NEW DELHI: Universal Pictures International is to launch a standalone theatrical distribution operation in India and expects to bring some major hits next year.

"With 2012 bringing us arguably Universal‘s best slate in several years, we have high aspirations for the market," said Universal President (International) David Kosse, adding that distributing in India had always been an ambition for Universal Pictures International.

The new unit will be headed by managing director Sarabjit Singh, who previously spent more than a decade with Paramount Films of India as general manager.

He is credited with overseeing the release of 276 films from Universal and Paramount and of pioneering the Hindi, Tamil and Telugu dubbed release of Jurassic Park, a move which proved a hit with Indian audiences and caused most other Hollywood films to release films with local language voice tracks.

"Sarabjit has been instrumental in UPI‘s success in India. His experience in setting up distribution operations in the market will be invaluable as we build our team," said UPI President of Distribution Duncan Clark.