Excel Entertainment Unveils “Excel Origins” to Nurture India’s Next Generation of Filmmakers

To mark its 25-year milestone, Excel Entertainment announced the creation of “Excel Origins,” a program aimed at discovering, developing and financing emerging Indian directors, writers and actors under the age of 30. Co-founders Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar framed the effort as an extension of the company’s original philosophy of championing fresh voices and unconventional storytelling.

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Founded when Sidhwani and Akhtar were 26, the company’s debut film *Dil Chahta Hai* became a cultural touchstone and set the tone for a catalogue that later included *Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara*, the *Don* and *Fukrey* franchises, *Raees*, *Dil Dhadakne Do* and *Gully Boy*. Excel also pioneered Indian original series for streaming platforms, producing Prime Video’s first Indian original, *Inside Edge*, followed by *Mirzapur*, *Made in Heaven*, *Dahaad* and *Bambai Meri Jaan*.

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In a joint statement, Sidhwani and Akhtar explained that the company’s “simple belief” that new voices will find an audience remains unchanged. They emphasized that while the founders lacked all the answers at the start, they possessed the courage to take risks—a mindset they intend to pass on to the next generation. The program will scout talent across multiple genres, offering creative latitude and backing for original material rather than relying on proven formulas. It also promises casting opportunities for early-career actors and other creatives.

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Excel Origins arrives at a time when the broader industry leans heavily on established names and familiar franchises. By investing in unproven talent, the initiative could diversify storytelling styles, introduce breakthrough genres, and create a steady pipeline of original intellectual property for both cinema and digital platforms. Industry observers note that such a supply line may encourage other production houses to adopt similar talent-development models.

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The founders described Excel Origins as a long-term commitment, intending to shape the company’s output over the coming years. While specific projects have not yet been announced, the program’s structure suggests ongoing scouting, mentorship and production cycles that will gradually populate Excel’s slate with new voices and stories.

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