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  • “Innovation plays a key role in our brand strategy:” Pocket FM’s Vineet Singh

    “Innovation plays a key role in our brand strategy:” Pocket FM’s Vineet Singh

    Mumbai: Netizens today crave personalised, immersive content that fits seamlessly into their busy lives. As digital entertainment evolves, audiences increasingly seek deeper engagement with stories that resonate on a personal and cultural level. With countless platforms vying for attention, it’s no longer enough to simply offer content; brands must deliver unique experiences that captivate and foster loyalty.

    That’s where Pocket FM steps in, transforming the audio landscape with its fresh take on storytelling. Since its launch in 2018, Pocket FM has ignited a new way of consuming content, turning casual listening into a binge-worthy experience. With over 200 million listeners and a vast library of immersive audio series, it’s not just redefining entertainment—it’s creating a global community of engaged listeners who spend hours each day tuned in.

    Delving deeper, Indiantelevision.com’s Arth Chakraborty caught up with Pocket FM’s head of brand marketing and communications, Vineet Singh, to discuss the brand’s approach to standing out in a competitive market, its focus on regional content, and the role of user-generated content in building a loyal community, and more…

    Edited Excerpts:

    On the key challenges you face in building Pocket FM’s brand, and ways in which you address them

    Building Pocket FM’s brand in a cluttered market certainly comes with its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the intense competition among numerous audio content platforms, making it tough to stand out. With so many options available, establishing a unique brand identity that resonates with listeners is crucial.

    To tackle this, we’ve focused on positioning Pocket FM as the go-to platform for audio series. By honing in on this niche, we differentiate ourselves. This clear focus helps us create a more recognizable brand and fosters loyalty among our users.

    Another challenge is creating a distinct niche within the broader entertainment landscape. We’ve embraced the growing demand for regional content, which allows us to connect deeply with diverse audiences across India. By prioritising vernacular storytelling, we not only engage listeners but also support local talent, enriching our brand’s cultural relevance.

    In summary, while the cluttered market presents its challenges, we’re committed to refining our brand strategy, focusing on unique content offerings, and building a strong connection with our audience. This approach positions Pocket FM for continued success as a leader in the audio series space.

    On Pocket FM adapting its brand marketing strategy to differentiate itself in the competitive audio entertainment market and addressing changing audience preferences

    To differentiate ourselves in the competitive entertainment market, Pocket FM has focused on understanding our audience’s unique preferences and behaviours.

    We take a hyper-localised approach, tailoring our brand content to reflect the diverse cultures and interests of our listeners. This strategy not only boosts engagement but also fosters a strong sense of loyalty among our users. By connecting with them culturally and contextually, we ensure our content resonates on a personal level.

    Innovation plays a key role in our brand strategy. For example, our interactive storytelling formats don’t just engage listeners; they immerse them in the experience. This helps us create a distinct identity in the market and deepens the emotional bond with our audience.

    Looking ahead, we’re committed to staying agile and exploring new formats and technologies to enhance engagement. By remaining adaptable and audience-centric, Pocket FM aims to strengthen its leadership in the entertainment space.

    On Pocket FM leveraging user-generated content in its marketing strategy and the role it plays in building community and engagement for Pocket FM

    At Pocket FM, user-generated content (UGC) is central to our marketing strategy and community engagement. By tapping into the creativity of our listeners, we amplify our brand reach and foster a sense of ownership within our community.

    UGC helps us in several ways:

    ● Fostering authentic connections: When listeners share their experiences or favourite shows, it creates genuine word-of-mouth marketing. This authenticity builds trust, as potential users see real interactions with our content.

    ●   Expanding reach and visibility: User-shared content on social media broadens our reach organically. It taps into existing networks, increasing our visibility and serving as social proof that encourages new users to explore our platform.

    ●   Building a sense of community: UGC strengthens connections among our listeners. When users share reviews, opinions, or fan art, it sparks conversations and builds micro-communities within our larger audience, fostering loyalty and a shared culture.

    ●   Enhancing personalisation and feedback loops: User reviews and feedback help us tailor our content and marketing strategies. By understanding what resonates with our audience, we refine both our offerings and how we promote them

    In summary, UGC not only amplifies our marketing efforts but also plays a key role in building a vibrant, engaged community at Pocket FM. By empowering our listeners to share their stories, we create a powerful connection that drives our success.

    On Pocket FM measuring ROI for marketing campaigns, and the key metrics; and a recent example of a campaign with significant ROI

    At Pocket FM, we measure the ROI of our marketing campaigns by focusing on a mix of performance and audience-centric metrics. While user acquisition is important, we believe true success lies in the depth of engagement and long-term retention.

    We closely monitor how our campaigns resonate with our community and contribute to sustained engagement. Retention rates, in particular, give us a clear picture of how well we’re building lasting relationships with our audience.

    Additionally, we prioritise understanding audience behaviour—from their first interaction to ongoing loyalty. This holistic approach helps us refine our strategies, ensuring our marketing efforts drive sustainable growth.

    On Pocket FM keeping its brand messaging consistent across platforms and the strategies that you use to boost listener engagement and loyalty

    At Pocket FM, ensuring a unified and consistent brand message across all platforms is a top priority to deliver a seamless listener experience. While we maintain a consistent tone and voice that reflects our brand identity, we adapt our communication to the unique dynamics of each channel. On social media, for example, we embrace a more casual and visually engaging approach to connect quickly with users, whereas on our app, we focus on deeper storytelling and analysis, offering a richer, more immersive experience.

    On the upcoming trends in marketing that you’re excited about, and your plan to integrate them into Pocket FM’s strategy

    Several emerging trends in marketing excite us, and we see great potential to integrate them into Pocket FM’s strategy for driving growth and engagement. To call out a few –

    ● AI-driven personalisation: Personalisation has become essential. With advancements in AI and machine learning, we can dive deeper into user behaviour and preferences. By leveraging AI, we plan to enhance our content across platforms with tailored experiences that align with user interests, delivering hyper-personalised content that keeps our audience engaged.

    ●   We’re particularly excited about immersive audio technologies, like spatial audio, which can elevate brand communication. This technology creates a

    multi-dimensional sound experience that places listeners at the heart of the narrative, making their listening experience more engaging.

    ●   Direct-to-fan platforms: These platforms represent an exciting opportunity for more personalised audience engagement. They allow us to connect directly with our listeners, fostering deeper relationships and gaining real-time insights into their preferences. We’re exploring how to experiment with these platforms to strengthen our bonds with our audience and create tailored experiences that resonate on an individual level.

    Overall, we’re eager to embrace these trends and integrate them into our strategy to enhance listener engagement and loyalty at Pocket FM.

  • Strategies for global brands to enhance customer loyalty in e-commerce

    Strategies for global brands to enhance customer loyalty in e-commerce

    In today’s rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape, global brands must continuously innovate to foster and sustain customer loyalty. Maintaining a strong, loyal customer base is essential to long-term success with the proliferation of choices and increasing competition. In this article, we will explore strategies that global brands, especially in the luxury and premium sectors, can employ to enhance customer loyalty.

    Understanding the value of personalisation

    Personalisation is a key driver of customer loyalty in e-commerce. In an era where customers expect tailored experiences, global brands can leverage data to understand individual customer preferences and behaviors. Brands can enhance their customer journey by offering personalized product recommendations, curated content, and exclusive offers. For example, e-commerce platforms can suggest products based on browsing history or previous purchases, making the shopping experience more convenient and engaging.

    In the luxury and premiumization space, this strategy becomes even more critical. High-end consumers are not just looking for products; they seek unique experiences that reflect their tastes and preferences. Offering personalized consultations, bespoke product customization options, or even early access to new collections can go a long way in building emotional connections with these customers. The deeper the connection, the more likely customers will return, fostering long-term loyalty.

    Elevating customer service to a premium level

    Exceptional customer service is fundamental to any successful e-commerce strategy, but for global brands operating in the luxury market, this service must go beyond the basics. Offering dedicated support teams, VIP customer service lines, and even personal shopping assistants can significantly enhance the customer experience. For instance, many premium brands in the luxury home fittings industry provide live chat features where customers can interact directly with brand representatives, ask questions, and receive prompt responses.

    Incorporating seamless return policies and flexible payment options also fosters trust, reducing friction in the buying process. For premium brands, the idea is to offer a smooth, enjoyable experience from the moment a customer visits the website to when the product is delivered. Elevating these elements of service instills a sense of exclusivity and care, encouraging repeat purchases.

    Emphasizing exclusivity and limited editions

    Exclusivity is a hallmark of luxury and premium brands. Offering limited-edition products or early access to new collections can create a sense of urgency and desirability among customers. By introducing limited-time offers or exclusive online sales, global brands can make their customers feel valued and privileged. This approach not only drives immediate sales but also enhances brand loyalty by making customers feel part of an elite group.

    For example, in the luxury home fittings industry, some brands offer exclusive premium kitchen and bathroom fittings or personalized design consultations for select customers. This sense of rarity and exclusivity fosters a deeper connection with customers, who are motivated to return for future unique offerings, whether it’s custom-made fixtures or high-end accessories that reflect their sophisticated taste and elevate the luxury of their homes.

    Building emotional connections through storytelling

    Storytelling is a powerful tool for building emotional connections with customers, especially in the luxury segment. Global brands can use their digital platforms to tell the stories behind their products, from the craftsmanship involved to the sustainability initiatives they support. By doing so, they create an emotional resonance that goes beyond the functional benefits of their products.

    In the world of e-commerce, consumers often seek brands that align with their values and aspirations. For premium brands, weaving narratives around heritage, craftsmanship, or social responsibility can foster a stronger emotional bond with customers. This connection can turn first-time buyers into brand advocates who share their positive experiences with others, further enhancing customer loyalty.

    Enhancing the e-commerce experience with technology

    Technology plays a vital role in customer loyalty strategies, especially in the e-commerce space. For luxury brands, offering innovative technological experiences can set them apart from the competition. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools, for instance, allow customers to visualize products in their homes before making a purchase. This level of interaction creates a more immersive shopping experience, leading to higher customer satisfaction.

    Global brands can also utilize AI-driven chatbots to provide 24/7 customer support or integrate AI-powered recommendation engines to offer tailored product suggestions. These technological innovations not only streamline the shopping process but also ensure that customers feel catered to and understood, boosting their overall loyalty to the brand.

    Focusing on sustainability and corporate responsibility

    Consumers are increasingly gravitating toward brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Global brands, particularly those in the luxury sector, must integrate sustainability into their business models to resonate with conscious consumers. By offering eco-friendly products, reducing packaging waste, or supporting fair trade practices, brands can attract and retain a loyal customer base that values responsible consumption.

    In e-commerce, transparency is crucial. Global brands can use their platforms to showcase their sustainability efforts, whether it’s through detailed product descriptions or dedicated sections that explain their ethical sourcing and environmental initiatives. Customers who feel that their values align with those of the brand are more likely to remain loyal and advocate for the brand.

    Conclusion

    For global brands, particularly those operating in the luxury and premium sectors, customer loyalty in e-commerce is built on a foundation of personalized experiences, exceptional service, and emotional connections. By focusing on exclusivity, technology, and sustainability, brands can foster long-term relationships with their customers, ensuring repeat business and advocacy. In the sanitaryware industry, the focus on customization, innovation, and eco-friendly practices can set brands apart, creating a loyal customer base that values quality and responsibility.

    The article has been authored by hansgrohe India head of marketing Abhijeet Sonar.

  • 19th Tasveer Film Festival returns with a groundbreaking initiative

    19th Tasveer Film Festival returns with a groundbreaking initiative

    Mumbai: The highly anticipated 19th edition of the Tasveer Film Festival & Market (TFFM) is set to make history this 15-20 October 2024, at Seattle Center, marking a pivotal moment for South Asian cinema in North America. Not only does this year’s festival celebrate the vibrant storytelling of the region, but it also launches North America’s first-ever global film market dedicated to South Asian filmmakers. Running from October 15-17, the Tasveer Film Market (TFM) will feature the celebrated, award-winning filmmaker Deepa Mehta (Fire, Water) as the inaugural keynote speaker, setting the stage for an unmissable event.

    The Tasveer Film Market is a groundbreaking initiative designed to reshape financial and distribution models for South Asian filmmakers worldwide. With a focus on expanding the reach and fostering collaboration, the market will host events such as the Co-Production Market, Tasveer Film Fund pitches (supported by Netflix), industry panels, and networking sessions. These activities aim to empower creatives by connecting them with producing partners, distributors, and global platforms.

    The Tasveer Film Market will include keynotes by influential figures such as directors Deepa Mehta, and Pan Nalin (Last Film Show, Angry Indian Goddesses), and representatives from companies such as CAA, WME, Blumhouse, NBCU Launch, Amazon MGM Studios, Red Sea Film Foundation, and more.

    “As the first film market dedicated to the South Asian community, our mission is to build a groundbreaking platform where diverse voices can thrive and be heard,” said Rita Meher, Founder of the Tasveer Film Market and Co-Founder of the Tasveer Film Festival. “By carving out this space, we aim to empower underrepresented filmmakers, amplify South Asian stories, and foster global connections that will bring these narratives to the world stage.”

    Deepa Mehta added, “Tasveer Film Festival’s legacy and contribution to South Asian cinema is one for the history books. Launching the first South Asian film market on a global scale could not have come at a better time. I am honoured to inaugurate the Tasveer Film Market this year.”

    Meticulously curated projects, including Narrative, Documentary, and TV projects, all seeking producing partners, Minimum Guarantee (MG) deals, sales, and distribution will be showcased at the market. Tasveer’s flagship Tasveer Film Fund Short Film Pitches, supported by Netflix, will have finalists present their projects for a chance to secure a $25,000 grant, with a total of $75,000 available in funding.

    As the only Oscar®️ qualifying South Asian Film Festival in the world in the short film category, Tasveer has championed social change through the power of South Asian storytelling. This year’s Tasveer Film Festival (TFF), from 15-20 October 2024, is a testament to that commitment and will showcase 110 films including 36 world premieres, 28 North American premieres, 45 Seattle premieres, and 19 feature films from 15 countries (Bangladesh, Canada, France, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Denmark, Germany, India, United Kingdom, United States, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Portugal, and Sweden).

    91 short films are a part of the class of the 2024 edition with 35 world premieres, 22 North American premieres, and 33 Seattle premieres. Some of the impressive short films in the lineup are Yassa Khan’s Pink (World Premiere), Rippen Sindher’s Flight 182 (N. American Premiere), Tathagata Ghosh’s If (Seattle premiere), and more. 52 films of the 110 films showcased at the festival are by women, trans, and non-binary directors.

    This year the festival boasts of prolific jury members who will be in attendance such as Oscar-nominated filmmaker Shaunak Sen (All That Breathes), actor Omi Vaidya (3 Idiots) and director Geeta V. Patel (House of the Dragon).

    Some of the selected films that reflect the vision and filmmaking artistry of South Asian filmmakers and important issues from the subcontinent and diaspora are Payal Kapadia’s feature narrative debut, All We Imagine as Light – the 2024 Cannes Grand Prix winner, Iram Parveen Bilal’s social media true story, Wakhri, Nik Dodani’s LGBTQIA+ semi-autobiographical drama, Blue Boy, and more.

    The 19th edition of the Tasveer Film Festival will feature engaging fireside chats, post-film Q&As with filmmakers from around the world, and a remarkable lineup of industry talents.

    Film Festival Highlights:

    1. Opening Night Feature: Wakhri, Directed by Iram Parveen Bilal

    2. Centerpiece: The Umesh Chronicles, Directed by Puja Kaul

    3. Closing Night Feature: A Nice Indian Boy, Directed by Roshan Sethi

    4. Tasveer Emerald Spotlight: The Cannes Grand Prix 2024 winner – All We Imagine As Light, Directed by Payal Kapadia

    5. LGBTQIA+ Film: Blue Boy, Directed by Nik Dodani

    6. Documentary Short: Yatra, Directed by Hemal Trivedi and Matt Alesevich

    7. Mental Health: The Tides That Binds Us, Directed by Gavin Sea

    8. Local Focus: Last 30 Days, Directed by Vivek Roy

    9. Girl Power: Anuja, Directed by Adam J. Graves

    10. Music Focus: Too Beautiful: A Spaceman Story, Directed by Utkarsh Ambodkar & Alex Salsberg

  • Dragon Ball DAIMA to stream on Crunchyroll on 11 October

    Dragon Ball DAIMA to stream on Crunchyroll on 11 October

    Mumbai: In celebration of the 40 anniversary of Akira Toriyama’s legendary manga, Toei Animation released Dragon Ball DAIMA, a new episodic series based on an original story from the Dragon Ball creator. This highly anticipated series will begin streaming on Crunchyroll on 11 October 2024, with subtitles in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Fans can enjoy new weekly episodes simulcast with the Japanese TV broadcast.

    Dragon Ball DAIMA introduces a fresh story where Goku and his friends, due to a conspiracy, are turned small. Together with new characters, Glorio and Panzy, they venture into the ‘Demon Realm’. The series is directed by Yoshitaka Yashima and Aya Komaki, with character designs by Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru and the series composition by Yuko Kakihara.

    The opening theme, “Jaka Jaan,” is composed by Grammy Award-winner Zedd, with vocals by singer-songwriters CLIEVY and KEEN from C&K. Zedd also produced the ending theme, “NAKAMA,” featuring AI. This collaboration marks a significant moment in Dragon Ball’s musical history.

    Dragon Ball DAIMA was initially revealed at New York Comic Con 2023, thrilling fans worldwide. It celebrates Dragon Ball’s incredible global success, building on the legacy of a franchise that began in 1984 and has sold over 260 million manga copies globally.

  • FanCode signs three year deal for streaming rights of Zim Afro T10, Abu Dhabi T10 and Lanka T10

    FanCode signs three year deal for streaming rights of Zim Afro T10, Abu Dhabi T10 and Lanka T10

    Mumbai: T Ten Global has announced a digital partnership with FanCode in India. The deal will make FanCode the exclusive streaming partner for the upcoming Zim Afro T10, Abu Dhabi T10 and the Lanka T10, for next three years.

    After a successful inaugural season, Zim Afro T10 is back for the second edition, starting 21 September and is expected to produce 9 days of high-quality cricket, with the likes of David Warner, Dawid Malan, Yasir Shah, Carlos Brathwaite, and Colin Munro, all in the mix.

    The tournament will put the spotlight on cricket’s fastest format at the Harare Sports Club. The six franchises in the tournament are the Harare Bolts, Bulawayo Brave Jaguars, Cape Town Samp Army, Durban Wolves, Jo’Burg Bangla Tigers and the NYS Lagos.

    Each day will comprise three white-ball matches, with the first scheduled for 3 pm local time and 6:30pm IST. The second game of the day will be at 5:15pm local time and 8:45pm IST, while the third game of the day will see the players take the field at 7:30pm local time and 11pm IST.

    During this festival of cricket, a total of 21 games will be played in the league stage for the Zim Afro T10, and after that the knockout phase will commence. The top 2 teams will square off in Qualifier 1, with the winner going through to the final. The third and fourth placed teams will then play the Eliminator, where the winner goes through to Qualifier 2, to face the runner-up of Qualifier 1. The team that wins Qualifier 2 will eventually play the winner of Qualifier 1 in the final, which is scheduled for the evening of 29 September.

    “We are thrilled to partner with the T Ten Global team as T10 cricket continues to capture the excitement of Indian fans. With leagues expanding in Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and Abu Dhabi, the format is set to grow even more. This season, with stars like David Warner and Dawid Malan in action, we’re confident fans can look forward to top-quality cricket and thrilling matches between closely matched teams.” said FanCode co-founder Prasana Krishnan.

    T Ten Global Sports founder and chairman Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk said, “Such partnerships are a clear reflection of the growing global popularity of the T10 format. The Zim Afro T10 has witnessed a remarkable surge in interest since its inaugural season, and as we gear up for the first game of the new edition, we are thrilled to have FanCode on board, supporting our mission to expand T10 worldwide. With their invaluable backing, we are confident that we can accelerate the growth and reach of T10 cricket across the globe.”

  • Anastacia to perform at the Etihad Arena on 20 December

    Anastacia to perform at the Etihad Arena on 20 December

    Mumbai: The World Tennis League has announced the addition of American singer-songwriter Anastacia Lyn Newkirk to its lineup for the third season, scheduled to be held at the iconic Etihad Arena from 19 to 22 December 2024.

    The American pop diva will join legendary rock musician Bryan Adams, who is set to perform on the opening night of WTL 2024, creating a stellar lineup that will dazzle audiences on and off the court. She will take the stage on the second day (20 December) of the third edition of the World Tennis League.

    Anastacia, renowned for her powerful voice and chart-topping hits like ‘I’m Outta Love’, ‘Not That Kind’, ‘Freak of Nature’, ‘Paid My Dues’, and ‘One Day in Your Life’, have captivated millions worldwide. With over 30 million records sold globally, Anastacia has earned more than 225 awards across 31 countries and number one hits in 19 countries.

    She became the world’s best-selling new female pop artist at the 2001 World Music Awards. Having established itself as a premier event that combines elite tennis with electrifying musical performances, the World Tennis League season three is shaping up to be one of the biggest events of 2024.

    Concert ticket holders can upgrade their WTL experience by securing a discounted add-on Tennis ticket for the Tennis matches for the day.

    Tickets are available at etihadarena.ae

  • It’s Friday the 13th: Explore thrillers like The Buckingham Murders and more!

    It’s Friday the 13th: Explore thrillers like The Buckingham Murders and more!

    Mumbai: What would you do if the person you trusted most turned out to be your greatest enemy? If the idea of twists, turns, and suspense sends your heart racing, you’re in for a treat. Murder mysteries and revenge thrillers have an uncanny ability to keep us on the edge of our seats, making every minute of watching (or listening) feel like a puzzle waiting to be solved. Whether you’re into high-octane dramas or psychological slow burns, this list has something for every thriller enthusiast. Get ready to dive into a world of dark secrets, shocking betrayals, and spine-tingling plots.

    1. The Buckingham Murders (Releasing 13 September 2024)

    Bollywood queen Kareena Kapoor Khan stars as Jass Bhamra, a detective grappling with personal trauma while investigating a disturbing murder in The Buckingham Murders. Set against the gloomy, suspense-filled backdrop of Buckinghamshire, Jass is not just fighting external forces but her own demons. As she digs deeper into the case, long-buried secrets resurface, blurring the lines between her personal and professional life. Expect a thrilling, heart-wrenching performance as Kapoor takes on one of her most emotionally intense roles yet.

    2. Aarya – Ek Revenge

    In Aarya – Ek Revenge, Aarya Raghuvanshi grows up in an orphanage, unaware of her royal lineage. Her life takes a sharp turn when her mother, Rajeshwari, reveals a dark secret that sends Arya on a journey of vengeance. As she seeks to uncover the truth about her identity, she encounters a world of deception, betrayal, and dangerous enemies. The story’s twists and turns, paired with Arya’s relentless determination, make this audio series a perfect pick for revenge thriller lovers. Tune in to Aarya – Ek Revenge on Pocket FM for an immersive, high-stakes drama.

    3. Knives Out

    Knives Out boasts an ensemble cast with Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, the charmingly eccentric detective hired to solve the mysterious death of crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (played by Christopher Plummer). Every member of the Thrombey family, from Ransom Drysdale (Chris Evans) to Marta Cabrera (Ana de Armas), seems to be hiding something. As Blanc unravels the puzzle, audiences are kept guessing until the very last frame. The combination of humor, mystery, and unexpected revelations makes Knives Out an instant classic in the murder mystery genre.

    4. Aaj Ka Hero

    In Aaj Ka Hero, Vikrant is a 21-year-old man recently released from jail after serving three years for a crime he got caught up in. Upon his release, he learns that his girlfriend Shruti has betrayed him in ways he could never have imagined. Heartbroken and seeking revenge, Vikrant’s life takes a shocking turn when an unexpected event threatens to change everything. The series explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and justice, all while maintaining a gripping, fast-paced narrative. Listen to Vikrant’s journey on Pocket FM and unravel the mystery for yourself.

    5. Mindhunter

    Set in the 1970s, Mindhunter follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they interview some of the most dangerous serial killers in history. The show dives deep into the minds of infamous criminals like Ed Kemper and Charles Manson to understand what makes them tick. Based on real-life events, Mindhunter offers a chilling insight into criminal psychology and the FBI’s early efforts at profiling serial killers. The dark, unsettling atmosphere makes it a standout in the murder mystery genre.

    6. Sacred Games

    One of India’s most acclaimed TV series, Sacred Games centers around Sartaj Singh (Saif Ali Khan), a down-and-out police officer, and Ganesh Gaitonde (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a notorious gangster. After receiving a mysterious phone call from Gaitonde, Sartaj is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy involving the criminal underworld and the highest levels of power in India. With its intense plot, complex characters, and mix of crime, politics, and revenge, Sacred Games is a must-watch for anyone craving a powerful, layered thriller.

    Whether you prefer the visual drama of movies and TV shows or the immersive storytelling of audio series, these six recommendations are guaranteed to satiate your curiosity for suspense and intrigue. From the mind-bending mysteries of Knives Out and The Buckingham Murders to the edge-of-your-seat thrillers like Aaj Ka Hero and Mindhunter, this list offers a variety of stories that will keep you hooked until the very last second.

  • Prime Video launches HITS

    Prime Video launches HITS

    Mumbai- Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today launched HITS, Rewind Networks’ popular linear television channel and the home to some of the most iconic TV shows, as an add-on subscription, increasing access to English-language series that continue to dominate pop-culture year after year. HITS offers an unparalleled line-up of evergreen blockbuster and fan-favourite shows from Frasier, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Agatha Christie’s Poirot, Agatha Christie’s Marple, Gilligan’s Island, Mission: Impossible, Baywatch and I Dream of Jeannie, to Stephen King’s IT, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Cheers, Bewitched, The Incredible Hulk, North and South, V: The Original Series, The Six Million Dollar Man, Quantum Leap, Hawaii Five-O, The Jeffersons and many more.

    With HITS, customers can watch their favourite TV shows according to a fixed linear broadcast schedule, while also getting the option to catch-up on content, post linear airing, as per their convenience. Prime members can purchase an add-on subscription to HITS at an annual price of Rs 299.

    “We’re thrilled to launch HITS as an add-on subscription for our customers in India, offering a curated line-up of iconic and much-loved TV shows for scheduled linear viewing, as well as catch-up,” said Prime Video, India head of marketplace (add-on subscriptions and movie rentals) Gaurav Bhasin said, “Our aim with add-on subscriptions has been to provide Prime members with increased choice, improved accessibility and greater convenience of watching their favourite content all within a single app, and within a short span of time, we’ve built a robust library of additional programming through our partners. At the same time, add-on subscriptions have also offered increased reach to both local and global streamers helping them connect with our vast and diverse audience across the country. We are certain that the incredible line-up of TV shows offered by HITS will delight and entertain customers, taking them on a nostalgic trip when enjoying some of the world’s most popular and timeless series.”

    “We are delighted to partner with Prime Video to give viewers across India an opportunity to experience HITS,” said Rewind Networks EVP Sandie Lee. “HITS has always been about celebrating the vast television history, and with this collaboration, we are excited to offer customers the opportunity to rediscover these iconic shows conveniently.”

  • India TV expands reach on Samsung TV Plus

    India TV expands reach on Samsung TV Plus

    Mumbai: India TV group, in news broadcasting, has tied up with Samsung TV Plus India to expand its footprint in the rapidly growing Connected TV (CTV) space. As part of this collaboration, India TV Group’s Connected TV (CTV) exclusive channels India TV, India TV Speed News, India TV Aap Ki Adalat, and India TV Yoga are now accessible on the Samsung TV Plus platform. Viewers can now enjoy easy access to extensive high-quality content offerings ranging from news, current affairs, fitness and entertainment. This strategic move marks a significant step in India TV’s mission to broaden its audience by leveraging the expanding CTV market.

    “Our collaboration with Samsung TV Plus opens new and wider avenues for viewers. It is a stepping-stone towards delivering quality and diverse and rich content to the combined audience. We are optimistic that the coming together of India TV and Samsung TV Plus will redefine and improve the experience of online content consumption,” said  India TV chief strategy officer Amit Kumar Sinha.

    Samsung TV Plus is a free streaming service that comes pre-installed on Samsung Smart TVs, offering a wide range of channels, including news, sports, entertainment, and more, in select countries. In India, Samsung TV Plus gives viewers access to over 100 live TV channels and thousands of movies and shows, both live and on-demand.

    “Samsung TV Plus has been at the forefront of bringing high-quality content via FAST to our viewers. We remain steadfast in our commitment to provide content that our consumers find interesting and useful. The addition of the four new channels from the India TV group impresses upon our vision to deliver quality and diverse content,” said Samsung TV Plus India head of partnerships Kunal Mehta.

  • Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 streams on Disney+ Hotstar

    Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 streams on Disney+ Hotstar

    Mumbai: Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2, the top-grossing animated film of all time, will begin streaming on Disney+ Hotstar in both English and Hindi on 25 September 2024. Fans can expect a heartwarming return to the world of emotions as Riley’s mind welcomes new characters and challenges.

    Celebrated by critics, Inside Out 2 is hailed as “absolute perfection, hilarious” by Jazz Tangcay of Variety and as “an unforgettable experience” by Landon Johnson of Awards Watch. The film is certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes™ and has already made history as the fastest animated film to reach $1 billion globally, cementing its place as the eighth highest-grossing film ever.

    Inside Out 2 revisits Riley, now a teenager, as her headquarters undergoes unexpected changes. Familiar emotions like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust return, only to be met by new emotions, including Anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke. Other cast members include Amy Poehler as Joy, Phyllis Smith as Sadness, Lewis Black as Anger, Tony Hale as Fear, and Liza Lapira as Disgust. The film is directed by Kelsey Mann and produced by Mark Nielsen.