UPI to open Mumbai office

Universal Pictures International (UPI) is to open a theatrical distribution operation in Mumbai in a move to capitalise on India’s growing appetite for international films.

The outfit will be headed by Sarabjit Singh, who has spent more than ten years with Paramount Films of India Ltd (UIP) as general manager. 

In that time, Singh oversaw the release of 276 films from Universal and Paramount. He was also instrumental in introducing dubbing of Hindi, Tamil and Telugu films.

“Establishing operations in India has always been an ambition of UPI, and with 2012 bringing us arguably Universal’s best slate in several years, we have high aspirations for the market,” commented David Kosse, President, International for Universal Pictures.

“Sarabjit has been instrumental in UIP’s success in India.  His experience in setting up distribution operations in the market will be invaluable as we build our team,” said Duncan Clark, President of Distribution, UPI. “We look forward to building a successful operation in India and providing Indian audiences with our exciting slate.”

“Indian audiences are craving international theatrical content more and more, and I am excited to bring Universal’s incredibly strong 2012 slate, including tentpole titles such as Battleship, Snow White and the Huntsman and 47 Ronin to the market,” added Singh. “I pride my career on creating award-winning sales and promotional campaigns, and I will continue to bring this level of innovation to all Universal releases.”

The Mumbai office marks UPI’s 14th international operating company since it transitioned from its UIP joint venture with