ITV

Category: iWorld

  • Pragati, Maahi, & Arjun to perform at Cannes Film Festival 2024

    Pragati, Maahi, & Arjun to perform at Cannes Film Festival 2024

    Mumbai: In a proud moment for India, music label Saregama’s talented trio – Pragati, Maahi, and Arjun – are set to debut and perform at the Cannes Film Festival 2024. Their performances will be a marque highlight at Cannes this year, showcasing India’s rich musical heritage on an international stage.

    The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, renowned for presenting the best in world cinema, is set to take place from 14 to 25 May in the legendary French Riviera. Amidst a handpicked lineup of critically acclaimed films and glamorously dressed renowned personalities, this year’s festival promises to be an extravaganza of talent and creativity.

    The vibrant Gen Z trio’s performances will begin at the prestigious Bharat Parv event on 16 May, hosted by the Official Indian Delegation from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and supported by Kamla Mills. Celebrities, senior officials, and esteemed film guests from the international & Indian Film industry, will be in attendance. Pragati, Maahi, and Arjun will enthral the audience with a set list that blends their originals, released earlier this year, with classic all-time favorites from Saregama’s rich catalogue.

    That’s not all! On 17 May, Saregama Talent will also take center stage with another captivating performance at the Bharat Pavilion, solidifying their global presence. Adding to the star power, the legendary Shaan will grace the stage to introduce the trio and set the scene for a dynamic show that promises to be unforgettable. The event will be filmed and broadcasted on Saregama’s YouTube page, reaching fans worldwide.

    Emphasizing on the importance and grandeur of Bharat Parv, JS (Film) & NFDC MD Prithul Kumar said, “Bharat Parv is a great platform to showcase the myraid creative opportunities and a rich bank of creative talent of India. We are immensely proud to showcase India on the global stage through the performances of Pragati, Maahi, and Arjun at the Cannes Film Festival 2024. This moment embodies our nation’s cultural pride and artistic prowess, resonating with audiences worldwide.”

    Saregama India Ltd’s SVP films and events – Siddharth Anand shared, “Seeing Pragati, Maahi, and Arjun represent India’s vibrant talent at Cannes 2024 fills us with immense pride. As an artist-first company, it’s our unwavering commitment to open doors of opportunities for our talent to shine on the global stage. This is just the beginning of their journey, and we’re excited to witness their continued success.”

    Nidarshana Gowani, wife of real estate visionary Ramesh Gowani & owner of Kamala Mills quipped, “It’s truly exhilarating to witness the vibrant cultural representation at Cannes 2024, spearheaded by Maahi, Arjun, and Pragati. I am eagerly looking forward to the mesmerizing performances and the opportunity to showcase India’s rich musical heritage with of course, a modern Gen Z touch.”

    With their unique blend of Indian roots and Gen Z flair, Pragati, Maahi, and Arjun are ready to shine at Cannes, proving that the future of Indian music is brighter than ever.

  • Experience UEFA EURO 2024 with exciting new features on Sony LIV

    Experience UEFA EURO 2024 with exciting new features on Sony LIV

    Mumbai: Sony LIV is back with the biggest celebration of football, UEFA EURO 2024, coming this June. Committed to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience for football enthusiasts, Sony LIV launches exciting, immersive features to give fans an enhanced viewing experience. Here is the glimpse of what awaits you:

    Multiple camera feeds:

    Break free from a single-angle with six different angles, tailor-made for you.

    – One primary cam for the grand and staple view 
    * Two dugout cams to get exclusive insights into behind-the-scenes glimpses from the bench

    – Two star-player cam to follow your favourite player. 
    * One tactical view to get a comprehensive overview

    Key moments:

    Catch up on live stats, lineups, play-by-play updates or key incidents with the platform’s on-demand highlights feature, seamlessly integrating with the live action.

    Multilingual coverage:

    For all the fans watching across the country, we bring you the game in your preferred languages – English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali.

    With UEFA EURO 2024 just around the corner—Sony LIV brings you an experience like never before! This June – don’t just watch the Euro, live the Euro. Love Football, LIV Football!

  • Pocket FM brings four blockbuster superhero audio series

    Pocket FM brings four blockbuster superhero audio series

    Mumbai: With the growing popularity of digital entertainment and tapping the immense potential of the superhero genre, the audio series platform Pocket FM announced a rare feat in India’s superhero storytelling landscape. Four Pocket FM superhero audio series have surpassed 100 million plays.

    In recent years, the landscape of Indian superheroes has transcended traditional mediums, finding a new home in the digital sphere. Pocket FM has been at the forefront of this evolution, spearheading the charge with its award-winning audio series – ‘Number Zero’ (140M plays), ‘Shoorveer’ (250M plays), ‘The New Avatar’ (190M plays) and ‘Super Yoddha’ (140M plays).

    These audio series have not only redefined the superhero genre but have also made it more accessible to a diverse audience, including a younger generation of listeners aged 18 up to 40 years. Through the power of compelling storytelling, immersive soundscapes, and dynamic characters, Pocket FM’s superhero and sci-fi series have captured the hearts and imaginations of listeners across the nation.

    Pocket FM head-India and new markets Suyog Gothi said, “As we commemorate the remarkable achievement of 100 million plays, we at Pocket FM are elated to observe the resounding reception to our superhero audio series. ‘Super Yoddha,’ ‘The New Avatar,’ ‘Shoorveer,’ and ‘Number Zero’ have not only provided entertainment but also served as source of inspiration, sparking the imaginations of millions. These shows have struck a chord mainly with our younger generation of listeners. The superhero and sci-fi genres are clearly amongst well-performing genres with the ever-growing demand and affinity from the listeners for these stories.”

    Pocket FM’s superhero audio series have garnered widespread acclaim for their immersive storytelling, rich character development, and thrilling adventures. With this milestone, Pocket FM reaffirms its mission to entertain, inspire, and connect audiences through the power of storytelling. As the platform continues to expand its offerings and innovate within the digital entertainment space, it remains dedicated to delivering high-quality content that resonates with audiences of all ages.

  • Amazon miniTV unveils the quirky trailer of its upcoming series Namacool

    Amazon miniTV unveils the quirky trailer of its upcoming series Namacool

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTV has unveiled the highly anticipated trailer of its upcoming comedy-drama series, Namacool. Set in Lucknow, the trailer features two inseparable friends, Mayank and Piyush who are far from royal and yearn for fame as they enter their second year of college. The duo finds themselves in a series of hilarious misfortunes that sets off a journey of comedy, romance, and crime as they attempt to unfold the true definition of manhood. Directed by Ritam Shrivastava and written by Shantanu Srivastava, this seven-episode series features Hina Khan, Abhinav Sharma, Aaron Koul, Abhishek Bajaj, Anushka Kaushik, Faisal Malik, and Aadil Khan in pivotal roles. This comedy drama is produced by Reliance Entertainment Studios.

    Namacool follows the lives of Mayank and Piyush as they uncover the true essence of manhood. Fate leads them to stumble upon new friends, foes, and love interests that set their lives spiralling into a world of confusion, comedy, and drama. Packed with enthralling twists and turns, viewers will be on the edge of their seats as the story of this laugh riot unfolds upon them.

    Sharing his thoughts on the upcoming series, Amazon miniTV head of content Amogh Dusad said, “Namacool aims to have a refreshing take on the comedy-drama genre through its quirky storytelling. It’s a story that will resonate strongly with audiences in the Hindi heartland through its dialogues, screenplay and much more. We’re certain that it will strike a chord with viewers who will definitely want more!”

    Expressing her excitement about portraying the charming and enigmatic Rubiya, Hina Khan shared, “As an artist, collaborating with Amazon miniTV for the first time has been an exhilarating experience. Working on Namacool has been nothing short of amazing, and I’m truly delighted to be a part of such a fantastic project. It’s a quintessential comedy-drama, a laughter riot that will surely etch a special place in the hearts of audiences nationwide. I can’t wait for them to join us on this entertaining ride that will leave them in splits.”

    “Being a part of Namacool has been like stepping into a world where every moment is a blend of comedy, chaos, and honest heartfelt moments. Portraying the character of Mayank has been a journey of self-discovery, where I’ve explored the highs and lows of friendship, love, and the hilarious mishaps that shape us. Working on this project with Amazon miniTV and an extremely talented cast and crew has been a wonderful experience, and I’m thrilled to invite viewers to embark on this journey with us.” shared Abhinav Sharma, who is essaying the role of Mayank in the series.

    Namacool will premiere on 17 May exclusively on Amazon miniTV.

  • S8UL Esports to represent India at the Pokémon UNITE World Championship 2024

    S8UL Esports to represent India at the Pokémon UNITE World Championship 2024

    Mumbai: S8UL Esports, one of India’s most coveted esports organisations, has booked a ticket to the Pokémon UNITE World Championship 2024 in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, where they will be competing against the best of the world for the title and a share of the $500,000 prize pool. The team will be the sole Indian representative at the event after winning the India Qualifier, hosted by Skyesports.

    The final stage of the Pokémon UNITE WCS2024 – India Qualifier, hosted by Skyesports, happened on 11 and 12 May with eight teams from the open qualifiers competing for a chance to represent the country on the international stage. Ultimately, S8UL Esports came out on top after a series of intense games, finishing ahead of the likes of Zenigame Squad and GodLike Esports. Besides the chance to compete in the World Championship in Hawaii, the team will receive $15,000 of the $37,500 prize pool.

    The S8UL Esports Pokémon UNITE esports roster is composed of the following players:

    .   Manmohan “S8ULAllmight” Singh

    .   Rahul “S8UL Kyurem” Sharad Lavhate

    .   Rudra “S8UL Rex” Narayan Nayak

    .   Adnan” S8UL.Badshah” Badshah

    .   Deep “S8UL.Snowyy” Patel

    Commenting on the victory and the chance to represent India internationally, S8ULAllmight said, “The competition in the India Region for Pokémon UNITE esports has significantly increased over the past few years. However, I am glad that through our teamwork and practice, we were able to secure victory. This is the second time we will be competing in the Pokémon UNITE World Championship, but this time we are much better prepared to take on the teams in Honolulu, Hawaii. Last year, we were able to take a game away from the eventual world champions, Luminosity Gaming, but we failed to secure the series. We hope they qualify so we can get our revenge this time.”

    Last year, S8UL Esports also managed to win the India qualifier and make it to the world championship. The team, however, were eliminated in the group stage itself. This time, they are going into the $500,000 World Championship, scheduled from Aug. 16 to 18, with a much more experienced roster.

  • Storytelling in the multiscreen age

    Storytelling in the multiscreen age

    Oh, storytelling. So much has changed and then, nothing has.

    As someone who started wearing more hats (at times unwittingly) than just the creative type over time, it’s fascinating to see how the graph of storytelling is evolving.

    Mobiles. Tablets. Smart TVs. Normal TVs (my parents have one). Laptops. Desktops. How do inches of screens influence the millions spent on storytelling? Let’s look at the different ‘kirdaars’ in the story of storytelling.

    The story makers: Thou shalt be versatile.

    Cos the audience is as diverse as it is cohorted. And the same person consumes different stories on different screens at different times in a day. One of the critical questions to ask besides others, is where will this story appear? And then nuance it to that screen(s).

    The legendary 30-seconder is now 15. Or 6. The ‘long’ 60-seconder is now longer at 3 minutes. It obviously needs a different skill and craft, to do justice to both. And then there is the timing aspect – with moment marketing growing by the moment. There are new storytelling formats available, in varying degrees of maturity. Themed games – which we’ve explored with a lot of success to tell brand stories. AR/VR, metaverse, web series, branded content, blogs… the canvas just keeps getting longer & wider with each screen.

    And why should stories happen in isolation? In a multiscreen, non-linear age, why not have more of ‘fluid’ stories. Brands have done it (Volvo’s The Greatest Interception Ever, Burger King + Google Home, Coinbase QR), and it adds to the creative play in a never-before manner.

    The story bearers: Thou shalt be collaborative.

    The ‘role’ of media, social media, broadcasters and distributors in the story-world is on the rise. And for a reason. As technology and algorithms are dictating (even predicting) more and more of what works and what doesn’t, the magic of media & creative ‘jugalbandi’ is needed more than ever before.

    The good old days of jamming together are back. And we need lots more of it. A small new feature of a platform, a tweak in the algo, a new platform altogether… all these can spark a story, or elevate a story. Stories have/can become interactive using multiple senses, turning audience into co-creators.

    Innovations are only as good as their use cases. And a story is only as good as how it is told. The story-carriers are and will continue to have a voice in not only telling, but also shaping the story.

    The story owners: Thou shalt be open.

    It’s difficult to create a good story. It’s more difficult to create a story that exceeds expectations. And it’s impossible to create something that goes viral every time.

    Brands and clients who understand this, are the true BFF of storytelling. The origin point of the story resides with them (the need), as does the protagonist (the brand), as does the ownership (the monies). Having and setting clear expectations from a story is a great starting point. However small, define the outcomes. So that the story makers and bearers know what buttons the story must press.

    And then, what works on one screen will most likely not work equally well on another. Understand the nuances with partners, prioritize the screen(s) and channel resources accordingly. In the BANI world, it is tough to have a straight-line Brief. So, be open to experimentation and failures. Cos you’re never too far from a blockbuster story.

    The story consumers: Thou shalt be spoilt.

    Enough said.

    The article has been authored by IdeateLabs chief creative officer Raman R.S. Minhas.

  • Inspiring titles to stream this Mother’s Day!

    Inspiring titles to stream this Mother’s Day!

    Mumbai: In the grand circus of life, few roles are as awe-inspiring as that of a mother. To encapsulate the essence of motherhood in a single word seems a daunting task, yet if one were to attempt it, “resilient” would undoubtedly be the first. In today’s era where the strides of women echo across professional and personal spheres alike, the seemingly effortless juggling act performed by mothers is nothing short of extraordinary. In celebration of this sacred bond this Mother’s Day, we invite mothers and moms-to-be to tune into a curated selection of enriching titles that we have put together. So, sit back, readers and especially mums, whether new, expecting or with a child, as we take you on a journey of reflection, connection, and celebration.

    New Borns and New Moms

    New Borns and New Moms isn’t just an audiobook; it’s a lifeline for moms! Authored by Dr Farah Adam Mukadam, this essential guide blends scientific expertise with cultural understanding to navigate the complexities of childcare in urban India. From preparing for the arrival of a newborn to handling postpartum challenges, Dr Mukadam offers practical advice and reassurance, empowering mothers to take on their mother duties with confidence. This audiobook is an essential handbook for every Indian mother.

    Advice for Working Moms

    Advice for Working Moms focuses on the relentless juggling act of balancing career and family – a familiar narrative for many working mothers, where the weight of caregiving and household responsibilities often falls disproportionately on their shoulders. But fear not, for this audiobook offers a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. Learn how to establish boundaries, negotiate for flexibility, and combat biases in the workforce. It’s a toolkit for reclaiming balance and thriving as a working mother!

    The Kickass Single Mom

    In the audiobook, The Kickass Single Mom, Emma Johnson shares her journey from a struggling single mom to a thriving professional. Faced with a lack of guidance, she launched a website to encourage women to excel in single motherhood. This comprehensive guide challenges societal doubts, empowering women to build fulfilling careers and nurture personal passions. Drawing from her experiences and those of other successful single moms, Emma provides actionable advice and heartfelt inspiration, making it a must-listen for any woman embracing single motherhood.

    Mothers and Daughters

    In Mothers and Daughters, Selma Blair portrays a pregnant photographer figuring out her journey through motherhood while confronting her strained relationship with her mother. This film explores the intricate dynamics between mothers and daughters, navigating through the complexities of pregnancy, adoption, and estrangement. From heartfelt confessions to heart-melting speeches, the film will move you to tears. It is a must-watch for Mother’s Day and beyond.

    Mom

    The comedy series, Mom, chronicles the lives of single mom Christy Plunkett and her mother, Bonnie. As they navigate life’s twists and turns, both women find themselves in unexpected positions: Christy, on the path to realizing her dream of becoming a lawyer, and Bonnie, embracing a newfound romantic relationship and marriage. Through laughter, love, and the occasional challenges they encounter, Mom beautifully illustrates the power of maternal support and the unbreakable ties that bind us together.

    Mimi

    In the heartwarming comedy-drama Mimi, directed by Laxman Utekar, we are beckoned into the world of Mimi, portrayed with finesse by the talented Kriti Sanon. Set against the backdrop of a quaint village, Mimi’s dreams of making it big in the acting world take a wild turn when she courageously takes the role of a surrogate mother. She navigates through unforeseen twists and turns, challenging societal norms and redefining the meaning of family. It is an ode to the strength of a woman’s resolve and the boundless depths of maternal love, making it a great choice for Mother’s Day viewing!

    Darlings

    In Darlings, Shefali Shah and Alia Bhatt depict a compelling mother-daughter relationship navigating through adversity. Their portrayal highlights the profound impact of maternal support, showcasing the resilience of the mother-daughter bond in facing challenges together. Through their journey of self-discovery and healing, they prove the unwavering strength of a mother’s love in overcoming obstacles.
     

  • JioCinema set to become India’s new anime powerhouse

    JioCinema set to become India’s new anime powerhouse

    Mumbai: Riding high on success of the recently launched JioCinema Premium, the platform is poised to delight its subscribers yet again as it bolsters its content offerings with an all-new Anime slate, starting 12 May. JioCinema will be home to top Anime shows having cult fandom and the launch will be headlined by the global simulcast of Season 4 of Demon Slayer, the most-awaited Anime title.

    JioCinema Premium members will have unlimited access to the Anime Hub, with plans starting at Rs. 29 per month.

    Adding to the anime slate will be action-packed comedy Spy X Family and classroom chaos in ‘Assassination Classroom’. Fans can also enjoy supernatural action-comedy ‘Mob Psycho 100’ and time-traveling drama ‘Tokyou Revengers,’ along with the fantasy adventure ‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ and the psychological thriller ‘Welcome to the Elite.’ Additionally, fantasy based ‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ and spine tickling mystery ‘The Junji Ito Maniac’ will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

    With an aim of growing the Otaku (anime fan) community in India, the offering will be home to a curated selection of hits and hidden gems, all available in an ultimate ad-free experience with offline viewing options. Animayhem will continue to thrill its fans with new content everyday across the month with hits like ‘Bofuri: I Hate Getting Hurt, So I Put All My Skill Points Into Defense,’ dark comedy  ‘My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom!,’ magic driven ‘The Familiar of Zero,’ goblin-hunting action ‘Goblin Slayer,’ and supernatural mystery with ‘In/Spectre’, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

    Speaking on the introduction of a dedicated hub for Anime, a JioCinema Spokesperson said, “JioCinema Premium’s consumer-first approach has opened access to high-quality and diverse content for audiences across India. Our latest offering, Anime Hub offers a world of content that will keep anime fans entertained. From simulcast real-time global releases to hundreds of hours of top Anime titles, we are confident that JioCinema’s Anime Hub will grow to become a destination of choice for anime fans in India.”

    In addition to the dedicated hub for anime entertainment, JioCinema Premium unlocks access to a plethora of top international content in local languages, wholesome Kids & Family entertainment, genre-defining originals, blockbuster movies, and exclusive before-TV premieres and live channels, in up to 4K quality, all at just Rs. 29/month for a single device or Rs. 89/month for up to 4 simultaneous screens.

  • Pocket FM’s heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute video

    Pocket FM’s heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute video

    Mumbai: As Mother’s Day approaches, audio series platform Pocket FM unveils a touching tribute video celebrating the cherished bond between its employees and their mothers. This heartwarming video brings back the mother-kid moments and reflects the heartfelt connections every employee has with their mothers.

    In a world where digital connections often overshadow personal moments, Pocket FM is honoring the invaluable role that mothers play in shaping our lives. The video captures candid moments and heart-to-heart conversations, offering a glimpse into the profound impact that these remarkable women have had on their children.

    “Mothers are the ultimate storytellers, weaving narratives of love, resilience, and unwavering support. At Pocket FM, we understand the significance of family and the profound influence of mothers in shaping our lives,” said Pocket FM head – branding and communications Vineet Singh. “Through this tribute video, we aim to express our gratitude and appreciation for the unwavering love, support, and guidance that our mothers provide each day.”

    The video features employees from diverse backgrounds, each sharing their unique pictures with their mothers. From nostalgic childhood memories to words of gratitude and admiration, the video encapsulates the essence of Mother’s Day, celebrating the enduring bond between mothers and their children.

    This heartwarming tribute not only celebrates the spirit of Mother’s Day but also underscores Pocket FM’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and celebrating the human experience through storytelling.

    The video, conceptualised and produced entirely by Pocket FM’s internal team, including scripting and voice narration.

  • Weekend Unwind with Victor Tango’s Tabassum Modi

    Weekend Unwind with Victor Tango’s Tabassum Modi

    Mumbai: With another weekend upon us, it is time to unwind with the latest Q&A edition of Indiantelevision.com’s Weekend Unwind—a series of informal chats that peek into the minds of business executives through a fun lens in an attempt to get to know the person behind the title a little better.

    In this week’s session, we have Victor Tango Entertainment Pvt Ltd founder Tabassum Modi.

    A multi-faceted business leader, Modi is an exemplary and well-reputed media, content, education and marketing mover and shaker. She balances being an entrepreneur and content producer with ease, as the founder of Victor Tango. A national award winner, Tabassum has produced and won applause for several short films across the globe and non-fiction OTT content.

    Throughout her 17-year-long career, she has had an enviable trajectory of discovering opportunities across genres and building several sustainable business models. A genius when it comes to kids and the education genre, she has massively contributed to the edutainment and edtech sector by creating curriculums, IPs, experiential campaigns, content and tech platforms. Her biggest win has been Lit Kids- a digital community of kids and teens to explore and celebrate their creative expression.

    So without further ado, let’s get started….

    1. Your mantra for life
    Embrace the journey, cultivate gratitude, and treasure every stage of life

    2. A book you are currently reading or plan to read
    Back in college, Richard Branson’s “Losing My Virginity” fueled my motivation, and now, stumbling upon his sequel “Finding My Virginity,” I’m eager to dive into another inspiring journey of entrepreneurship and adventure

    3. Your fitness mantra, especially during the pandemic
    I focus on home workouts, yoga, and mindful walks to maintain both physical and mental well-being

    4. Your comfort food
    Whether I’m in Mumbai or travelling, I always seek out biryani and chilli chicken. There’s something comforting about the familiarity of these dishes, even as they offer unique flavors in every place I visit

    5. A quote or philosophy that keeps you going when the chips are down
    In the words of Winston Churchill, ‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts

    6. Your guilty pleasure
    Indulging in a binge-watch session of a series or films – a perfect escape from reality

    7. The last time you tried something new
    Just recently, I experimented with cooking a new cuisine, adding a flavorful twist to my culinary skills

    8. A life lesson you learned the hard way
    Not every setback is a failure; sometimes, it’s just a redirection

    9. What gets you excited about life?
    The endless possibilities of things to explore, the chance to connect with diverse people and cultures, and the opportunity to make a positive impact in the world all fuel my excitement for life

    10. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
    Nothing lasts forever – good or bad. Make the most of the moment

    11. One thing you would most like to change about the world
    I wish for a world where equality and empathy are not aspirations but fundamental realities

    12. An activity that keeps you motivated and charged during tough times
    Engaging in creative pursuits like art fuels my passion and drive during tough times

    13. What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?
    Travelling to new destinations and the planning that leads up to the travel provide a welcome diversion during challenging times, lifting my spirits when life feels dim

    14. Your go-to stress buster
    Online shopping acts as my instant escape, whisking me away to a realm of endless options and momentarily shielding me from the demands of reality.