Category: Sponsorship

Disney Star onboards eight sponsors for PKL season 11

Mumbai: The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) returns for its eleventh season, to enhance the growing popularity of Kabaddi in India. Disney Star, the official broadcaster, has secured eight sponsors for the league across various platforms, including Dream11, Shriram Finance, ROFF, Parimatch Sports, HP Lubricants, and Mother Dairy, solidifying PKL’s status as a top sporting event in the country.

This season aims to attract diverse audiences through exciting brand collaborations and a mix of sports and entertainment. Fans can expect thrilling Kabaddi action along with fresh content to improve the viewing experience.

“The upcoming season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) promises to elevate the festive spirit, captivating both fans and brands with its unmatched spirit of competition it represents. As India’s premier home-grown sport, PKL continues to push new boundaries with every season, driving record-breaking engagement and interest. For brands, it presents a unique, integrated marketing platform that reaches millions of highly engaged viewers, offering exceptional visibility and impact. We are thrilled to welcome a diverse array of brands this season, who not only champion India’s indigenous sport but also recognize the immense value and reach PKL offers. With Disney Star’s unparalleled TV and digital coverage, we are set to deliver powerful engagement opportunities that connect brands with passionate audiences like never before,” said Disney Star’s head of network ad sales, Ajit Varghese.

PKL season 11 begins on 18 October 2024, at the GMC Balayogi Sports Complex in Hyderabad, featuring a three-city format with matches in Noida and Pune. The opener will see the Telugu Titans face the Bengaluru Bulls, followed by U Mumba against Dabang Delhi K.C. Fans can watch the action live on the Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar, as PKL continues to showcase the intensity and drama that have made it one of India’s most popular sports.

Through strategic sponsorships and partnerships, Disney Star emphasizes its commitment to providing top-tier sports entertainment for audiences nationwide.

October 15, 2024
Mother Dairy signs up as official dairy partner for PKL 2024

Mumbai: Mother Dairy, India’s leading milk and milk products major, has today announced its official association as the dairy partner for the upcoming 2024 season of the prestigious Pro Kabaddi League. As part of this collaboration, Mother Dairy will be actively involved throughout the season, engaging with fans and consumers through various initiatives and promotional activities designed to enhance the excitement surrounding the sport.

Mother Dairy managing director Manish Bandlish said, “We are excited to be part of Kabaddi, a sport that is deeply embedded in India’s culture and heritage. This collaboration is a perfect fit for our brand, offering us a unique opportunity to engage with our consumers and the passionate Kabaddi community across the country. By bringing together the power of dairy nutrition and the dynamic energy of Kabaddi, Mother Dairy aspires to promote the growth of the sport while fostering a culture of health and wellness nationwide.”

Mother Dairy as the official dairy partner’ for the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League season will maintain a significant presence of brand and product portfolio at match venues and on official broadcast channels, while also engaging consumers across various platforms, including digital media.

Bandlish further added, “Mother Dairy has found a strong synergy with sports and its enthusiastic community, as seen in our previous association with cricket. With this association, we aim to further expand our reach into focus markets and households of untapped or potential consumers, enhancing our brand’s top-of-mind recall.”

“Today, the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has firmly established itself as India’s second most-watched sporting event, commanding an impressive 70 per cent of the IPL’s audience. This rapid growth is a testament to the league’s fierce competitiveness, unyielding sportsmanship, and its broader impact on promoting physical well-being. We are thrilled to welcome Mother Dairy as a key sponsor, perfectly aligned with their mission to champion good health and vitality. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both brands, and we look forward to a strong and fruitful association,” said Disney Star head of network Ad Sales Ajit Varghese.

The 2024 season will feature a total of 12 teams competing for this year’s title. The league is scheduled to kickstart on 18 October 2024 with a series of matches in Hyderabad, followed by Noida and Pune. Since its inception, the league has set new standards with packed venues and record viewership, becoming one of the most popular leagues in the country.

October 15, 2024
Vinod Cookware is the presenting sponsor of Annie’s Kitchen on Amrita TV

Mumbai: Vinod Cookware has partnered with Annie’s Kitchen, the popular cookery show on Amrita Television, as its presenting sponsor. This collaboration enhances the culinary experience for viewers of the Malayalam channel. Vinod Cookware will be featured in three episodes airing on 20 September, 4 October, and 11 October, showcasing its products in various recipes.

The sponsorship includes 96 TV spots, 16 L-bands, 16 Aston bands, and opening and closing tags, ensuring strong brand visibility throughout the show. Additionally, viewers will see 100 spots for Vinod Cookware on Amrita TV from Monday to Sunday, between 8:00 am and 11:00 pm, until 8 November, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation in kitchenware.

Annie’s Kitchen, hosted by anchor and actress Annie Shaji Kailas, has been a popular cooking show for over a decade, captivating millions on Amrita Television every Friday at 8 pm. The show features a variety of traditional South Indian recipes and invites notable personalities from the film industry, such as Tovino Thomas, along with industry veterans and political leaders like A.M. Ariff, to share their stories and favorite dishes. Its blend of local delicacies and engaging content has established it as a significant presence in television. With Vinod Cookware as the presenting sponsor, the show aims to enhance the culinary experience on television.

“We are thrilled to partner with Annie’s Kitchen and Amrita Television for this exciting journey! This integration with a prominent Malayalam TV channel significantly enhances our brand reach and awareness among the southern Indian audience. We are eager to showcase our exceptional products to millions of viewers and to become an integral part of their cooking journeys. Together, we look forward to inspiring home cooks and enhancing culinary experience across the region.” said Vinod Cookware MD Sunil Agarwal.

October 8, 2024
Disney Star signs 14 sponsors for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Mumbai: With the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 starting on 3 October, Disney Star unveiled its impressive sponsorship line-up, reflecting the growing enthusiasm and anticipation for the tournament. Featuring a remarkable array of top brands from a host of industries such as automotive, technology, finance, and more, Disney Star has onboarded 14 sponsors across linear TV and digital platforms. The sponsors include Dream11, Natural Diamond Council, OnePlus, Dazller, ICICI Bank, Asus, Asian Paints, Maruti Suzuki, Aramco, Hero, SBI, Lenskart, Kajaria, Skechers.

Disney Star head of network – ad sales Ajit Varghese stated, “The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is set to transform the sporting landscape, offering a powerful opportunity to unite global audiences and spotlight the very best of women’s cricket. Building on the success of previous tournaments, which have driven remarkable growth, this year’s event promises even greater impact. We are excited to onboard prestigious brands whose support not only reflects their commitment to advancing women’s cricket but also acknowledges the immense value this tournament delivers. With Disney Star’s expansive linear TV and digital coverage, we look forward to offering brands and advertisers unmatched opportunities to engage millions of passionate viewers.”

The matches will be broadcast exclusively on the Disney Star network, and Disney+ Hotstar. The tournament begins on 3 October, and 10 teams will compete in 23 matches over 17 thrilling days at two premier venues in the UAE, the Dubai International Stadium and the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

October 3, 2024
Skechers is Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s official kit partner

Mumbai: Skechers announced its official kit partnership with Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG), one of India’s oldest football clubs. Players will wear Skechers-branded match kits, training gear, and lifestyle apparel.

Founded in 1889, MBSG has a rich history, being the first all-Indian team to win a championship against a British club during India’s independence struggle. The club represents pride and identity for West Bengal and India, with matches serving as cultural events and a passionate fan base comparable to European football. MBSG is currently one of India’s top-performing clubs, having won the ISL League Title for the 2023-2024 season.

Skechers is known for its comfortable footwear and aims to expand its presence in the performance category. The brand collaborates with athletes globally in sports like football, cricket, basketball, golf, pickleball, and running. In addition to its partnerships with the Indian Pickleball Association and the Mumbai Indians, Skechers is committed to enhancing its reputation in the sportswear market and providing innovative, high-performance gear.

Skechers South Asia Pvt Ltd CEO Rahul Vira said, “We are incredibly proud to partner with a club as iconic as Mohun Bagan Super Giant. With more and more players globally experiencing our signature Comfort That Performs on the pitch, this association is an extension of our commitment to develop a strong sports culture in India while reinforcing Skechers as a leading performance brand to consumers everywhere. Mohun Bagan’s legacy and its passionate fan base align perfectly with our brand values, and we are excited to be part of their journey as they continue to inspire and achieve further milestones on the field.”

Mohun Bagan Super Giant director Vinay Chopra said, “We are thrilled to partner with Skechers, a global leader in performance and lifestyle apparel, to fuel our pursuit of excellence on and off the pitch. This association is a testament to our shared values of innovation, quality, and a passion for performance. With Skechers by our side, we’re confident that our team will be equipped with the best apparel to take on the toughest challenges in the Indian Super League and beyond. We look forward to a winning partnership that will inspire our fans and take Indian football to new heights.”

As the new ISL season approaches, Skechers looks forward to seeing its brand proudly displayed on the jerseys of Mohun Bagan Super Giant. This partnership not only aligns with Skechers’ mission to be a key player in the performance sportswear category but also honors the legacy and cultural significance of MBSG.

September 24, 2024
Mumbai City FC names DafaNews principal partner for ISL 2024-25

Mumbai: Mumbai City FC has partnered with DafaNews as the club’s principal partner for the upcoming 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season. As part of this expanded collaboration, DafaNews will be the official back-of-shirt partner for Mumbai City FC. Their branding will be displayed exclusively on the back of the first-team shirts throughout the season.

In addition to their presence on the team kits, DafaNews will have a visible presence at the Club’s training facility at NMSA, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. The partnership will also integrate DafaNews into the Club’s digital content, offering fans engaging media and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights during the ISL 2024-25 season.

Mumbai City FC CEO Kandarp Chandra said, “It’s exciting to have DafaNews back as our Principal Partner for the 2024-25 season. As our previous partner, DafaNews has shown a strong commitment to Indian football and its fans, and their continued support reflects our common goals. Together, we look forward to elevating the fan experience through both on-field excitement and innovative digital content as we head into another competitive ISL season.”

DafaNews manager Joao Coimbra Tavares said, “We are thrilled to strengthen our Partnership with Mumbai City. Having worked together before, we have seen the passion and dedication of the club! We believe Mumbai City plays a big role in the Indian Football evolution and we want to support it the best way we can. We look forward to building on our shared successes and supporting Mumbai City FC in what promises to be an exciting season.”

September 20, 2024
Punjab FC reveals new kits with Shiv Naresh as official kit partner

Mumbai: Punjab FC, the sole representative from North India in the Indian Super League (ISL), announced the addition of three brands to its commercial roster for the upcoming season. The club has signed Indian sportswear brand Shiv Naresh as the ‘Official Kit Partner,’ PayTM Insider as the ‘Official Ticketing Partner,’ and Radio City as the ‘Official Radio Partner.’ Punjab FC began its ISL campaign on 15 September against Kerala Blasters in Kochi and will play its first home game on 20 September in New Delhi.

The official home, away, and third kits were launched earlier in Chandigarh and have already received positive feedback from fans and football enthusiasts.

Shiv Naresh Sports Pvt Ltd, managing director Shiv Prakash Singh shared, “We are thrilled to partner with Punjab FC, the I-League champions, for the ISL 2024-25 season. At Shiv Naresh, our mission has always been to empower athletes with the best possible gear, and this collaboration with Punjab FC aligns perfectly with that mission. We are excited to see the team excel on the field and to see their passionate fans wearing our jerseys in support of their champions.”

PayTM Insider joins as the ticketing partner for the season, enabling fans to purchase tickets for Punjab FC’s home games at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. PayTM Insider’s chief operating officer Varun Khare states, “We at PayTm Insider, are thrilled to announce our partnership with Punjab FC as a part of the Indian Super League. Our mission is to redefine the fan experience, going beyond simple ticketing. By combining our expertise in ticketing, accreditation, and fan engagement, we aim to create a seamless and immersive journey for Punjab FC supporters. Together, we’ll ensure that every match is a memorable event, contributing to the growth of football in India.”

Radio City will provide exclusive insights, stories, and updates about Punjab FC throughout the season for listeners in Delhi and Punjab. Radio City’s CEO Ashit Kukian commented, “We are excited to partner with Punjab FC as their official radio partner for the upcoming ISL season. This collaboration allows us to bring exclusive insights, updates, and stories of Punjab FC’s journey directly to our passionate listeners in Delhi and Punjab. As a brand committed to make you hear everything happening around, we are excited to amplify the voices of football fans and be a part of Punjab FC’s growing legacy in the ISL.”

Roundglass Sports, lead, sports marketing, Tarandeep Sekhon added, “We are delighted to expand our commercial roster for the season. In just our second season in the ISL, partnering with such popular brands showcases the popularity that the team has gained among Indian football fans. A successful run at the Durand Cup further makes us confident that this partnership will yield great results for us in the season ahead.”

Punjab FC begins the 2024-25 season with a quarterfinal appearance in Asia’s oldest football tournament, the Durand Cup. In the group stages, the team defeats Mumbai City FC and CISF Protectors XI and draws with Kerala Blasters to advance to the quarterfinals. In the quarterfinals, they suffered a narrow defeat against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in a penalty shootout after the match ended 3-3 in regulation time.

September 16, 2024
Signature Packaged Drinking Water presents Ziro Festival 2024

Mumbai: “The earth has music for those who listen.”-William Shakespeare.

A life connected to nature can be deeply rewarding. Signature Packaged Drinking Water encourages natural living and has partnered with the Ziro Festival, a major festival in India set in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. The festival, running from 26 to 29 September 2024, offers a range of experiences for nature and music lovers.

The Ziro Festival promotes eco-friendly practices with activities like masterclasses, farm-to-table cuisine, and plogging. It features bamboo and Apatani craftsmanship, biodegradable Tamul plates, and reclaimed wood signages. Free water is provided to encourage the use of reusable bottles.

This year’s festival includes a diverse lineup of musicians: Tamikrest with their Tuareg beats, Kailash Kher’s soulful performance, genre-blending Hanumankind, Kerala’s hip hop star Dabzee, Singapore’s post-rock band Amateur, Arunachal’s Dobom Doji Carolina Norbu, Nepali chart-topper Sushant KC, Swedish psych-rock group Hollow Ship, and Veena maestro Dr. Jayanti Ramesh.

Diageo India VP and portfolio head, marketing, Varun Koorichh said, “As we continue our relationship with Ziro Music Festival as the presenting partner, we recognize that new age consumers are proactive, informed, and intentional in their choices, seeking meaningful experiences. There is a clear shift towards mindful living among today’s diverse audiences. Last year’s success reinforced the synergy between Signature Packaged Drinking Water’s ‘Live Good, Do Good’ philosophy and the Ziro Music Festival’s reputation as one of the most eco-friendly music festivals in India. This year, our focus is to build on that success and take it to newer heights. Set in stunning Arunachal Pradesh, the festival offers a stellar lineup, immersive experiences, farm-to-table cuisine, and eco-conscious initiatives. Our partnership aims to bring together nature enthusiasts, positioning Signature Packaged Drinking Water at the forefront of a space where music and eco-conscious living blend to create an immersive and impactful experience to enable meaningful connections with nature.”

Ziro Festival co-founder and creative producer Anup Kutty said, “Ziro Festival has always been about discovering new sounds and creating a space where artists can connect with a diverse, global audience against the backdrop of the spectacular Ziro valley. Each year, we’re amazed at how music from all parts of the world resonates with our attendees. This is what makes Ziro Festival so special, and we’re thrilled to have partners like Signature supporting this mission of discovery.”

Ziro Festival co-founder and festival director Bobby Hano said, “Sustainability has been at the heart of Ziro Festival since its inception. Our partnership with Signature Packaged Drinking Water is an important step in continuing our commitment to preserving the environment while celebrating music and culture. Together, we aim to showcase how events like ours can balance eco-conscious practices with impactful, memorable experiences.”

Signature Packaged Drinking Water invites green seekers to reconnect and revel in nature’s authentic experiences at Ziro whilst embracing the art of mindful living for a more vibrant and harmonious future.

September 14, 2024
EaseMyTrip named official travel partner for IIFA 2024

Mumbai: EaseMyTrip.com is the ‘official travel partner’ for the prestigious IIFA Festival 2024. Through this association, EaseMyTrip extends an opportunity to its customers to attend the much-anticipated star-studded event in the Indian entertainment industry. As part of this association, EaseMyTrip is offering specially curated holiday packages at special prices. These packages provide not only the perfect getaway but also a chance to be part of the star-studded IIFA festivities. A few lucky customers will get a golden opportunity to attend the event with a IIFA pass, adding an extra dash of excitement to their journey.

EaseMyTrip CEO and co-founder Nishant Pitti said, “EaseMyTrip is excited to be the official travel partner for the world’s grandest celebration at the IIFA Awards. This year, the celebrations promise to be bigger and more spectacular than ever. As a part of our association, we’ve curated IIFA specific holiday packages for our customers and a chance for few lucky winners to win and attend the event. This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to making travel for the event and beyond both effortless and unforgettable for all.”

IIFA founder and director Andre Timmins stated, “As we approach IIFA’s Silver Jubilee in 2025, we’re thrilled to announce the biggest and most spectacular IIFA Festival yet, set for 27-29 September at Yas Island. This year’s IIFA will be a celebration of unprecedented scale, transcending cinematic boundaries with the convergence of Hindi Cinema and South Indian cinema, set against Yas Island’s unmatched hospitality and breath-taking backdrop as a premier international destination.”

He added, “Expect mesmerising performances and cultural extravaganzas during the three-day celebration that will not only captivate audiences worldwide but also make a profound global impact. A true testament to the unparalleled appeal of Yas Island, IIFA 2024 festival will foster meaningful connections, offer unique networking opportunities, and celebrate the visionaries who have shaped the global entertainment landscape, setting the stage for an extraordinary journey to 2025.”

Marking 24 years, IIFA 2024 will unite Indian cinema’s finest across five key industries. This three-day event, from 27 to 29 September 2024, at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, will highlight the diversity of Indian cinema. It will feature the IIFA Utsavam Awards, celebrating South Indian cinema, on Friday, 27 September, followed by the IIFA Awards on Saturday, 28 September, and conclude with IIFA Rocks on Sunday, 29 September. The 24th IIFA edition will showcase Hindi and South Indian cinema, OTT platforms, global stars, international dignitaries, and media, making it the biggest IIFA Festival to date.

September 13, 2024
ECL 2024 announces BookMyShow as exclusive ticket partner

Mumbai: Tickets for the inaugural Entertainers Cricket League (ECL) 2024, an influencer-driven T10 cricket league, are now available on BookMyShow, the exclusive ticketing partner. The league starts on 13 September 2024 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi. ECL season one will feature 19 matches over 10 days, with six franchises and 96 content creators from various industries, including tech, finance, infotainment, gaming, fashion, and lifestyle.

“With BookMyShow as our ticketing partner, we’re ensuring fans have easy and quick access to tickets for this one-of-a-kind cricket league. The ECL is set to redefine how fans engage with both cricket and entertainment, and we’re excited to welcome them to the stadium to witness their favorite creators live in action. We look forward to an unforgettable season filled with intense competition and unmatched entertainment,” said ECL founder Anil Kumar.

Cricket and entertainment fans can purchase their tickets starting today, with prices ranging from ₹150 for general entry to ₹10,000 for premium seats, offering a variety of options to suit every fan. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, with fans eager to catch the action live. Given the combined following of over 700 million of the influencers involved, demand is high, so fans are encouraged to book early on BookMyShow to secure their spots.

Also commenting on the partnership, BookMyShow COO – live entertainment & venues, Anil Makhija said, “We are excited to partner with the Entertainers Cricket League for what promises to be a groundbreaking fusion of sports and entertainment. At BookMyShow, we’re dedicated to providing fans with seamless ticketing as well as on ground experiences, and we’re thrilled to bring this unique league to cricket and digital content enthusiasts alike.”

Day one on 13 September, has two group-stage double-headers lined up, beginning with Abhishek Malhan aka Fukra Insaan led Bangalore Bashers taking on Elvish Yadav led Haryanvi Hunters. The second match will feature Munawar Faruqui-led Mumbai Disruptors against the Anurag Dwivedi-led Lucknow Lions.

The first game begins at 5.30 pm Indian Standard Time (IST), while the second starts at 8.30 pm IST.

Following the group stages, the knockout games begin on 20 September 2024. Qualifier one will be played at 5:30 pm, with the eliminator match scheduled for 8:30 pm on the same day.

Qualifier two is set for 21 September 2024, at 8:30 pm while the grand finale of ECL season one will take place on Sunday, 22 September 2024, at 8:30 pm IST.

September 12, 2024