Mumbai: From Mashle_Magic and Muscles to Haikyuu and more, Crunchyroll brings its latest anime shows in Indian dubbed versions, this summer.
Mashle_Magic and Muscles season one
When: 17 May 2024 at 9:00 amIST (full batch)
Dubs: Tamil & Telugu
This is a world of magic. This is a world in which magic is casually used by everyone. In a deep, dark forest in this world of magic, there is a boy who is singlemindedly working out. His name is Mash Burnedead, and he has a secret. He can’t use magic. All he wanted was to live a quiet life with his family, but people suddenly start trying to kill him one day and he somehow finds himself enrolled in Magic School. There, he sets his sights on becoming a “Divine Visionary,” the elite of the elite. Will his ripped muscles work against the best and brightest of the wizarding world? The curtain rises on this off-kilter magical fantasy in which the power of being jacked crushes any spell!
Dr.Stone season one
When: 29 May 2024 at 10:30 am IST (Batch – 1 to 12 episodes)
26 June 2024 at 10:30 am IST (Batch – 13 to 24 episodes)
Dubs: Hindi, Tamil & Telugu
Several thousand years after a mysterious phenomenon that turns all of humanity to stone, the extraordinarily intelligent, science-driven boy, Senku Ishigami, awakens. Facing a world of stone and the total collapse of civilization, Senku makes up his mind to use science to rebuild the world. Starting with his super strong childhood friend Taiju Oki, who awakened at the same time, they will begin to rebuild civilization from nothing… Depicting two million years of scientific history from the Stone Age to present day, the unprecedented crafting adventure story is about to begin!
Log Horizon season two
When: 4 June 2024 at 09:30 am IST (weekly launch)
Dubs: Hindi
One day, while playing the online game Elder Tales, 30,000 players suddenly find themselves trapped in another world. There, eight-year veteran gamer Shiroe also gets left behind. The trapped players are still alive, but they remain in combat with the monsters. The players don’t understand what has happened to them, and they flee to Akiba, the largest city in Tokyo, where they are thrown into chaos. Once proud of his loner lifestyle, Shiroe forms a guild called Log Horizon with his old friend Naotsugu, female assassin Akatsuki and others.
Haikyuu season one
When: 6 June 2024 at 09:30 am IST (Batch – 1 to 12 episodes)
Dubs: Hindi, Tamil & Telugu
Based off of the original Weekly Shonen Jump manga series from Haruichi Furudate, Haikyu!! is a slice-of-life sports anime revolving around Shoyo Hinata’s love of volleyball. Inspired by a small-statured pro volleyball player, Hinata creates a volleyball team in his last year of middle school. Unfortunately, the team is matched up against the “King of the Court” Tobio Kageyama’s team in their first tournament and inevitably lose. After the crushing defeat, Hinata vows to surpass Kageyama After entering high school, Hinata joins the volleyball team only to find that Tobio has also joined.
Blue Lock season one
When: 12 June, 2024 at 10:30 am IST (Full Batch – Part 1)
Dubs: Hindi, Tamil & Telugu
Japan’s desire for World Cup glory leads the Japanese Football Association to launch a new rigorous training program to find the national team’s next striker. Three hundred high school players are pitted against each other for the position, but only one will come out on top. Who among them will be the striker to usher in a new era of Japanese soccer?
Tsukimichi – Moonlit Fantasy season one
When: 19 June, 2024 at 11:30 pm IST (Full Batch)
Dubs: Hindi, Tamil & Telugu
Makoto Misumi was just an average teenager who suddenly was summoned to another world as a “hero.” But the goddess of this world called him ugly and took his hero status away from him, then sent him to the ends of the world. He meets dragons, spiders, orcs, dwarves, and many other non-human races in the wastelands. Makoto manages to show promise in the use of magic and fighting, which he wouldn’t have been able to do in his former world. He has numerous encounters, but will he be able to survive this new world? A fantasy where a guy who gods and humanity had abandoned tries to reset his life in this new world is about to begin!
Radiant season two
When: 26 June 2024 at 12:00 pm IST (Full Batch)
Dubs: Tamil & Telugu
Seth dreams of being a great sorcerer. He wants to be powerful and defeat the Némésis, monsters that come down from the sky. But his eagerness constantly gets him into trouble. He can’t seem to avoid angering the villagers and even his guardian, Alma. One day, an enormous Némésis really attacks the village! Determined to save the world, Seth embarks on a journey in search for the “Radiant,” the legendary lair of the Némésis. Making new friends, fighting tough enemies, and confronting hardships, Seth’s adventure begins!
Mumbai: This year, as India’s beloved author Ruskin Bond celebrates his 90th birthday, it’s impossible not to reminisce about our childhood, and take a journey back in time thinking about those cherished moments spent reading his stories. His books are like windows to picturesque landscapes with vivid details of the birds chirping, water gurgling and animals roaming in their natural habitat, where every page held a new adventure and every character felt like an old friend!
For avid fans of Ruskin Bond, excited about introducing these priceless gems to their own children here’s some good news – This summer, with Audible’s special limited-period offer, his timeless tales are now easily accessible, at just Rs 69 each. Could there be a better way to enjoy family time and indulge in some screen free entertainment with your children?
Sharing his excitement, Ruskin Bond said, “Audible is truly providing a great service to users and I hope to see people listening to audiobooks extensively during the summer break. It excites me to know that many of my books and stories are accessible on Audible.in and I am confident that children will enjoy listening to these audiobooks on the service during their summer vacation.”
Buckle up for a magical journey through twenty-five of Ruskin Bond’s timeless tales! This audiobook collection is a treasure trove of heartwarming adventures, featuring unforgettable characters like Rusty and his quirky family. With vivid narration that brings Bond’s charming illustrations to life, this is a must-have for every young listener.
Written by: Ruskin Bond; narrated by: Ranvijay Pratap Singh
This is a compilation of stories based on the hinterland’s railway stations. From the enchanting moment of a dragon-like locomotive emerging from its cavern to the quaint encounters of passengers, his stories are sure to transport you into a world where the mundane meets the magical. Tune in and join him on an unforgettable expedition through the soul of the Indian hinterland.
Hidden in the shadowy recesses of a cafe, the perfect murder unfolds! However, executing the perfect crime is far from effortless. Dive into this audiobook and journey through a collection of mysterious tales, where each story challenges you to unravel motives, alibis, and the elusive identity of the culprit. With twists and turns, it promises an enthralling experience for mystery enthusiasts keen on testing their wits against the master of the genre.
Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Abhishek Sharma
In ‘The Trees of Dehra,’ Ruskin Bond weaves a heartfelt narrative around the silent guardians of our world, the trees. From the majestic willows, who do more than ‘weep,’ to the godlike deodars aspiring to touch the heavens, he brings these gentle giants to life with touching tales. Through lyrical prose and compelling anecdotes, he invites us to reconsider the profound impact of these silent chroniclers on our past, present, and future.
In a twist of fate, an itinerant writer finds himself drawn to the village of Fosterganj, guided by a mysterious force he cannot comprehend. As he wanders through the bustling bazaar on a serene May morning, he stumbles upon tales waiting to be unravelled. Join him on a journey through the enigmatic streets of Fosterganj, where every encounter holds a secret waiting to be discovered.
Written by: Ruskin Bond; narrated by: Adnan Kapadia
This audiobook takes you on a journey where whimsical characters like Tutu the monkey and mischievous Pret come to life. From encounters with playful pythons to unexpected meetings with ghosts, each story in this collection promises adventure. Join Ruskin Bond’s stories as he unveils a world brimming with wonder and excitement for readers of all ages.
Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Manisha Sethi
Delight in tales where friendship, love, and adventure intertwine, introducing you to unforgettable characters like Rusty, and the courageous Bina facing down a leopard on her way to school. Featuring beloved classics such as ‘The Girl on the Train’ and ‘The Blue Umbrella,’ this collection promises moments that are funny, touching, and nostalgic, making it a must-listen for children and adults alike.
Ruskin Bond shares delightful sketches of his beloved hometown, narrating his adventures to and from Mussoorie, intertwined with daily scandals of the hill town’s life. Filled with humour and keen observations of ordinary yet essential details, this collection paints a vivid picture of the geographic, social, and cultural fabric of Mussoorie, making it a memorable ode to the writer’s surroundings and the influence it laid on his life and work.
Written by: Ruskin Bond; narrated by: Manisha Sethi
This audiobook beckons you with tales of love’s myriad shades, from fleeting encounters to profound connections. Through Ruskin Bond’s classic stories like ‘The Eyes Have It’ and ‘The Girl from Copenhagen’, this audiobook tenderly explores and encapsulates the kaleidoscope of emotions that define the human heart.
Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Adnan Kapadia
Join the author as he recalls his childhood spent listening to the enchanting stories spun by Jim Corbett’s cook, Mehmoud, while indulging in mouth-watering delicacies. From man-eating tigers to mischievous Maharajas, this audiobook offers an entertaining glimpse into the adventures of yesteryears.
Mumbai: The second season of ‘Duologue with Barun Das’, the acclaimed series known for its captivating conversations with legendary personalities, has premiered on India’s only 24×7 English news CTV, News9 Live. Having released on India’s first news OTT – News9 Plus on the 19 February 2024, the first five episodes of season two, presented by Radico Khaitan, will be telecast on News9 Live every Saturday at 9 pm IST starting the 18 May 2024, with repeats to be screened every Sunday at 9 am, 2 pm and 10 pm.
Hosted by the media legend and TV9 Network MD & CEO Barun Das, Duologue Season two continues its legacy of inviting iconic figures from various walks of life for insightful discussions, building on the success of its first season, which garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards – including the prestigious Editorial Choice – Most Cerebral Talk Show award at the News Television Awards 2023.
The inaugural season featured guests who are legends in their respective fields, such as former UK Prime Minister and current Foreign Affairs Minister David Cameron, ZEE founder Dr. Subhash Chandra, spiritual guru Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, former Indian women’s cricket captain Mithali Raj, IT tycoon NR Narayana Murthy, Sudha Murty, and many more. Their enlightening conversations set the stage for Duologue’s reputation as a platform for meaningful discourse and intellectual exchange.
Duologue Season 2’s CTV telecast boasts an equally impressive lineup of luminaries, including:
Episode one: Allu Arjun, starring the award-winning Telugu film star celebrated as one of the most versatile actors in the Indian film industry, on 18 May 2024.
Episode two: Oliver Kahn, featuring the legendary goalkeeper, Golden Ball winner and former Bayern CEO, on 25 May 2024.
Episode three: Deepak Chopra, with the renowned spiritual leader and prolific author known for his profound insights on health and well-being, on 2 June 2024.
Episode four: Jeev Milkha Singh, featuring the distinguished golfer widely recognised as being one of India’s best, on 9 June 2024.
Episode five: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, casting the spotlight on the filmmaker renowned for his socially relevant filmography including Rang de Basanti, on 16 June 2024.
Commenting on the second season, Barun Das expressed his excitement, stating, “Duologue Season 2 is a testament to the power of conversations that may change lives. Where Season 1 was more about the people, Season 2 is more about ideas – an exchange of philosophies and worldviews. I am thrilled to continue this journey of enlightenment and inspiration, inviting viewers to join us on News9 Live for an unforgettable experience.”
Each episode of Duologue season two sets up a captivating journey, as Barun Das engages in free-flowing conversations with these iconic personalities. From exploring their achievements and challenges to delving into their philosophies and visions, ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ Season 2 offers viewers an immersive experience like never before.
“The thought-provoking conversations on Duologue with Barun Das offer Radico Khaitan a valuable opportunity to connect with a diverse audience. Engaging in meaningful discussions enhances our brand visibility and exemplifies our values, creating a positive brand association. This exposure contributes to increased brand recognition, loyalty, and consumer trust, fortifying Radico Khaitan’s reputation and market presence. We are honoured to collaborate with the insightful Barun Das, whose dynamic style adds an extra layer of charm to this meaningful partnership”, said the presenting sponsor Radico Khaitan’s COO Amar Sinha.
Mumbai: Are you ready to have your cooking skills diced, sliced and chopped by the Malaysian comedian Nigel Ng, aka Uncle Roger? BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow, is bringing the popular internet sensation to Delhi-NCR for the India leg of The Haiyaa World Tour, in association with Live Nation.
The 33-year-old comedian, best known for his online persona Uncle Roger, has entertained audiences across the globe including sold-out shows in New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, Jakarta, Singapore and more with his The Haiyaa World Tour, and now finally makes his way to India to meet his Indian nieces and nephews, as he calls his fans! Get your MSG and rice cooker ready, because you’re about to get a taste of the global phenomenon who can show you the right way to make fried rice! Comedy fans across the country, gear up for an uproarious night as Ng is set to bring his unique blend of wit, observational comedy and cultural commentary to captivate audiences in India for the first time.
Uncle Roger is bringing his comedic chops (and unsolicited opinions) to Asia and India is on his list! The India leg of the tour will serve audiences an incredible show on 21 September 2024 at 7:30 pm at Bharat Mandapam, IECC, Delhi-NCR. Tickets are now live on BookMyShow, starting at Rs. 1500/-. Get ready for Ng’s witty humour and his ability to connect with the audience.
Excited for his debut show in India, Nigel Ng commented, “Uncle Roger and I are beyond thrilled to bring The Haiyaa World Tour to India. We’ve seen phenomenal support from Indian nieces and nephews, and cannot wait to finally meet everyone in person. Wear orange and get ready for some roasting!”
BookMyShow chief of business – live events Owen Roncon said, “Laughter is a universal language and we’ve seen audiences enjoy stand-up comedy by both Indian and international comedians with houseful shows, and Nigel Ng’s The Haiyaa World Tour will be no different. There’s a strong sense of relatability in his Asian anecdotes that will surely have the audience in splits. The stand-up comedy genre has seen a seismic shift over the last few years in India, and in fact, international artists are increasingly recognising a strong potential from the Indian market. We’re excited to bring the talented internet sensation, with his quirky one-liners and funny audience digs, to perform live in India!”
Nigel Ng’s The Haiyaa Tour promises to be a side-splitting evening filled with uncle Roger’s snarky remarks in the first half of the show, followed by Ng’s trademark humour, which effortlessly blends his Malaysian-Chinese heritage with universal themes and experiences. From hilarious anecdotes about family dynamics to insightful observations on modern life, Nigel Ng’s comedic prowess has garnered him a massive following worldwide, and his India tour is expected to be no exception. The tour marks another milestone in Ng’s remarkable career, as he continues to traverse borders and connect with audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Nigel Ng rose to viral fame in mid-2020 with the introduction of his Internet alter ego, a grouchy middle-aged bloke with a strong Cantonese accent and unapologetic pride in Asian culture. The YouTube clip of Uncle Roger’s harsh but hilarious critique of videos as people prepared egg fried rice resonated with audiences in Asia and the rest of the world and his first video has since received over 37 million views.
Apart from performing his Uncle Roger sketch, Ng, who’s now based in London, also makes appearances on BBC and hosts comedy podcast Rice to Meet You with Chinese-born/Swedish-based stand-up comic Evelyn Mok aka Aunty Helen.
As a stand-up, Nigel has been nominated for the Best Newcomer Award for his sold-out show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2019 and sold out several runs throughout the UK and Europe. His TV credits include Comedy Central’s Stand Up Central and Roast Battle, BBC Two’s Mock The Week, and ITV’s Jonathan Ross Comedy Club.
Mumbai: As Indian films make waves across the globe and this year at Cannes with a film in each section of the festival, India’s Gubbara Entertainment is geared towards further championing Indian storytelling.
A step towards this direction, Gubbara Entertainment founder & producer Dimpy Agrawal announced a groundbreaking $1 million script development fund aimed at empowering Indian feature filmmakers. The announcement was made at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival, where she and her team are additionally exploring co-productions across a slate developed by them.
Reaffirming Gubbara Entertainment’s dedication to nurturing creativity and innovation in Indian cinema, Agrawal stated, “At Gubbara Entertainment, we recognise the transformative influence of storytelling. Our mission with this development fund is to champion diverse voices and narratives in cinema, resonating locally and globally. As young members of the film fraternity, we were eager to be the change we aspire to see, thus giving birth to the idea of this development fund.”
This significant move heralds a pivotal moment for the Indian film industry, establishing it as one of the few with a dedicated development fund for filmmakers. The fund is designed to provide crucial support to both emerging and established talent, offering financial assistance to develop compelling narratives that have the potential to captivate audiences worldwide.
In addition to launching the dedicated development fund, Gubbara Entertainment has developed a robust slate of long-form scripted and unscripted content.
“We have vigorously been building our slate and are excited to put them on floors soon. In Cannes, we are looking to move forward with our conversations on a few co-productions currently under discussion,” added Agrawal.
Mumbai: In the bustling realm of digital media, two formidable players stand out: PunToon Kids and VidUnit Media Pvt. Ltd. Each entity commands its domain within the digital landscape, captivating audiences and brands alike with their unique offerings.
PunToon Kids, founded with a vision to engage and educate young minds, has become a household name in children’s content. Through its vibrant YouTube network, featuring beloved characters Gattu and Chinki, PunToon Kids seamlessly blends entertainment with learning, fostering values and cultural appreciation among children aged 3 to 8.
On the other end, VidUnit Media Pvt. Ltd. emerges as a trailblazer in the realm of influencer marketing, harnessing the power of multilingualism to connect brands with diverse audiences across India. With its headquarters in Mumbai, VidUnit has redefined brand management through a data-driven approach and a keen understanding of audience demographics.
Delving into the intricacies of VidUnit’s methodology unveils a meticulous blend of technology and human expertise. From selecting influencers to crafting bespoke campaigns, VidUnit navigates the dynamic landscape of digital marketing with finesse, ensuring that each collaboration resonates authentically with its target audience.
Indiantelevision caught up with VidUnit founder Sourabh Kumar to explore its unique strategies, successful collaborations, and unwavering commitment to driving meaningful outcomes for brands and creators alike. From captivating campaigns to insightful analytics, VidUnit epitomises excellence in multilingual influencer marketing, shaping the future of digital engagement.
Edited excerpt
On VidUnit ensuring a comprehensive understanding of audience demographics and engagement metrics
We ensure a comprehensive understanding of audience demographics and engagement metrics through two steps. First, we utilise an in-house tool that we’ve developed. Second, our team scrutinises the shortlisted profiles, analysing factors such as comments, likes vs. views, subscriber vs. views ratio, and more. We have a dedicated team that focuses on examining creators’ demographics and engagement, not solely through marketing tools, but by actually analysing each profile. This involves reading comments on their latest reels, determining when they last collaborated with a brand, evaluating the performance of specific videos, and so forth.
On the process of selecting and collaborating with the 500 celebrities and key opinion leaders (KOLs) across various industries
The first step is to select influencers and celebrities based on various metrics such as the type of content they create, their target audience, engagement ratio, likes/views ratio, and the appeal of their content, among others. Following that, we review each creator once again with team members who are experts in specific subjects like fashion, education, tech, and so on, ensuring alignment with the brand’s objectives. If necessary, we also provide one or two lines explaining why we suggest these creators and their rationale. Once the team is convinced that a particular creator or celebrity aligns with the brand, it becomes easier to convince the brand as well
On challenges, if any, does VidUnit face in catering to such a diverse audience base
VidUnit operates as an agency in 13 different languages and deals with creators from various backgrounds and cultures on a daily basis. Since we work with numerous creators across the country, we encounter some cultural and regional differences that we must eventually address.
For example, in Odia culture, one might perceive certain content as less visually appealing, yet it may resonate well within that particular region. Initially, this posed a challenge for us. However, with growing experience and an expanded team dedicated to specific regions, it has now become one of our strengths.
On VidUnit ensuring that each campaign aligns with the brand’s objectives and target audience
We provide clients with a brief template that we’ve developed over years of experience. This template addresses all the fundamental queries and concerns necessary for us to understand the brand’s requirements.
Understanding the brand’s brief, objectives, and brainstorming ideas and strategies as a team is our forte. Collaboration allows us to generate ideas collectively, recognising that input from six people is always better than one, isn’t it? During our discussions, we ensure to address basic questions such as:
1 Are we clear on the brand’s brief and objectives?
2 Is there anything the brand may have missed out on during the briefing call?
3 We shortlist creators who best fit the brand, providing reasons and ideas for what the influencer can bring to the table.
4 Are we paying the creator the appropriate amount? If not, what’s the best possible cost to finalise the deal?
When planning a campaign, we remain open to necessary changes during execution. After the first few videos go live, we analyse what’s working and what’s not. If something isn’t performing well, we swiftly devise alternate solutions without disrupting the campaign’s flow.
On VidUnit evaluating the success of a campaign post-execution
Based on the campaign brief from the brand, we design the campaign strategy and develop the best plan possible to achieve the desired results for the brand.
We consider two metrics to measure the success of a campaign, depending on the brand’s requirements. The first metric is an engagement-based success campaign, which relies on factors such as the reach of a particular video, the number of likes and comments received, and the quality of comments on the post. The second metric is Installs/registration campaigns, which measure the number of installs generated through a specific link mentioned in the creator’s description. This could also involve the use of a coupon code if the goal is to increase product sales.
We hold weekly discussions with the client to review the creators that have gone live during the week and assess their performance. If the performance is below expectations, we conduct a brief discussion to identify the reasons and seek solutions.
On VidUnit ensuring brand messaging integration within influencer content is seamless and effective
Once an influencer is shortlisted by the brand, we immediately conduct a brainstorming session to generate ideas on how the influencer can best promote the product.
Following this, we also engage in discussions with the creators to gather their input, aiming to collectively develop the most effective ideas while ensuring the quality of the content remains high.
Several factors are involved in this process, including ensuring that the ideas align well with the creator’s content. We study the creator’s profile to determine which videos perform best on their channel, integrating the brand or product into such videos to achieve the best possible traction.
On VidUnit ensuring efficient reach to niche audiences across the country
VidUnit, as a platform, hosts over 20,000 creators spanning various categories and regions. The platform provides us with the option to filter creators and select those that meet our requirements. Once we have an understanding of the brand’s brief and budget, we devise a plan to ensure we reach the right target audience and an optimal number of people.
For instance, if the budget is 10L, we may suggest engaging two prominent creators charging 5L each or a combination of creators whose fees collectively amount to 10L. This approach ensures the brand reaches as many people as possible. If we don’t achieve the desired views from a particular creator, we may request additional deliverables. While creators are not obligated to comply, VidUnit as an agency endeavours to maximise their contribution to ensure the brand’s satisfaction
On the examples of successful campaigns executed in collaboration with these trusted partners
Telugu Launch on Duolingo
We launched Telugu as a language for one of the most popular language-learning applications worldwide. We worked with more than 200 YouTube creators from Telangana and AP in just one month, and the campaign was a huge success.
Dipika ki Duniya X Duolingo
Collaborated thrice in 3 years with a creator called Dipika. During each collaboration, we added an emotional touch to the integrations and discussed how learning English can genuinely transform someone’s life.
Reddit X Saiman Says
Working with Saiman was a great idea because he is an enthusiastic Reddit user himself and can talk extensively about the app. This helped us get a lot of new installs on the app since the collaboration was genuine and built trust around the brand.
Nishu Tiwari X Orient
On Republic Day 2023, Orient elegantly decorated several locations throughout India with tri-coloured lights. The idea was to visit the location, create a reel as organically as possible, and capture the lighting and décor in addition to showcasing the amazing work that Orient has done through Influencers.
3D Bear – Puntoon Kids
The brand started off with 2 videos initially as a pilot project which worked out really well. They then decided to do a long-term deal as well with a mix of pre-rolls and integrations.
On VidUnit differentiating itself from other influencer platforms, especially in terms of its multilingual capability
On VidUnit, it’s not just talents and influencers who can register; there are also agencies that register themselves on the platform, providing us with an additional push to execute campaigns with quick turnaround times (TAT).
Some agencies manage 4-5 exclusive artists, and our in-house language experts play a vital role in handling briefs from specific regions. Having worked in 13 different languages for a significant period, we have established strong relationships with artists from various regions and backgrounds, reducing our dependency on the platform
Mumbai: Jigsaw Pictures founder Rajnish Lall is pleased as punch. The former advertising professional-turned TVC and series producer’s latest production Murder in Mahim was launched on Jio Cinema on 10 May. The series has been getting good traction with most viewers binge watching all the episodes or at least four episodes at one go.
The production got the green light from Tipping Point and Voot in early 2022, and took almost two years to be completed. It’s based on journalist Jerry Pinto’s book of the same name which tracked the investigation into a bunch of gay murders in the Mumbai suburb of Mahim in the last decade just before approval for same sex relationships got the green signal from the government.
“I was attracted to it because I have an emotional attachment with Mahim. OTT has pulled off lots of thrillers and it’s a genre I love,” said Lall. “Murder in Mahim was especially interesting because of the drama and the relationships between characters. Also because of the social message it was providing about the LGBT which is still prejudiced against.”
Tipping Point – a Viacom and Jio owned studio – acquired the rights and Jigsaw came on as a producer. Along the way, it was collectively decided that Raj Acharya would be able to handle the script better than the director that was initially thought of.
“We had brushed up the script,” said Lall. “Our decision to bring in Raj proved right as he did magic with it and improved on the final product.”
The production schedule was pushed forward from April to June 2022 after the approval came through from the studio.
“That proved challenging as we had to shoot during the monsoons. And most of our filming was outdoors., which is why we had to do a lot of improvements through post and VFX,” explained Lall. “The budget increased, however, the studio compensated us for it.”
However, he is quick to appreciate the deftness of the director’s vision and approach. As well as Mark Benjamin, Anjali Bhushan and Mohan Bangera from Tipping Point and Manjit Sachdev from Voot.
“We worked well as a team. And we had a sorted director who brought out the best in two superb actors Ashutosh and Vijay Raaz as well as the rest of the supporting cast and the script. Our casting too was on the button and we shot for approximately 70 days,” revealed Lall.
According to him, what has worked well in Murder in Mahim, is the realism that the show wanted to convey. “We have not beautified or galmourised it; it is gritty as it can be,” said Lall. “The music has also been appreciated. We have a pretty decent show as everything fell into place.”
Mumbai: SoulCity, S8UL’s GTA V arm, has partnered with Rooter and Indonesia GTA V Masters Championship (IGMC) to launch the premier edition of the Indian GTA V Rumble Invitational. The tournament is set to be a defining moment for the game in India, with a novel battle royale format conceptualized by Rooter.
Designed to enhance competitiveness, the format will create opportunities for the teams to display their skills through decisive face-offs. Known for its continued support of new initiatives in the GTA V landscape, SoulCity hopes to drive this initiative to success.
The tournament will be a platform for both veteran GTA V creators & talented new entrants to compete and make a mark in the country’s GTA V scene. It will see participation from 20 teams—10 invited and 10 qualified—who will compete on the GTA V map using the innovative ‘Battleground’ concept, all vying for a total prize pool of INR 2 lakh. The open qualifiers have been scheduled for May 17-19 and May 24-26, with the playoffs set for May 31st to 2nd June. The grand finals will take place from June 7-9.
Since its inception, SoulCity has leveraged the expertise of S8UL to help grow the GTA V landscape in India. In addition to S8UL, industry veteran & SoulCity co-owner, Kumar Swetank plays a key role in executing the vision of SoulCity. With a proven track record in branding, marketing, distribution, and connections to top teams in the GTA V community, SoulCity will be pivotal in the success of this pioneering IP.
Sharing his thoughts on the tournament, Lokesh Jain aka 8Bit Goldy, co-founder of S8UL stated, “Building on the immense success of SoulCity’s star-studded server, we are thrilled to introduce the Indian GTA V Rumble Invitational. This initiative will not only showcase the remarkable talent within the Indian Esports community but it also aligns perfectly with SoulCity’s vision of expanding the GTA V community in India. By joining forces with Rooter and IGMC, we aim to create a unique gaming experience that brings out the best GTA V action while providing an opportunity for budding players to shine.”
Rooter, the country’s largest gaming and Esports content platform will be organizing and planning the Indian GTA V Rumble Invitational to ensure a seamless execution and an engaging experience for all participants.
Speaking about the GTA bottle-royale concept they’ve designed, Dipesh Agarwal, co-founder and COO, Rooter said “When it comes to gaming entertainment, GTA is a fan favourite in the country. But we believe there is a deep potential for building more interesting esports propositions around the game. With our category-defining IP, we are confident of setting a new benchmark for competitive play in GTA, while delivering top-notch gaming entertainment. We are excited to have partners like S8UL and IGMC as we get ready to deliver an unforgettable experience to fans and players alike.”
When asked, Kumar Swetank, co-owner of SoulCity, expressed his excitement about the tournament and mentioned, “Since the inception, my goal has been to provide a more enriching GTA V experience to all involved and to create new opportunities in the country. I am glad that we are taking this step forward in that direction. Looking forward to making this a smooth tournament for all teams, viewers, and fans.”
Alongside SoulCity and Rooter, Indonesia-based IGMC will be contributing to the tournament’s prominence by offering a dedicated GTA V server tailored to meet regional requirements as well as providing resources for broadcasting and advertising, along with technical support.
Grand Theft Auto V has sold over 195 million copies worldwide since its 2013 launch, according to Statista. In December 2023, its user engagement reached 30.8 million monthly active users across PCs and consoles, following the release of its highly anticipated sequel.
The ten invited teams comprising the nation’s notable GTA V streamers and servers are as follows:
– Team PitajiPlayz – Team Name: Say Less
– Team HeadFlicker – Team Name: Genz
– Team Rusherw0w – Team Name: Redline
– Team Masoom + Rebel – Team Name: Illusion
– Team Mercy + Mafia – Team Name: Contract Killers
– Team Snax + Joker – Team Name: ChaarCB
– Team Viper + Akshu – Team Name: RIP
– Team NX T8
– Team PewPew
– Team Rooter
Teams of four can register for the open qualifiers through the SoulCity server on Discord.
The exciting matches of the Indian GTA V Rumble Invitational will kick off at 6 PM, with four to six games each day. The first two matches will be streamed on both YouTube and Rooter, while the rest will be available exclusively on Rooter.
Additionally, creators exclusively associated with SoulCity will offer POV (Point of View) streams, allowing them to share their unique perspectives throughout the tournament.
Mumbai: Shikhar Dhawan, the gabbar of Indian cricket, is ready to break new ground with his debut as a host with a new chat show, ‘Dhawan Karenge’, set to premiere on 20 May on JioCinema Premium. Part of the premium plans starting at Rs 29 per month, which offers top-notch content across categories, ‘Dhawan Karenge’ will see the cricketing maestro in a new avatar, welcoming prominent guests such as Akshay Kumar, Harbhajan Singh, Taapsee Pannu, Bhuvan Bam, Rishabh Pant, amongst others for authentic and unfiltered conversations, combined with some fun game segments. The show has been curated and produced by Asia’s leading media network One Digital Entertainment.
The promo released today offers an engaging glimpse of the format of the show. From delving into the intricate lives of beloved Bollywood celebrities to shedding light on the behind-the-scenes world of cricketing legends and content creators, each episode takes place in a different intimate space that has a special significance to the featured guest. The talk show takes viewers on a journey filled with heartwarming narratives and engaging dialogues.
Sharing his excitement on his debut as a host, Shikhar Dhawan said, “Embarking on this inaugural journey with Da One Entertainment feels like stepping onto a pristine field, brimming with anticipation and thrill. Dhawan Karenge pledges to artfully fuse the essence of diverse industries like movies, sports, spirituality, and the business world, crafting a genuine and mesmerizing immersive experience. As I dive into this venture, I’m poised to bring forth my A-game, infusing the talk show with my distinct persona and energy that cricket lovers recognize. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s a personal connection with my fans, a chance to unveil facets previously unseen and foster genuine connections. Each episode will unfold like a fresh inning, with its narrative and ambience, eagerly awaiting to be shared with our viewers! I’m thrilled to collaborate with One Digital Entertainment and Jio Cinema in bringing this vision to life.”
Dhawan Karenge will also see guests dive into a plethora of interactive segments, from shayari banters to playful recreations of the iconic Dhawan pose. As Shikhar and the guests go down memory lane in each episode, they share their heartfelt stories, candid confessions, and plenty of juicy gossip. This seamless blend of entertainment and nostalgia promises an enjoyable ride for the audience.
Watch the ‘Gabbar’ in a new avatar with ‘Dhawan Karenge’, exclusively on JioCinema Premium, available at Rs. 29/month.
Mumbai: The super-entertainer app Playflix K-Drama has added another feather in its cap by winning the ‘Best App of the Year’ in the recently held Digital Media Excellence Awards 2024.
One Take Media Co, the global media production &distribution house that has launched the app is a leading contributor in bringing binge worthy Korean contents to India. And with it’s award-winning OTT App ‘Playflix K-Drama’, it brings a variety of popular Korean dramas dubbed in regional India languages like Hindi, Tamil and Telugu along with English subtitles to its Indian viewers.
A content-streaming OTT app with a subscription model, Playflix K-Drama app boosts of 10,000 hours of entertainment, 9000+ Eps. of Korean content. Shamoly Khera, Joint Managing Director, One Take Media said, “Playflix K-Drama arrives at a perfect time when the Hallyu wave has taken over the Indian subcontinent. Korean dramas have a short episode format, great production quality, award-winning actors and the production is aesthetically pleasing for a wide audience.”
Besides award-winning Korean Dramas, Playflix K-Drama has recently added new and exciting Korean dramas like Medical Top Team, The Banker, Pride & Prejudice, Lonely Enough To Love, Summer Strike, Sweet & Salty Office, The Villain Of Romance. Playflix K-Drama is available for download on the Google Play Store for Android users and the Apple Store for iOS users. For those who wish to enjoy a full-screen experience, Playflix K-Drama is also available on Amazon Fire TV.
