Category: Over The Top Services

  • Get ready to binge on heartwarming Hallmark Movies Now, exclusively on Tata Play!

    Get ready to binge on heartwarming Hallmark Movies Now, exclusively on Tata Play!

    Mumbai: Tata Play Binge, one of India’s OTT aggregator platforms, further expanded its global content portfolio by announcing its latest milestone addition, Hallmark Movies Now – an American OTT platform known for its heartwarming romances, delightful comedies and thematic content around seasons and holidays. Hallmark Movies Now joins Tata Play Binge’s expansive portfolio of 25+ OTT apps.

    Hallmark Movies Now provides positive and lighthearted entertainment the whole family can enjoy, spotlighting content from American pop culture juggernaut Hallmark Channel, which reigned as the #1 entertainment cable network of the year in 2022 and drives a prevalent, devoted fanbase for its brand promise to put feel-good programming into the world. On Tata Play Binge, audiences can expect a diverse selection of series and movies that guarantee a fulfilling experience throughout the year. Tata Play Binge will stream some of Hallmark Movies Now’s hit Hallmark films like ‘The Beach House’, ‘Love in Store’, ‘Dater’s Handbook’ starring Meghan Markle, along with the some of the platform’s most beloved titles like ‘Fashionably Yours’, ‘Her Pen Pal’, ‘Caribbean Summer’, ‘The Secret Ingredient’ starring Chef Maneet Chauhan, and the fan-favorite series ‘When Calls the Heart’, among others. With a robust library of seasonal films and shows, the OTT platform’s content library is sure to tug heartstrings. 

    Talking about this latest addition, Tata Play’s chief commercial and content officer, Pallavi Puri said, “With each new OTT partner addition, Tata Play Binge presents an unparalleled selection that sets us apart from the rest. It has established itself as a vibrant destination where audiences can indulge in exceptional content from around the world, redefining their streaming experience. With its huge catalogue of Binge worthy content, we are certain Hallmark Movies Now will leave a mark on our viewers.”

    “We’re proud to partner with Tata Play Binge and further expand the presence of our widely beloved Hallmark movies and series in India,” said Hallmark Media SVP, international distribution, Francisco Gonzalez. “Subscribers are sure to enjoy the positive impact of Hallmark Movies Now’s signature brand of feel-good content.”

    Hallmark Media is represented by Brandwith, a premier representative and distribution company in the Asia Pacific Region.

    Hallmark Movies Now will join the band of 25+ popular OTT platforms on Binge like Disney+ Hotstar, ZEE5, MX Player, SonyLIV, ReelDrama, Jio Cinema, Aha, Planet Marathi, NammaFlix, Chaupal, SunNxt, Hungama Play, Eros Now, ShemarooMe, Hoichoi, Voot Kids, manoramaMAX, Koode, Tarang Plus, Curiosity Stream, EPIC ON, ShortsTV, Travelxp and DocuBay. Content from all these platforms is available to viewers of Tata Play Binge through a single subscription and single user interface. Free gaming is also available on Tata Play Binge as another point of engagement. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video plans are available for Tata Play DTH subscribers. Viewers can enjoy all the apps on large-screen connected devices through Tata Play Binge+ Android Set Top Box, Tata Play edition of the Amazon FireTV Stick and www.TataplayBinge.com.

     

  • Revenant Esports and KREO powering up together as official peripherals partners

    Revenant Esports and KREO powering up together as official peripherals partners

    Mumbai: Revenant Esports, one of Asia’s fastest-growing esports organisations, announced today that it is partnering with KREO, a pioneering consumer electronics brand catering to gamers and creators. KREO will now serve as the official peripherals partner for Revenant Esports. 

    Revenant Esports’ Founder and CEO, Rohit Jagasia, said, “We at Revenant Esports always believe in partnering up with the top brands of the country. As one of India’s fastest-growing esports organisations, the tie-up with KREO, a company pioneering peripheral products, came as a natural partnership. We are an organisation which has prioritised diversification from the get-go, having esports teams across PC and mobile games. With KREO’s impressive product lineup serving both mobile and PC gamers, we are very excited to enter this mutually beneficial partnership.”

    Revenant Esports’ esports rosters will now be powered by KREO products. In return, the KREO logo will receive a strategic placement on the Revenant Esports’ official jersey. Additionally, Revenant Esports and KREO will be working together to bring unique activations for gaming and esports fans. Stay tuned to Revenant Esports’ Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube channels for more information. 

    KREO CEO Ishan Sukul said, “Kreo was built on the premise of providing high quality, cutting-edge products to gamers and creators, assisting them in their journey to be the very best (…cue Pokemon theme song). Keeping this in mind, we are proud to join forces with Revenant in a dynamic partnership, where we blend the reach and skill that Revenant brings, with our product arsenal. From the adrenaline-filled moments to the breathtaking victories, our shared commitment to excellence creates a bond that goes beyond the game which Rohit and I shared from day one. We’re proud to have our slew of products such as our Gaming Mouse range (Hawk, Falcon), Gaming Keyboards (Hive), Microphones (Rec), Gaming earwear and Mobile gaming accessories in the hands of one of the fastest growing teams in India. Now onto some Pwnage.”

    According to Statista.com, India recorded about 421 million online gamers in 2022, with about 90 million of these paying for online games. The industry has huge potential to bring a significant boost to esports and gaming peripheral brands. Additionally, the gaming market in India is estimated to be valued at $2.6B, a number which is expected to grow to $8.6B by 2027, according to the India Online Gaming Report 2023 by e4m. 

    Revenant Esports has cemented itself as one of the top esports organisations in the country. The Mumbai-based organisation has five esports rosters in Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), Call of Duty: Mobile, Brawl Stars, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Pokemon UNITE, respectively. The organization’s esports athletes have represented the country internationally on many occasions, most recently in CS:GO at the IESF World Championship’s Asia-Pacific Qualifier in Riyadh.

    Revenant Esports boasts an impressive lineup of content creators as well, including Alpha Clasher, Bitty, Ayush Is Live, and Emperor Plays, who have a combined YouTube subscriber count of more than three million. KREO recently raised Rs. 6.5 crores in a seed funding round led by Sauce.vc.

  • Competition is heating up as Hip Hop India unveils Its top 12 contestants

    Competition is heating up as Hip Hop India unveils Its top 12 contestants

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTVs dance reality show, Hip Hop India has been making all the right moves with riveting performances and taking the dance community by storm. The episodes have witnessed raw talent from different walks of life, garnering immense popularity and admiration from the judges – Remo D’ Souza and Nora Fatehi. The fun-filled groovy weekend had Hip Hop India captivating its viewers with electrifying episodes.

    After four days of extensive auditions, the streaming service’s dance reality show Hip Hop India roped in its top 12 contestants, with immense competition among SOLOs, DUOs and crew teams and ‘Gully Se Glory Tak’ award takeovers. They were cherry-picked by eminent judges Remo D’Souza and Nora Fatehi. The viewers witnessed the phenomenal craft exhibited by these young dancers, expressing their art through dance forms of their expertise, with the pursuit of entering the top 12. Sarthak from the SOLO team floored the judges with his mesmerising performance on the song making him the first contestant to get selected in the top 12. Anshika from Uttar Pradesh upped the dancing ante with her quirky personality that was showcased in her dance act, receiving immense applause from the judges. Rahul Bhagat performed a unique rendition of the song “Mai toh tere pyaar me deewana ho gaya” that compelled Remo and Nora to give him a standing ovation.

    Sunil, Ranchi Ki Gully Se, entertained everyone with a power-packed performance, beautifully blending the art forms of Bugaloo & Waving, with the judges declaring it to be an absolutely brilliant performance. Divyam and Darsham – Mumbai Ki Gully Se danced their way into the hearts of the judges on the melodious “Raanjhanaa” with an open-style hip hop in perfect synchrony. The Nupur 78 team of five, set the Hip Hop India stage on fire with an unapologetically fierce performance on “Kesariyaan Saiyaan Saiyaan” leaving the judges speechless. With an extravaganza of talent from all over India and a plethora of dance forms to opt from, the final top 12 contestants are Sarthak, Anshika, Himanshu, Sunil and Rahul from the SOLO group, Divyam & Darsham and the Nupur 78 team from the DUO group.

    Helmed by Amazon miniTV in the quest of creating a rampant buzz and garnering an urban street culture revolution, Hip-Hop India is exclusively streaming on Amazon miniTV, for free within the Amazon shopping app and on Fire TV.

  • Commando reports on duty on 11 August 2023 only on Disney+ Hotstar

    Commando reports on duty on 11 August 2023 only on Disney+ Hotstar

    Mumbai: Never leave a brother behind, bringing this feeling of patriotism alive is our new commando – Prem along with a fantastic team as Disney+ Hotstar drops the trailer of its high-octane, power-packed series, ‘Commando’. Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and Sunshine Pictures Pvt Ltd and directed and created by Vipul Amrutlal Shah. The series is set to release on 11 August 2023, on Disney+ Hotstar. Torn between a nefarious plan and a bio-war, Commando Prem devises an extraction mission to protect his nation and his brother Commando. Will he be able to succeed?

    Starring the dynamic and immensely talented Prem in and as Commando, the action-thriller will also see Adah Sharma, and Vaibhav Tatwawadi in pivotal roles, alongside Shreya Singh Chaudhry, Amit Sial, Mukesh Chhabra and Ishteyak Khan.

    Producer, director and created Vipul Amrutlal Shah said, “Commandos are the real heroes of our country and it’s always been a great honour and pleasure to bring their heroism on screen. Introducing Prem has been an amazing journey. The hunger that he has to do his best keeps us all on our toes. He is not only great in action but also in romance and emotions.  His teaming up with Bhavna Reddy ( Adah Sharma) is fun to watch. Adah has proven her acting talent in The Kerala Story and her action avatar in Commando,  so Prem and Adah are a great team. Also, we have the most amazing actors in Amit Sial, Tigmanshu Dhulia, Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Shreya Chaudhary, Manini Chaddha and many others. The most difficult thing for Commando is to design action. Prem brings his unique new style of action and that’s made the show a real high-octane action thriller. I hope the audience will love this new upgraded web series version of one of the best action franchises of Indian cinema”.

    Prem said, “In the journey of bringing life to the character of Commando Virat, I had the extraordinary opportunity to work under the guidance of the esteemed director Vipul sir for my debut project. It’s like a dream turned into reality for me. Since I was just 11 years old, I harboured the passion to become an actor, and Commando has been a monumental milestone in every sense. Earning the trust and confidence of Vipul sir was an achievement in itself. Though portraying the role of Commando Virat seemed like a daunting challenge, with the support of the incredible team and my trainers Akshay sir and Raakesh sir, it became an attainable feat. Getting to debut as the Commando alongside such a phenomenal cast, including Adah Sharma, Vaibhav Tatwawadi, and an amazing crew, not to mention having it released on a globally prestigious platform like Disney+ Hotstar is actually the stuff of dreams. Commando truly embodies the essence of excellent teamwork. I sincerely hope the audience resonates with my portrayal and embraces me as their new commando”.

    Adah Sharma said, “I’ve played Bhavana Reddy in Commando 2 and 3. Wherever there is a Commando being made in the world Bhavana Reddy will be there even if it’s for a few seconds but she will make sure she’s there! Bhavana is the connecting factor between the OTT commando and the film. Vipul sir is really cool to work with. He works on the acting as much as he does on the action. Prem and Vaibhav are awesome guys who are super enthusiastic. I shot for just six days for Commando but it was the best six days ever with Andy Long and his stunt team and the super efficient team of Disney+ Hotstar”.

    Vaibhav Tatwawadi said, “I am excited to bring a unique blend of action, stunts, and the powerful theme of friendship and brotherhood to the screen. I have always been fortunate enough in the kind of roles I play and the people I get to work with. Working with Vipul sir was one of the best experiences. He is a great director and an equally amazing human being. Adah and Prem were great co-stars to have. Since it’s Disney+ Hotstar, I am sure it will reach a very wide audience. Overall a truly gratifying experience. Looking forward to the audience’s reactions”.

    Witness this power-packed action series, Commando, stream from 11 August onwards, only on Disney+ Hotstar!

     

  • EPIC ON forays into originals, announces a robust slate of series

    EPIC ON forays into originals, announces a robust slate of series

    Mumbai: EPIC ON, the OTT platform from IN10 Media Network, has captivated audiences with its diverse content, including movies, shows, documentaries, podcasts, and games. Now, the platform is excited to announce its next growth phase with a robust slate of original series.

    The originals promise to take viewers on an impressive journey through compelling narratives, unforgettable characters, and high-quality production values.

    Emphasising IN10 Media Network’s vision to build an influential content studio and invest in content that reflects the network’s vigour for staying ahead of the curve, IN10 Media Network managing director Aditya Pittie said, “EPIC ON originals mark a significant milestone for the platform as we aim to strategically build new partnerships and engage diverse audiences, adapting to their evolving preferences. The IPs strengthen our long-term commitment to developing content, which is demographic and platform agnostic, to cater to different markets. The team is excited to produce a plethora of binge-worthy content catering to viewers’ varied palette.”

    By creating compelling original shows, the platform aims to expand its horizon and connect with a broader spectrum of viewers. “We are delighted to unveil our first six original series to the world,” said EPIC ON COO Sourjya Mohanty and added, “We have diligently assembled a remarkable ensemble of actors, creators, and writers who share our dedication to the art of storytelling.”

    Mohanty highlighted the team has endeavoured to capture the pulse of the viewers – from metros to hinterlands – and wants to deliver content that offers unparalleled entertainment at affordable prices.

    EPIC ON’s original shows will span various genres. From gripping dramas to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, the content lineup promises to captivate and entertain viewers of all ages.

    Some highlights from EPIC ON’s upcoming original shows include:

    .    Tatlubaaz: A pulp-fiction show, produced by 9pm Films, is set in Varanasi and follows the story of a notorious con man. The show stars Dheeraj Dhoopar, Nargis Fakhri, and Divya Agarwal.

       Video Cam Scam: A thriller, produced by Blue Drop Films, is a story about sextortion. It showcases a chase between two worlds – scammers and a cop. The show stars Rajniesh Duggall and Amruta Khanvilkar.

       Plot 1/2: A dramedy, produced by Rusk Media, is a light-hearted story of five young & quirky but bickering cousins living in old Delhi. They all come together to save their home. Nishant Malkhani and Ankit Bhatia play important characters in the show.

       #Blue Tick (aur trolls): A drama, produced by Folklore Film Studios, is a story of an influencer – her rise and fall. The show stars Parul Gulati and Siddharth Nigam.

       Maya Deluxe: A noir thriller, produced by Lockdown Shorts Studio, is a story of a dysfunctional suburban middle-class couple living in Mumbai, but their lives are shattered when a mysterious murder takes place in their hotel and what follows.

    .    Chill: A slice-of-life drama, produced by Mukesh Chhabra Films, is a modern-day drama of corporate reinvention, the protagonists’ coming-of-age compels them to embrace love as their most powerful asset.

    With a steadfast dedication to quality and a focus on delivering content that resonates with viewers, EPIC ON aims to redefine the digital entertainment experience. The shows will be available on the EPIC ON app and aggregator platforms like Tata Play, Airtel X-Stream, DishTV Watcho, Jio Fibre, BSNL and many others of which the super-app is part of.

    The platform promises to launch numerous series in various genres in the coming months.

     

  • ‘About My Father’ to make digital premiere on Lionsgate Play on 25 August

    ‘About My Father’ to make digital premiere on Lionsgate Play on 25 August

    Mumbai: Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad. After winning hearts at the box-office, ‘About My Father’ is set to make its digital premiere in India exclusively on Lionsgate Play on 25 August. This Robert De Niro comedy is a classic ‘meet-the-parents’ trope with an Italian twist. A chaotic blend of cultures, the film is based on the real life story of Sebastian Maniscalco and his father. Following a 4 July weekend that goes south when Sebastian’s overprotective father hops along to meet his fiance’s uptight parents, About My Father is sure to leave viewers rumbling with laughter. Helmed by Laura Teruso, the movie also stars Kim Cattrall, Leslie Bibb, Anders Holm and Brett Dier in titular roles.

    Talking about the film’s storyline, Robert De Niro said, “I guess you could say it’s about a father-son relationship; the father has criticism for the son, the son has criticism for the father. They have a relationship that’s not in huge dramatic ways; it’s a family comedy. It’s the kinda classic thing where Salvo, the father, is not crazy about the prospective in-laws. They are a bunch of stiffs and they’re not too sure about him either – the prospective son-in-law. But they (in-laws) do pretty well, they’re actually pretty nice about it and Salvo – they tolerate Salvo, I guess. There are a couple of scenes where he says ‘what are you doing’ in this whole situation which is another classic one. I’m sure many families go through that, especially when it’s a whole cultural clash.”

  • Formula E and SABIC’s GENBETA Car sets Guinness World Record title

    Formula E and SABIC’s GENBETA Car sets Guinness World Record title

    Mumbai: SABIC, a global leader in diversified chemicals, formally highlighted the use of its materials in applications on the GENBETA car, the new holder of the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the fastest speed achieved by a vehicle indoors revealed and is now on display at the 2023 Hankook London E-Prix from today.

    The GENBETA car was pushed to the limit by ABB FIA Formula E World championship drivers Jake Hughes (NEOM McLaren Formula E Team) and Lucas di Grassi (Mahindra Racing) in the Duals format used to qualify for Formula E races.

    Jake Hughes hit a top speed of 218.71KPH, setting a new world record. The vehicle is part of the GENBETA live development and innovation project, which aims at exploring new materials and technologies for future EV race and road cars.

    Leveraging application development expertise and material science, SABIC supported the design and development of innovative parts of the GENBETA car, which is based on the GEN3 car, helping and enabling the creation of the fastest, lightest, and most powerful and efficient electric car, reinforcing the company’s ambition to accelerating the world’s shift to electrification and carbon neutrality.

    SABIC’s role in the GENBETA program and integration in the car forms part of the company’s collaborative innovation partnership with the world’s first all-electric FIA World Championship.

    The materials from SABIC integrated into applications of the GENBETA car are highly engineered thermoplastics that enable design freedom through their inherent processing moldability compared to most other materials. Such thermoplastics can help enhance the car’s aerodynamics, contributing to its acceleration and speed performance.

    The relevant applications include:

    Front wing endplates – These elements, formed using an additive manufacturing or 3D printing process known as fused deposition modelling, are mounted on the outboard extremities of the vehicle’s front wing. They are integral to a redirection of airflow around the front wheels to help reduce drag while contributing to the car’s downforce and stability.

    Wheel fins – These components are manufactured through injection moulding with SABIC’s sustainable mechanically-recycled thermoplastics from the portfolio of TRUCIRCLETM circular materials. These parts are mounted onto the wheel rims in a radial, spoke-like pattern, and are intended to help optimize airflow and reduce aerodynamic drag for higher acceleration and speed performance. As an additional benefit, the fins can increase the car’s overall efficiency and aid in cooling the brakes to improve stopping power.

    Wind deflector – This transparent part is a coated thermoplastic sheet product, manufactured through an extrusion process using a bio-renewable, low-carbon material from the TRUCIRCLE portfolio. The component is attached to the front of the cockpit, ahead of the driver, and supports optimization of airflow for decreased drag – again, contributing to improved speed performance.

    As SABIC collaborates with Formula E and its partners, it is drawing on a still-expanding portfolio of thermoplastics developed under dedicated solution platforms for electrification (BLUEHERO), and the circular economy (TRUCIRCLE).

    First announced as the electric racing series Principal and Innovation Partner in 2022, SABIC intends to continue to work closely with Formula E to develop cutting-edge solutions that will help drive further innovation in electric vehicle technologies and progress in sustainable practices across the sport’s wider ecosystem and operations.

    As part of its presence at the London E-Prix, SABIC participated in Formula E’s sustainable innovations summit – Change. Accelerated. Live. – where they discussed in ‘The Power of Prototypes’ panel discussion the advantages that development projects like the GENBETA bring to the EV industry and the world.

  • Gyanendra Tripathi praises “Half CA” series for well-written scenes

    Gyanendra Tripathi praises “Half CA” series for well-written scenes

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTVs young adult drama, Half CA captures the joys, sorrows and struggles of CA aspirants, focusing on their dreams and ambitions in a unique and masterfully crafted story. The emotionally gripping series takes the viewers on a riveting journey of Archie and Niraj, who teach us the art of perseverance. Gyanendra Tripathi, is seen essaying the character of Niraj Grover aka Half CA, alongside his co-stars Ahsaas Channa, Rohit Tiwari, Niraj Sood, Manu Bisht, Prit Kamani, and Rohan Joshi.

    While talking about what made him say yes to Half CA, Gyanendra Tripathi reveals he fell in love with the audition scenes and director Pratish’s creative approach and vision. “I loved the audition scenes that were sent to me.  Scenes were so well written that any actor would be tempted to attempt them. Few apprehensions that I had got cleared in the very first meeting with Pratish, I absolutely fell in love with his approach and vision as a director”, he said.

    The actor further mentioned about his journey with TVF and Amazon miniTV and said, “Like any other actor in Mumbai I too have been a huge fan of TVF’s work. I remember auditioning for Aspirants and feel a little disappointed when I didn’t get the part. So this time when this opportunity came my way I wanted to give my 100%. What I loved about the work culture in TVF is that they don’t just say we are a team and everyone is important, they actually implement it. Amazon miniTV has been absolutely exceptional in mounting and promoting the show. Overall it’s been an extremely satisfying journey so far.”

    Along with Gyanendra Tripathi, Ahasaas Channa, Rohit Tiwari, Niraj Sood, Manu Bisht, Prit Kamani, and Rohan Joshi play pivotal roles in Half CA. Created by The Viral Fever (TVF), the series is currently available on Amazon miniTV within the Amazon Shopping App and on Fire TV for absolutely free.

  • Creators and performers demand creative rights in AI proliferation globally

    Creators and performers demand creative rights in AI proliferation globally

    Mumbai: Leading global organisations representing artists, creators and performers have issued a powerful and united call for global solutions that compel Artificial Intelligence (AI) companies to responsibly compensate creators for their works that “are exploited”. This resounding demand aims to regulate generative AI technologies and protect the copyrights of musicians worldwide against unauthorised use by AI systems.

    The cultural sector and international creative community will be among those most impacted by unbridled development and the open use of generative AI models. Policymakers around the world have heard from creators and performers whose works and performances are being used to train AI without their authorisation, remuneration, or even recognition, often under the guise of “research”. There is furthermore a general, societal sense of unease around AI-generated works and the deception of passing off AI works as works of human creativity.

    In an open letter addressed to governments and policymakers, prominent bodies such as the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), Latin American Composer and Songwriter Alliance (ALCAM), Asia-Pacific Music Creators Alliance AEPO-ARTIS (APMA), African Music Academy (AMA) and the International Council of Music Creators (CIAM) among other organisations representing over six million artists, creators, performers and publishers globally, have outlined seven essential principles to ensure the ethical implementation of artificial intelligence, especially generative AI. The key principles highlighted in the letter are as follows:

    1. Creators’ and performers’ rights must be upheld and protected when exploited by AI systems

    AI systems analyse, scrape and exploit vast amounts of data, typically without authorisation. These datasets consist of musical, literary, visual and audiovisual works and performances protected by copyright. Those copyrighted works and datasets have value, and creators and performers should be in a position to authorise or prohibit the exploitation of their works and performances and be compensated for such uses.

    2. Licensing should be enabled and supported

    Licensing solutions should be available for all potential exploitation of copyright works, performances and data by AI systems. This would encourage open exchanges between innovators who require the data, and creators and performers who wish to understand how and to what extent their works will be used.

    3. Exceptions for text and data mining which do not provide for effective opt-out by rightsholders should be avoided

    The introduction of exceptions, including for text and data mining (TDM), that permit AI systems to exploit copyright works and performances without authorisation or remuneration must be avoided. Some existing exceptions should be clarified, in order to provide legal certainty for creators of the underlying data and performers, as well as for AI systems wishing to benefit from such data.

    4. Credit should be given

    Creators and performers must be entitled to obtain recognition and credit when their works and performances have been exploited by AI systems.

    5. Transparency obligations should apply to ensure fairer AI practices

    Legal obligations relating to disclosure of information should apply. These should cover (i) disclosure of information on the use of creative works and performances by AI systems, in a sufficient manner to allow traceability and licensing (ii) identification of works and performances generated by AI systems, as such. This will ensure a fair approach towards creators, performers and consumers of creative content.

    6. Legal responsibility for AI operators

    There should be legal requirements for AI companies to keep relevant records. There should also be effective accountability for AI operators for activities and outputs that infringe the rights of creators, performers and rightsholders.

    7. AI is only an instrument in the service of human creativity, and international legal understandings should reinforce this

    AI models should be considered as simply an instrument at the service of human creativity. While there is a spectrum of possible levels of interactions between humans and AI to consider when defining the protectability of works and performances, policymakers should make clear that fully autonomous AI-generated works cannot benefit from the same level of protection as human-created works. This topic should be an urgent priority and global discussions should be initiated rapidly.

    The cultural sector and international creative community acknowledge the valuable purposes for which AI is currently being applied. However, in the case of generative AI, it is vital for policymakers worldwide to act, adapt and enhance existing regulatory regimes. Crucially, the cultural sector and international creative community must have a seat at the table during those policy discussions to ensure their interests are duly incorporated, and AI systems are transparent, ethical, fair and lawful.

  • Bingeworthy audio & web series for your Friendship Day party!

    Bingeworthy audio & web series for your Friendship Day party!

    Mumbai: There are countless national holidays, but this is undoubtedly one of our favorites! Aditi from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani was damn right when she said, “kuch logon ke saath sirf waqt bitaane se hi sab theek ho jata hai.” So, here’s to celebrating and spending quality time with our best friends, and what better way to do it than by lapping up some interesting audio shows, and web series together? From ‘Desi Down Under’ to ‘Mismatched,’ this thoughtfully curated collection of titles caters to everyone, having something for everyone to enjoy!

    Desi Down Under

    Platform: Audible

    Set on the shores of Sydney, Desi Down Under is a coming-of-age story that follows three hopeful 20-somethings from Mangalore who cross the ocean to learn surf-lifesaving skills at the stunning Coogee Beach in Australia. The plot revolves around best friends Deven, Meenu, and Rahul and their trip of a lifetime. Listen to this funny and uplifting comedy about friendship, dream fulfillment, culture clash, and humanity, in English and Hindi, on Audible. 

    Adulting: It’s a Jungle Out There

    Platform: Audible

    ‘Adulting: It’s a Jungle Out There,’ is a coming-of-age series that chronicles the lives of two young women, Ray and Nikhat, as they navigate the complexities of independent adulthood in the vibrant city of Mumbai. Join them on their journey through the rollercoaster of being twenty-somethings, where friendship plays a crucial role in their unique approaches to tackling the challenges of adulthood. Get ready for an immersive experience as you witness their adventures and triumphs in the jungle of life, on Audible.

    Best of Friends

    Platform: Audible

    Follow the incredible journey and friendship of two fourteen-year-old girls from Karachi from 1988 to present-day London in this audiobook. As Pakistan’s political scene undergoes a dramatic transformation, with a dictator toppling and a powerful woman taking charge, the world brims with newfound possibilities, strengthening its unbreakable bond. Brace yourselves to be captivated as their story unfolds, exploring themes of friendship, politics, and the complexities of power.

    Hostel Daze

    Platform: Amazon Prime

    As they struggle to get through the first semester at a hostel, four young and vulnerable roommates develop a strong friendship through the series. Amazon Prime’s ‘Hostel Daze’ is filled to the brim with the craziness, conflicts, and even disasters that are a part of hostel life, demonstrating the challenges that every student who lives in a hostel must overcome. With a unique sense of humour that makes it a highly engaging binge, this series is a must-watch, leaving you wanting for more!

    Four More Shots Please!

    Platform: Amazon Prime

    Experience the complex world of ‘Four More Shots Please!’ on Amazon Prime, where the unbreakable bond of four women takes center stage. Set against the backdrop of vibrant Mumbai, these women celebrate their friendship while toasting tequila shots. Fearlessly embracing their imperfections, they navigate the intricacies of complex relationships, learn from their mistakes, and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery. The series serves as an unflinchingly honest portrayal of strong female friendships and women who dare to stand up for themselves!

    Mismatched

    Platform: Netflix

    ‘Mismatched’ is a Netflix original series about a young woman named Dimple Ahuja who dreams of finding the perfect wife and a young man named Rishi Singh who dreams of finding the perfect wife. In the course of this series, the duo discovers more about themselves. It is an entertaining watch that explores traditional cultural practices like arranged marriages play out in the modern world. With a young cast, starring Rohit Saraf, Vihaan Samat, Taaruk Raina, and Sanjana Sarathy among others, this show focuses not only on voicing certain issues that the youth face but also on the charm of friendship that helps endure the trials and ordeals of life. ‘Mismatched’ captures the essence of strong bonds and leaves viewers yearning for more of Rishi, Dimple, and their wonderful circle of friends!

    Kota Factory

    Platform: Netflix

    Embark on a thrilling adventure filled with friendship and laughter in the city of Kota, Rajasthan. Join Vaibhav, a spirited 16-year-old, as he bids farewell to his hometown and dives headfirst into the exciting chaos of Kota’s educational hub. This series brings to life the ups and downs of student life, as Vaibhav and his gang navigate the cutthroat world of coaching centres in their quest to conquer the renowned Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exam. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of hilarious moments, heartwarming friendships, and unforgettable experiences that define the true spirit of campus life.