Kantara-makers Hombale Films set to have part ownership in RCB

Prominent production house Hombale Films is understood to be interested in purchasing Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Several big-name investors are said to be eyeing RCB in the recent past.

There was a previous development made that current owner, Diageo India may sell the franchise ahead of the 19th instalment of the IPL (IPL 2026). The makers of blockbuster hit films like K.G.F., Kantara, and Salaar is said to be eyeing a fresh start.

Although no official confirmation has come from either party, it is being understood through the same source that Hombale has held preliminary discussions with Diageo, as per Oneindia. For the unversed, Hombale Films has worked along with RCB before. They have been RCB’s official digital partner since April 2023. They have also made many creative promos cinematic match teasers and engagement campaigns.

RCB, who broke their trophy drought in the 18th instalment of the IPL, saw their valuation skyrocket to around USD 2 billion (approximately INR 17,000 crore). The Vijay Kiragandur-led Hombale Films isn’t the only one interested in acquiring RCB, as per the report. Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Adani Group, JSW Group, Serum Institute’s Adar Poonawalla, and Devyani International are the other potential buyers.

If at all, the deal fructifies, it is expected that the franchise will gain immense popularity with their local fan base in the state of Karnataka. The state’s deep cricketing culture integrating with one of the powerhouses of the Kannada film industry is understood to cause an immense boost in popularity for both parties ahead of the IPL 2026.

Being led by Rajat Patidar as their new full-time captain, RCB won the IPL 2025 title. The Men in Red defeated Punjab Kings in the final of the tournament. RCB retained Patidar, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Salam, Abhinandan Singh and Suyash Sharma ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2026.