ITV

Category: iWorld

  • Lights, Camera, AI: A new era in video content creation has arrived!

    Lights, Camera, AI: A new era in video content creation has arrived!

    MUMBAI: The future of video content is here, and it’s wearing an AI cape.

    AiVanta, a leader in AI-powered enterprise video solutions, has teamed up with UnScript, an AI video platform specialising in content automation and avatar technology, to revolutionise how businesses create and manage video content.

    Together, these companies are unleashing cutting-edge, scalable solutions designed to make video creation faster, smarter, and, dare we say, much cooler. Think professional-grade social media ads and corporate videos—without a single camera in sight.

    What’s the big idea?

    The AiVanta-UnScript partnership is set to address the growing demand for innovative video communication in enterprises. By merging UnScript’s revolutionary AI tech—which lets businesses generate video content from text—with AiVanta’s scalable solutions, they’re unlocking endless possibilities. From employee training to customer engagement and marketing campaigns, the duo promises to make video creation as easy as writing an email (minus the typos).

    In case you missed it, the AI video solutions market is booming. With a 20 per cent annual growth rate projected through 2030, sectors like BFSI, healthcare, retail, and education are leading the charge. For businesses racing to keep up with digital transformation, having tools that save time and money while delivering professional results isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

    What makes this partnership even more exciting is its “Make in India” ethos. Both AiVanta and UnScript are deeply rooted in India, offering locally developed, high-quality solutions that are also globally competitive. From multilingual videos to budget-friendly automation, they’re catering to enterprises of all shapes and sizes.

    AiVanta co-founder & CEO, Karan Ahuja sums it up perfectly, “This partnership represents a game-changer for enterprise video content creation. Together, we are empowering organisations to create hyper-personalised, immersive content that drives deeper connections and global impact.”

    Meanwhile, UnScript founder & CEO Ritwika Chowdhury is all about scalability, “Our revolutionary platform eliminates traditional video shoots, enabling businesses to scale video production effortlessly. Partnering with AiVanta allows us to deliver a complete transformation in enterprise video strategies.”

    These aren’t just words. AiVanta has worked with heavyweights like ICICI Bank, Bajaj Allianz, and Aster Healthcare, while UnScript counts Naukri, Tata Mutual Fund, and RadioCity among its clients. Clearly, this partnership isn’t playing in the minor leagues.

    With the market poised for exponential growth, AiVanta and UnScript are ready to lead the charge in transforming enterprise video content. Whether it’s hyper-personalised campaigns, AI-driven avatars, or solutions that help businesses reach global audiences, this duo is setting new benchmarks.

    So, what’s the takeaway? If your business hasn’t embraced AI for video yet, now’s the time. Why spend weeks (and budgets) on traditional shoots when AI can do the job better, faster, and cheaper?

    So, ready to join the revolution?

     

  • Truecaller appoints Hemant Arora as vice-president of global ad sales

    Truecaller appoints Hemant Arora as vice-president of global ad sales

    MUMBAI:  Global communications platform  Truecaller  has announced the appointment of Hemant Arora as the new vice-president of global ad sales business. This strategic move aims to bolster Truecaller’s advertising division, which represents the company’s largest revenue stream, while refining its global ad sales strategy.

    With over 25 years of industry experience, Arora has a proven track record of driving revenue growth and managing global operations for some of the world’s most recognized media and technology companies. His previous roles include serving as head of global accounts for Europe, APAC, and the METAP regions at TikTok, where he demonstrated his ability to foster relationships with key stakeholders and manage complexities in fast-paced environments.

    “Truecaller is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology, trust, and communications,” Arora stated upon his appointment. “I am excited to join a talented team and look forward to driving impactful growth while deepening our partnerships globally.” 

    His extensive experience includes establishing revenue growth business units, which will be crucial as Truecaller seeks to expand its advertising portfolio and integrate innovative solutions.

    Truecaller  CEO  Rishit Jhunjhunwala, emphasised the importance of Arora’s appointment, noting his extensive background in building scalable revenue models and navigating global markets. “Hemant’s leadership will further strengthen our vision to revolutionize how brands connect with consumers and maximize the potential of our platform,” Jhunjhunwala commented.

    Truecaller serves over 425 million active users worldwide, making it one of the most widely used communication platforms. The company’s growth has been bolstered by its ability to identify and block nearly 46 billion unwanted calls in 2023 alone, showcasing its effectiveness in improving user experience.

  • Now, get ready to play the Bigg Boss game

    Now, get ready to play the Bigg Boss game

    MUMBAI: : From television and streaming media, Bigg Bos is now getting into the games sphere. Gaming and sports media company Nazara Technologies’s subsidiary Fusebox Games has announced a strategic partnership with Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment, to develop and launch the first-ever Bigg Boss Interactive fiction game.

    The Bigg Boss interactive fiction game will allow players to step into the Bigg Boss house, create their avatars, and navigate dynamic narratives inspired by the show’s most memorable moments. The game will feature live in-game events synchronized with the TV series, branching storylines, and localised narratives in Hindi and regional Indian languages.

    “We are excited to reimagine this iconic format as an immersive, interactive experience that fans can engage with in entirely new ways,” said Fusebox CEO Terry Lee. “This partnership with Banijay Rights underscores our commitment to delivering compelling, localised interactive fiction games that resonate deeply with audiences.”

    Added Banijay Rights  senior vice-president, gaming & gambling Mark Woollard, , “Bigg Boss and Big Brother have captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. Our partnerships with Nazara and Fusebox Games open exciting new possibilities, creating immersive ways for fans to engage with these iconic brands.”

    The game is set to launch in 2025, alongside the Big Brother Interactive Fiction Game. A Big Boss board game has already been doing the rounds of the toy markets in India.
     

  • Drowning in content: Filmmakers and streamers battle Content Indigestion

    Drowning in content: Filmmakers and streamers battle Content Indigestion

    MUMBAI: From binge-worthy series to endless cooking reels, do you ever feel like you’re drowning in content? You’re not alone. The streaming world is bursting at the seams, and while we enjoy the buffet of stories, filmmakers and streamers are battling what writer Prasoon Joshi aptly calls ‘Content Indigestion’. As billions of choices flood our screens, are we losing the ability to truly savour what we watch?

    India’s content landscape is nothing short of a digital deluge.

    With 523 million broadband users, the average Indian spends seven to eight hours a day glued to their screens. Add to this 900 TV channels, 1,600 films annually, and over 60 streaming apps, and you’ve got a recipe for content overload. Did we mention that YouTube alone uploads 500 hours of video every minute?

    That’s more content than a goldfish’s attention span can handle. (Yes, a goldfish has a 9-second attention span, while ours is apparently a pitiful 8 seconds.)

    The internet was supposed to be our great democratiser. It turned every kitchen into a cooking show and every mimic into a global star.

    But here’s the kicker: when everyone’s creating, who’s watching? The line between creators and audiences has blurred, leaving platforms like Google and Meta to call the shots. Forget reruns and classics; today, content that doesn’t trend is as good as forgotten.

    Remember when stardom lasted decades? Now it barely survives the weekend. In a market saturated with choices, even the best content struggles to make a mark. Filmmakers are baffled, streamers are desperate, and the rest of us are just trying to remember the plot of the show we binged last night.

    What does this mean for the business of content? Rising expectations have pushed production costs up by 200 per cent to 400 per cent, forcing platforms to adopt TV-like ad tiers and sports programming to stay relevant.

    Can filmmakers and streamers find the cure for Content Indigestion?

    Writer and adman Prasoon Joshi hopes that this chaos will eventually churn out some nectar. As creators and platforms grapple with this overwhelming buffet, is there light at the end of the screen? Perhaps it’s time to ask ourselves: Do we really need more content, or do we need better content?

    Yes, we’re drowning in content. Yes, our attention spans are dwindling. But maybe, just maybe, this chaotic phase will help us discover stories that truly resonate. Until then, keep scrolling, binge-watching, and questioning if you’re part of the problem.

  • Mirchi Recharge Mornings guides listeners toward a positive start

    Mirchi Recharge Mornings guides listeners toward a positive start

    MUMBAI: Imagine waking up every morning with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to face the day’s challenges. Mirchi, a radio network, is tapping into this need for daily positivity and motivation with its new show, Mirchi Recharge Mornings. This program aims to help listeners start their day with clarity, inspiration, and practical life guidance by blending entertainment and spirituality.

    The show is hosted by Brahma Kumari Sister Shreya, a spiritual mentor with expertise in meditation, life skills, and value education, alongside Vishaal Sethia, a seasoned voiceover artist and stage performer. Together, they bring relatable insights and thoughtful discussions to address common challenges people face in their daily lives.

    Sister Shreya said, “Mirchi Recharge Mornings aims to create positive starts to the day, offering listeners inspiration and tools to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and strength. At the Brahma Kumaris, our vision is to promote emotional well-being and inner peace, and this collaboration with Radio Mirchi provides the perfect platform to connect with individuals seeking balance and positivity. We are grateful to the Mirchi team for their warmth and dedication, making this journey truly enriching. Together, we hope to replace emotional distress with hope and happiness, one morning at a time.”

    What sets Mirchi Recharge Mornings apart is its focus on real-life issues that resonate with people from all walks of life. The show tackles topics such as managing anger, overcoming loneliness, battling addiction, and rediscovering self-confidence, offering practical solutions instead of superficial advice. Each episode serves as a companion for listeners, helping them navigate life with resilience and balance.

    The program airs Monday through Saturday from 6 AM to 8 AM, with an extended session on Sundays from 6 AM to 10 AM. For added convenience, episodes are also available on Gaana and Mirchi’s Devraag YouTube channel in both audio and video formats.

    By transforming mornings into a time for self-care and growth, Mirchi Recharge Mornings is designed to help listeners recharge their spirits and approach life with renewed energy and focus.

     

     

  • Zeel’s CTPO Shiva Chinnasamy asked to look after Zee5 as CBO

    Zeel’s CTPO Shiva Chinnasamy asked to look after Zee5 as CBO

    MUMBAI: Five months ago Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Zeel) announced the appointment of former Amazon, Tesco and Google engineering executive Shiva Chinnasamy as the chief technology and product officer of the company. 

    Last month Zee5 chief business officer -domestic and global – Manish Kalra  decided to put in his papers at the company after a near five year stint.

    Seeing the performance  of Shiva, the dynamic tech and business executive,  over the past five months, the company has decided to appoint him as the CBO of Zee5 as well starting the new year. Apparently, he has come in as a replacement for Manish Kalra.

    Disclosing this on Linkedin Shiva said he had been entrusted with – and given – the responsibility of Zee5’s business “P&L, operations and growth.” 

  • Prasar Bharati’s Waves OTT now on Jio Stores, expanding Indian content access

    Prasar Bharati’s Waves OTT now on Jio Stores, expanding Indian content access

    MUMBAI: In the bustling streets of Mumbai, where skyscrapers narrate tales of ambition, one name consistently towers above the rest—Mukesh Ambani.

    The maestro of business expansion has struck again, this time joining forces with Prasar Bharati, India’s cherished custodian of cultural narratives.

    In a move that seamlessly blends legacy with technology, the public broadcaster’s OTT platform, Waves, now graces the Jio Store shelves, promising a cinematic journey through India’s heart and heritage.

    Imagine the allure: archives of Doordarshan’s golden era, the timeless melodies of All India Radio, and an array of fresh originals—all a tap away for millions of Jio users. This partnership isn’t just about streaming content; it’s a bridge connecting India’s storied past with its digital future, hand-delivered by Ambani’s ever-expanding empire.

    Is there a realm Mukesh Ambani doesn’t touch? It seems unlikely, as Jio continues to rewire how India consumes entertainment, one milestone at a time.

    Since its launch, Waves has rapidly garnered attention, amassing over one million downloads and positioning itself as a premier destination for Indian audiences. With this collaboration, Waves takes a strategic leap to become accessible across all Jio devices, leveraging the telecom giant’s expansive reach and connectivity.

    Imagine how India’s rich cultural tapestry can now reach every corner of the nation? With Waves on Jio Stores.

    Waves offers something for everyone:

    . Original Content: Explore new fiction and non-fiction programming.

    . Legacy Programming: Rediscover classic shows from Doordarshan archives.

    . Live Events: Stream real-time happenings from across the nation.

    . Gaming and E-Commerce: A unique blend of entertainment and interaction.

    . Nostalgia Features: Enjoy photo albums and magazines highlighting India’s heritage.

    This diverse lineup ensures that Waves caters to audiences of all ages and preferences. As the platform grows, its popularity underscores a collective demand for authentic Indian storytelling.

    Prasar Bharati CEO Gaurav Dwivedi expressed his optimism about this partnership, “We are thrilled to take Waves to the next level by making it available to Jio users. The platform has already received a fantastic response, and with Jio’s vast subscriber base, we are excited to introduce our diverse and compelling content, which includes – Nostalgia, Live Channels, Magazines, Photo Albums, etc., to even more homes.”

    A Jio spokesperson added, “We are excited to partner with Prasar Bharati to offer Waves to our users. This partnership offers a wider content offering to audiences at large and ensures that they are able to choose from the best.”

    Why does this partnership even matter?

    The inclusion of Waves on Jio Stores signifies a blending of modern technology with the cultural essence of India. It underscores Prasar Bharati’s mission to preserve India’s heritage while ensuring it resonates with contemporary audiences.

    From classic TV dramas to innovative new content, Waves aims to deliver a robust digital entertainment experience that celebrates India’s diversity.

    Are you ready to surf India’s cultural treasures with Waves?

     

  • Hari Om OTT offers free subscriptions at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

    Hari Om OTT offers free subscriptions at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

    MUMBAI: Amidst the sacred chants, the rhythmic clang of temple bells, and the timeless ritual of dipping into the holy Ganges, a new chapter in India’s devotional journey is being written.

    What began decades ago with Doordarshan bringing the Maha Kumbh into Indian living rooms has now evolved into a digital revolution.

    Have you ever wondered how ancient traditions meet modern technology? Hari Om, India’s first devotional OTT platform, is stepping into this celestial spotlight, offering free subscriptions to all attendees of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

    Set against the backdrop of Prayagraj’s historic ghats, this Maha Kumbh is unlike any other. Held after an extraordinary 144-year gap, thanks to a rare planetary alignment, the gathering promises to be one of the largest spiritual congregations in human history.

    Hari Om’s initiative ensures that even those unable to attend can virtually partake in the grandeur, bringing the soulful experience of India’s most cherished spiritual festival to screens worldwide.

    As the world converges in Prayagraj from 13 January to 26 February 2025, Hari Om OTT promises not just to connect hearts, but also to bridge tradition with technology, making the divine accessible to all.

    Hari Om strives to connect India’s rich spiritual heritage with today’s tech-savvy audience. The platform features over 20 devotional shows, including popular titles like Shri Tirupati Balaji, Mata Saraswati, Jai Maha Lakshmi, and Jai Jagannath. Beyond streaming, it offers a comprehensive devotional experience, with features such as:

    . Video and audio bhajans

    . Animated devotional stories

    . Live aartis from prominent temples

    . Prasad booking services

    .  Donation options

    . Spiritual podcasts

    This user-friendly platform aims to be a one-stop destination for spiritual engagement, bringing devotion closer to the hearts of millions.

    Hari Om founder, Vibhu Agarwal shared his excitement about the initiative, “We are thrilled to associate with India’s biggest festival, the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Devotees attending the Kumbh often seek cultural and religious content to preserve the essence of Sanatan Dharma. As a token of appreciation, we are offering free subscriptions to our platform, giving back to those experiencing this monumental cultural event in our country.”

    Wouldn’t it be amazing to explore devotional shows and live aartis right from your device while participating in such a massive event?

    The Maha Kumbh Mela exemplifies India’s spiritual and cultural richness. Hari Om’s partnership with the festival showcases how technology can enhance the traditional experience. The OTT platform enables devotees to carry the essence of the Kumbh back home, with its 24/7 access to prayers, bhajans, and stories of divine deities.

    As millions gather on the ghats of Prayagraj to celebrate the Maha Kumbh, Hari Om is poised to become an integral part of their spiritual journey. This initiative highlights how faith, tradition, and technology can come together to create meaningful experiences.

    Would you like to explore the divine at your fingertips? The Maha Kumbh and Hari Om make it possible.

  • Vodafone Idea chooses HCLSoftware to automate 4G & 5G Networks

    Vodafone Idea chooses HCLSoftware to automate 4G & 5G Networks

    MUMBAI:   It’s getting future ready. Telecom service provider Vodafone Idea (Vi) has partnered with HCLSoftware, a division of HCLTech, to enhance the efficiency and performance of its 4G and 5G networks. Using HCL Augmented Network Automation (HCL ANA), a cutting-edge AI-powered platform, Vi aims to streamline network operations, optimise energy usage, and deliver an improved customer experience.

    The HCL ANA platform, a multi-vendor self-optimising network (MV-SON) system, enables seamless integration of Vi’s Ericsson and Samsung networks while ensuring future readiness with SMO (ORAN) compatibility. The platform’s open architecture allows Vi to independently manage and automate its networks, reducing reliance on OEM-specific tools and enhancing sustainability.

    The key benefits include improved network reliability and speed for Vi customers,  reduced energy consumption and operational costs and enhanced scalability for network expansion.

    Vodafone Idea CTO Jagbir Singh highlighted:  “This partnership reflects our commitment to leveraging advanced Made-in-India technologies to improve services, reduce costs, and prepare for telecom innovations.”

    HCLSoftware  SVP/GM  Neeraj Purandare  stated: “This collaboration will benefit Indian telecom users and boost local technology development and innovation.”

  • Hari V Krishnan to step down as CEO of PropertyGuru group

    Hari V Krishnan to step down as CEO of PropertyGuru group

    MUMBAI: In a significant leadership announcement, Hari V. Krishnan has decided to step down as CEO of the Singapore-based PropertyGuru group after nearly a decade of remarkable growth and innovation.

    Reflecting on his tenure, Hari highlighted key milestones such as achieving market leadership across regions, expanding into Vietnam, forming a transformative partnership in Malaysia, and leading the company’s public listing on the NYSE.

    Hari’s leadership also saw the incubation of new businesses and solutions, multiple funding rounds, and the recent strategic partnership with EQT Group wherein the Swedish  alternative investment firm acquired it at a valuation of $1.1 billion and delisted it from the NYSE. He will transition into the role of senior advisor to the board once a new CEO is in place.

    PropertyGuru announced that Lewis Ng will take over as CEO in March. With a robust background at global firms such as Seek, TripAdvisor, and Apple, along with prior experience at PropertyGuru, Lewis is poised to lead the company into its next growth phase. Trevor Mather will join as chairman, bringing extensive experience from AutoTrader and Thoughtworks, alongside new board members Janice Leow and Ed Williams.

    Hari expressed gratitude to stakeholders, reflecting on his journey of empowering communities to thrive and expressing confidence in the company’s future under new leadership.

    Prior to heading the PropertyGuru group,  Hari was a well-known executive in India as  Linkedin vice president & MD, Asia Pacific & Japan before that  country manager for India. He began his career wih Ciso as a product manage/ customer support engineer based in San Jose, moving onto assignments with Yahoo India, travelguru, Myspace, and then Linkedin. He is a mentor and investor in several startops.