Excel Entertainment Go Global Partnering with Universal Music Group!

For over two decades, Excel Entertainment has stood tall as one of Hindi cinema’s most influential production houses. Founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, Excel didn’t just chase box office numbers, it consistently shaped pop culture, redefined storytelling, and created films and shows that aged into classics. From coming-of-age dramas to gritty underdog stories, Excel’s films have repeatedly struck gold at the box office while leaving a lasting imprint on audiences. Here’s a look at the Excel Entertainment titles that ruled theatres and conversations
Dil Chahta Hai (2001) : A cultural reset for Hindi cinema. Dil Chahta Hai changed how urban youth, friendships, and relationships were portrayed on screen. Its box office success was matched by its cult status, making it a benchmark film that filmmakers still reference today.
Lakshya (2004) : More than a war film, Lakshya was a coming-of-age journey that connected deeply with young audiences. While its box office run grew steadily through word of mouth, the film earned long-term acclaim for the depth in storytelling and realistic portrayal of the Indian Army.
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011) : A rare film that combined travel, friendship, self-discovery, and commercial success. ZNMD enjoyed a strong box office run and became a lifestyle film for a generation, with its dialogues, music, and Spain road-trip dreams etched into pop culture.
Gully Boy (2019) : A modern box office juggernaut. Gully Boy tapped into India’s underground rap scene and turned it mainstream. With critical acclaim, massive collections, and international recognition, the film proved Excel’s ability to evolve with the times.
Mirzapur : While Mirzapur thrived on OTT rather than traditional box office, its impact rivals theatrical blockbusters. The show became a nationwide phenomenon, proving Excel’s storytelling dominance beyond the traditional theatre viewing.
By Keerti Kadam