Category: Press Release

First edition of News State Chhattisgarh Cricket League concludes successfully

RAIPUR: News Nation Network’s News State Madhya Pradesh Chhattisgarh recently introduced the first edition of News State Chhattisgarh Cricket League in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

Cricket in India is not just a game, it is a phenomenal experience, it is an emotion, and it is a cherished memory. Its popularity knows no bounds; in fact, for many it is not just a sport but a religion. It would not be wrong to say that cricket is something that unites the nation. Indians don’t just watch and enjoy a cricket game; they immerse themselves in it.

News State Chhattisgarh Cricket League commenced on 5 March and culminated on 18 March 2021. The 14-day league comprising 27 matches was inaugurated by Chhattisgarh government cabinet minister Ravindra Choubey, and Raipur Nagar Nigam mayor Aizaj Dhebar.

The closing ceremony was attended by the state home minister Tamradhwaj Sahu, and Chhattisgarh police senior superintendent – Raipur Ajay Yadav. The league was a huge success with the participation of over 16 teams from different industries. It was very well appreciated by the local people of Raipur, who demanded a second season to happen soon. The league champions were S A Rubber Industry and the team was delighted to receive the winner title from home minister Sahu.

Thanking the event sponsors, Mr. Abhay Ojha, President- Sales & Marketing – News Nation Network added, "We truly appreciate the generous support of our sponsors and partners for making this league a huge success. We have received a positive response and are planning to expand this initiative in other cities and on a much grander scale."

The key sponsors and partners for the league were Chhattisgarh Shasan, NHMMI Narayana Hospital, OP Jindal University, Punjab National Bank, LIC, Jayanti Bhai Sweets and Namkeen, and Naiduniya.

March 22, 2021
News18 Kannada Varshada Kannadiga 2021 set for 26 March

BENGALURU: The countdown has begun for Varshada Kannadiga awards, the annual signature event of News18 Kannada to be held next week. As a precursor to the event, a jury meet was held on 13 March with members comprising the who’s who of Bangalore. Every year, a jury is constituted and headed by an eminent personality. This year, the jury was chaired by the esteemed Karnataka high court former justice H N Nagamohan Das.

The jury put together had a good mix of seven eminent people from different sectors. From law enforcement, to politics, art and culture, entertainment, sports and corporate, the panel was well represented from all sectors.

The esteemed jury members were:

Prof. Doddarange Gowda, poet & lyricist.

R Ashok, revenue minister – government of Karnataka

Sudharani, Sandalwood actress

Reena Suvarna, KAS

V R Raghunath, Hockey Olympian

Sneha Rakesh, entrepreneur

The awards are divided into eight categories — literature, entertainment, public service, business, science and technology, sports. The other two categories are the Varshada Kannadiga and Lifetime Achievement award. The names were shortlisted looking at people who have performed extremely well during the year, some unrecognized and extraordinary feats of ordinary people. Under the supervision of News18 Kannada editor Siddappa Kaloji, the names were submitted by the editorial staff, and nominations from the public. These names were filtered, by the editorial and five entries were placed in front of the jury for final selection.

The roundtable saw a good amount of humour, active discussions, related anecdotes, varied opinions about nominees and their contributions – before finally reaching a consensus.

The nominees and the winners will be declared on 26 March 2021, Friday, at J W Mariott with a grand, star studded presentation ceremony.

March 19, 2021
News18 Tamil Nadu brings Comprehensive Programming for Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections

March 18, 2021, With less than two months to go for the Tamil Nadu elections, the state prepares to see who would be the next occupant of St. George Fort. News18 Tamil Nadu has lined-up extensive programming to capture upcoming state elections Titled ‘Festival of Democracy’ , the programming will showcase the campaigns and rallies of the political parties to questioning the politicians on substantive policy issues that affect the common man to with high-decibel debates to keep the Tamil viewers apprised of major developments in the Tamil Nadu Politics.

New shows include Therthal Kathaiyalla varalaru (History of elections) at 02:30 pm , showcasing analysis on how the elections were conducted earlier in terms of parties, constitutions, star candidates, Election Commission etc . Kalathin Kural (Voice at the right time) at 7 pm , an interactive show with election experts led by a News18 political editor .

18 on 18, an interactive show with college students, First time voters, on how young generation sees the upcoming election which will be an on-ground show telecasted for an hour. Therthal sadukudu (Election punch-up with Audience), where rival candidates are brought face to face amidst the voters, shot as an interactive show in the constituency itself, an hour show on week days.

PECHU…PAETTI…ARIKKAI (SPEECH…INTERVIEW..STATEMENT) at 9 pm on week days , where the Political campaigns of the day will be summed up in half an hour, a fast-paced train of speeches, soundbites and statements by top leaders packaged with Graphics. Podungamma votu (Cast your vote) at 10.30 pm, an info- political entertainment On Screen to Showcase comics & critics of political leaders during their political campaigns.

Oru Naal Oru Natchathram (A day with a star), bringing special Interview with political leaders during their on-ground campaigns. There are also interesting packages which offers news about constituency, Voters and snippets which explains the turning points of Tamil Nadu elections. Ungal thoguthi Arinthathum, Ariyathathum (Your constituency, the known and unknown facts), Muthal Kural (Voice of the first time voter), Nam Vakku Nam uyrimai (My Vote, My Right) and Thiruppu munai (Turning point).

The special programs on the channel will be led by experienced anchors and journalists offering viewers superior coverage of the Tamil Nadu elections. The formidable editorial team will be supported by on-ground reporters and eminent experts, News18 Network will offer viewers unmatched coverage of this crucial state elections.

March 19, 2021
Zee Telugu Sa Re Ga Ma Pa – Who will be The Next Singing ICON?

MUMBAI: It’s been 29 weeks for the young participants of the SRGMP – The Next Singing Icon, to reach to finale phase. Media outlets from the Telugu states are throwing around words like ‘soaring’ and ‘Rising superstars’, and all of it feels surreal. After all, the show which started with 19 contestants out of which five youngsters, exceptionally talented are all set to entertain the audience LIVE this Sunday i.e., on 21 March at 6 PM only on Zee Telugu and Zee Telugu HD.

The prestigious musical grand finale will have the who’s who of the Tollywood fraternity come together and cheer up with finalists and honor the most deserving. The sensational LIVE finale will witness the presence of remarkable film and music personalities Sid Sriram, Rana Daggubati, Zoya Hussain, Baba Sehgal, Singer Kalpana, Singer Sunitha among others.

The fans are excited to know who will lift the trophy and take the prize money home from the top finalists of the season i.e., Bharath Raj, Pragna Nayini, Pavan Kalyan, Venkata Chaitanya and Yasaswi Kondepudi. As the contestants are gearing up for the finals and put their best foot forward to give the best performance, the current music sensation Sid Sriram is going to perform LIVE to enthrall the viewers. Singer Sunitha along with Kalpana and Baba Sehgal is going to capture the hearts of the audience with top-notch songs while the singers such as Geetha Madhuri, Ramya Behra, Krishna Chaitanya along with the stellar mentors among are going to be adding glory to the finale feast.

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa – The Next Singing Icon proved to be a great platform to unleash the musical talent of the Telugu states. Such an exceptional finale will be judged by Koti, S.P. Shailaja and Chandra Bose while Pradeep Machiraju hosts the jamboree.

Tune into culmination of the musical journey LIVE on March 21 at 6 PM only on Zee Telugu and Zee Telugu HD.

March 18, 2021
Enjoy the Premiere of Zack Snyder’s Justice League on your TV screens with Tata Sky Showcase and Tata Sky Mobile App

Zack Snyder’s Justice League has been awaited with much anticipation by fans across the globe and the wait is now over with the World Premiere today. Available only for a digital release in India and with select platforms, Tata Sky subscribers can be rest assured as the most epic battle unfolds directly in their living rooms. Subscribers can opt for pay-per-view with rental charges of INR 150, available for viewing from 00:00 onwards on Tata Sky Showcase and on Tata Sky Mobile App from 18th March at 12:31 hrs.

With a run time of 4 hours, movie buffs and fans can feast on the most thrilling battle played out with a blockbuster cast and Zack Snyder’s expert direction for an action-packed ride.

Fuelled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman's selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists newfound ally Diana Prince to face an even greater threat. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to recruit a team of metahumans to stand against this newly awakened enemy. Despite the formation of an unprecedented league of heroes — Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and the Flash — it may be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions.

March 18, 2021
Colors Tamil to air Mahasangamam of its popular fiction shows – Mangalya Sandhosham and Amman

MUMBAI: Continuing its endeavors to entertain audiences with unique storytelling, Colors Tamil is set to bring together its highly acclaimed shows – Mangalya Sandhosham and Amman for a Mahasangamam episode for the next two weeks. Godrej Aer Power Pocket and Parry Sweet Care are special partners for these exclusive episodes. The special episodes will witness an engaging storyline with its two protagonists – Nithya played by Lakshmipriya and Sakthi played by Pavithra Gowda, who venture to find solutions for their problems. Currently on air since 15 March, the episodes will also feature the ever-charming Rachitha Mahalakshmi in a cameo role as Amman everyday till 27 March at 7:00 PM.

Colors Tamil business head Anup Chandrasekharan said, “We are delighted to bring for the viewers these Mahasangamam episodes of our popular fiction shows – Amman and Mangalya Sandhosham. Viewers are in for a delight as they will get to watch our extremely talented cast come together to showcase an intriguing storyline. The Mahasangamam episodes will have a unique and gripping narrative with lots of twist and turns. We are certain that it will keep our audience engaged and enthralled.”

The Mahasangamam episodes are a blend of two different tales, where destiny favours two lead characters – Nithya and Sakthi to meet at a temple that is busy preparing for the Agni Amman festival after three decades. Sakthi and Nithya will be seen competing against a group of women to get chosen to pull the Amman statue out from the pond.

What lies ahead of Nithya and Sakthi? Will there be more hurdles on their journey? Tune into Colors Tamil to witness the holiness unravel in the Mahasangamam episodes of Mangalya Sandhosham and Amman from 15 to 27 March 2021 at 7 PM.

March 17, 2021
This March &flix brings ‘Flix Superheroes’

MUMBAI: There is something mystifying about a hero in a costume, covered in a cape and mask to protect himself and his near beloved ones but, there's always more to him than what meets the eye. This month, &flix takes charge to shine the light on these men behind the mask who have reminded us time that they're truly Awesome and Then Some. Get ready to celebrate and experience a wonderful feeling this march as &flix brings back its premier movie block and celebrate awesomeness with ‘Flix Superheroes’. Enjoy binge worthy titles of the biggest superhero Blockbusters airing all week starting 15 March, weeknights at 9PM only on &flix.

Bringing you the who’s who of Hollywood, here’s an army of heroes who have inspired you to be the best versions of yourselves and unleash the superhero within you. From your web-slinging friendly, neighbourhood Spider-Man starring Tom Holland in Spider-Man: Homecoming to The Amazing Spiderman starring Andrew Garfield, there’s your regular dose of action and comedy with the young superhero. Wielding his hammer with god like powers, the last place you would want to be is in the path of the God of thunder in Thor who is the ideal personification for total Armageddon. The Russo brothers are at it again bringing to you a double dose of Marvel’s biggest blockbusters to witness the extraordinary coming together of heroes for the greatest battle of the 21 century. While one hero is never too satisfying to satiate your hunger, maybe ten or more might. Avengers Endgame & Avengers Infinity Wars are guaranteed to give you the steroid kick to amp you up for a phenomenal evening of entertainment. Fans all over were saddened to hear of the passing of Chadwick Boseman whose role as the Black Panther brought solidarity to the team and will now see its airing on television as part of this captivating block. If revenge is a dish best served cold, then order me a doggy pack to-go as one man finds himself with a single purpose to find the people responsible for sowing the seeds of anger and hate in him with the airing of Punisher: War Zone. Find yourself drawn to movies that will leave you in awe-someness this month and catch some of the other global hits with titles like The Avengers, Marvel’s Big Hero 6, Vin Diesel Starrer Bloodshot, end of the world apocalypse in Resident Evil and more only with Flix Superheroes on &flix.

Celebrate awesomeness this month with the biggest Superhero movies weeknights at 9 only on &flix

March 17, 2021
One Take Media brings ‘Yaaron Kaa Yaar’ series

MUMBAI: One Take Media Co has acquired all media rights for the latest series Yaaron Kaa Yaar for India and SAARC Nations. It has three seasons, each with 52 episodes of 13 minutes each.

What makes Yaaron Kaa Yaar exciting is the lead character, who is inspired from the happiness spread by laughing buddha. He is the fun-spirited lead of this series who loves helping the people of his village. He is always in a pleasant mood and enjoys freeing people from their troubles. Now the viewers can get to know him and immerse themselves in a roller coaster ride of fun & joy.

One Take Media Co is a content production and distribution hub in Mumbai. It provides content and value added services to leading DTH, cable, OTT and TV channels in India and abroad. OTMC provides content in various genres including Hollywood movies, Hollywood movies dubbed in Hindi and nine regional languages, kids animation movies and series and Korean drama series and K-Pop.

One Take Media Co Director Dimpy Khera said, “After the pandemic, we seriously need a happy animation like Yaaron Kaa Yaar who is truly the audience’s helping buddy. We love that we are able to uplift the mood of our audience with this series and bring hope to our viewers. Just like the world is getting back on it’s feet post the lockdown, Yaaron Kaa Yaar is an epitome of how there is a silver lining in every challenging situation and all tough times can be passed with a smile and some laughter.”

March 17, 2021
Zen Digital Media launches creative platforms -‘Broadcoasters’ & ‘Beach And You (B.A.Y)’

MUMBAI: Zen Digital Media, a digital-first, Make In India startup, has introduced Broadcoasters & Beach And You (B.A.Y.), two platforms for brands and creative artists to experience seamless interactions bringing in a new age of story-telling.

‘Broadcoasters’

Broadcoasters is the first, and the only LED screens on waters in India. With massive and dynamic screens on customized vessels, it is an unmissable medium of messaging, aimed towards every niche of audience.

Keeping in mind the paradigm shift in media consumption, Broadcoasters will offer creative media solutions that are highly interactive. With a focus on four E’s – engage, entice, excite, and educate, this platform offers to reach out to audience with the power of advertising and social messaging. Two of the many distinctive core features include Over-the-air (OTA) real time content updates and multiple creative changes and placements.

The robust infrastructure is second to none. A bespoke self-propelled vessel with high resolution LED screens and auto-brightness sensors, it showcases various formats of eye-catching static and video content.

Broadcoasters has chosen Mumbai – The media capital of India, for its first launch at two of the most exclusive locations; the first, anchored opposite Bandra-Worli Sea Link promenade and the second, plying between an approximate stretch of 4.5 kms across the beautiful coastline of Juhu-Versova Beach.

‘Beach And You’

With a focus on community building and bringing about a social change, Beach And You is a unique concept that encourages people to connect with each other along the coasts of India. Partnering with multiple NGO’s, state and central government bodies this concept can bring about a greater good in the society.

It is an experience that facilitates every citizen to add value, create, collaborate, meet like-minded people, and interact with one another. Social events, fitness sessions, education and information, awareness and conservation drives, public welfare campaigns, CSR initiatives which are all the need of the hour, can be brought to life very effectively by this concept.

With Broadcoasters as a platform, Beach And You becomes a medium to reach out to those who believe in bringing about a positive change in the world around them.

Furthering the company’s commitment in fostering innovative and interactive solutions, the exceptional bespoke design structure will provide limitless opportunities to brands to nurture creativity through collaboration. “At Zen Digital Media, our endeavor is state-of-the-art technology and constant innovation, that will introduce a new pathbreaking medium every year”, says its co-founders, Payal Raval and Sanjay Raval. They dared to dream about this massive yet interactive and resourceful project and successfully brought it to life. We have just begun our illustrious journey and aim to tap into potentials that are waiting to be unlocked.

March 16, 2021
Ormax Media relaunches film campaign tracking and box office forecasting tool Ormax Cinematix

MUMBAI: With the audience slowly returning to movie theatres post the Covid2019 pandemic, media consulting firm Ormax Media has announced the relaunch and expansion of its film campaign tracking and box office forecasting tool Ormax Cinematix (OCX). OCX was launched in 2010 for the Hindi film industry, and expanded to cover the Hollywood sector in India in 2014. In its new avatar, OCX will track theatrical films in nine language, namely Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, Punjabi and Bengali.

OCX uses consumer research across India to measure the performance of upcoming film releases on three parameters: Buzz, Reach & Appeal. A statistical model uses these parameters to estimate the First-Day Box Office (FBO), a forecast of the opening day collections of all the films being tracked by the tool. Over the last few years, FBO has established itself as a highly credible currency in the film industry, with 83% accuracy since 2018.

With the expansion to regional languages, Ormax Media has reiterated its focus on regional content. Earlier this year, the company had extended its television character popularity tracking tool Ormax Characters India Loves to Tamil, Telugu, Marathi and Bengali GEC categories.

Ormax Media founder & CEO Shailesh Kapoor said, “Ormax Cinematix has been an industry benchmark for the Hindi film industry for more than a decade, and is used by studios to take key business decisions related to marketing, distribution and acquisition of films. With an expansion into nine languages, the tool will now be available for producers across India. This expansion reiterates our commitment towards increasing our focus on language markets in India in 2021”.

OCX has been the film industry’s go-to tool for first-day box office forecasts over the last decade. At the time the tool hit the pause button in March 2020 when theatres were closed due to the lockdown, more than 30 studios and producers were subscribers of the tool, including Yash Raj Films, Dharma Productions, Disney, Viacom 18, Sony Pictures, T-Series, Zee Studios, Balaji Telefilms and Excel Entertainment, among others.

Ormax Media partner Gautam Jain added, “Pan-India films, which cut across languages, are an emerging trend. This year itself will see several films that will travel across languages, such as KGF Chapter 2, Radhe Shyam and RRR. Ormax Cinematix needed a multi-language expansion to keep up with this trend. With nine languages being covered now, we are confident that our first-day box office (FBO) forecast numbers will be as looked forwarded to by producers, directors and actors in the regional markets, as they have been by those in Bollywood”.

March 16, 2021