UTV opens up more Cannes deals

Company nabs multiple licensing deals

By PATRICK FRATER

Indian entertainment conglom UTV Software Communications struck multiple licensing deals in Cannes.

In South Africa, company extended its theatrical relationship with mainstream distributor Ster Kinekor to cover home-entertainment sectors. It licensed two of its biggest hits "Jodhaa Akbar" and "Taare zameen par" to the company.

In Poland it struck a multi-platform deal with Gutek Film for "Jodhaa Akbar." And in the same territory it inked a four-title home entertainment deal with Elepol Films covering "Taare zameen par," "Rang de basanti," "Swades" and "Life in a ... Metro."

Deals show that Bollywood and other Hindi titles are creeping toward the mainstream in certain markets, and that Indian sales houses are becoming more internationally sophisticated.

UTV has its own releasing operations around the world, but is increasingly prepared to hive off territories or rights categories where this extends its reach or brings promise of greater revenue.

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