MUMBAI: In order to capitalise on the steady increase in the viewership of international cinema in India, Universal Pictures International (UPI) has decided to establish its theatrical distribution operation in Mumbai.

The Mumbai office marks UPI‘s 14th international operating wing since the company transitioned from its joint venture with Paramount Pictures in 2007. "Establishing operations in India have always been an ambition of UPI and with 2012 bringing us arguably Universal‘s best slate in several years, we have high aspirations for the market," said Universal Pictures president - international David Kosse.

The distribution house will be headed by managing director Sarabjit Singh who will report to Universal Pictures International president of distribution Duncan Clark. Singh has been with Paramount Films of India Ltd (UIP) as general manager for more than a decade now.

This year, UPI brought in more than $400 million with the box office hit Fast and Furious Five that has grossed more than $600 million in global box office to date; Bridesmaids with more than $100 million in international box office and Johnny English 2 with nearly $40 million in international box office to date. Last year, UPI grossed around $ 300 million internationally with Despicable Me.