These Indian Acts Are Part of YouTube Music’s Foundry Class of 2026

Why It Matters

The inclusion of Indian acts signals the platform’s strategic focus on South Asia’s streaming boom, offering indie artists resources that could reshape revenue models and label dynamics in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Four Indian acts join YouTube Music’s Foundry Class of 2026.
• Program includes 24 independent artists from 11 countries worldwide.
• OutStation signs under Visva Records, a Republic‑Universal India partnership.
• Nandy sisters gained fame via YouTube “Balcony Concert” cover series.

Pulse Analysis

YouTube Music’s Foundry program, launched in 2021, is an annual accelerator that equips independent musicians with production resources, marketing tools, and direct access to the platform’s algorithmic promotion. For its 2026 cohort, the program selected 24 acts spanning 11 countries, reflecting a broader push to surface non‑mainstream talent worldwide. The inclusion of four Indian artists—Antara and Ankita Nandy, Damini Bhatla, Garvit‑Priyansh and OutStation—underscores the growing relevance of South Asia’s music market within the global streaming ecosystem.

The Nandy sisters first attracted attention with their “Balcony Concert” series, a DIY‑style YouTube showcase that amassed millions of views and secured a non‑exclusive deal with Times Music. Telugu singer‑songwriter Damini Bhatla, who balances playback work with independent releases on Modem Hive, exemplifies the hybrid model emerging among Indian creators. Garvit‑Priyansh, signed to industry heavyweight T‑Series, and OutStation, the inaugural act on Visva Records—a joint imprint of Republic Records and Universal Music India—illustrate how major labels are courting indie‑flavored acts while preserving a degree of artistic autonomy.

By providing these artists with production budgets, mentorship, and algorithmic boost, Foundry aims to accelerate revenue diversification beyond traditional film‑driven royalties. For the Indian market, where streaming penetration has surpassed 70 % and domestic consumption now rivals Western territories, such support could translate into higher per‑artist earnings and more cross‑border collaborations. Observers expect the program to encourage other platforms to launch similar incubators, intensifying competition for talent and prompting labels to rethink signing strategies in a region poised for exponential growth. The visibility gained through YouTube’s global reach also positions these acts for brand partnerships and live‑event opportunities worldwide.