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Category: News Headline

  • Netflix taps Toaster to hype global launch of its all-new TV interface in cinematic flair

    Netflix taps Toaster to hype global launch of its all-new TV interface in cinematic flair

    MUMBAI: If scrolling through endless titles has left your thumb sore and your brain fogged, Netflix just hit play on your salvation. The streaming giant has overhauled its TV interface and tapped creative agency Toaster to give the global launch the same drama and delight as its top-rated series.

    Instead of a by-the-numbers product explainer, Toaster served up a 60-second cinematic teaser channeling the emotion of binge-worthy storytelling. The spot, which is being shared across media and social platforms, walks viewers through the revamped experience that boasts simpler navigation, smarter recommendations, and an AI engine that reads you better than your best friend.

    Netflix’s refreshed interface, now rolling out globally, features persistent shortcuts for search, shows, movies, games, and a personalised “My Netflix” hub. As users browse, real-time recommendation rows update on the go, tailored to their habits. Title cards now highlight not just the synopsis and run time, but whether it’s award-winning, trending in the top 10, or helmed by a notable director.

    Toaster’s campaign leans into the streamer’s brand essence—making viewers feel something—and applies it to its own platform refresh. According to the agency, the goal was to invoke the same anticipation and emotion people feel when a new series drops.

    “Collaborating with Netflix on the launch of their new TV experience was an absolute privilege. This was a momentous milestone for their product, and we were honoured to support the campaign from the ground up. We’re incredibly proud to have played a part in bringing this to life”, said Toaster US MD Susannah Bard.

    Netflix’s product marketing manager Paul Lee added, “We thank Toaster tremendously for all the work in getting us here. We couldn’t have done it without the team’s support”.

    The new TV interface, already rolling out since early May, represents Netflix’s answer to content overload—designing a smarter, faster, and more intuitive content discovery journey.

  • TV9 Network to host second News9 Global Summit in Stuttgart to power Indo-German ties

    TV9 Network to host second News9 Global Summit in Stuttgart to power Indo-German ties

    MUMBAI: If diplomacy had a passport, it would likely be stamped in Stuttgart this October. TV9 Network is flying its flagship summit back to Europe, announcing the second edition of the News9 Global Summit to be held in Stuttgart, Germany, from 8-10 October 2025. The event celebrates 25 years of the Indo-German partnership and marks a decade of strategic state-level cooperation between Maharashtra and Baden-Württemberg.

    At a press conference in Noida, TV9 Network MD & CEO Barun Das joined Baden-Württemberg sate secretary Florian Hassler and VfB Stuttgart 1893 AG chief marketing & sales officer Rouven Kasper to officially unveil the summit’s second act. With a theme rooted in cooperation over competition, the summit aims to spark robust discussions around democracy, sustainable development, and cross-border innovation.

    “The second edition of the News9 Global Summit is a bridge between two innovation-driven democracies”, said Das. “India and Germany fit each other like a jigsaw puzzle. India brings scale, a tech-savvy workforce, and demand, while Germany contributes technology and precision”.

    Das stressed that collaboration, not conquest, is the need of the hour. “We don’t have to win at the loss of somebody else”, he said, highlighting the potential for both nations to chart a shared growth trajectory.

    The summit will bring together leaders from politics, academia, and business for three days of candid conversation on the future of democracy, trade, development, and global cooperation. Special attention will be given to the unique bond between Maharashtra and Baden-Württemberg, showcasing how sub-national partnerships can fuel international diplomacy.

    “As we celebrate 25 years of Indo-German partnership, Baden-Württemberg is proud to host the News9 Global Summit”, Hassler noted. “This platform strengthens our ties with India, fosters innovation, and promotes democratic dialogue”.

    Kasper, who saw the summit’s inaugural edition strike a chord, expects a sequel worth the build-up. “Last year, the summit was a tremendous success”, he said. “This year, we’re ready to turn up the volume on ideas that matter, with speakers and discussions that go beyond borders”.

    The Stuttgart gathering will also spotlight the city’s growing role in global diplomacy. The Summit is designed to be more than just a talking shop – it aims to offer real-world solutions on sustainability, trade, technology and people-to-people connections.

    TV9 Network, known for its expansive regional footprint, is also using the occasion to reinforce India’s robust and plural media ecosystem, a point Das proudly acknowledged.

    As geopolitics evolves at breakneck speed, the 2025 edition of the News9 Global Summit positions itself not just as a celebration of the past but as a compass for the future.

  • Suhana Khan laces up with adidas India, reimagines iconic Originals for gen z flair

    Suhana Khan laces up with adidas India, reimagines iconic Originals for gen z flair

    MUMBAI: Adidas India has tapped Suhana Khan as the latest face of its brand, signalling a bold stride in blending classic streetwear heritage with the next generation’s flair for expression. The announcement marks a strategic move by the global sportswear giant to rejuvenate its Originals identity with a voice that speaks to India’s youth.

    With this collaboration, adidas revisits its cult-classic sneaker franchise — the Superstar — anchoring the campaign in timeless fashion that resonates across generations. While the shoe first stormed courts and streets decades ago, Suhana’s entry breathes new cultural relevance into the silhouette, infusing it with the energy of digital-age trendsetters.

    “I’m super thrilled to be joining the iconic adidas family. The brand has always held a special place in my heart, with its classic sneakers being a staple in my wardrobe. adidas Originals stands for creativity, authenticity, and staying true to yourself — values I truly admire. To now be part of a legacy rooted in culture that has inspired so many across the world feels incredibly special”, Suhana shared in a statement.

    Adidas India GM Neelendra Singh echoed the sentiment, “At adidas India, we have always believed in the power of cultural creators, those who shape the now and define what’s next. Suhana Khan infuses fresh energy into some of our most iconic apparel pieces and classic sneaker silhouettes like the Superstar, reimagining them for a new generation. Her style is effortless and expressive, and we’re excited to welcome her into the adidas family as we continue to champion individuality and self-expression through street culture”.

    The partnership underscores adidas India’s approach to stay rooted in legacy while adapting to evolving style codes. By welcoming a young cultural voice like Suhana, the brand aims to reassert its Originals line as a mainstay of contemporary wardrobes, without abandoning its heritage.

    As Suhana steps into her role, adidas promises a renewed creative vision — one stitched together by classic design, future-forward influence, and the enduring appeal of self-expression.

  • Cape May Studios partners with Amagi to unleash global screams with Panic TV and Pánico TV Español

    Cape May Studios partners with Amagi to unleash global screams with Panic TV and Pánico TV Español

    MUMBAI: In a move that marries scares with scalability, Cape May Studios has partnered with cloud-based TV technology firm Amagi to launch two adrenaline-pumping FAST channels: Panic TV and Pánico TV Español. The next-gen media company, known for tapping into fan-fuelled niche communities, has set its sights on global viewers hungry for high-stakes thrills.

    Panic TV delivers a mix of action, horror, sci-fi, crime, and mystery curated for millennials and gen z, while Pánico TV Español brings the same punch in Spanish. The channels promise content for those who crave recreational fear, from creature features to paranormal thrillers.

    Amagi will handle everything from channel creation and playout to global distribution. The tech firm’s cloud-based FAST solutions will help Cape May Studios break out across north America, latin America, Europe, and beyond, without the weight of traditional broadcast overhead.

    “The convergence of genre storytelling and digital streaming has never been more potent”, said Cape May Studios founder & CEO Sachin Gokhale. “With Amagi’s global infrastructure and proven expertise in FAST, we can now scale our content strategy across continents, languages, and platforms — meeting audiences where they are, with the stories they crave”.

    Amagi co-founder & CRO Srinivasan KA added, “Cape May Studios is entering the FAST space with a sharp brand identity and an eye on global opportunity. We’re excited to help them bring Panic TV and Pánico TV Español to life through our unique solutions in cloud playout, ad insertion, and seamless distribution to top-tier digital platforms around the world”.

    With an imminent rollout on major FAST platforms, Cape May Studios is betting on genre content to become a global mainstay, tapping into both English- and Spanish-speaking markets. As indie studios find new ways to bypass legacy models, the Cape May-Amagi partnership underscores the growing power of cloud-native tech in international broadcasting.

     

  • Hit for Six Rohit Sharma bats again for TCL in year two of brand play

    Hit for Six Rohit Sharma bats again for TCL in year two of brand play

    MUMBAI: Rohit Sharma isn’t just mastering moments on the cricket pitch, he’s now doubling down on doing so in your living room too. The Indian skipper has returned for a second innings as brand ambassador for TCL India, extending a partnership that fuses cool-headed consistency with cutting-edge consumer tech.

    TCL, known for its growing footprint in the smart TV and home appliance sector, continues to lean into Indian sensibilities with this brand move. Rohit, who is exclusively managed by Rise Worldwide, fits snugly into the brand’s “Master the Moment” philosophy bringing a blend of precision, poise, and impact to the company’s message.

    “We are thrilled to have Rohit continue with us,” said TCL India general manager Philip Xia. “His leadership under pressure and reliable performance mirror the values we stand by at TCL innovation, dependability, and cultural resonance.”

    The feeling is mutual. “TCL’s drive to innovate resonates with my own approach to the game,” said Rohit Sharma, sounding as composed as ever. “Together, we want to remind people that technology, when used well, empowers you to live every moment to its fullest.”

    The extended association comes at a time when TCL is betting big on its AI-powered solutions, expanding its smart TV and appliance range across Indian markets. From product rollouts to emotion-led campaigns, Rohit’s face (and finesse) will front a host of initiatives aimed at turning tech into a lifestyle statement.

    As TCL plays the long game in India’s fast-growing consumer electronics arena, it’s clearly banking on cricketing charisma to keep it in pole position and Rohit Sharma, as always, is ready to deliver.
     

  • Kavita Sanghvi takes charge as Kotak Education Foundation’s director of education

    Kavita Sanghvi takes charge as Kotak Education Foundation’s director of education

    MUMBAI: In a move that blends academic grit with purpose-led change, Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) has appointed noted educator and policy influencer Kavita Sanghvi as its director of education. The announcement positions Sanghvi at the helm of KEF’s strategic education interventions across under-resourced communities in India.

    A National Awardee in 2022 and Derozio Award recipient in 2024, Sanghvi brings more than two decades of experience in progressive pedagogy and institutional leadership. Her career includes a stint as principal of SVKM’s CNM School, Mumbai, and recognition as a Scientix ambassador, Global Teacher Accreditation holder from the British Council, and mentor under the Ministry of Education’s National Mission for Mentoring.

    In her new role, Sanghvi will lead curriculum reforms, teacher training modules, and education innovations for KEF’s community engagement programmes. Her global initiatives such as the ‘Build Your STEM Competency’ course and the Global Outlook Steam framework have already attracted international traction.

    Kotak Education Foundation CEO Ganesh Raja expressed his confidence in her appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Kavita Sanghvi to the Kotak Education Foundation family. Her exemplary track record and deep-rooted passion for education will be instrumental in advancing our mission to foster equity and excellence in learning. With her leadership, we aim to accelerate impactful change in the communities we serve and redefine what’s possible in education”.

    An alumna of Ramjas College and K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management Studies & Research, Sanghvi holds postgraduate degrees in Physics, Education, and Philosophy of Education, and also earned a Certificate in Advanced Educational Leadership from Harvard University.

    On her appointment, Sanghvi said, “I am deeply honoured to join Kotak Education Foundation, whose mission aligns with my lifelong vision of making education equitable, empowering, and future-ready. I look forward to working with passionate educators and leaders to create transformative learning opportunities for every child”.

    Her arrival is expected to boost Kef’s focus on STEM literacy, teacher capacity building, and grassroots education innovation. With a portfolio that combines global recognition and local impact, Sanghvi enters KEF at a pivotal time when India’s education system is navigating rapid transformation.

     

  • IPL 18 advertisers score big as FMCG, gaming and finance jostle for air-time

    IPL 18 advertisers score big as FMCG, gaming and finance jostle for air-time

    MUMBAI: It’s not just the players smashing boundaries—advertisers are on a powerplay of their own. According to TAM Sports’ latest report on IPL 18 (covering the first 70 matches between 22 March and 27 May 2025), this season saw a brand barrage with more than 190 brands, 105+ advertisers, and 70+ categories vying for attention on TV. 

    That’s a 27 per cent jump in advertiser count and nearly 28 per cent rise in brand presence compared to IPL 17. Clearly, the advertising pitch is just as lively as the one at Eden Gardens. The commercial ad volumes for the first 70 matches of IPL 18 nudged past last season’s levels, with indexed TV ad volumes clocking in at 100.4, a whisker above the IPL 17 baseline of 100.
    top5newcategoriesandbrandsTop five advertising categories in IPL 18 (by ad volume share):
    1. Mouth Fresheners – 12.78 per cent  (up from 11.45 per cent in IPL 17)
    2. Biscuits – 9.77 per cent
    3. Ecom-Gaming – 6.83 per cent  (down from 11.04 per cent in IPL 17)
    4. Aerated Soft Drinks – 5.89 per cent
    5. Corporate-Financial Institutes – 5.34 per cent

    Mouth fresheners held on to their crown, showing that Indian advertisers still believe freshness sells, especially between overs. Biscuits crunched their way into the No. 2 spot, while ecom-gaming slipped a few spots—perhaps signalling ad fatigue or recalibrated spends post-pandemic highs.

    What’s also notable is the diversification of the ad pie. From perfumed pitches to cooling sales strategies (think air conditioners), the IPL has cemented itself as the go-to platform for mass-market and digital-first brands alike.

    As digital integration and CTV platforms begin syncing with traditional TV, IPL is morphing into a full-spectrum advertising festival. The brand blitz isn’t slowing down—if anything, it’s gearing up for a full 360-degree spin shot in IPL 19.

  • Stride with pride as FGII marches ahead for inclusion and impact

    Stride with pride as FGII marches ahead for inclusion and impact

    MUMBAI: There was colour, there was conviction, and there was community spirit all marching in rhythm at Bandra Fort on 1st June as Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited (FGII) kicked off Pride Month with a purpose-driven stride. Its landmark ‘Walk with Pride’ initiative wasn’t just a three-kilometre stroll under Mumbai’s monsoon-blushed skies, it was a call to walk the talk on equality.

    Led by FGII’s managing director and CEO Anup Rau, the walk saw over 500 participants from LGBTQIA+ individuals and corporate allies to employees and public figures come together in a visible, vocal display of solidarity. For every step taken, FGII pledged support to The Humsafar Trust, bolstering healthcare services for the queer community.

    The event wasn’t just symbolic; it was catalytic. “Inclusion is not just a corporate agenda, it’s a human imperative,” said FGII chief marketing for customer and impact officer Ruchika Varma. “Our walk is an expression of our daily commitment to diversity, not just a June moment.”

    Adding stardust to the spirited march was actor and philanthropist Mandira Bedi. “India has come a long way post Article 377, but true change lies in access to jobs, to care, to dignity,” she said, lauding FGII for setting the bar on corporate allyship.

    Human rights activist and performer Sushant Divgikar echoed the mood, “Today, we’re not walking alone. We’re being seen, celebrated, and supported.”

    The vibe? “Refreshing and uplifting,” said veteran transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant. “It’s not just a walk, it’s an embrace.”

    For FGII, which has long championed mental wellness, workplace equity, and DEI leadership, the ‘Walk with Pride’ adds real miles to its mission. Because when inclusion gets a route map and purpose gets a pulse, every step counts.
     

  • Nippon TV brews bold global play with Gyokuro Studio and LA hub

    Nippon TV brews bold global play with Gyokuro Studio and LA hub

    MUMBAI: Nippon TV is taking its global ambitions seriously—and stylishly. Japan’s leading multiplatform entertainment giant has just unveiled Gyokuro Studio, a premium content label for international audiences, and Nippon TV LA Business Office, a full-fledged U.S. outpost opening in July to chase co-productions and IP sales across North America and Latam.

    The Tokyo-based Gyokuro Studio—named after Japan’s most exquisite green tea—plans to roll out 10 unscripted titles a year, aiming for a full-bodied portfolio of 100 global-ready formats in the next decade. It promises the same handcrafted quality as its namesake tea, brewed through a blend of in-house talent and heavyweight co-creators. Think less sushi bar, more global showbiz kitchen.

    Kenichiro Akiyama, veteran chief producer of prime-time hits, will head the new studio. “We are restructuring our production framework from a domestic-focused model to one designed for global rollout, accelerating the development of a robust foundation for creating content that resonates with audiences worldwide,” said Akiyama. “We will actively engage in truly global ‘co-creation’ with our production partners both in Japan and abroad, and together we will strive to generate new needs and value in the global entertainment market. We will continue to take on new challenges every day, aiming to build a strong and sustainable presence.”

    Meanwhile, the Los Angeles office will be led by Tom Miyauchi, vice president of Nippon TV International and the man behind the Canadian adaptation of cult favourite Old Enough!. Miyauchi moves to LA in June and kicks off operations in July.

    “With the launch of our Los Angeles business hub at the forefront of the global entertainment market, we are here to tap into the pulse of local trends and connect with global audiences with precision and agility. By strengthening collaboration and co-creation with valued partners and creators, our aim is to lead every phase of the content journey – from content development and full-scale production to distribution and international rollout, and the establishment of local production frameworks. In collaboration with Gyokuro Studio, we aim to pioneer new frontiers for globally driven entertainment, proudly originating from Japan.”said Miyauchi.

    Nippon TV has been flexing its format muscles globally, with Dragons’ Den/Shark Tank spawning 52 versions across 186 countries and Mother crowned as Asia’s most exported scripted format. Add to that the viral Old Enough! and Netflix-fuelled anime success, and you’ve got a broadcaster not just chasing trends—but setting them.

    Now with Studio Ghibli in its corner, Nippon TV is stacking its global arsenal. The new studio and LA office mark a strategic two-punch play, positioning Japan’s content powerhouse to charm the west, one gyokuro-infused idea at a time.

  • Agoda ropes in Ayushmann Khurrana as AI-powered Mr. Vacaywala for travel planning stunt

    Agoda ropes in Ayushmann Khurrana as AI-powered Mr. Vacaywala for travel planning stunt

    MUMBAI: Agoda has packed its bags and brought Hindi cinema to the boarding gate. The travel-tech brand launched its limited-time AI Vacation Planner for Indian travellers, fronted by actor Ayushmann Khurrana who plays a charming new character — Mr. Vacaywala, chief wellness officer.

    Built in collaboration with Google, the platform promises holiday solutions on command. It combines Gemini and Imagen technologies with Agoda’s travel inventory to generate tailor-made itineraries, complete with dazzling visuals and Ayushmann’s AI-voiced commentary — calling users by their first name, no less. The AI Vacation Planner is live on AgodaVacationPlanner.com till 30 June.

    “Travel is all about discovery and inspiration. Agoda’s use of AI to create personalized recommendations and stunning visuals makes it easier for people to dream, plan, and book their next adventure”, said Khurrana. “We take away the stress of putting together an itinerary, because we do it for you!”

    Users enter their preferences, and within seconds the platform assembles custom plans, cherry-picked from Agoda’s five million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities. Imagen renders this into an interactive visual story, and Mr. Vacaywala narrates the itinerary using text-to-speech.

    Agoda country director for India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, Gaurav Malik said, “We’ve redefined the travel planning experience to be both personal and inspiring”.

    Google’s Pulkit Lambah added, “We collectively embark on a journey to truly reimagine travel – moving beyond simple bookings to instantly personalized, vividly inspiring journeys”.

    The campaign also showcases the work of Kulfi Collective and AI studio Truefan, with promotional pushes planned across Youtube and Meta. Through hyper-targeted ads and a Hindi cinema twist, Agoda’s AI-powered journey into Indian hearts is already on the runway.