ITV

Category: iWorld

  • NODWIN Gaming and JSW Sports forge pioneering partnership to elevate Indian esports

    NODWIN Gaming and JSW Sports forge pioneering partnership to elevate Indian esports

    Mumbai- The world’s leading emerging markets gaming and esports media company, NODWIN Gaming (NODWIN), is announcing a strategic partnership with JSW Sports, India’s largest sports promoter and pure play sports management enterprise, to monetise and market it’s gaming, esports and cultural intellectual properties (IPs). This transformative collaboration is set to redefine and empower the rapidly evolving esports ecosystem within the country.

    This partnership further solidifies NODWIN’s strategic focus as a sports media company. With esports and sports having very large audiences and media overlaps in India, this association brings together NODWIN Gaming’s unparalleled expertise in esports operations and esports content creation, complemented by JSW’s extensive experience and footprint across sports, especially their commercial vertical which has established itself as one of the best in the country working with more than 150 clients on sports marketing.

    The combined strengths of the two industry leaders are also focused on launching new esports-focused Intellectual Properties in India, educating the market and important stakeholders along creating the right partnership platforms for brands and advertisers.

    NODWIN Gaming’s esports IPs are celebrated for their unique appeal, offering a diverse and dynamic range of content to suit the entertainment needs of the community. This collaboration also aims to showcase rich and engaging storytelling within the esports domain, catering to the ever-evolving interests of the gaming community.

    Commenting on this strategic partnership, NODWIN Gaming managing director & co-founder Akshat Rathee said, “We at NODWIN Gaming are thrilled to announce our partnership with JSW Sports, a momentous milestone in the esports ecosystem. NODWIN Gaming’s technical know-how and leadership in the esports and gaming domain, combined with JSW Sports’ commercial expertise, positions us to unlock unprecedented opportunities in the distribution and monetization of esports content. Our shared goal is not only to empower the esports ecosystem but also to establish new benchmarks for the future. While there’s much work ahead, the excitement and possibilities are boundless!”

    Speaking on the partnership, JSW Sports COO Divyanshu Singh said, “India has one of the largest esports viewing audiences in the world, estimated at roughly 150 million viewers. That number swells up to 290 million when you combine it with both, esports playing titles and fans. Talking more numbers, In 2024, the revenue in the esports market is forecasted to reach US$124.8m, and that number will only grow exponentially in the years to come. In JSW Sports and NODWIN, we see two market leaders with the kind of synergies to capitalize on these trends, and change the game when it comes to distributing and monetizing esports content.”

    The strategy spans sponsorship, media rights, activation, and influencers, creating a comprehensive framework to maximize the value of gaming and esports content. 

  • ZEE5 takes lead in global digital entertainment with diverse and innovative narratives

    ZEE5 takes lead in global digital entertainment with diverse and innovative narratives

    Mumbai: In an ever-evolving landscape of digital entertainment, streaming platforms like ZEE5 are at the forefront of delivering diverse and innovative narratives to a global audience.

    ZEE5, a subscription-based video-on-demand and over-the-top streaming service, is operated by Zee Entertainment Enterprises, an Indian media conglomerate. Launched on 14 February 2018, in India, the platform offers content in multiple languages. The ZEE5 mobile application is accessible across various platforms including Web, Android, iOS, and Smart TVs. As of December 2019, ZEE5 reported 56 million monthly active users.

    Indiantelevision caught up with ZEE5 chief content officer – Hindi Originals Nimisha Pandey provided insights into the platform’s strategic approach, long-term planning for series, collaborations with content creators, and the nuanced process of creating content that resonates authentically with global audiences while respecting cultural nuances. The platform’s commitment to understanding evolving viewer preferences, fostering creative collaborations, and staying true to the essence of diverse stories positions ZEE5 as a dynamic force shaping the future of digital entertainment on a global scale.

    On ZEE5 navigating the delicate balance between meeting existing viewer expectations and introducing fresh, innovative narratives that might challenge the status quo

    With streaming platforms expanding their reach globally, there is an increased demand for content that reflects diverse cultures and perspectives. Also important to note is that OTT consumption patterns have undergone a paradigm shift. When we started off, it was largely led by individual viewing on a personal device but there has been a sharp uptick in C-TV viewing leading to the introduction of new narratives and themes that are better suited to co-viewing as a family unit. Moreover, the need for targeting specific demographics and age groups with content customized to suit their diverse palates has led us to invest significantly in originals and experiment with stories that have never been attempted before.  Our content portfolio is truly reflective of this diversity. Ranging from inspiring narratives of ordinary turning extraordinary such as ‘Saas Bahu aur Achaar Pvt Ltd’ and Janbaaz, to escape-worthy historicals like Taj to a spy thriller such as ‘Mukhbir’ or the cult favourites with a strong millennial connect such as Tripling, Pitchers, Humorously Yours and Aam Aadmi Family, we want to make sure that every show reaches its right audience. Today, we are proud of a rich roster of franchise properties that the audience eagerly awaits the next season of – ‘Sunflower’, ‘Broken News’, ‘Mithya’ and ‘Rangbaaz’, ‘Mukhbir’. We believe in challenging the status quo with every story we choose to tell!

    On ZEE5’s long-term planning approach for series

    At ZEE5, we invest considerable time and resources towards understanding our evolving viewer, their preferences and tastes through an entire gamut of fieldwork by our brand and research teams in the space of deep dialoguing, video usage and attitude studies, digging into content trends basis social and digital consumption, deep-diving into a specific market or a consumer segment.

    Moreover, we are navigating times where the audience has begun to prefer staying ‘work in progress’ as opposed to a unidimensional identity in life – meaning that the viewer is increasingly becoming self-aware and wants different content to dial into different dimensions of their personality each day. So, on one day the same viewer switches on a breezy rom-com on another day, she is looking for a gripping, intense narrative laced with dark humour. The viewer today refuses to be put in a box!

    All of this combined with the creative vision that we collectively share with some of the most talented and passionate content creators in the space informs our content strategy. From immersive dramas to light-hearted comedies to dark thrillers, adaptations of popular global content franchises, from rom-coms and catch-up TV content to blockbuster movies, the idea is to make ZEE5 an all-inclusive platform which has something to offer for every entertainment need. For an OTT platform, the trust and faith of the viewers are among the key pillars to achieve long-term growth. Consistent delivery of rich content pieces drives a strong sense of relatability and belief in the platform among viewers. We aim to continue pushing creative boundaries and producing ground-breaking content for our audiences globally.

    On ZEE5’s approach to collaborations and partnerships with other content creators or platforms to bring fresh perspectives and innovative content to its audience

    At ZEE5, our ‘content and creator-first approach’ has revolutionized the way we curate content. We believe in the power of identifying and collaborating with the finest, creative minds and talent in the fraternity. While we are governed like any other player by business goals, we believe it is equally important to respect the creative vision of our content partners. This healthy creative approach has led us to empower diverse voices and foster innovation in our content offerings. We want to enable them to do their best work with us. Needless to say, it has played a huge role in attracting the right kind of collaborations with content powerhouses be it Guneet (Monga), Umesh (Bist) and Dharma for Gyaarah Gyaarah, BBC and Vinay Waikul for Broken News, Goldie Behl, Charudutt (Acharya) and Rohan (Sippy) for Duranga, Shivam Nair and Victor Tango for Mukhbir, Srijit Mukherjee and Juggernaut (Productions) for Jaanbaaz, Ron (Scalpello), Abhimanyu (Singh) and Vibhu (Puri) for Taj, Vikas Bahl for Sunflower, Apurva Singh Karki for Banda and Saas Bahu Achaar Pvt Ltd or the content powerhouses like Applause Entertainment, The Viral Fever (TVF). Each of these partnerships has yielded iconic stories as well as built existing IPs which have received phenomenal responses from our viewers across India and beyond. We’re equally proud of the diverse on-screen talent that has made ZEE5 their home – from Sunil Grover to Jaideep Ahlawat, from Sonali Bendre to Amruta Subhash, Huma Qureshi to Gulshan Devaiah, Vineet Singh to Regina Cassandra, Manoj Bajpayee to Shriya Pilgaonkar, Nawazuddin Siddiqui to Pankaj Tripathi. They have built a deep connection with our viewers in the last few years and played a crucial role in the turn-around of the platform.

    On the platform approaching content creation to ensure that stories resonate authentically with global audiences while respecting cultural nuances

    We recognize the importance of striking a balance between hyperlocal worlds and human emotions that have universal appeal. We believe in staying true to the soul of a story and not retro-fitting narratives to make the content travel. Collaborating with creators who are in touch with the ground realities and the social fabric of the story plays a key role in telling global stories. As we’ve expanded our international footprint and market share, we’ve proudly taken on the role of a cultural ambassador for the Indian subcontinent. Becoming the No.1 South Asian platform in key international markets such as the US, UAE, Australia, and Canada, and securing a significant position in the UK, reflects our dedication to entertaining diverse audiences worldwide. This is a testament to the fact that it is the authentic local stories that travel globally.

  • SERIESMAKERS reveals all ten projects of the second edition

    SERIESMAKERS reveals all ten projects of the second edition

    Mumbai: The creative initiative SERIESMAKERS, led by the prestigious TV festival Series Mania and supported by European content powerhouse Beta Group, has concluded its second edition with overwhelming success.

    A-list filmmakers from all corners of the world applied to participate in the second year of this tailor-made program for feature film directors who venture into the world of series.

    For the second edition of SERIESMAKERS, the following ten projects have been selected (in alphabetical order):

    BREACH by director Mijke de Jong, and writers Giancarlo Sanchez and Jan Eilander (4×50’, The Netherlands) When the unapproachable helmswoman Tisa (35) is tasked with ferrying a crowded boat of wealthy Dutch refugees to Dover, she is confronted with deep-seated traumas from her own past as a refugee, and her authority as captain is challenged by the Europeans who suddenly find themselves in a dependent position. The toxic mix of conflicting interests and mortal fear leads to war on board. Can Tisa and the passengers overcome their demons and complete the journey safely? Mijke de Jong’s LAYLA. M (2016) won several prizes at international film festivals and was the Dutch entry for the Oscars in 2018.

    DOCTOR’S OATH by director Mikko Myllylahti and producers Aleksi Hyvärinen and Taneli Mustonen (4×52’, Finland) Based on a true story, DOCTOR’S OATH is a highly realistic and suspenseful story of a side-tracked female dermatologist who became the face of Finland’s unlikely decision to choose an extremely soft approach towards the AIDS epidemic.

    Mikko Myllylahti’s THE WOODCUTTER STORY (2022) won the Gan Foundation Award for Distribution and was nominated for the Critics’ Week Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

    ELEPHANT with director-writer Hajni Kis and by creator-writer Dávid Csicskár (7×40’, Hungary) Anna (46) is the perfect mother of three, a fantastic wife and a highly skilled political spokesperson. She has a “little” flaw though – she needs to drink to do it all. Anna is a functioning alcoholic who gets through the day with concealed shots. One night, she causes a car accident that nearly kills her family, by drunk driving. She realizes she must quit drinking immediately. But keeping her life, family, and career on track without alcohol turns out to be unexpectedly difficult. Since her family relies on her in every way possible, Anna’s sobriety triggers chaos in the house. Can she save herself while watching everything fall apart around her or will she sacrifice herself for the sake of her perfect family?  Hajni Kis’s WILD ROOTS (2021) was nominated at Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.

    FREEDOM ACADEMY by director Kaouther Ben Hania and producer Nadim Cheikhrouha (8×45’, France) In the competitive world of television, a cunning producer and his optimistic wife battle for control of a daring reality TV show set in a high-security prison, hoping to capture the intense competition among incarcerated radicals all while the jury grapples with their divergent opinions on prisoners’ rehabilitation.

    Kaouther Ben Hania’s Cannes Film Festival competition entry FOUR DAUGHTERS (2023) is currently nominated for an Oscar® for Best Documentary Feature Film. With THE MAN WHO SOLD HIS SKIN (2020), Ben Hania was nominated for an Oscar® for Best International Feature Film.

    GEORGE BLAKE by director Kevin Macdonald and producer Femke Wolting  (6×52’, United Kingdom/The Netherlands) What makes a person turn against everything they ever stood for? The untold true story of one of the most prolific double agents of not just the Cold War, but British history, George Blake. Kevin Macdonald’s THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND (2007) won an Oscar® in the category Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role and multiple BAFTA’s, among others. His documentary ONE DAY IN SEPTEMBER (1999) won an Oscar® for Best Documentary Feature.

    PLAY by director Yorgos Zois and producer Stelios Cotionis (8×52’, Greece) A lonely cinephile joins a mysterious group of strangers who reenact movie scenes in real life. Yorgos Zois’s second feature film ARCADIA (2024) world premiered at 2024 Berlin International Film Festival’s section Encounters. His feature INTERRUPTION (2015) was nominated at Venice Film Festival, among others, and won the Best Newcomer director from the Greek Film Academy.

    SLEEPING SWANS by director Barbara Albert, writer Ulrike Tony Vahl and producer Martina Haubrich (8×52’, Germany) In a coastal town in Eastern Germany, idyll turns into a sinister nightmare when children inexplicably fall into a mysterious condition. Renowned expert Ellen Lennardsson is called in to decipher the secret. In a desperate race against time, she fights against inexplicable forces and the insurmountable resistance of the community. As the number of affected children rises unstoppably, Ellen uncovers a sinister conspiracy encompassing not only the supernatural, but also the darker side of human nature. Barbara Albert’s NORDRAND (1999) was nominated for the Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival. FREE RADICAL (2003) was nominated for the Golden Leopard at Locarno International Film Festival and MADEMOISELLE PARADIS (2017) was nominated at Toronto International Film Festival, among others.

    THE SQUATTER by director Erik Matti and producer Ronald Monteverde (8×52’, The Philippines) A dead body in a rural town. A fraudulent London charity. An East-meets-West crime story. With their hopes and futures at stake, a secretive Filipino maid and a tenacious Ukrainian detective have to unravel the mysteries of a crime just as the crime itself unravels who they truly are. Erik Matti’s ON THE JOB 2: THE MISSING 8 (2021) was nominated for Best Film at Venice Film Festival and won in the category Best Actor at Venice Film Festival.

    THE WILLOW SONG by writer-director Guy Myhill and writers Tony Phillips and Sophie Vaughan (8×50’, United Kingdom) A young Black American GI leaves the segregated Jim Crow South for 1940’s Britain to join the war against fascism. He grows politically, falls in love across the race line and learns firsthand that his biggest battle is not against Nazi Germany, but the pervasive brutality and bigotry of the United States Army. Guy Myhill’s credits include THE GOOB (2014). It was nominated at the Venice Film Festival and won the British Independent Film Award, among others.

    WILLZ by director-writer Amir Manor and director-writer Guy Raz  (10×40’, Israel) Following his friend’s unexpected layoff, an impulsive and highly persistent courier unites the rival courier tribes in the Willz food delivery syndicate to improve their working conditions. When the couriers realize they could never beat Willz by playing by the rules, they join forces, banking on their transparency and the tools at their disposal – to rob a bank. As their plan takes shape, it will become clear that the robbery comes with a cherry on top – exposing Willz’s greedy and unscrupulous ways. Amir Manor’s EPILOGUE (2012) was nominated at the Venice Film Festival (Venice Days) in the category Best Film, among others.  

    The eligible director/producer or director/writer teams from all over the world have been closely mentored and guided by experienced and awarded creatives while working on their series and developing a full pitch deck.

    The prolific four mentors of the second edition are award-winning German producer Janine Jackowski (TONI ERDMANN, SKYLINES), Israeli writer and script doctor Ronit Weiss-Berkowitz (THE GIRL FROM OSLO, A TOUCH AWAY), the international development producer from France/Denmark Isabelle Lindberg Pechou (TROM, LAST LIGHT), and Brazilian producer, director, and showrunner Felipe Braga (SINTONIA, LOV3).

    The speakers included showrunners, writers, and producers such as NARCOS creator Chris Brancato (GODFATHER OF HARLEM, PUSHING DAISIES), multiple award winner Frank Doelger (GAME OF THRONES, THE SWARM), showrunner Bryan Elsley (SKINS), Hagai Levi (THE AFFAIR, OUR BOYS, SCENES FROM A MARRIAGE, IN TREATMENT), Ron Leshem (EUPHORIA, NO MAN’S LAND), and Stefan Arndt (THE WHITE RIBBON, RUN LOLA RUN, BABYLON BERLIN, GOODBYE LENIN).

    The three winning teams will be announced on March 20 in Lille during Series Mania Forum (March 19 – 21). Two teams will each be awarded a €50,000 Beta Development Award and will be working closely with Beta’s Content and Co-Production Division to develop a pilot script and a full package. An additional award of €20,000, courtesy of the Kirch Foundation in collaboration with HFF (University of Television and Film Munich), will be given to a third project.

    The creative initiative SERIESMAKERS is headed by Laurence Herszberg, General Director of Series Mania, and Koby Gal Raday, Chief Content Officer of Beta Group. 

  • Former Veteran journalist Aabha Bakaya returns with new show Ladies Who Lead with Aabha Bakaya

    Former Veteran journalist Aabha Bakaya returns with new show Ladies Who Lead with Aabha Bakaya

    Mumbai: Ladies Who Lead (LWL), a premium members-only platform for women leaders, has launched its maiden flagship series “Ladies Who Lead with Aabha Bakaya”, unveiling the inspiring stories of some of India’s most remarkable women leaders. Launched in the run-up to International Women’s Day 2024, the show aims to celebrate women who turned adversities into leadership, thereby creating a positive ripple effect amongst budding women entrepreneurs and professionals.

    Featuring 13 veterans across industries, the show’s first season will introduce 13 episodes on Youtube & Spotify. Women featured in the season 1 include Ghazal Alagh (chief Innovation Officer/co-founder at Honasa Consumer Ltd); Ameera Shah (Promoter & Managing Director of Metropolis Healthcare); Pragya Kapoor (Film Producer and Founder of Ek Sath Foundation); Radhika Ghai (Founder of Kindlife and Former chief business officer & co-founder of ShopClues); Dr Prerna Kohli (Clinical psychologist, social worker and author); Nandini Bhalla (founder & editor-In-chief of The Word Magazine); Akshita M Bhanj Deo (director at the Belgadia Palace and Mayurbhanj Foundation); Karina Aggarwal (director at Gigglewater Beverage Concepts); Neeha Nagpal (Founding Partner of NM Law Chambers); Ridhi Khosla Jalan (founder and Principal Designer at Ridhi Khosla Jalan Studio); Mahua Acharya (Former managing director & CEO at Convergence Energy Services of the Government of India); Seema Jajodia (founder and MD of Nourish Organics); and Kalyani Chawla (founder of Rezon Silverware and former vice president at Christian Dior Couture).

    Recently, Ladies Who Lead also launched a “Curated Content Library” with a vision to offer its members and prospects alike, effortless access to its digital thought leadership platform. The launch of this flagship show is the brand’s effort to make its unique content accessible to a wider audience. It is in alignment with LWL’s overarching objective of fostering women’s professional and personal growth through a platform driven by community, content, and collaboration.

    Speaking about the show, Aabha Bakaya, the show host and founder of Ladies Who Lead said, “The Ladies Who Lead Show is a natural extension of our core thesis as a women-centric members-only platform, where we put shared experiences at the centre of our offerings. We firmly believe in the power of sharing and connecting as a tool to empower and uplift each other. Through this conversational series, we spotlight the resilience, tenacity, and real-life success stories exhibited by some of the most remarkable trailblazers of the country. Our mission is to amplify these stories amongst all the aspiring leaders, exemplifying the potential of women in the workforce.”

  • Amazon miniTV unveils teaser of Love Adhura featuring Karan Kundrra and Erica Fernandes

    Amazon miniTV unveils teaser of Love Adhura featuring Karan Kundrra and Erica Fernandes

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service,adds yet another feather to its hatas it announced its latest romance thriller, Love Adhura with a riveting teaser. The gripping teaser excites fans as it showcases Karan and Erica in never-seen-before avatars. The short and snappy teaser builds intrigue via stunning visuals, leaving the viewers in awe of this deadly cat-and-mouse game.

    Directed by TanveerBookwala from Ding Infinity, the show encapsulates passionate romance laced withnail-biting thrillerthat will keep the viewers on the edge of their seats. Packed with fatal attraction, mystery, and a high-octane chase, Love Adhura will feature Karan Kundrra and Erica Fernandes as Sumit and Nandita. What begins as an unlikely encounter between these two strangers quickly evolves into a complex web of love and betrayal and only time will tell who wins.

    Amazon miniTV head of content Amogh Dusad shared, “Love Adhura is a modern-day drama set in scenic locale of Munnar shrouded in mystery. An enticing narrative, featuring heartthrobs Karan and Erica, with their sizzling chemistry and spice of intrigue promises to take the viewers on a thrilling journey. Viewers across India will be hooked to this show for free and I am excited to see their reaction!”

    Talking about the series, Kundrra expressed his thoughts and said, “I am thrilled to be a part of this riveting romance thriller Love Adhura on Amazon miniTV. My portrayal of Sumit is different from the characters that I have played previously. The narrative of this series is the perfect amalgamation of modern-day romance with a compelling tease of thriller. I hope the viewers will enjoy watching the series as much as we enjoyed working to create it.”

    Sharing her excitement, Fernandes expressed, “Portraying Nandita was truly a remarkable experience for me, as it presented a unique challenge unlike any other character I’ve tackled before. Delving into the layers of Nandita required dedicated time and effort, which I eagerly invested before stepping onto set. I meticulously crafted notes on how to breathe life into this multi-dimensional character, ensuring a portrayal that diverged from my previous roles yet remained authentic. Juggling the intricacies of Nandita’s journey amidst parallel storylines was both exhilarating and fulfilling. Walking in her shoes felt like an unforgettable adventure, blending excitement with genuine passion for my craft. Despite the stark contrast in her persona as a con artist, I can’t say I fully resonate with Nandita’s mindset. Yet, deep down, there’s a glimmer of that lovely girl buried within her, adding another layer of complexity to this compelling role.”

    The series will stream exclusively for free on Amazon miniTV. You can watch it on the Amazon shopping app, Fire TV, Smart TVs or download the Amazon miniTV app on Playstore.

  • Amazon miniTV returns with Playground season 3

    Amazon miniTV returns with Playground season 3

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTV- Amazon’s free video streaming service is back with the third season of Playground, India’s first one-of-a-kind gaming reality show, in association with Rusk Media. The excitement levels are set to skyrocket as Indian YouTube sensation, Carry Minati, continues his association with the brand and dons the role of a mentor for the third time running! The OG mentor will be seen leading his team, Dare Dragons into the battle of captive reality over a period of 30 days. Not just that, the anticipation and curiosity levels are set to peak as newer mentors are slated to be revealed this week. After the massive success of the first two seasons, the third edition promises triple the drama, entertainment and hardcore challenges set to keep viewers hooked!

    Bringing a twist to the competition, Playground S3 introduces a new format focused on individual achievement, for players to compete for the coveted title of “Ultimate Gaming Entertainer”. The third season will witness sixteen dynamic micro-influencers as contestants entering the Playground Arcade for a 30-day showdown, led by four renowned mentors. Embarking on a journey filled with heart-pounding physical challenges, intense gaming competitions, and uproarious entertainment trials, the contestants will showcase their skills and strategic prowess to outplay their rivals and emerge victorious. With enticing prizes awaiting the champions, the show guarantees an unforgettable blend of gaming excitement and an entertainment spectacle. Taking the excitement level to new heights, viewers will get the chance to actively participate in the action by voting for their favourite contestants directly on the Amazon miniTV app.

    Amazon miniTV head of content Amogh Dusad shared, “With the gaming industry evolving and growing at a rapid pace in India, we’re excited to bring another season of Playground to our audiences, a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in entertainment. Adrenaline, entertainment, and passion for gaming – all make Playground the perfect masala binge!”

    Adding to it, Amazon miniTV business head Aruna Daryanani said, “We are delighted to bring the third season of Playground, marking a significant milestone in elevating our content offering for our audiences. The show not only amplifies gaming entertainment, which is highly popular with the youth but also highlights our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our viewers. Viewers across India will be able to enjoy this Playground for free and I can’t wait to see their reaction.”

    In response to the introduction of Playground’s third season and the strategic partnerships, Rusk Media CEO Mayank Yadav expressed, “We are thrilled to embark on another exhilarating journey with the upcoming season of Playground. With the continued support of our partners, we are poised to redefine gaming entertainment. This season promises to be our most exciting yet, delivering an unmatched experience for gamers and viewers alike. Get ready to immerse yourself in the thrill of competition and witness gaming history in the making.”

    Talking about the third season, Carry Minati expressed, “I am thrilled to return to Playground as a mentor for the third season of the reality show. In the past two seasons, I’ve witnessed the commitment, dedication and skill set of the players, and I look forward to interacting with fresh talent this season. This season is all about embracing risks, pushing the limits, overcoming challenges, and unleashing the core ethos of gaming. I’ve been an avid gaming enthusiast throughout my career and this association is a natural extension of my passion and vision. Gaming is the future of the metaverse, and we need to revolutionize this industry substantially in times to come. India is known to be a land of gamers and one of the biggest gaming markets in the world, but despite its size, the country is still at a nascent stage as a gaming market, both in terms of maturity and adoption.  I aspire to change that equation in times to come.”

    Witness the evolution of gaming entertainment in Playground S3 filled with adrenaline-pumping challenges, fierce competition, and non-stop excitement. The reality show will stream exclusively on Amazon miniTV.

  • Red FM’s Marathi Film Festival returns to Pune for Its fifth edition

    Red FM’s Marathi Film Festival returns to Pune for Its fifth edition

    Mumbai: The private radio and entertainment network, Red FM announced Season 5 of the celebrated Marathi Film Festival. This cinematic celebration has become a tradition in Pune and this year is scheduled to take place at NFAI Law College Road, Annabhau Sathe Sabhagruha, and Yashwantrao Chavan Natyagruha from 8 March – 10 March 2024.

    Over the years the Marathi Film Festival has become a bedrock event for cinema enthusiasts. This year, with a theme centred around ‘Charcha Tar Honarçh’ (Going Gaga Over It), the 3-day festival will screen a total of 25 films, including 15 feature films, 10 short films, and 3 premieres. In addition, the legendary actor Dr Mohan Agashe will be felicitated with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to Indian cinema.

    Jayant Somalkar’s Sthal, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and won the NETPAC award, will be the opening film for the event on the 8 March. Popular films like Baipan Bhari Deva, Zhimma 2, Ekda Kay Zhala and Panchak along with acclaimed films like Savanik Kaur’s documentary Against the Tide, and Zhende, on Madhukar Zhende the renowned cop who arrested Charles Shobhraj, will be screened, Several cast and crew members from these films will be present for the screening. Aankhi Ek Mohenjo Daro, directed by national award-winning film critic Ashok Rane, will also see its world premiere at the festival, along with Kurla Te Vengurla and Dharmasya There will also be a special screening of Dhoom Dhadaka, for which Mahesh Kothare will be present. This year, the festival is also showcasing some remarkable Marathi short films by some very talented young filmmakers.  

    Speaking on the announcement, RED FM and Magic FM director & COO  Nisha Narayanan said “Two months into the new year and a wave of curating experiential festivals preserving the regional heritage of India has taken over Red FM. With multiple other IPs in action, we are pleased to announce season 5 of the Marathi Film Festival, a celebration of the age-old Marathi cinema thriving beyond the confines of an otherwise commercially driven film industry. It is incredibly meaningful for us as a brand with a purpose to support cinema with a purpose which the Marathi cinema continues to be. With the Marathi Film Festival, we are looking forward to reinforcing the connection between our listeners and the rich cinema of Maharashtra.”

    Red FM continues its tradition of bringing together the audience and celebrities by honoring the oldest film industry of Indian cinema. Apart from the screening, attendees are also in for exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and engaging discussions with industry experts, making the Marathi Film Festival a must-attend experience for cinephiles and enthusiasts alike.

    Stay tuned to Red FM for more updates and announcements regarding Season 5 of the Marathi Film Festival. The event will be free and non-ticketed. Attendees can register and avail passes on the official website, www.marathifilmfestival.in.

    https://mff.redfmindia.in/ 

  • Amazon miniTV’s Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 receives accolades from frontline warriors

    Amazon miniTV’s Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 receives accolades from frontline warriors

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTV recently released its highly anticipated patriotic series Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2. Amidst the fervour surrounding the release of the series, the series is garnering praise and support from viewers, emerging as a spectacular success with a remarkable rating of 8.4 on IMDB. The stirring narrative of the series has not only captured the hearts of audiences but has also earned the appreciation of our esteemed army officials.  

    Set against the backdrop of Kulgam Operation, the series weaves together the heroic tales of Naib Subedar Sombir Singh and DYSP Aman Kumar Thakur, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of those who safeguard our nation’s integrity with unmatched courage and dedication. As audiences continue to be moved by the gripping narrative and powerful performances, the support from our esteemed army officials adds another layer of significance to the series’ success. Their recognition not only validates its portrayal of courage and sacrifice but also amplifies its impact, reaching even more hearts and minds across the country. Here’s a glimpse into the admiration and accolades bestowed by our brave heroes:

    Indian army veteran Vijay Bhargavan:

     

     

    Ex Assistant Commandant, Pratap:

     

     

    Major Prajakta Desai:

     

     

    Capt Ritu Kumar Singh:

     

     

    Major Rudrashish:

     

     

    Produced by Juggernaut Studios, Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 features Barun Sobti, Surbhi Chandna and Vishwas Kini in pivotal roles.

  • Janhvi Kapoor’s debut stand-up ‘Leap, Laugh & Learn’ promotes HPV awareness

    Janhvi Kapoor’s debut stand-up ‘Leap, Laugh & Learn’ promotes HPV awareness

    Mumbai: Every year, the world observes International HPV Awareness Day on 4 March and Janhvi Kapoor, one of the most sought-after actresses in Hindi Cinema, has been at the forefront of spreading awareness about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in collaboration with Serum Institute of India’s thought-provoking initiative, ‘IPledgeToPrevent’. Ahead of International HPV Awareness Day 2024, Janhvi created a ‘Bawaal’ on social media by taking a leap forward in adopting one of the most unique approaches to draw attention to the disease. Leveraging that one extra day of this year – the Leap Day – Janhvi educates audiences about the causes and risks of HPV through laughter with her debut stand-up special, ‘Leap, Laugh & Learn’.

    A series of tantalizing teasers lead to the launch of Janhvi Kapoor’s debut stand-up special, piquing fans’ curiosity about Leap, Laugh & Learn. The actress looks like a natural as she takes the stage to tickle audiences’ funny bones but for a noble cause. Infusing humour with raising awareness, “aspiring comedian” Janhvi leaves the guests in splits with her quick wit and prompts them to contemplate the lack of knowledge about HPV contraction and preventive measures.

    During her stand-up special, Janhvi urges the audience to make informed decisions about HPV prevention. She sheds some light on the “Khatarnak Jodi” of HPV and Cancer. “Cervical, vaginal, anal, and oral cancers are some cancers that may develop in your body because of HPV,” shares Janhvi. The actress also busts a prevalent myth: “HPV only affects women.” How to prevent yourself from contracting HPV, you may ask? Well, the answer is as simple as consulting a doctor to begin with. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of getting an HPV vaccination for individuals between the ages of 9 to 26. Drawing the curtain on the stand-up special, Janhvi inspires change and spurs audiences on to “pledge to prevent HPV.”

    Expressing her thoughts on bringing about a change with Leap, Laugh & Learn, Janhvi Kapoor said, “As an actor, I believe it’s imperative to support initiatives like IPledgeToPrevent to bring about an actual change in society. HPV poses a major health concern that could lead to life-threatening consequences, including cervical cancer. Yet, there’s a lack of awareness about the risks associated with HPV. To challenge that notion, we came up with the idea of spreading HPV awareness through laughter with my debut stand-up special. With Leap, Laugh & Learn, we aim to encourage individuals to spend that one extra day of this leap year to focus on what’s important for their health – like HPV awareness. With my fans’ support, I pledge to prevent, because knowledge is our best protection against HPV. I am also hopeful that they too will leap towards HPV awareness with me.”

    You, too, can join Janhvi Kapoor on this mission by taking a pledge on the official website of IPledgeToPrevent (www.ipledgetoprevent.in). The initiative underlines the silent threat of HPV and the crucial role that early vaccinations play in safeguarding one’s life. It also strives to encourage collective efforts in preventing HPV and initiating important conversations about the disease, while also debunking widespread misconceptions.

    So don’t forget to leap towards HPV awareness and consult your doctor for HPV vaccination!

  • Weekend Unwind with content creator Ruchika Lohiya

    Weekend Unwind with content creator Ruchika Lohiya

    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 delve into the minds of digital content creators through a fun lens, aiming to understand the person behind the creative journey a little better.

    In this week’s session, we have Ruchika Lohiya, a 22-year-old creative dynamo from Jodhpur. Ruchika wears many hats – she’s a poet, storyteller, writer, director, and spoken word artist. Her unique style combines storytelling with poetry, making her a source of inspiration for many.

    Ruchika stepped into the digital world and won hearts with her special content. She’s also launched a podcast called “Chikka on Roll” on Spotify, where she shares personal stories that connect with her audience. In a world full of quick trends, Ruchika stands out with her authentic creativity. She recently took the stage at Spoken Fest on 4 February and mesmerised the audience with her live poetry performance.

    Without further ado here it goes…

    Your mantra for life

    You live only once, so do it anyway!

    A book you are currently reading or plan to read

    I’m currently hooked on “Unposted Letters” by Mahatria Rao – a book that’s like a peaceful escape. It’s a breeze to read and perfect for anyone starting their reading journey.

    Your fitness mantra

    When it comes to staying fit, I keep it simple: don’t overthink. Whether it’s eating or daily activities, a stress-free approach builds a friendly connection with your health. Get to know your body, take it easy, and cut yourself some slack.

    Your comfort food

    Rajma Chawal is my happy place.

    A quote or philosophy that keeps you going when the chips are down

    ‘Tere kismat da likhta tera toh koi Kho nahi skda ke us do mehar hoye toh tenu oh vo miljaye joh tera ho nhi skda’- It’s a Punjabi saying.

    Whatever is written in our fortune will happen anyway, but if there is a blessing from above, things will happen even if it was not written in your destiny!

    Your guilty pleasure

    The simple joys of Netflix and chill. A guilty pleasure that wraps me in comfort.

    The last time you tried something new

    Every day is an opportunity for a new experience. The world of content creation ensures that each day brings a fresh challenge and a chance to learn.

    A life lesson you learned the hard way

    Learning to let go was a tough one. Life’s unpredictability sometimes demands detachment. Walking forward with grace, even when it’s difficult, has been a crucial lesson.

    What gets you excited about life?

    Work is my fuel, my passion. It infuses my life with fire, water, and everything in between. The excitement and fulfillment it brings make each day worth living to the fullest.

    What’s on top of your bucket list?

    Well, nothing too specific, but I’d love to blend more of my work with travel. Those trips where you get to explore while working.

    If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

    Honestly, no advice needed. Looking back, she was amazing—full of grace, strength, and a whole lot of fun. I love her spirit, and well, I still do!

    One thing you would most like to change about the world

    I wish for a kinder world, where everyone has an equal shot at achieving their dreams. A place where kindness prevails, and dreams aren’t just for a fortunate few.

    An activity that keeps you motivated and charged during tough times

    it’s honestly my work. Staying busy, creating opportunities—when I’m working, I’m mentally in my happy place.

    What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?

    Without a doubt, my parents. They are my rock, the unwavering support I’m lucky to have.

    Your go-to stress buster

    Chatting with friends and just hanging out! Keeping it simple, just chilling, does wonders for the stress levels.