Are Kantara film makers Hombale Films acquiring Royal Challengers Bengaluru?

Dubai: Ever since the reigning Indian Premier League champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), were put up for sale, speculation has been rife about potential buyers. In a surprising development, popular Kannada production house Hombale Films — known for blockbuster hits like KGF, Kantara, and Salaar — is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire RCB ahead of the 2026 IPL season.

This comes amid reports that Diageo India, the current franchise owner, plans to sell the team before IPL 2026. While no official confirmation has been made, multiple sources suggest that Hombale Films is poised to become a part-owner, marking a significant shift in the team’s leadership. The move is particularly noteworthy given that both RCB and Hombale Films are Bengaluru-based, creating a natural synergy between the city’s sports and entertainment sectors.

Potential acquisition

Founded in 2012 by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda, Hombale Films previously collaborated with RCB in 2023 as the team’s official digital partner, producing promotional and fan-engagement content. The potential acquisition would elevate their role from creative collaborator to co-owner. The sale is expected to be finalised by March 31, 2026.

RCB’s brand value has surged dramatically in recent years. After clinching their maiden IPL title in 2025, the team’s valuation reportedly soared to around $2 billion, placing them among the world’s most valuable cricket franchises.

Other reported contenders in the ownership race include Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, the Adani Group, the JSW Group, and Serum Institute’s Adar Poonawalla.

Meanwhile, the defending IPL champions have released their retention list ahead of the 2026 mini-auction, letting go of Liam Livingstone and Lungi Ngidi while retaining most of the core squad that powered their 2025 title triumph.