IPL 2026: Who are Hombale Films? Kantara makers set to be new RCB Owner

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Hombale Films, a prominent Kannada film production house known for blockbuster hits like KGF, Kantara, and Salaar, has been confirmed as one of the new owners of the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

This ownership change follows reports that the current owner, Diageo India, intends to sell the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The acquisition by Hombale Films marks a significant and exciting development, especially since both RCB and Hombale Films are Bengaluru-based entities, symbolizing a strong local synergy between sports and entertainment.

Although it is yet to be confirmed, reports have claimed that the production house of Kannada films will be a part-owner for RCB, and the takeover is likely to be by this year.

Who are Hombale Films?

Founded by Vijay Kiragandur and Chaluve Gowda in 2012, Hombale Films has been making waves in the film industry with pan-India successes, and their prior collaboration with RCB as the official digital partner since 2023 included producing creative promos and engagement campaigns.

This ownership move makes Hombale Films not just a partner but a co-owner, combining cricket and cinematic creativity in a new, integrated vision for RCB's future.

The sale process is expected to conclude by March 31, 2026, ahead of which RCB will have a refreshed ownership setup for the upcoming IPL season. Other interested buyers include notable names like Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Adani Group, JSW Group, and Serum Institute's Adar Poonawalla.

RCB, the defending IPL champions, announced their retentions ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction. The franchise has let go of Liam Livingstone, Lungi Ngidi, while keeping hold of the majority of their core players who played a key part in their IPL title victory in 2025.