ITV

Category: iWorld

  • MIB summons Netflix content head over IC814: The Kandahar Attack

    MIB summons Netflix content head over IC814: The Kandahar Attack

    MUMBAI: The ministry of information and broadcasting is cracking the whip on another series. This time it has summoned Netflix India content head Monika Shergill to Shastri Bhavan relating to “objectionable” treatment of the series IC814: the Kandahar Hijack which is based on the real life hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane in 1999 by Pakistan terrorists.  

    Created by Anubhav Sinha and Trishant Srivastava, the show is inspired by the book ‘Flight Into Fear: The Captain’s Story’ Devi Sharan, who was the captain of the flight and journalist Srinjoy Chowdhury

    IC814 has raised a stink on social media as hundreds of social media users have objected to the Pakistani terrorists names being changed to Bhola and Shankar while the real names were 
    Ibrahim Athar, Shahid Akhtar Sayed, Sunny Ahmed Qazi, Mistri Zahoor Ibrahim and Shakir. Several X-ers have complained that the changing of the names has been done to protect the Muslim community and besmirch Hindus.

    The furore could end  up being a storm in a teacup. NDTV.com,  quoting a home ministry statement dated 6 January 2000, has shared that the hijackers had come to be known as Chief, (2) Doctor, (3) Burger, (4) Bhola and (5) Shankar to the passengers in the plane as this how they addressed each other.

    The  incident  was unfortunate as the Atal Behari Vajpayee government (which was in power then) had to release three imprisoned terrorists Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar in exchange for the lives of the passengers of the hijacked plane. 
     

  • Daler Mehndi inaugurates IPRS ‘Soundscapes of India’

    Daler Mehndi inaugurates IPRS ‘Soundscapes of India’

    Mumbai: IPRS (The Indian Performing Rights Society Ltd), the music copyright society in India representing authors, composers and publishers of music, kicked off their highly anticipated ‘Soundscapes of India: Gateway to the World’ with an electrifying inauguration led by Daler Mehndi at the India International Centre, New Delhi. The vibrant ceremony set the perfect tone for the global music celebration that followed.

    The opening day was highlighted by a fireside chat with Bhangra king and global pop star, Daler Mehndi, whose music has transcended borders to captivate audiences worldwide. Moderated by IMEA Dolby Labs Sr director commercial partnerships Karan Grover, the discussion offered a deep dive into Mehndi’s illustrious career, his contributions to Indian music, and the universal appeal of his work. The session underscored the enduring global resonance of Indian music and set the tone for the conference’s focus on expanding India’s musical footprint internationally.

    “The inauguration of ‘Soundscapes of India’ by the legendary Daler Mehndi truly set the stage for what promises to be a groundbreaking celebration of Indian music on the global stage. As IPRS marks its 55th anniversary, we are thrilled to witness India’s rich musical heritage come alive through this event, opening doors for our creators to shine internationally. This is not just a conference—it’s a bold step towards making Indian music a global force,” commented IPRS CEO Rakesh Nigam.

    Following the fireside chat, the conference hosted its first panel discussion, titled “The Time is Now: Amplifying India’s Presence on the Global Music Stage.” This session brought together industry heavyweights, including Believe Digital MD Vivek Raina, Paytm Insider COO Varun Khare, and Sziget Festival director Marina Pommier. The panel explored innovative strategies to enhance India’s global music presence, particularly through digital platforms and international collaborations. The discussion highlighted the critical role that technology and partnerships play in elevating Indian music on the world stage.

    The inaugural day also featured a special fireside chat celebrating 74 years of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and its pivotal role in promoting Indian music globally. ICCR deputy director general Abhay Kumar, and Businessworld Group chairman and  editor-in-chief Anurag Batra shared insights on ICCR’s efforts to elevate Indian music and culture on the international stage.

    The successful start of the ‘Soundscapes of India: Gateway to the World’ conference underscores India’s rising stature in the global music industry. The inaugural day set the stage for further engaging discussions, networking opportunities, and international collaborations over the next two days.

  • Gobble and Tourism Australia Unite for a mini-series

    Gobble and Tourism Australia Unite for a mini-series

    Mumbai: Gobble and Tourism Australia have announced a collaboration on a new travel series, Unravel Australia, hosted by actor Ayush Mehra. This five-part mini series, now live on YouTube, takes viewers on an immersive journey through Australia’s stunning landscapes and uniquely Australian experiences.

    Each 8–10-minute episode of Unravel Australia offers a comprehensive look at Australia’s best kept secrets and unmissable experiences. Living his dream of exploring the ‘Land Down Under’, Ayush surfs the waves of Sydney’s Bondi Beach, explores the stunning depths of the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, visits the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, gets up close and personal with kangaroos and koalas at Ballarat Wildlife Park in Victoria, sandboards down dunes in Port Stephens in New South Wales, and samples world class food and drink experiences with the celebrated Australian chef and TV personality, Andy Allen.

    Gobble’s innovative approach to delivering entertaining and meaningful content aligns with Tourism Australia’s mission to showcase the unique and unforgettable experiences that the destination has to offer Indian travellers. By combining Ayush Mehra’s engaging storytelling with the visually captivating and diverse landscapes of Australia, Unravel Australia is set to be a feast for the senses.

    Pocket Aces D2C head, Vishwanath Shetty expressed, “At Pocket Aces, we are constantly striving to create content that entertains and enriches the viewer’s experience. ‘Unravel Australia’ is a perfect example of how storytelling and visual exploration can come together to showcase a country’s cultural and natural wonders. Ayush’s enthusiasm and passion for exploration, combined with the breathtaking visuals of Australia, will undoubtedly captivate our audience. We’re proud to collaborate with Tourism Australia on this project and look forward to bringing more such exciting content to our viewers.”

    Commenting on the new series, Tourism Australia  Country Manager – India & Gulf Nishant Kashikar said, “Our key objective of the partnership with Pocket Aces and their channel Gobble was to make Australia the destination of choice for their premium audience who are seeking holiday inspiration. Australia has something for every type of traveller – from stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, to world-class cuisine, and unique wildlife experiences that are enjoyable all year round. The new series is just a glimpse into the diversity of tourism experiences that Australia has to offer.”

    “Being a part of ‘Unravel Australia’ has been nothing short of a magical adventure, all thanks to Gobble. Australia’s Southeast Coast is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture, and I’m thrilled to be able to share these experiences with viewers back home. Every moment of this journey has been an adventure, from the thrill of surfing the waves to the serene beauty of the forests. I hope this series inspires people to explore Australia and experience the wonder of ‘The Land Down Under’ themselves,” said Ayush Mehra.

  • Chariot Productions Media and Digitek partner with Janhvi Kapoor & Rohit Saraf

    Chariot Productions Media and Digitek partner with Janhvi Kapoor & Rohit Saraf

    Mumbai: Digitek has announced its latest collaboration with actors Janhvi Kapoor and Rohit Suresh Saraf. This partnership marks a significant milestone for Digitek as it continues to expand its footprint in the realm of content creation and professional photography and videography equipment.

    “We are delighted to welcome Janhvi and Rohit to the Digitek family,” said Digitek Managing director Amit Kumar Saraff. “Their dynamic energy and widespread influence perfectly align with our brand’s vision. This association underscores our commitment to innovation and engaging meaningfully with our audience.”

    Chariot Productions Media Pvt Ltd (the agency facilitating this collaboration) director Rajesh Joshi added, “As the media partner for Digitek, we recognise the dynamic presence and widespread appeal that Janhvi and Rohit bring. Their alignment with Digitek’s brand values and vision will enhance our efforts to merge cutting-edge technology with the vibrant world of entertainment. We eagerly anticipate blending these elements to create something truly remarkable.”

    The collaboration will officially commence during the upcoming festival season, featuring a series of innovative and engaging campaigns designed to captivate and inspire audiences.

  • The pop-up club night experience Technosphere lands in Bengaluru

    The pop-up club night experience Technosphere lands in Bengaluru

    Mumbai: The pulse of Bengaluru is set to race as Spacebound brings its pop-up club night, Technosphere, to the city on 21 September 2024, at the Manpho Convention Centre. This underground techno music event will electrify the city, transforming Bengaluru’s nightlife with a stellar lineup of artists ready to take the stage and elevate the vibe to new heights.

    Technosphere isn’t just a club night; it’s a full-blown techno revolution! With cutting-edge production, an awe-inspiring centre stage, jaw-dropping special effects and the largest indoor club venue you’ve ever witnessed, this event is set to redefine the underground music scene. Expect immersive visuals, where beats collide with lights, creating an immersive atmosphere that will leave attendees spellbound. This edition of Technosphere will feature a stellar lineup of techno powerhouses: Anyasa, Sequ3l, Realmm and Sharnea.

    Anyasa, the alter ego of Anish Sood, has been a trailblazer in the Indian electronic music landscape. His innovative fusion of Indian classical music with deep, melodic house has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Known for tracks like ‘Rasiya’ and ‘Naina’, Anyasa brings a distinct sound that beautifully bridges the gap between traditional and modern music, making each of his sets a unique auditory experience.

    Anyasa added, “Get ready, Bengaluru – let’s create some magic together at Technosphere! As the first IP in India that has production with a centre rotating stage, Technosphere is the ultimate playground for artists like myself. I can’t wait to connect with the dynamic crowd in a city that’s always ready to groove.”

    Sequ3l is no stranger to the global electronic music community. With his signature blend of progressive house and techno, he has captivated audiences worldwide. His track ‘Every Goodbye’ topped the Beatport charts and his music has been featured by industry heavyweights like Hernan Cattaneo and Nick Warren. Sequ3l’s ability to weave intricate melodies with powerful bass lines creates an immersive experience that resonates deeply with his listeners.

    Realmm, the emerging star of the Indian electronic music scene, is quickly making a name for himself with his deep, groovy soundscapes. His music, characterized by hypnotic rhythms and lush textures, has found a home in some of the most prestigious underground labels. Realmm’s sets are a journey into the depths of electronic music, with a focus on creating a vibe that is both captivating and dance-inducing.

    Realmm added, “Playing at Technosphere for the first time and I’m really excited for the new setup. Really looking forward to it!”

    Sharnea, the progressive melodic techno sensation from Bengaluru, has rapidly ascended to become one of the most sought-after DJs in the industry. With a magnetic stage presence and electrifying sets, Sharnea has headlined some of the most prestigious music festivals across the globe, including some of the biggest international festivals in the world. Her performances, known for seamlessly blending genres, have earned her accolades such as the Best New DJ award at the International Dance Music Awards and a spot on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list.

    Spacebound CEO  Karan Singh said, “We’re absolutely stoked to bring Technosphere to Bengaluru after a successful night in Mumbai earlier this year. It’s a movement for techno enthusiasts to unite, explore new sounds and create unforgettable memories with the biggest pop-up club night experience ever.”

    After the massive success of its first edition, Technosphere is back and bigger than ever, ready to redefine the techno experience and create the largest club night in India! It promises an unparalleled clubbing experience, with each artist curating a set that showcases their signature style while pushing the boundaries of electronic music. Imagine a stage so close you can almost touch the energy, paired with the largest indoor venue for a club night in India. The event will feature mesmerising lighting, VIP tables right next to the action and an elevated platform for a truly unforgettable view, all designed to pull you into an immersive world of music and visuals.

    As Technsophere continues to bring world-class experiences to cities across India, Bengaluru is set to be the next hotspot for music lovers to immerse themselves in a night of pure sonic bliss.

  • The rise of social commerce: Blending shopping with social media

    The rise of social commerce: Blending shopping with social media

    Mumbai: In today’s fast-paced world, retail is undergoing a major shift, and it’s all thanks to social commerce—a game-changer that’s blending online shopping with our favorite social media platforms. This new way of shopping isn’t just a passing trend; it’s transforming how we discover, connect with, and buy from brands, all while scrolling through our feeds.

    What Exactly is Social Commerce?

    Social commerce takes the convenience of online shopping and brings it directly into social media apps. Instead of heading to a separate website to shop, you can now browse, interact with, and buy products without leaving platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest. The result? A more engaging, streamlined shopping experience that fits seamlessly into the social media routine many of us already have. It’s like e-commerce and social media had a baby—making shopping smoother and more connected to everyday life.

    A Quick Look Back: When E-commerce Met Social Media

    E-commerce has been around since the ’90s with pioneers like Amazon and eBay leading the way. At the same time, social media took off in the early 2000s as platforms like Facebook and Instagram changed how we connect. Over time, brands began to see the potential of these platforms for engaging with customers, and that’s when the magic started. What began with simple product tags on Instagram posts has now evolved into an entire ecosystem—complete with live shopping events, in-app checkouts, and influencer collaborations. The pandemic only sped up this trend, with many of us turning to online platforms for shopping when stores closed their doors.

    The Stats Speak for Themselves

    Social commerce is on the rise, and the numbers are impressive. By 2026, it’s expected to be a $2.9 trillion market globally. Over half of social media users already use these platforms to research products before they buy, and in 2023, social commerce accounted for 13% of all U.S. e-commerce sales. It’s clear—social commerce isn’t just here to stay; it’s reshaping the future of retail.

    The Power Players of Social Commerce

    Several social media platforms are leading this charge, each offering unique features to make shopping more fun and convenient:

    • Facebook and Instagram: These platforms let businesses set up virtual storefronts, making it easy to shop directly from product tags in posts and stories.
    • TikTok: Known for its viral trends and influencer-driven content, TikTok now lets users buy products directly from shoppable videos.
    • Pinterest: This visual discovery platform has leaned into social commerce with shoppable pins, helping users explore and purchase products they find inspiring.
    • Snapchat: With its augmented reality (AR) features, Snapchat takes shopping to the next level, letting users virtually try on products before they buy.

    Why Influencers Are Crucial

    Influencers are at the heart of social commerce. Their genuine, relatable content makes them trusted sources for product recommendations. Whether they’re well-known or micro-influencers with smaller, niche followings, their impact on purchasing decisions is huge. Partnering with influencers allows brands to tap into their loyal communities, building trust and driving sales.

    The Benefits for Businesses

    Social commerce offers some big perks for businesses:

    • Better Customer Engagement: It allows brands to connect with their audience on a more personal level, creating a more interactive experience.
    • Valuable Data: Social platforms offer insights into consumer behavior, helping businesses fine-tune their strategies.
    • Boosted Sales: The convenience of in-app shopping can drive higher conversion rates and overall sales.

    The Challenges Ahead

    While social commerce offers a lot of opportunities, it’s not without its challenges. Brands need to be mindful of data privacy and security regulations while managing customer data on social platforms. Additionally, relying too much on social media for sales can be risky due to algorithm changes that can affect visibility. Finally, standing out in the crowded world of social media requires businesses to produce consistent, high-quality content that captures attention.

    What’s Next for Social Commerce?

    As this space continues to grow, a few trends are set to shape its future:

    • AI and AR: From personalized recommendations to virtual try-ons, these technologies are making social commerce more interactive.
    • The Metaverse: Virtual environments are creating new opportunities for social commerce, with brands exploring virtual storefronts and digital goods.
    • Going Global: Social commerce is breaking down international barriers, allowing businesses to reach new audiences without the need for physical stores.

    Conclusion: The Future of Retail is Social

    The future of retail is deeply connected to social media. As the lines between content and commerce blur, brands have a unique opportunity to create more immersive, engaging shopping experiences. To thrive in this new landscape, businesses need to embrace social commerce while balancing it with traditional e-commerce strategies. The future of shopping is social, and it’s already here.

  • Danish Sood reflects on Gurbaaz’s journey in Amazon miniTV’s Naam Namak Nishan

    Danish Sood reflects on Gurbaaz’s journey in Amazon miniTV’s Naam Namak Nishan

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service, premiered its patriotic drama series Naam Namak Nishan. The series follows young cadets as they face challenges and overcome obstacles to become Indian soldiers at Officers Training Academy, Chennai. The series embodies the spirit and unity of the Indian Armed Forces, who serve the nation. Produced by Juggernaut Studios, Naam Namak Nishan features Varun Sood, Helly Shah, Roshni Walia, and Danish Sood in pivotal roles.

    Danish Sood, who portrays Gurbaaz Singh, a lower-middle-class boy, shares insights about his character. He said, “Gurbaaz is a carefree, middle-class boy with big dreams of joining the Indian Army. His innocent outlook on life leads him on a journey of self-discovery, where he learns to embrace his identity through self-love and humor. Along the way, he gains a better understanding of himself, the people around him, and figures out how he must navigate life as he matures.”

    Naam Namak Nishan is now streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV.

  • Pt. Bhavdeep Jaipurwale releases ‘Dil Pareshan Karta Hai’ album

    Pt. Bhavdeep Jaipurwale releases ‘Dil Pareshan Karta Hai’ album

    Mumbai: Coming from a renowned family of musical legends, Pt. Bhavdeep Jaipurwale has made a mark in Bollywood with hit songs such as ‘Rangilo Mharo Dholna,’ ‘Pyar Kiya Toh Nibhana,’ ‘Chhota Bachcha,’ ‘Jhanjhariya,’ ‘Aur Ahista Kije Baatein,’ and ‘Aisa Koi Zindagi Se.’ He has now released a new ghazal album titled ‘Dil Pareshan Karta Hai.’

    This album showcases his commitment to Hindustani classical music and includes collaborations with legendary poet and lyricist Gulzar and singer Sumeet Tappoo. Each track in ‘Dil Pareshan Karta Hai’ combines poetry with melody, merging rich lyrics and tunes that reflect the classical roots of Indian music while also embracing contemporary elements.

    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_nqVOcRzxnfqzVP16sr3leQCC-x8lqNAfM

    His voice, celebrated for its range across diverse styles such as Khayal, Thumri, Tappa, Bhajan, and Ghazal, shines brightly in this new album. This album showcases versatility and mastery of the art in that he can traverse such varied musical landscapes with ease and grace.

    Pt. Bhavdeep Jaipurwale is not just a performer; he is also a mentor to many of today’s most successful artists. He has guided the careers of celebrities like Madhuri Dixit Nene, Falguni Pathak, Shaan, Abhijeet Sawant, Neeti Mohan, Juhi Chawla Mehta, Harshdeep Kaur, and his son, Sudeep Jaipurwale.

    His teaching blends traditional techniques with modern methods, preserving Hindustani classical music while allowing students to develop their own styles.

    ‘Dil Pareshan Karta Hai’ is more than just an album; it reflects Jaipurwale’s dedication to maintaining and evolving Hindustani classical music. Through this album, he connects the classical and contemporary worlds, offering a listening experience that is both enduring and current. The album’s release marks an important moment in Indian music, contributing to Jaipurwale’s long-standing influence and legacy in the field.

  • Esports will be new path to Olympic glory after Paris campaign

    Esports will be new path to Olympic glory after Paris campaign

    Mumbai: Esports moved from being just a hobby or leisure activity after gaining official recognition as a multi-sport event by the Government of India in December 2022. The sport has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sectors in India, attracting millions of players and viewers and generating significant revenue.

    Esports has also gained acceptance in prestigious international competitions, where Indian athletes not only participated but made a significant impact. In a country still finding its place on the global stage, securing a bronze medal in DOTA 2 at the Commonwealth Esports Championships and reaching the quarterfinals to secure a fifth-place finish in League of Legends at the Asian Games against top teams is a notable achievement.

    Now, India has the opportunity to build on this success at the Olympic level. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently entered into a 12-year partnership with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia, announcing that the inaugural Olympic Esports Games will be held in 2025.

    As the nation observes National Sports Day to honour hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and highlight the importance of participation in sports, it is essential to recognize the modern-day discipline of esports. Now part of the Olympics, it has the potential to produce its heroes who can lead India to glory on the global stage.

    India’s performance at the Paris Olympics, where the country secured six medals, highlighted its strength in traditional sports. The upcoming Olympic Esports Games in 2025 offer Indian athletes a fresh chance to excel and bring home glory in the virtual arena.

    While the specific game titles are yet to be confirmed, Indian players have already shown their strength in various national and international competitions.

    The recently concluded Android Battlegrounds Mobile India Masters Series (BGMS) season 3 and the Valorant Challengers South Asia Split have showcased fierce competition among the country’s top esports teams. These tournaments, organised by NODWIN Gaming provide the ideal stage and high-pressure environment for India’s athletes to hone their skills and prepare for major international multi-sport competitions.

    “We are proud to provide a platform for talented esports athletes to shine through our large format IPs like BGMS and grassroots initiatives like the OMEN Valorant Campus Quest. These events feature open-for-all qualifiers, where aspiring players can compete with established teams, and offer significant prize pools that empower gamers to pursue their dreams. By providing a pathway from recreational gaming to a career in esports, NODWIN Gaming is committed to supporting Indian gamers to succeed locally and globally,” said NODWIN Gaming Co-founder and MD, Akshat Rathee.

    SuperGaming, a game developer based in Pune, has also played a crucial role in building a sustainable ecosystem for Indian esports by organizing the nationwide grassroots tournament, Indus Inferno. Their upcoming game, Indus Battle Royale, which recently entered open beta, provides players with the opportunity to sharpen their esports skills in a game deeply rooted in Indian culture.

    “Building world-class games requires teamwork, passion, and a belief in what is possible. With Indus, we’re not just creating a game; we are creating a platform for players to hone their skills, compete at a global level, and take pride in something made right here in India. As we set the stage for the next generation of esports athletes, we’re confident that esports in India will continue to rise and become a mainstream sport,” noted SuperGaming co-founder and CEO, Roby John.

    As new talent and innovative games emerge, equipping athletes with the right tools is crucial. CyberPowerPC, a US-based gaming PC brand that recently entered the Indian market, aims to equip Indian gamers with high-quality custom and pre-built gaming PCs to help them achieve their goals.

    “By merging the intensity and discipline of traditional sports with technology, esports has redefined competitive sports in the modern era. Success in esports relies as much on skill as it does on having the right tools to perform at the highest level. Therefore, it is essential that Indian gamers have access to the latest technology to break through barriers in esports. That is why we are committed to providing Indian gamers with the best hardware to pursue their ambitions. India has already made waves on the international stage in PC titles like DOTA 2 and League of Legends, and we anticipate similar success, potentially at the Olympic Esports Games,” commented CyberPowerPC India, chief operating officer, Vishal Parekh.

  • We are the only news network in India with global ambition: Mukesh Ambani

    We are the only news network in India with global ambition: Mukesh Ambani

    Mumbai: At the 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Reliance Industries, Chairman Mukesh Ambani highlighted the performance and strategic growth of Network18’s news business.

    As part of his address, Ambani said, “Our News business is reaching new heights. This is due to our focus on high-quality journalism. We lead in both general and business news. We are the only network in India with global ambitions. News18 was India’s top TV network for election news. On June 4, the counting day, its reach was nearly 50% higher than the IPL final.

    “CNBC-TV18 had an 82% viewership share on the Budget Day. This is in line with its weekly performance. CNN-News18 often outperforms all other channels combined. It has been number one for over two years,” he added.

    Elaborating on Network18’s digital platforms, Ambani said, “Moneycontrol is transforming into an advanced fintech provider of data and analytics for users in India and beyond. It is unmatched in speed and accuracy. It has 70 million unique visitors. Our premium service, MC Pro, now has over 8,50,000 paid subscribers. This makes it a Top-10 subscription site globally and the largest in India.

    “Firstpost is becoming a global news powerhouse. Its subscriber base has more than doubled in the last 12 months. In July, Firstpost recorded 127 million video views. This ranks it sixth among global peers. Firstpost is recruiting top talent to become the definitive global news destination from India.”

    “I believe it is time for India, as the world’s most populous nation, to assert its voice and gain its rightful space in the influential global media,” added Ambani.