In a major move set to reshape India’s regional music landscape, Times Music has announced the acquisition of legendary Punjabi music company Catrack Entertainment, marking its third strategic acquisition and a significant step in strengthening its classic Punjabi music portfolio. The deal also reinforces its ongoing partnership with Primary Wave Music, further expanding its global music IP ambitions.
Founded in 1990, Catrack Entertainment played a defining role in shaping the golden era of Punjabi music. Its rich catalogue includes timeless tracks from iconic artists such as Babbu Maan, Malkit Singh, Channi Singh, and Dolly Singh, along with early contributions from talents like Manmohan Waris, Surjit Khan, and Sukhwinder Panchhi. The label’s music continues to hold cultural relevance, resonating strongly with audiences across generations.
With this acquisition, Times Music aims to unlock new value from the catalogue through digital streaming, film and OTT placements, brand collaborations, and modern reinterpretations. The move is expected to bring renewed global attention to Punjabi classics while introducing them to younger audiences worldwide.
This deal follows Times Music’s earlier acquisitions of ARC Musicq and Symphony Recording Co., strengthening its position as an active consolidator in India’s independent music space. Over time, the company has built a reputation as a reliable “deal closer,” steadily expanding its catalogue of culturally significant music IP.
Speaking on the acquisition, Mr. Vineet Jain, Managing Director of The Times Group, emphasized the cultural importance of the move, stating that the group remains committed to preserving and amplifying India’s musical heritage on a global scale. He highlighted that the acquisition of Catrack aligns with the broader mission of celebrating voices that define the country’s cultural identity.
Mandar Thakur, CEO of Times Music, described the Catrack catalogue as a cultural treasure that helped shape Punjabi music history, noting that the company’s focus is on both preservation and reinvigoration of iconic Indian music for contemporary audiences.
From the Catrack side, Gaurav Trehan of Catrack Entertainment expressed confidence in the partnership, praising Times Music’s efficiency and vision in handling the acquisition while ensuring the legacy of its music continues to grow.
Adding a global perspective, David Loiterton of Primary Wave Music highlighted the importance of acquiring culturally rich music IP, noting that Catrack’s catalogue has the potential to transcend generations and reach new international audiences through strategic collaborations.
With this acquisition, Times Music is not just expanding its library—it is actively preserving a vital chapter of Punjabi music history while preparing it for a new digital-first future. The move signals a growing trend in the music industry where legacy content is being rediscovered, reimagined, and reintroduced to global platforms.