Global independent music company Reservoir Media has launched PopIndia, a new regional subsidiary headquartered in Mumbai, marking a major expansion into the Indian music landscape. The venture will focus on signing regional talent and acquiring both publishing and recorded music rights across the country.
As first reported by Music Week, PopIndia’s debut publishing deal is with Sri Lankan singer, rapper, and viral sensation Yohani, best known for her breakout hit ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ and her rapidly growing fanbase across South Asia and beyond.
PopIndia is being positioned as a strategic extension of Reservoir’s efforts in emerging markets, following its success with PopArabia in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Spek, EVP of International and Emerging Markets at Reservoir, will oversee PopIndia, while Ray Ahmed, previously Business Development Lead at PopArabia, has been appointed Head of Operations for the India office.
This new office in Mumbai becomes Reservoir’s seventh global location and reflects the company’s growing interest in India’s rapidly scaling music business. In addition to new signings, PopIndia will manage Reservoir’s existing partnerships with Indian hip-hop star DIVINE and Gully Gang Entertainment, while also offering sub-publishing services for international catalogues and providing music supervision and rights management solutions tailored for the Indian and South Asian market.
Golnar Khosrowshahi, CEO and Founder of Reservoir, told Music Week, “The launch of PopIndia is a major step forward for Reservoir’s emerging markets strategy. India’s music market is growing rapidly, and the opportunity is ripe to further establish ourselves in this evolving market.”
She added that PopIndia will build on the experience of both Reservoir and PopArabia to deliver locally relevant support for creators, with Spek guiding strategy and Ray Ahmed leading on-ground execution in Mumbai.
Yohani’s deal covers her back catalogue as well as upcoming works. Her latest release, ‘Ain’t Nobody Like You’ with Ruuh and Joh, dropped earlier this year, and she is currently on tour, including a recent sold-out performance in London.
Speaking to Music Week, Yohani said, “From the moment I met Spek, Ray and the team, I felt their genuine love for music and their belief in me. Calling Reservoir and PopIndia my new home feels right.”
Spek called Yohani “the real deal,” saying, “She’s an all-rounder with incredible global appeal. Signing her is a powerful way to launch PopIndia. With Ray leading from Mumbai and the support of our international network, we’re excited to be part of her journey.”
He also highlighted the opportunity to fill key service gaps in India’s maturing music industry, stating that PopIndia aims to deliver tailored solutions for both regional and international creators.
