Category: Press Release

Network18 celebrates National Cleanliness Day with the second edition of ‘India Hoga Clean’

National : Network18, India’s leading news network, celebrates ‘National Cleanliness Day’ with the second edition of their popular campaign – ‘India Hoga Clean’ concluding on a rousing note. The campaign aimed to reinforce the message of keeping our country clean and at the same time acknowledged the efforts of those who did so.

Conceptualized with an aim to kick-start a movement, the campaign encouraged every citizen of the country to realize the importance of karamcharis who work hard every day to keep our country clean. The ‘India Hoga Clean’ campaign also highlighted how those who help keep the nation clean should not be mistreated, but instead should be acknowledged for their diligent efforts. Through such a venture, the platform successfully broadened its reach to amplify the message of instilling a ‘pro-active hygiene and cleanliness’ agenda in various places like Navi Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi and Indore.

In the first edition, the campaign raised a toast to the efforts of different activist groups by dedicating episodes capturing the work done by them to maintain hygiene and cleanliness in different cities like Mumbai, Pune, Goa and Bangalore which were featured on CNBC-TV18 and CNN-News18. This year, the campaign will comprise of a contest across its digital platforms where people can acknowledge their cleaning armies of government karamcharis. Individuals can capture and share the simple moment of gratification and upload it on the official India Hoga Clean Facebook/Twitter Page.

Stay up to date with the second edition of the ‘India Hoga Clean’ campaign by following #ThankYouThoBantaHai on Facebook/Twitter.

January 31, 2019
Hungama Music now streaming on Alexa

MUMBAI: Hungama Music, one of the leading music streaming platforms in the country owned by Hungama Digital Media, today announced the availability of its service on Alexa. Users can now listen to their favorite tracks on the Amazon Echo range of smart speakers as well as the Amazon Fire TV Stick by simply asking Alexa to play songs from Hungama Music.

The service enables users to stream individual tracks or songs from an entire album and even songs featuring a particular actor or a genre. Playlists curated by Hungama consisting of songs from composers, singers, occasion- specific trends and themes are also available. Users can access Hungama Music’s library on their Alexa devices using simple voice commands such as “Alexa, play Dilbar on Hungama”, “Alexa, play Punjabi songs on Hungama”, “Alexa, play Arijit Singh’s songs on Hungama”.

Speaking about the association, Siddhartha Roy, COO, Hungama Digital Media said, “At Hungama, we believe in offering our users an enriching experience that combines convenience with the power of choice. Our presence on Alexa, Amazon’s voice-based assistant, will help us ensure a truly multi-channel presence and enhance the users’ experience of listening to music at home. At the same time, the association will make it even easier for our users, existing and new, to explore and enjoy our multi-genre, multi-lingual and original content library.”

Dilip R.S., Country Manager for Alexa Skills, Amazon India added, “Listening to your favorite music hands-free with Alexa is always a delight. With the availability of Hungama Music on Alexa, users will now be able to enjoy a diverse catalogue of film and non-film music across all major languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Kannada and more, by using simple voice commands. The addition of Hungama will further enhance the experience of all Alexa users.”

To enjoy the Hungama Music service, users need to launch the Alexa app and enable the Hungama Music skill. Once enabled, users also have the option to make Hungama Music their default streaming service by visiting the ‘Music’ section under settings. This eliminates the need to specify the music service name when asking Alexa.

January 30, 2019
LaLiga and GSIC launch the largest global competition for startups on disruptive solutions in the football, sports and entertainment industry

MUMBAI: LaLiga and the Global Sports Innovation Center powered by Microsoft (GSIC) present the 2019 Startup Competition of The Original Inspiration Centre by LaLiga supported by GSIC, a joint initiative to identify the best technological developments in the sports and entertainment industry. The aim is to empower digital talent developing disruptive solutions in the football, sports and entertainment industry which can help continue LaLiga’s growth in the field of technology and innovation, by means of a global technological startups competition starting on 29 January. This milestone represents yet another step forward in the strategy for promoting innovation as part of the collaboration agreement between Microsoft and LaLiga since they began working together on the digital transformation of LaLiga in December 2016.

The competition promoted by LaLiga and managed by GSIC is the result of an agreement signed in September 2018 and aims to create a gateway to the sports and entertainment industry for new companies around the world. The solutions presented in the competition must be based on four cornerstones:

· Media: OTT, broadcasting, social media, digital content, new media, digital marketing, second screens, graphics, analysis, piracy.

• Fan engagement: fan profiles, social media, electronic sports, gamification, social listening, community, commercialisation, VR/AR/MR, digital games.

• Smart venues: security, fan engagement, ticket sales, fan experience, food and beverages, connectivity, cashless payments, access control and guest management.

• Sports performance: analysis, sports training materials, injury prevention, health and lifestyle, research.

• Others such as big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, etc.

Iris Cordoba, the general manager of GSIC, remarks that "we are committed to innovative companies and organisations that add value to the sports industry in their digital transformation processes. Forming part of this initiative allows us to support LaLiga's innovation strategy and offer the finalist companies membership of GSIC, which has a 200-strong company network, mentors and activities which will facilitate of possibility of launching a pilot project with LaLiga."

Meanwhile, Minerva Santana, LaLiga's Innovation Director, assures that "at LaLiga we are committed to the development of the best technological innovations that help to improve the experience of our fans and the technological growth of our clubs. What’s more, with this kind of initiative, we reassert our commitment to empowering talent in the football industry."

January 30, 2019
Tata Sky makes choosing new packs a child’splay

MUMBAI: Tata Sky, India’s leading content distribution platform launched their subscriber communication campaign to educate subscribers about the seamless process of changing packs according to the new pricing regime. The campaign #Ab123kardaalatohlifejingalalais a series of 3 ad films that highlighthow Tata Sky makes choosing subscribers’ favourite channels a child’s play that can be accomplished in steps 1,2,3.

The filmsdraw similarities betweenthetasks for toddlersto changing your channel packs both of which are perceived as cumbersome. Through the toddlers in the ad film, Tata Sky explains how it is a matter of just 3 simple steps to choose packs under the new pricing regime.

1 – Select Pack
2 – Match Budget
3- Confirm Pack

The first ad has a toddler in a walker, having fun spinning around. The baby explains how spinning around is fun but also can be a headache but choosing your favourite packs are not at all a headache. In fact, it is as simple as steps 1,2,3 on her mobile.

The second ad has a toddler eating breakfast with ‘kaddu’ pumpkin puree all over his face. The baby grumbles how adults are lucky as they can choose their own food and their favourite channels & packs by simply following the 1,2,3, steps on the Tata Sky Mobile App.

The third film has a baby in diaper holding the rail of her cradle with a troubled expression. She then is relived when she says “It’s done (Ho Gaya). Now its diaper changing time. It is also time for you all to select your channels & packs”. After a brief false alarm on passing just gas, the baby continues to explain how after the simple steps of 1,2,3. She urges you to take help from their nearest dealer or visit the Tata Sky Mobile App.

Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy India – Westsaid, "Tata Sky has always endeavoured to deliver quality entertainment in a simple manner. So, when the recent ruling change with respect to channel packs and price was announced, we ensured the process was as easy as child’s play for all Tata Sky subscribers. The creative idea was literally built on the product promise."

January 30, 2019
Rishtey Cineplex to showcase celebrated journalist, Ram Kamal Mukherjee’s directorial debut ‘Cakewalk’ starring Esha Deol Takhtani

MUMBAI: Rishtey Cineplex – India’s favourite movie destination from the house of Viacom18 is all set to showcase celebrated journalist, Ram Kamal Mukherjee’s directorial debut, Cakewalk. Starring Esha Deol Takhtani who returns to the celluloid after a hiatus, Cakewalk will be India's first short film to air exclusively on television. This 27-minute film is written and directed by Ram Kamal Mukherjee and produced by Aritra Das, Shailendra Kumar and Dinesh Gupta under the banner of Assorted Motion Pictures and SS1 Entertainments. The film is all set to air on Sunday, February 17th on Rishtey Cineplex at 6.00PM. Voot.

On bringing forth this beautiful narrative to the viewers through television, Nina Elavia Jaipuria, Head – Hindi Mass Entertainment & Kids TV Network, Viacom18 said, “The film revolves around the professional and personal challenges faced by a chef in her life. It's a slice of life story which has been beautifully portrayed by Esha Deol. When Ram Kamal approached us to acquire the film, what struck us was the simple, yet intriguing narrative encapsulated in just 27-minutes. This is definitely one of Esha Deol's finest performance and will be loved by the viewers who have a penchant for experimental content.”

"I had full faith in Ram Kamal when I signed for the film and knew that he would give his all to make this remarkable,” said actor Esha Deol Takhtani who plays the lead protagonist, chef Shilpa Sen in the movie. "Viacom18 is one of the leading networks in India and I am happy that Cakewalk will be India's first short film to be aired on India’s No.1 movie channel, Rishtey Cineplex." adds Esha.

Said Director Ram Kamal Mukherjee on his debut, “I thank the team of Rishtey Cineplex for having seen potential in this film. This also reinstalls my faith in good content. Here’s hoping that the viewers appreciate our endeavor.”

The film is co-directed by Abhra Chakraborty, and also stars Tarun Malhotra and Anindita Bose. The Music has been composed by Shailendra Sayanti and the title track by Rupali Jagga. Shot in Kolkata the first look of the film was unveiled by veteran actress Hema Malini in London.

"We wanted to set a benchmark with our product and trust me it wasn't a cakewalk," says producer Aritra Das. "Everyone discouraged us, saying that there is no future for shorts. But we are grateful to Viacom18 and their entire team for proving the world wrong," added Aritra.

January 30, 2019
Viacom18 presents India’s premier advertising festival “Goafest 2019”

MUMBAI: The apex industry event that celebrates milestones in the Indian media and advertising industry – Goafest is all set to be held on 11th, 12th and 13th April, 2019 at India’s festival destination. Presented by Viacom18, Goafest 2019 will see the A&M fraternity celebrate sucessul campaigns and facilitate idea exchange on categtory growth drivers and game changing global trends.

Speaking about the 14th edition of the festival, Mr. Ashish Bhasin, President of Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) said, “Goafest is the Indian advertising industry’s largest and most representative event . It is not just a festival but an ode to the industry and the pioneering work done through the year. This year too we will bring to fore an immersive event that will bring together the industry’s most creatively curious, transformational and inspiring thoughtleaders and innovators from across agencies, brands and media houses. .

Mr. Nakul Chopra, Chairman Goafest 2019 said “Goafest is all geared up for an inclusive and engaging 2019 edition. Our endeavor this year is to ensure that multi-category representation and participation, interactivity and thought leadership is at the forefront of all our initiatives. This year too the apex industry event will continue to establish its eminence as a leading knowledge sharing and networking platform and we are happy to have partnered with Viacom18 in building this to further scale.”

Speaking about partnering with Goafest 2019, Sudhanshu Vats – Group CEO & MD at Viacom18 said ““Goafest has, over the years, cemented it’s reputation as the country’s foremost amalgamation of the best and brightest of the creative and marketing minds of the Indian business. Our association with them is an extension of our belief that knowledge sharing leads to knowledge enhancement thereby benefitting the entire industry.”

Talking about the focus at the upcoming edition of the festival Vikram Sakhuja: President, The Advertising Club said “ABBY’s are the gold standard in creative awards and has always recognized agencies and talent that push boundaries and challenge status quo. Our endeavor with the festival and the awards this year is to ensure exceptional speakers, inclusive participation and thereby gain a headstart on decoding transformational global advertising and communication trends.”

Shashi Sinha, Awards Governing Council Chair and Secretary, The Advertising Club said “We are all set for the ABBY’s and are hoping to see some pioneering and clutter breaking work being entered this year. ABBY’s is the ultimate national benchmark for effective creative communication. Winning an ABBY holds a place of pride in the career lifecyle of every advertising and media professional. We sincierly hope that the awards continue to inspire the best minds in the industry to present their best foot forward. “

Presented by the Advertising Club and AAAI the Goafest 2019 will once again see the entire advertising and marketing fraternity soon come together in Goa in April 2019.

January 30, 2019
MCGM partners with Animal Planet in its endeavour to sensitize citizens of Mumbai, especially children, about wildlife

MUMBAI: Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has tied up with India’s no 1 wildlife channel Animal Planet to sensitize citizens of Mumbai, especially children, about the importance of wildlife. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, MCGM will launch its 3D Theater located inside V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo, powered with world class content from Animal Planet, starting February 01, 2019. The entry to the theatre will be free for students from MCGM schools; there will be a nominal fee of Rs. 50 for non-MCGM school students/ individuals.

V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo is the first zoo in the country to launch a theatre inside its premises. The soon to be launched cinema with a seating capacity of more than 200 will showcase 4 shows a day. The first show will start at 11:00 hours while the last show will be screened at 16:00 hrs every day. V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo attracts more than 15,000 individuals on a week day while regular weekend entries crosses 30,000. The launch of a new theatre, powered by marquee content from Animal Planet, will give a tremendous boost to the popularity of the Zoo along with sensitizing visitors about wildlife.

Hon’ble Mayor, Shri Vishwanath Mahadeshwar, said, “Following the success of MCGM’s initiative with respect to the Humboldt Penguin Gallery at the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan & Zoo which has garnered wide ranging interest from the citizens of Mumbai, we are pleased to announce this one of a kind initiative in which MCGM is tying up with Discovery Communications India to bring exciting documentaries from their wildlife channel Animal Planet which will be screened exclusively for the visitors of the zoo. Our aim, through this entertainment led initiative, is to make every Mumbaikar sensitive about the importance of wild life.”

Speaking on the occasion, Ajoy Mehta, Municipal Commissioner, MCGM, said, “The state of art theater at V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo was conceptualized because we wanted to give a new-age dimension of learning led entertainment; with a larger cause of educating the young generation of India about the importance of wild life. We are delighted that Animal Planet has joined hands with us in this unique initiative. Initially, we are starting off with a line-up of 5 shows which will be changed at regular intervals to keep the audiences engaged.”

“We expect natural traction for the soon to be launched theatre. In addition, we will also launch an aggressive school reach out campaign inviting students from MCGM schools to experience the world class theatre,” added Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta.

Zulfia Waris, Vice President, Premium & Digital networks, Discovery Communications India said, “It is an honor for us to work along with MCGM in sensitizing citizens of Mumbai, especially children, about wild life. The initial line-up of documentaries offered to the V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo theatre are entertaining and at the same time thought provoking – emerging from the fascinating intersection of the animal, human and natural worlds. We are confident that this unique initiative will go a long way in engaging and awakening viewers to the need for animal welfare and conservation.”

Animal Planet’s marquee documentaries like ‘Jawai: India’s Leopard Hills’, ‘African Wild’, ‘Mysterious Wilds Of India’, ‘Extinct Or Alive’ and ‘Speed Of Life’ are being be showcased at Mumbai Zoo Theater.

January 30, 2019
Cosmos-Maya celebrates 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi with its brand-new kids’ show ‘Bapu’

MUMBAI: Cosmos-Maya is launching ‘Bapu’, a new show inspired by Gandhiji, for kids. This development comes soon after the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, held recently. 2019 also marks the 150th birth anniversary of the Mahatma.

Founded by internationally acclaimed Indian filmmakers Ketan Mehta and Deepa Sahi, Cosmos-Maya is a leading India and Singapore based Animation Company that produces high quality 3D & 2D animation content. KKR backed Emerald Media, a Pan-Asia platform established by the leading global investment firm, for investments in the media and entertainment sector, has a controlling stake in Cosmos-Maya. The company presently has 13 shows on air including Intellectual Properties (IPs) like Motu Patlu, Inspector Chingum, Selfie With Bajrangi, Eena Meena Deeka, and is working with all major broadcasters in this space.

Out of the many gifts Gandhiji left for kids of subsequent generations, the greatest is instilling in them self-belief. “Be the change you wish to see in the world”, said the man who walked almost 400 km for the Dandi March. Cosmos-Maya has been working on the concept for the past two years. The company aims to not only empower half a billion Indian kids with Gandhiji’s values in a non-didactic format, but also to spread the Mahatma’s teachings to kids world over with entertaining, child-friendly storytelling.

“Kids are an impressionable audience. Hence parental approval is imperative. We aim to make each episode a family affair with parents giving additional commentary.”, Anish Mehta, CEO Cosmos-Maya.

Suhas Kadav, Chief Creative Officer, Cosmos-Maya and creator of the show said, “Bapu belongs to everyone and is a perpetual part of the collective conscious of us Indians. Our show ‘Bapu’ will help kids learn the value of goodness and inspire and entertain in the process.”

Anish Mehta, CEO Cosmos-Maya added, “‘Bapu’ will be a tribute to the man who had the power to shape the thinking of generations. Cosmos-Maya’s biggest IPs are all ‘Swadeshi’. With our production might, we are best equipped as story tellers in the sense that we can exercise our Creative Social Responsibility and communicate Gandhiji’s teachings in a fun but responsible manner.”

January 30, 2019
StarPlus touches a million hearts with the film Rubaru Roshni

MUMBAI: This republic day, StarPlus along with Aamir Khan Productions showcased a path-breaking film Rubaru Roshini. Staying true to the channel’s brand promise of ‘Rishta Waahi, Baat Nayi’, this one-of-a-kind film gave out a powerful message of the value of forgiveness through the tales of unbelievable real stories. The film helmed by director Svati Chakravarty Bhatkal was aired in 7 languages across the Star network giving it the biggest pan India platform to reach consumers in every region. This thought-provoking film has garnered a wide-spread critical acclaim from the film fraternity and consumers alike.

The Bollywood fraternity showered their love and appreciation for the film and called it a must-watch.

Commenting on the film, actress Parineeti Chopra revealed, “Rubaru Roshini is not just a film, it is a feeling. Everyone has to experience this beautiful film which will definitely change you. I am so honoured that there are people like Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao who have made a film like this and the director Svati has covered it in the most beautiful and inspirational way. When you watch the movie, everyone in it is genuine and that is why it is going to touch your soul.”

Expressing her thoughts about the film, actress Swara Bhaskar said “In the last few years, I have never seen a film like Rubaru Roshini which impacts you at such a deep and personal level. I don’t think I have ever seen something so powerful in my life. I think everyone has to watch the film across the world.”

StarPlus has always brought to screen innovative content with a purpose which leaves a lasting impression on the viewers. With Rubaru Roshini, StarPlus once again touched the hearts of a million viewers.

January 30, 2019
AXN gives you 5 reasons to look forward to weekdays!

Weekends are fun. But here’s AXN giving its viewers the much-needed relaxation during the week. Starting 28th January, AXN will recharge its consumers, Monday to Friday, with the new seasons of internationally bestselling shows at 10 pm with the all new ‘AXN Premiere Club’.

Beat the Monday Blues with Vikings: Season 5B where ‘Ivar the Boneless’ asserts his leadership over the Great Heathen Army. On Tuesdays, watch most loved political drama series, Madam Secretary: Season 5 where Tea Leoni continues to rule our hearts and the White House. Well, here is a show with few of the most astonishing mind games – Blue Blood: Season 9. Turn up the magic on your Thursdays with Supernatural: Season 14 where Sam enlists everyone’s help in trying to track down Dean. And finally, enjoy the nail-biting thriller, Hawaii Five-O: Season 9, every Friday.

AXN Premiere Club airs the latest and the most acclaimed international shows, handpicked for its Indian viewers. Emmy award winning show Vikings, for instance, has created ripples in the fashion industry by the novel looks created for the show characters. Bestselling shows like Madam Secretary and Supernatural have critics and audiences rooting for the latest season.

January 30, 2019