Hombale Films, the powerhouse behind blockbusters like KGF, Kantara, and Salaar, has emerged as a potential buyer for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, sparking massive excitement among Kannadigas and cricket fans. While current owner Diageo India denies sale plans, speculation continues about the iconic IPL franchise’s future ownership.
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The Buzz Around Karnataka’s Double Pride
Rumors in Kannada media suggest Hombale Films is among several high-profile investors eyeing RCB, which won its maiden IPL title earlier in 2025. For Karnataka fans, the prospect of a homegrown production giant owning the state’s beloved cricket team represents the ultimate convergence of cinema and sports pride.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| RCB Valuation | ~$2 billion (₹16,700 crore) |
| Current Owner | Diageo India (United Spirits) |
| Other Potential Buyers | Adani Group, JSW Group, Adar Poonawalla, Zerodha |
| Hombale’s Existing Relationship | Official digital partner (2023-2024) |
| Clarity Expected | March 2026 |
| Diageo’s Stance | Denies any sale plans |
Hombale’s Existing RCB Connection
The speculation isn’t without foundation. Hombale Films has been RCB’s official digital partner for the past two seasons, producing creative promos, cinematic match teasers, and engagement campaigns that resonated with fans. This working relationship has already established synergy between Karnataka’s entertainment and sports icons.
The production house even hosted private screenings of KGF 2 and Kantara for RCB players, with several foreign cricketers reportedly impressed by the cinematic experience. This cultural exchange strengthened bonds between the two Bengaluru-born brands.
Partnership Precedent from 2022
In April 2022, Hombale Films and RCB announced a groundbreaking partnership aimed at creating a “perfect blend of sport and film entertainment.” The collaboration focused on multi-format content, lifestyle integration, and leveraging RCB as a marketing platform for Hombale’s marquee film releases.
Vijay Kirangandur, Founder of Hombale Films, stated: “This association comes naturally, as both Hombale Films and RCB are born in Bangalore and have been engaged in creating massive entertainment and ensuring thrill for our fans.”
The $2 Billion Question
RCB’s valuation has skyrocketed following their historic 2025 IPL championship victory. At approximately $2 billion (₹16,700 crore), the franchise represents one of the most valuable assets in Indian cricket. This astronomical valuation places the potential acquisition among India’s largest sports business deals.
Competing Bidders
Hombale faces stiff competition from corporate giants:
Adani Group: The infrastructure conglomerate already owns Gujarat Titans and has deep pockets for expansion.
JSW Group: Already invested in sports through JSW Sports, with interest in cricket franchises.
Adar Poonawalla: Serum Institute CEO brings pharmaceutical industry wealth and sports enthusiasm.
Zerodha Co-founder Nikhil Kamath: Represents the new-age tech entrepreneur interest in Indian sports properties.
Diageo’s Official Denial
Following Bloomberg reports about potential sale discussions, Diageo India issued a clarification to the Bombay Stock Exchange through company secretary Mital Sanghvi, stating the reports are “speculative in nature” and confirming Diageo “is not pursuing any such discussion.”
However, industry observers note that such denials are common during early-stage negotiations, and clarity may emerge by March 2026.
Why Kannadigas Are Excited
The potential Hombale acquisition represents more than a business transaction—it’s about Karnataka pride. Having a local production giant that’s put Karnataka cinema on the global map owning the state’s most beloved cricket franchise would create unprecedented synergy between two pillars of Karnataka’s cultural identity.
Strategic Sense for Hombale
Beyond emotional appeal, the acquisition makes business sense:
Brand Amplification: RCB’s massive fanbase provides unparalleled marketing reach for Hombale’s film releases.
Content Opportunities: Behind-the-scenes documentaries, player profiles, and exclusive content align with Hombale’s proven production strengths.
Merchandising Synergies: Cross-promotion between film franchises and cricket merchandise creates new revenue streams.
Youth Engagement: RCB connects Hombale with younger demographics crucial for long-term brand building.
March 2026 Timeline
Industry sources suggest any ownership change clarity will emerge by March 2026, coinciding with IPL Season 19 preparations. Until then, speculation will continue building, especially as Hombale’s digital partnership provides insider access and relationship foundation.
The Double Dhamaka Factor
For Kannadigas and cricket fans, the prospect of Hombale Films owning RCB truly represents a “double dhamaka”—bringing together the makers of blockbuster films with the team that finally won cricket’s biggest domestic trophy. It’s the stuff of Karnataka sporting dreams.
Whether this speculation materializes into reality remains uncertain, but the excitement it’s generated demonstrates the powerful emotional connection between Karnataka’s cinema success and cricketing aspirations.
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Sources: IPL Official | Royal Challengers Bengaluru