Category: iWorld

Mumbai: The drug menace and prevalence of substance abuse in Punjab is a major concern. The authorities and people at large are witnessing this increasing trend and are really worried. Being a socially responsible radio network MY FM morning show RJ Shonali picked up the issue and raised a voice against the drug menace, the activity was well supported by Narcotics Control Bureau & the Chandigarh Police.

The D Negative campaign was planned with a strong call to action. MY FM team wanted to help the authorities in identifying drug peddlers, dealers or individuals. Since the listeners treat RJs as their friends and are comfortable establishing a connection with them quickly, a mobile no. was shared where the victim or anyone with information or stories can reach out to the RJ. As soon as the campaign was launched, hundreds of calls started coming from victims sharing their stories, affected families and also information about drug dealers.

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Zonal director Amanjit Singh during an interview with RJ Shonali, explained that people believe that the use of opium and drugs increases focus but it is just a myth. In reality, it deteriorates our health. People often start by trying it for the first time, not knowing it will become an addiction. Amanjit also mentioned that the tri-city area (Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir) has become a hub for drug consumption. In the digital world, drugs are now accessible through the dark web using Bitcoin, reaching youth. Dr Asim, an associate professor from the Department of Psychology, also joined RJ Shonali and shared that the effects of drugs not only impact individuals but also their families. The more drugs are used, the more they affect you. They turn you into a victim of addiction.

“I have followed this campaign from start to finish. It started at the DC Chandigarh’s office and it was a combined effort of MY FM, Chandigarh Police and NCB. The ‘D Negative’ campaign has been very successful and it will save many homes,” said  NCB the Zonal director Amanjit Singh.

The activity culminated at the Attari Border where more than 25000 people gathered and took pleas to the fight against Drugs.

MY FM CEO Rahul Namjoshi said, “Drugs and substance abuse is a very sensitive and big issue in Chandigarh & Punjab. At MY FM we have always picked up social issues, RJ Shonali who does the morning show initiated the campaign. The response to the entire campaign from all walks of life has been overwhelming not just the people, victims, and families but also the authorities- Narcotics Control Bureau and the Chandigarh police. We promise to pick up such issues in the future as well which impact the society at large”.

Mumbai: Geek it out with Vivian and her girls as Lionsgate Play brings to you another laughter riot. An homage to the classic girls versus boys trope, 1UP follows high-school gamer Vivian, essayed by Paris Berelc as she battles it out on the esports frontline to secure a scholarship at her dream college. When Vivian’s future is threatened by Dustin and his team of video game geeks, she enlists a group of outcast girls and her college professor to settle the score once and for all. Starring Ruby Rose, Taylor Zakhar Perez and Hari Nef in titular roles, 1UP is set to stream exclusively in India on Lionsgate Play this 7 July. So grab your controllers and get up to speed for this intense showdown.

Talking about his inspiration behind the film, director Kyle Newman said, “I grew up as part of the Nintendo generation, and video games (and gaming culture at large) have remained ever-present in my life. When my older siblings exposed me to the magic of Atari, ColecoVision, and coin-operated arcades at a young age, I became obsessed. The Legend of Zelda, FIFA Soccer, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Double Dragon, Goldeneye 007, The Secret of Monkey Island, Baldur’s Gate, Call of Duty, my tastes run deep! Now, my own children have become fanatical Nintendo Switch devotees (defeating nearly every iteration of Super Mario since the early ’80s), exposing me to a generation of new titles from Undertale and Cuphead to Friday Night Funkin’. Gaming has been a tremendous way to bond with my boys, and, in many ways, I made this film for them!”

Mumbai: Mysteries, supernatural forces, curses and a folklore; Disney+ Hotstar’s Aashiqana is back with a super intriguing fourth season. Ready to set chills down your spine, the new season will take on you a thrilling journey with Yash and Chikki as they are set to explore what the world of traditions and customs awaits them. Produced by Gen Z Studios, directed by the series director Gul Khan, the series stars the supremely talented Zayn Ibad Khan (Yash) and Khushi Dubey (Chikki) in lead roles.

With Yash and Chikki standing on different paths and tackling every hurdle that comes their way, season four will be full of twists and turns and an untold folklore that leaves them cursed.

Series director Gul Khan said, “Aashiqana has been a fan favorite and we have received immense love for this show. For every season of Aashiqana, we have brought something fresh and new that would keep the audience hooked . Staying true to our efforts, this time we are back with something more, with a story spawned with folklore, legends and curses of the past, this season will be unique and intriguing. As we introduce new characters, new plots and unexpected twists in Aashiqana 4, we hope viewers enjoy this season just as much as the previous seasons”.

Mumbai: Reliance Entertainment and Continental Entertainment PTE Ltd. (CEPL) are thrilled to announce its collaboration with Sony LIV for the exclusive streaming rights of two highly acclaimed films, ‘Hawa’ and ‘Saturday Afternoon’. 

Directed by Mejbaur Rahman Sumon, ‘Hawa’ is a groundbreaking film that has revolutionized the Bangladeshi film industry. “Hawa” was Bangladesh’s official entry to the 95th Academy Awards and the highest grosser ever in Bangladesh. After its tremendous success in Bangladesh, ‘Hawa’ will exclusively be available for audiences worldwide on Sony LIV from 7 July.

Directed by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Saturday Afternoon’s unique narrative explores the aftermath of an unprecedented attack that unfolds in a peaceful café. The film unravels the clashes and contradictions of ideology and civilization through a drama shot in a single take.

Sony LIV head of content Saugata Mukherjee said, “We are delighted to partner with Reliance Entertainment and CEPL to bring ‘Hawa’ and ‘Saturday Afternoon’ to our viewers. These two captivating films add to our already sparkling roster of thought-provoking cinema from different parts of India and the globe. At Sony LIV, we remain committed to delivering compelling content and being the home for the most exciting voices from across the world.”

Commenting on this collaboration, CEPL CEO (South-East Asia) Sreyashii Sengupta said, “This collaboration with Sony LIV and Reliance Entertainment to showcase ‘Hawa’ and ‘Saturday Afternoon’ is a beginning of slew of films from South Asia for us at CEPL and furthering cross border distribution models and accessibility of content. A wider audience in India will now enjoy diverse films from Bangladesh which have gripping stories and reflect the different genres of film making from a variety of directors. We believe that this partnership will create a significant impact on the film industry and contribute to fostering cultural exchange.”

Mumbai: Looking at ways to escape the July blues? Get ready to kick back and immerse yourself in a treasure trove of gripping titles including empowering dramas, thrillers, and heartfelt tales from the comfort of your homes. From undercover spies to glamorous girl bosses, Lionsgate Play has you covered on all ends. Be it a sneaky chef on ‘High Heat’ or a group of girls ready to ‘Run The World’, this July is packed with titles that will ‘One Up’ even your cloudiest days. So, pour yourself some hot chocolate and get your favorite snacks in order as Lionsgate Play is here to lift your spirits this gloomy July.    

Exclusive to Lionsgate Play

Movie Premieres

One Up – Release Date: 7 July 2023

They say video games are a ‘guy thing’, but these girls are here to prove you wrong. When Vivian’s gaming skills get her enlisted for a college scholarship, she’s stoked, until she learns about a competition against the male-dominated team. Tired of women being undermined in the esports world, Vivian recruits a group of professional girl gamers to prove once and for all, that she can do it all. Starring Ruby Rose, Taylor Zakhar Perez, Paris Berelc, and Hari Nef in titular roles, One Up is a riotous comedy that will leave you ever so empowered.   

Wrath Of Man – Release Date: 14 July 2023

Wrath of Man will be available on Lionsgate Play Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Bhojpuri as well. Starring Jason Statham in the role of a cash truck driver, Wrath Of Man showcases the extent a father will go to for his son. Following his son’s death as part of collateral damage in a heist, Mason plans the long game to get revenge against the ruthless thieves. Centered on the fury of a grieving father, the movie includes Scott Eastwood, Josh Hartnett and Holt McCallany in pivotal roles alongside Josan Statham.  

Black Lotus – Release Date: 21 July 2023

An ex-soldier finds himself caught in a sticky situation when he learns that his late friend’s daughter has been kidnapped. Embarking on a mission to rescue her from the clutches of a criminal underboss played by Frank Grillo, he doesn’t know if he will succeed. With Rico Verhoeven, Marie Dompnier and Peter Franzén headlining this action thriller, it is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Promise – Release Date: 28 July 2023

Always keep your promises or they come back to haunt you, in this case, your loved ones. A friendship that started with a vow to end their lives together, results in Boum leaving Ib alone as she commits suicide. 15 years later, when Boum’s daughter is all grown up, Ib comes back to take her revenge. Starring Panisara Rikulsurakan, Namthip Jongrachatawiboon and Nichapalak Thongkham, this horror fest is going to keep you up at night.

Series Premiere

Run The World: Season 2 – Release Date: 28 July 2023

After a triumphant season one, Run The World is back with another season which is bigger, better and bolder. This American comedy follows three black women, Whitney, Renee and Sondi as they strive for global domination. Dealing with breakups, hook-ups and hardships, this trio is back to dazzle you with their resilience, ethic and fabulous clothes. Starring Amber Stevens West, Bresha Webb, Corbin Reid and Stephen Bishop, these girls will really rock your world.

Mumbai: This July, immerse yourself into the world of compelling stories with MX Player’s captivating MX VDesi line-up. The platform has kept the viewers glued to their screens by offering them content in multiple languages and across varied genres. Take a look at the mix of engaging and entertaining slate for July, which is just unmissable.

5th July 2023 – Legend of Fuyao

Legend of Fuyao is a Chinese fantasy drama about Meng Fuyao (Yang Mi), a young woman born from a divine lotus petal. At 16, she masters an invincible fighting technique and embarks on a journey to collect the secret talisman from five kingdoms that will gain her entry into a sacred land called the Firmament. On her journey, Fuyao falls in love with Crown Prince Zhangsun Wuji (Ethan Juan), who helps her to fight the powerful political forces along the way. With the support of her friends, can Fuyao unravel the dangerous conspiracy originating from the heavens and restore peace to the land? Witness this adventure and unravel the story ‘Legend of Fuyao’ streaming on MX Player in Hindi from 5 July 2023.

19th July 2023 – Ice Fantasy

Ice Fantasy is a Chinese fantasy drama. Hundred years after the war between the Ice Tribe and the Fire Tribe, the only two remaining royal heirs of the Ice Tribe struggle for power. Prince Ka Suo (Feng Shao Feng) and his younger half-brother, Yong Kong Shi (Ma Tian Yu), are the only pureblood illusionists and royal heirs left in the Ice Tribe. Ka Suo reluctantly battles his brother for the throne, but he wants nothing more than the freedom to be with his lover Li Luo. Kong Shi does everything he can to take the throne away from Ka Suo, while Yan Da (Zhang Meng), the only daughter of the Fire Tribe royal family, is willing to give up everything for Kong Shi. When both Kong Shi and Li Luo suddenly go missing, can Ka Suo protect his kingdom alone when another war breaks out? Watch ‘Ice Fantasy’ streaming on MX Player in Hindi from 19 July 2023.

22nd July 2023 -The Return (Kikyo)

‘The Return’ is a captivating Japanese samurai drama that follows the journey of a sickly outlaw who, after three decades of wandering, comes back to his birthplace. Upon his return, he decides to save a girl in dire straits. With his hardened skills and a sense of duty rekindled, he embarks on a mission to protect the girl and confront the injustices that plague his hometown. As the story unfolds, the ailing outlaw’s path becomes intertwined with the village’s fate, leading to a gripping tale of redemption, honor, and sacrifice. Watch ‘The Return’ streaming on MX Player in Hindi from 22 July 2023.

Mumbai: India is a country that is home to several religions. People tend to practise religious customs and traditions that are more often rooted in their culture. Religion has played an important part in preserving the customs and traditions of the nation and this is hardly unsurprising.

Over time and generations, there has been a steady decline in how the youth in the country perceive religion as a whole. This is mostly imminent in tier-one cities, where religion and customs have seen a substantial decline. However, the same cannot be said for youths belonging to tier II cities. There is more to religion that’s keeping a generation of people from one subclass of society engaged.

OMTV, World’s first Indic storytelling app, has recently conducted a survey on their 2500 users and came up with surprising revelations. The popular app showcasing content related to spirituality has declared that 80 per cent of viewership in the app comes from the 18-30 age group.

The result reflected most of the viewers are youngsters from tier-two cities, with Indore, Jaipur, and Kanpur emerging as the top cities in terms of user engagement. A popular web series called “Gita Stories” is the preferred choice among users.

Within the age group of 18-30, the majority of users (85 per cent male and 15 per cent female) belong to the Hindi-speaking market (HSM).

20 per cent  of respondents above the age of 30(adults), take less interest in religious-specific content, with 70 per cent male and 30 per cent  female respectively

The most-watched show on the OMTV app is “KALAM” – Gita Stories, which revolves around one of the true-life events of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Azad

Addressing the surge of the younger generation on the app, OMTV Founder & MD at  Nitin Jai Shukla said, “In today’s rapidly changing Indian society, the inclinations of the country’s youth towards religious content are noticeably shifting. Factors such as social media addiction, anti-India propaganda, urban anxiety, academic pressures, mental health concerns, and the disintegration of joint families contribute to this trend. Religious content acts as a bridge, allowing them to connect with their cultural and spiritual roots, imparting a sense of identity and heritage. Encouraging an inclusive approach to religious content while providing support in areas such as mental health, academic pressures, and career guidance will help the Indian youth navigate the complexities of the modern world while staying connected to their cultural roots”.

OMTV has recently collaborated with Phando Technologies to deliver a flawless streaming experience to its users. In a bid to captivate audiences, the app has also introduced an exhilarating series that delves into the rich tapestry of Sikhism, shedding light on its diverse aspects.

OMTV is a one-stop platform that covers content from all prevalent religions in India, including Hindu, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Sikhism among the major ones. This diversified approach addresses all the corners of different religions and evokes spirituality through various shows covering life lessons. Every individual has something to consume concerning their own customs and practices. Since its launch, the app has garnered over 45,000 downloads, showcasing its growing popularity among users.