Warner Music India adds Tamil and Malayalam catalogues through new deals
The agreements cover the Gemini Music catalogue, filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon’s past and future releases, and a long-term partnership with Malayalam production house Magic Frames.
Warner Music India is expanding its presence in South India through a series of catalogue acquisitions and strategic partnerships spanning Tamil and Malayalam music.
Announced on 16 October, the deals include the acquisition of the Gemini Music catalogue, an exclusive long-term agreement covering filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon’s existing and upcoming music releases, and a partnership with Malayalam film production and distribution company Magic Frames.
The expansion builds on Warner Music India’s majority investment in Divo in 2023. Founded by Shahir Muneer, Divo has an established presence in South India’s film and music industries, with operations across distribution, publishing, label services and digital media.
The Gemini Music acquisition adds a catalogue of Tamil film soundtracks, including music from Nanban, Thuppakki, Mayakkam Enna, Singam 2 and Paradesi. The collection features work by composers such as Harris Jayaraj, G. V. Prakash Kumar and Devi Sri Prasad.
The agreement with Gautham Vasudev Menon covers film soundtracks, independent music and upcoming releases. The catalogue includes “Maruvaarthai” from Enai Noki Paayum Thota and A. R. Rahman’s “Thalli Pogathey” from Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada, alongside independent releases such as “Bodhai Kodhai” and “Ulaviravu”. The deal also includes forthcoming titles featuring music by Harris Jayaraj and A. R. Rahman.
In Malayalam music, Warner Music India has entered into an exclusive long-term partnership with Magic Frames, founded by producer Listin Stephen. The agreement covers a catalogue of more than 500 tracks from films including Kaduva, Jana Gana Mana, Driving Licence, Gold and Vilayath Buddha.
Warner Music will also serve as the global release partner for future soundtracks and music videos from films produced, acquired or distributed by Magic Frames.
Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Recorded Music and Publishing, India and SAARC, Warner Music India, said the company’s regional strategy combines catalogue acquisitions with long-term creative partnerships, using its global network to expand the reach of South Indian music.
Ashok Parwani, Head of Music for South India at Warner Music India, said the partnerships would help the company build on the continued appeal of established film soundtracks while expanding its pipeline of new releases.
Alongside the catalogue deals, Warner Music India is strengthening its upcoming regional release slate. “Mutta Kalaki” by G. V. Prakash Kumar and Ken Karunas reached the top three on YouTube Charts India. Upcoming projects include the Dhanush-starrer OM, featuring music by Sai Abhyankkar, the Malayalam film 40 Days of House Party, scored by Bibin Ashok, and Oru Startup Kadha, featuring music by Paal Dabba.
Recent releases include Mandaadi, starring Soori with music by G. V. Prakash Kumar, and Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju, with music by Vishnu Vijay and production by Bhavana Studios.
The deals give Warner Music India access to established Tamil and Malayalam repertoires while securing a pipeline of future film music. Its partnership with Divo provides a regional operating base, while the global release agreements create opportunities to extend the reach of South Indian soundtracks beyond their domestic markets. The longer-term impact will depend on how effectively the company monetises these catalogues and develops audiences for new releases across streaming platforms and international markets.
