music industries, alongside extensive capabilities in distribution, publishing, label operations and digital media.
Warner Music India and Divo are now 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 on to the international stage,” said a statement.
The acquisition of Gemini Music brings a catalogue of Tamil film soundtracks into Warner Music, including Thalapathy Vijay’s Nanban and Thuppakki, Dhanush’s Mayakkam Enna, Suriya’s Singam 2 and Bala’s Paradesi. The collection features scores from leading composers including Harris Jayaraj, G. V. Prakash Kumar, and Devi Sri Prasad.
The catalogue of filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon encompasses film soundtracks, independent music and upcoming releases. Key highlights include tracks such as Maruvaarthai (from Enai Noki Paayum Thota) and AR Rahman’s Thalli Pogathey (Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada), alongside original independent releases such as Bodhai Kodhai and Ulaviravu. The deal also includes upcoming titles featuring music by Harris Jayaraj and Rahman.
South India’s vibrant regional markets are central to building a sustainable, future-forward music business in India
Jay Mehta
Expanding its footprint in Malayalam music, Warner Music’s exclusive long-term partnership with Listin Stephen’s Magic Frames combines a 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 (pictured), managing director, recorded music and publishing, India and SAARC, said: “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, added: “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 scaling its regional new release pipeline across the region. The momentum is led by Mutta Kalaki from GV Prakash Kumar and Ken Karunas, which peaked in the Top 3 on YouTube Charts India.
Its upcoming film slate includes 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, there are 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,” added the statement. “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.”
