Category: iWorld

Mumbai: Big Bang Music, one of India’s premier independent music labels has signed a publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing (SMP) which will enable the latter to administer and promote their songs globally, expanding the reach and audience of its catalog. 

Since its inception, identifying and developing young and new talent from across genres has been a key contribution of Big Bang Music towards the growth of independent artists and songwriters in India. And the partnership with Sony Music Publishing will further growth and collaboration opportunities. 

This deal with Sony Music Publishing underscores the influence of India’s Indie sound and talent’s ever-growing demand around the world. The partnership is anticipated to boost the publishing and royalty earnings of artists and songwriters while attaining a more extensive global audience via sync opportunities and global songwriter collaborations. The agreement covers administration, synchronization, and catalog promotion of the Indie music label’s repertoire.

“BGBNG is an exceptional platform for emerging artists and songwriters. Through this partnership, we aim to provide opportunities for their vibrant new-age artists, help them collaborate with our global songwriters, and support them with a best-in-class global publishing ecosystem. Empowering artists to demonstrate their talent while uniting India and the global music markets is at the heart of our mission,” Sony Music Publishing India managing director Dinraj Shetty said in a statement.

“This agreement is an excellent opportunity for us to expand our reach and showcase independent music from India to a global audience. Big Bang Music is at the helm of the independent music scene in India and this partnership will not only increase our publishing and royalty collection, but undoubtedly take Indian independent music to international shores, entertaining audiences around the globe. We couldn’t find a better partner than Sony to further fuel the growth of our independent artists by catering to audiences beyond borders,” Big Bang Music founder & CEO Gaurav Wadhwa said in a statement.

Mumbai: Ultra Media and Entertainment, a renowned provider of entertainment content in India since 1982. This platform promises an unparalleled content and viewing experience, catering to the diverse entertainment needs of its users. Ultra Jhakaas offers a vast library of exclusive content, including animation, South dubbed movies, and Hollywood dubbed movies.

With an unwavering commitment to providing high-quality entertainment, Ultra Jhakaas is set to captivate audiences with its diverse range of content. The platform boasts an extensive collection of Marathi movies, TV shows, web series, and original programming produced exclusively for the platform. In addition, it now offers an exciting array of animated content, appealing to viewers of all ages.

To further enhance the viewing experience, Ultra Jhakaas presents a delightful selection of South dubbed movies. This feature allows viewers to immerse themselves in the rich narratives and vibrant cultures of South Indian cinema. Additionally, the platform has introduced Hollywood dubbed movies in Marathi, providing a unique opportunity for viewers to enjoy popular blockbuster films in their native language.

To cater to our Marathi-speaking audience, we are delighted to announce the addition of a variety of Hollywood movies dubbed in Marathi. This will provide a wonderful chance for our viewers to enjoy popular blockbuster films in their native language. Additionally, the platform offers a rich selection of animated content, South dubbed movies, and much more.

With its user-friendly interface, Ultra Jhakaas ensures seamless browsing and effortless content consumption across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. The platform’s commitment to user satisfaction extends beyond its content library, as it offers personalised features such as watch lists, continue watching, and downloads. Users can now enjoy their favourite content even without an internet connection, optimising their viewing experience to suit their preferences.

Mumbai: A man on an extraction mission, a young girl held captive in a war-torn hostile environment of Syria, how will she escape this world of death? Disney+ Hotstar released the trailer of the biggest extraction series of the year, ‘The Freelancer’.  The series is based on the book – A Ticket to Syria by Shirish Thorat, directed by Bhav Dhulia, produced by Friday Storytellers and Neeraj Pandey is the creator and showrunner. Set to release on 1 September 2023 on Disney+ Hotstar, The Freelancer is helmed by popular actor Mohit Raina and veteran actor Anupam Kher along with Kashmira Pardeshi. The series also features talented actors like Sushant Singh, John Kokken, Gauri Balaji and Navneet Malik, Manjiri Faddnis, Sarah Jane Dias amongst others.

Director Bhav Dhulia said, “With a series like ‘The Freelancer’, we wanted to bring audiences a conventional story that makes them think and question what is happening around them. It is a one-of-a-kind thriller series and sheds light on the subject with sensitivity. Beyond being a story of a young girl stuck in a hostile environment and a Freelancer’s attempt to rescue her, the story is much more –  parents’ love for their child, courage, and undying hope. Mohit Raina effortlessly merges into the character of Avinash Kamath and Kashmira Pardeshi as Aliya will leave you vulnerable and emotional. Moreover, collaborating with Disney+ Hotstar has been an incredible experience and we hope audiences enjoy the series.”

Talking about the show and his character, Raina said “The Freelancer is a story that touched my heart in several ways. Playing Avinash Kamath was challenging yet creatively satisfying. Despite fighting his interpersonal battles on a daily basis, Avinash embarks upon a mission like never before, as he sets foot to rescue Aliya. Working with a creative genius like Neeraj Pandey, a visionary Director like Bhav Dhulia and Disney+ Hotstar has been a remarkable experience. I am honored to share screen space with a legendary actor like Anupam Kher and learnt a lot from him. Taking charge of the role as The Freelancer comes with great responsibility and I hope audiences enjoy this side of me.”

Talking about the series, Kher said, “Every story has a mastermind behind it and that’s exactly what Dr Khan is to The Freelancer. Different from characters I have essayed in the past, Dr Khan is vocal, opinionated and has a complex personality. He is Avinash’s confidante and extremely aware about the environment he is operating in. The series will evoke the feeling of empathy and thrill, all at once. Moreover, collaborating with Neeraj has always been a pleasant experience.”

Shedding light on her role and the series, Pardeshi said, “The Freelancer is a story that has left a huge impact on me. Slipping into the role of Aliya was challenging and liberating at the same time. Exploring her journey, emotions, vulnerabilities, her strength, courage and her dire need to escape from a hostile environment taught me several things and changed my perspective towards many things. Working with stalwarts like Neeraj Pandey, Anupam Kher and Mohit Raina was a great learning experience. I am grateful to Friday Storytellers and Disney+ Hotstar for giving me this opportunity. and looking forward to audience reactions for The Freelancer.”

Mumbai: Renowned California-based musician and producer Sandeep Khurana recently finished his much-anticipated collaboration with iconic Indian singer Padmashree Shri Kumar Sanu for a song, which was recorded in a Hollywood studio in July 2023. In this conjoined effort, Kumar Sanu, who has lent his voice to some of the most enduring melodies from the late 80s and 90s, has sung a patriotic song penned and composed by Sandeep Khurana. Released on the occasion of the upcoming Independence Day, this latest composition by Khurana, titled ‘Vande Mataram, is a rousing tribute to the artist’s motherland and the people of India. The song explores themes of expressing love, regard, pride, and gratitude for the motherland.

Further adding to the star power behind this musical endeavour, the song was produced by Bappa B. Lahiri, the son of the music legend Bappi Lahiri. Representative of Sandeep’s musical repertoire, which strives to blend the best of the Indian and Western musical systems, ‘Vande Mataram’ will also showcase a fusion between the classic Indian melody form and Western orchestration. The song begins with a poem, written and recited by Sandeep, while the core melody is carried by Kumar Sanu and Sandeep’s winning voices. In this composition, a treat for fans of both Khurana and Sanu, the soothing format of the Indian melody has found an awe-inspiring and patriotic undertone with elements of the orchestra, such as strings, beats, pads, synths, and layers of chorus.

Apart from the audio release across streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Gaana, and Saavn, ‘Vande Mataram’ will also feature in a short documentary film by Sandeep Khurana. The film will revolve around India, its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and how the country has made great progress over the years.

About the collaboration, Khurana said, “I am thrilled to have collaborated with the versatile genius of Kumar Sanu for this one-of-a-kind track, where for the first time an Indian Patriotic song has been recorded in a Hollywood song. As unusual, he has enhanced the composition with his beautiful, textured voice, which, with its emotional appeal, has won our hearts for several decades. Moreover, towards the success of the song, Bappa B. Lahiri, who proudly furthers his father’s legacy, brought to the table his keen sense of fusion between Eastern and Western sounds. I have worked on many projects with Bappa B. Lahiri, and it’s always interesting to be involved in his endeavours.”

Similar enthusiasm was heard when, on being asked about his experience with ‘Vande Mataram’, Sanu said, “I am very happy to sing the song. Sandeep-ji’s composition is very good and melodious, and it’s been a while since I’ve had the opportunity to sing a melodious song. I am sure when listeners listen to this song, Vande Mataram, they will feel great patriotism and love for India.” On the other hand, as the producer of the song, Bappa B. Lahiri, commented, “It was a great opportunity to be able to back this unique production. Sandeep has always had a great ear for melody, while the legendary talent of Kumar Sanu needs no introduction. Most importantly, I was excited to produce a patriotic song in a Hollywood studio, as that would show how far the soft power of the Indian music industry has traveled.”

Further outlining the inspiration behind the song, Sandeep commented, “India is going through a massive churn, which is set to gear the country in a very positive direction. Thinking of the exciting times ahead and distilling my deep sentiments for my country, I was inspired to pen and compose this song. Further, apart from expressing my deep love for India, the song, in a way, summarises what my life and career represent: a balance between Indianness and cosmopolitanism. The fusion-based soundscape of the composition denotes that as a growing country, India is slowly influencing trends and thoughts across the globe.” On that note, he added, “I mean, look at my career trajectory itself: I was born in Delhi, and today, as a resident of California, I am making music for the world. Similarly, Kumar Sanu and Bappa B Lahiri, who are both deeply rooted in the musical ethos of India, are recording a patriotic album in Hollywood studios, appealing to people all over the world. What better way to show the spirit of modern India? Also, this shows that, regardless of where you are, your love for the country persists. I hope that those who will listen to the song will also feel the deep love and respect for India that I and my collaborators share.”

Apart from the patriotic song, Sandeep created a musical wave amongst his fans with his recent songwriting project, sung and composed by the renowned singers Sadhana Sargam and Bappa B. Lahiri, respectively. The series of his latest releases indicate how dedicated Sandeep is to his craft, and he says that in the coming years as well, he will continue to produce great music. Winner of several notable awards, including Special Jury Awards in music from the UK Songwriting Contest and USA Songwriting Contests, Sandeep has an extensive portfolio of over 100 albums, ranging from new-age, psychedelic, rock, and rhythm-n-blues to world music. An alumnus of the renowned Ali Akbar College of Music in California, Sandeep continuously draws his musical inspiration from various traditions and generates massive traction across streaming platforms with his music. Similarly, attesting to his film-making prowess, he is the proud recipient of accolades such as the Special Jury Award at the Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival 2022, the Best Film Awards at the Francisco Arthouse Short Festival, and the Paris Cinema Awards.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4KO6U4WNDEW0RjzQL7VuRj?si=S1VLeTjPQqmcmQLaslHjig

Mumbai: Gear up for an extraordinary cinematic treat! Sony LIV is all set to rekindle your love for cinema with the exclusive premiere of Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film – The Fabelmans on 11 August.

Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence, but soon discovers a shattering family secret and explores how the power of films can help him see the truth.

The critically acclaimed movie produced by Tony Kushner, Kristie Macosko Krieger, Steven Spielberg, stars Paul Dano, Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle in pivotal roles. The film will be streaming from 11 August on Sony LIV.

Mumbai: SonyLIV has announced a major change to its streaming services. The OTT platform has confirmed that soon it is going to discontinue Sony live TV channels from the app. Previously, the users were able to watch Sony TV channels through the streaming app, which will now be removed from 30 August 2023.

According to media reports, SonyLIV has sent messages to subscribers regarding the discontinuation of live TV on the app. The message mentioned that the live TV channels will be discontinued from 30 August. SonyLIV has also updated its Term of Use policy to effect the new changes.

OTT platforms, including Hotstar and Zee5, are taking the decision to discontinue live TV channels from their services with an aim to strive for full compliance with regulations, aiming to steer clear of any legal ambiguities.

In September 2022, The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) came up with recommendations on ‘Market Structure/Competition in Cable TV Services’. In its recommendations, TRAI said that many MSOs opined that unlicensed video and audio streaming services as well as OTT platforms should be definitely accounted for the purpose of determining market dominance.

TRAI had also contended that broadcasters are supplying signals of linear channels to OTT platforms in a manner that bypasses Clause 5.6 of the Uplinking and Downlinking guidelines for television channels.

According to Clause 5.6 of the policy guidelines issued on 5 December 2011, pertaining to the downlinking of TV channels, a broadcaster shall provide satellite TV channel signal reception decoders only to registered entities such as MSOs (Multi-System Operators), Cable Operators, DTH operators, providers of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) services and HITS operators.

Mumbai: The icon is back and she’s here to slay. Kim Cattrall isn’t someone to be messed with and neither is her character Tigger Collins. Back on the digital front with About My Father which is set to stream exclusively on 18 August on Lionsgate Play in India, Kim showcases her versatility by playing a headstrong character with a soft side. Also starring the evergreen Robert De Niro along with Sebastian Maniscalco, Anders Holm, Leslie Bibb and Brett Dier, this heartwarming comedy is a cultural blend of classic Italian and unapologetically American families, promising to make you fall in love, so get ready for galore of hoots and emotions.

Giving an insight into her feisty character, Kim Cattrall said, “I play a Senator from Virginia and she’s got a very bad temper. She likes her own way, very wise, very sweet, very congenial and very polite unless you get on her wrong side and then she’s a tiger.”

Talking about the spectacular cast, director Laura Terruso said, “Casting is the single most important part of making a comedy and to have Robert De Niro and Sebastian Maniscalco playing opposite each other and then to have supporting them, Kim Cattrall – who is one of the funniest women on the planet. David Rasche is a genius in his own right, even Anders Holm, Brett Dier.. Leslie Bibb, is just the ultimate dream woman for Sebastian and they have such incredible chemistry and I think that chemistry is everything in a comedy. This cast has such tremendous chemistry.”

Mumbai: Anand Bhosle and PME Entertainment, the global event management company announced an extraordinary musical extravaganza to celebrate the 90th birthday of the legendary playback singer, Asha Bhosle, in Dubai. “ASHA@90: Live in concert,” marks the grand return of the iconic songstress to the stage in Dubai after over a decade, making it an event that music enthusiasts have eagerly awaited.

Renowned celebrities, including Jackie Shroff, Jamil Saidi, Nitin Shankar, Salim-Sulaiman, Poonam Dhillon, Padmini Kolhapure expressed their unwavering admiration for the legendary Asha Bhosle at a press conference held to celebrate her upcoming concert. These die-hard fans came together to extend their heartfelt congratulations and support as she gears up to grace the stage after a decade for this special event, The event was moderated by RJ Anmol.

The concert is scheduled to take place on 8 September at the prestigious Coca-Cola Arena, known for hosting world-class events that have graced Dubai’s cultural landscape. This once-in-a-lifetime event will be a memorable tribute to Asha Bhosle’s illustrious career, which has spanned over eight decades and produced some of the most memorable melodies in Indian cinema.

“We are honoured and ecstatic to celebrate the 90th birthday of the legendary Asha Bhosle ji with an exclusive concert in Dubai,” said PME founder Salman Ahmed. “Her return to Dubai after a decade will undoubtedly create a nostalgic and unforgettable experience for the audience. This concert is a testament to our commitment to present extraordinary musical events that resonate with our diverse audience.”

“ASHA@90: Live in concert” will be a world’s first of its kind musical Broadway feature a magically curated repertoire with Singer Sudesh Bhosle and others, spanning classic Bollywood hits, soulful ghazals, and evergreen melodies that have left an indelible mark on music history. The concert promises to be an enchanting journey through Asha Bhosle’s musical legacy, paying tribute to her invaluable contributions to Indian and world music.

Sharing her excitement at the press conference legendary singer Asha Bhosle said, “I am filled with immense joy and gratitude as I prepare to return to the stage after over a decade, celebrating my 90th birthday with this extraordinary concert organized by PME Entertainment. Music has been my lifeline, and to share my melodies with my beloved fans once again is an emotional and unforgettable moment. I look forward to creating magical memories together and rejoicing in the power of music.”

Asha Bhosle, the epitome of timeless melodies, has lent her enchanting voice to over 12,000 songs across various Indian languages. Her versatility, passion, and magnetic stage presence have made her an unparalleled music icon who continues to inspire generations of music lovers.

Sharing his excitement Anand Bhosle said,” I can hardly contain my excitement as we eagerly await Asha ji’s mesmerizing concert in Dubai! Her unparalleled voice has the power to transcend time and culture, bringing joy and harmony to every corner of the world. As we celebrate her 90th birthday, let us remember that her music isn’t just a collection of melodies; it’s a symphony of emotions that has touched hearts for decades. Here’s to Asha ji, the eternal melody of life, and to many more years of her enchanting artistry.”

Mumbai: Amazon miniTV’s dance-reality series, Hip Hop India has been infusing enthralling performances and revolutionising the dance culture. Witnessing paraphernalia of art from a pool of raw talent, the reality series has garnered artistic recognition from eminent judges – Remo D’ Souza and Nora Fatehi. From contemporary hip–hop, and lyrical breaking to the Indian classical scene, Hip Hop India dazzled its viewers with vivifying episodes.

Sarthak’s triumphant takeover from Ajay & Vartika’s thunderbolt performance led Nora and Remo to honor her by hanging their boots. Moreover, Rahul Bhagat gave a special performance of the song “Main toh tere pyaar me deewana ho gaya ” which made Remo and Nora applaud him with all their heart

Mumbai Ki Gully Se Divyam and Darsham the melodic “Raanjhanaa” served as the out-and-out backdrop for flawless open-style hip hop — as they danced their way into the judges’ hearts. The friends-turned-choreographers duo and Nora go back to the world cup rehearsal sharing saccharine memories with the actor, fondly reminiscing Nora’s tantalising walk from the World Cup 2022. Showcasing his immense love for Nora, he candidly expressed, “If you would not have been a dancer then you would be a lawyer. Kya aap mere dil ka case laroge?” which left the judges in splits.

Post the unabashedly aggressive performance by the Nupur78 crew on “Kesariyaan Saiyaan Saiyaan” that left the judges stunned, the mega crew sparked the Hip Hop India stage to life. Conveying a climacteric message to the quintessential women artists of today, the Mega Crew team remarked, “Being a girl if you adopt hip-hop culture it is completely fine and great… we need to perform on the world stage and bring the hip-hop culture up.”

The top 12 contestants for the dance reality show Hip Hop India on the streaming service were chosen after four days of intense tryouts, which saw fierce competition amongst SOLOs, DUOs, and Crew’s Teams as well as ‘Gully Se Glory Tak’ prize takeovers. The show also saw talents who can be counted as the best in their categories across the globe. Talented Hip Hop dancer Bboy Tornado a.k.a. Ramesh Yadav and the popular dance troop Yo Highness made their mark with their outstanding performance. Bboy Tornado hails from the gullys of Mumbai and started his dance journey by traveling to cities while using the money he earned to travel. Tornado made it to the top 26 in the 2023 Japan Olympics, and by becoming the first Indian to qualify in the category, he brought unmeasurable honor to the nation.

Helmed by Amazon miniTV in the quest of creating a rampant buzz and garnering an urban street culture revolution, Hip-Hop India is exclusively streaming on Amazon miniTV, for free within the Amazon shopping app and on Fire TV.