ITV

Category: Television

  • The 19th National Speed & Figure Skating Championships to commence on 14 August

    The 19th National Speed & Figure Skating Championships to commence on 14 August

    Mumbai: The 19th National Speed & Figure Skating Championships, India’s most anticipated ice-skating event, will commence on 14 August 2024, at ISKATE by Roseate, located in the Ambience Mall of the Millennium City. Hosted under the aegis of the Ice-Skating Association of India (ISAI), the 19th edition of the championship, will bring together top-tier athletes from across the country for a mesmerising showdown on ice.

    This year’s championship will see participation from 12 states and union territories, including Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Ladakh UT, and J&K UT.

    Besides notable skaters like Priyam Tated, Harshita Rawtani, Jatin Sherawat and Tara Prasad, Indian-American figure skating legend Ami Parekh, will add international flair to the event.

    The 19th edition of the National Speed & Figure Skating Championships will follow a well-structured format that includes both speed skating and figure skating categories across multiple age groups. Athletes will compete in the following categories:

    . Figure skating: Under eight, under 11, under 13, under 15, under 17, under 19, above 19.

    .  Speed skating: six to eight years, 8-11 years, 11-13 years

    Prior to the championship, a National Speed & Figure Skating camp was held from 8 to 13 August 2024, aimed at fine-tuning the athletes’ skills and ensuring they are in peak condition for the competition. The championship itself will take place on 4, 16 and 17 August 12024. The competition will be overseen by six judges from the International Skating Union (ISU).

    The finals are slated for 17 August 2024, and will be graced by Yogeshwar Dutt, Indian freestyle wrestler and 2012 Summer Olympics Bronze medalist. Also present will be Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team and twice Olympic bronze medalist.

    All participants will receive certificates, with gold, silver, and bronze medals for the winner, first runners-up, and the second-runners-up respectively.

    The 18th National Speed & Figure Skating Championships saw remarkable performances, with Tara Prasad (Tamil Nadu) and Vyshnav Nair (Telangana) excelling in Figure Skating, and Sumit Tapkir and Swarali Ashutosh Deo (both from Maharashtra) dominating in Short Track Speed Skating. Haryana led in overall awards, followed by Telangana.

    As the 19th National Speed & Figure Skating Championships draws near, excitement builds for what promises to be a convergence of both emerging and established Indian ice-skating talent.

  • ET NOW and ET NOW Swadesh unveil special shows for 78th Independence Day

    ET NOW and ET NOW Swadesh unveil special shows for 78th Independence Day

    Mumbai: As India commemorates 77 years of Independence, ET NOW, English Business News channel, and ET NOW Swadesh, Hindi Business News Channel, have unveiled a specially curated programming envisioned as ‘India @100’, celebrating its rich legacy as it approaches its centenary of independence in 2047.

    Themed ‘India @100,’ both channels will air a series of insightful and impactful content, highlighting key pillars essential to shaping the nation’s future: Economic Growth & Innovation, Education & Skill Development, Healthcare & Wellbeing, Sustainability & Environment, Governance & Democracy, Technology & Digital Transformation, Social Change & Inclusivity and India’s Global Role. With in-depth analysis, commentary, and inspiring stories of innovation and resilience, both channels will explore the vision of a progressive, inclusive, and self-reliant India.

    Independence Day programming on ET NOW and ET NOW Swadesh includes:

    .  Businesses Of Naya Bharat: This dynamic 30-minute show airing on August 14, explores businesses driving India’s economy. With insights from Vikas Khemani, Founder of Carnelian Asset Management, and Nooresh Merani, Founder, Analyse India, this show at 1:00 pm delves into India Inc.’s success and the stocks that are propelling the nation towards its $5 trillion economy goal.

    .  INDIA @ 100- Financial Freedom Day: Take a step towards your financial independence journey with ET NOW. Join Kavita Thapliyal on August 14 for a 30-minute show that provides actionable financial strategies, model portfolios, and expert hacks. Featuring insights from Nilesh Shah, CEO, Kotak AMC; Dhirendra Kumar, CEO, Value Research; and Feroze Azeez, Deputy CEO, Anand Rathi Wealth Ltd., this show at 5:00 pm is your guide to achieving financial independence and becoming the change you envision.

    .  India @ 100: A special debate, ‘India @ 100,’ on ET NOW with Anchor Vikram Oza will witness distinguished panellists including Gurcharan Das, Author and Commentator, Former CEO P&G India and Siddhartha Sanyal, Chief Economist & Head of Research, Bandhan Bank will envision India’s path to becoming a developed nation by 2047. The discussions on August 14 at 9:00 pm will focus on the role of India Inc. in driving the nation to a $5 trillion economy, highlighting the strategies and milestones essential for this transformation.

    .  Swadeshi superstar, Kamaai Asardar: This special show on ET NOW Swadesh on August 14, will delve into the robust performance of PSU stocks and homegrown companies, the pillars of strength for the Indian economy. Hosted by Abhishek Satya Vratam, the show features experts including Gaurang Shah, Whole Time Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Rohan Mehta, CEO & Portfolio Manager, Turtle Wealth; and Rajesh Agarwal, Head of Research, AUM Capital Market Pvt Ltd present three standout stocks showcasing the enduring potential of India’s financial landscape.

    .  India @ 100: On Independence Day at noon, Sheryll D’Souza anchors a 30-minute special on ET NOW decoding the Prime Minister’s speech at Red Fort, New Delhi. With insights from Sanjay Nayar, Founder & Chairman of Sorin Investments, and Rajnish Kumar, Former Chairman, State Bank of India, the show outlines India’s path to Atmanirbhar and global leadership.

    .  India @ 100 Desh Ka Dum: Marking Independence Day, ET NOW Swadesh will air a 30-minute panel discussion led by Abhishek Satya Vratam on India’s economic resilience and border security. Featuring defence experts Major General Rajan Kochhar (Retd.); Augustine Vinod (Retd), Group Captain, and Col. Shailendra Singh (Retd), this show addresses national strength amid rising Chinese interference post-Bangladesh crisis.

  • Zee TV and Bobble AI collaborate to revolutionise Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 auditions

    Zee TV and Bobble AI collaborate to revolutionise Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 auditions

    Mumbai: Zee TV has undertaken a strategic initiative to boost participation in the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 auditions. The campaign leveraged Bobble AI’s technology to engage its 85 million global users through targeted AI-driven prompts in chat keyboards. By geo-targeting users in popular chat apps seen expressing their interest in singing/auditioning, Zee TV placed intent-based prompts designed to spark interest and drive users to the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa auditions. Zee TV’s contextual AI prompts, appearing within Bobble keyboard chats, directed the users to a video promo with detailed audition information. Clicking on these prompts enabled users to receive audition details and redirected them to Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s Instagram page, optimising conversion rates and ensuring a smooth user experience.

    This innovative approach, executed in Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai from 8 July to 2 August 2024, effectively engaged potential contestants by integrating them into their daily conversations. Zee TV’s initiative garnered 1.3M impressions and ensured maximum engagement and conversion, significantly enhancing the success of the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa auditions.

    Zee TV’s chief channel officer Mangesh Kulkarni said, “The idea behind using AI and intent-based marketing for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa was to create a more personalized and relevant approach to engage potential contestants. By targeting conversations where users were already discussing singing, auditions or music, we naturally and effectively reached aspiring singers. This approach not only made the audition process more accessible but also ensured we connected with genuinely interested and passionate individuals. It’s a significant step in how we engage our audiences and foster new talent.”

    As Zee TV continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving digital landscape, this collaboration with Bobble AI redefined engagement strategies within the entertainment industry. The success of this campaign promises to be a game-changer, encouraging other brands to listen to their audiences and engage with them in more meaningful ways.

  • MTV announces paranormal reality show ‘Dark Scroll – Muqabla Anjaan Se’

    MTV announces paranormal reality show ‘Dark Scroll – Muqabla Anjaan Se’

    Mumbai: MTV, a youth entertainment brand, announced the paranormal reality show, ‘MTV Dark Scroll – Muqabla Anjaan Se’. Pioneering a new avenue for youth entertainment, MTV’s new show hosted by actor Amit Sadh promises thrill-seeking young audiences a pathbreaking blend of horror and reality genres. MTV Dark Scroll in association with The Souled Store is set to premiere on 16 August, streaming every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7 PM on JioCinema and airing at 10 PM on MTV.

    Set against the backdrop of Uttarakhand’s dense forests and misty mountains, MTV Dark Scroll, brings together 9 Seekers in 7 haunted locations. Guided by well-known paranormal investigator Sarbajeet Mohanty and psychic Pooja Vijay, the Seekers will investigate some chilling stories and face other-worldly challenges. The seekers will be tasked with a series of activities inside each haunted location using advanced entity-detection devices like Infrared Cameras, Electromagnetic Field Measures and Paranormal Investigation methods like the Estes Method.

    Reinforcing MTV India as an innovative and groundbreaking youth brand, the show gives today’s Gen-Z and Millennials adrenaline-pumping and immersive content that offers a break from the ordinary. Featuring innovative storytelling and compelling viewer experiences, MTV Dark Scroll once again underscores the brand’s commitment to edgy, forward-thinking, and trendsetting content.

    Horror content attracts 298 Mn viewers on TV annually, with 82 Mn tuning in every month, demonstrating the genre’s widespread and consistent appeal. Of these viewers, 55% are youth, equally split between males and females, according to BARC India (April’23-March’24, Horror genre on Hindi GEC & Hindi Movies). This makes ‘MTV Dark Scroll’ a significant addition to the genre, promising to captivate a substantial and engaged audience.

    Speaking on the launch of Dark Scroll, Viacom18 business head, youth, music, and English entertainment cluster Anshul Ailawadi said, “With MTV Dark Scroll – Muqabla Anjaan Se, we’re bolstering our non-fiction content offerings in a big way. Horror has a substantial following across the world, with reports suggesting that its consumption is connected to emotional stimulation and stress release. Additionally, our research showed that the pandemic only heightened the exploration of the paranormal for GenZ and Millennials. As a premier youth entertainment brand, tapping into this space gives a new avenue for brands to reach out to a young audience, at an unexplored intersection of horror and reality genres. We’re excited to bring a multi-dimensional entertainment experience through MTV Dark Scroll, combining interactive elements, gaming, and user-first tech innovations on JioCinema. This multi-platform approach ensures that our viewers can engage with the show in new and immersive ways.””

    Enhancing the viewer experience, JioCinema will introduce its first-ever immersive tech experiences for audiences –

    Launching JioCinema’s First Ever Immersive 360 Gaming Experience:

    JioCinema debuts its immersive 360 gaming experience with the MTV Dark Scroll game. Viewers can unlock haunted locations as the show progresses, making the viewing experience interactive and engaging. With opportunities to win phones and heart rate monitors, this initiative showcases JioCinema’s commitment to innovation and multi-dimensional entertainment.

    JioCinema’s Heart Rate Monitor App Integration:

    JioCinema introduces a proprietary heart rate monitor app for MTV Dark Scroll. This app displays contestants’ real-time fear levels during paranormal encounters, adding immersion and authenticity. Viewers can witness contestants’ physiological responses, enhancing their connection to the show.

    Thermal Experience Shooting for Enhanced Viewer Interaction:

    MTV Dark Scroll uses thermal imaging technology, allowing viewers to switch between standard and thermal feeds. This enables exploration of temperature fluctuations and spotting paranormal entities alongside contestants. JioCinema’s use of thermal technology exemplifies its commitment to cutting-edge, interactive viewing experiences.

    UGC Contest: “Spooky Stories in 60 Seconds”:

    JioCinema invites viewers to participate in the “Spooky Stories in 60 Seconds” contest. Fans can submit their own short horror stories, with winners receiving prizes and their stories featured on JioCinema. This contest promotes creative engagement and enhances the interactive viewing experience.

    ‘MTV Dark Scroll – Muqabla Anjaan Se’ is all set to take viewers on an unforgettable investigation of the paranormal, premiering on August 16. Each episode promises suspense, thrills, and a deeper look into the unknown!

    Catch the show every Fri, Sat, and Sun at 7 PM on JioCinema and 10 PM on MTV

  • Sony Pictures Networks India announces leadership reshuffle

    Sony Pictures Networks India announces leadership reshuffle

    Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has announced three leadership changes, highlighting the company’s focus on growth and operational efficiency. These appointments are crucial for SPNI’s progress, with each leader bringing relevant expertise and new perspectives to their roles.

    Nachiket Pantvaidya, an industry veteran with a rich and diverse career spanning multiple leading media companies, is now taking over as the business head of Sony Entertainment Television (SET). This marks his third stint with SPNI. While he joins SET, he will also continue to manage his role as general manager at Sony Pictures International Productions (SPIP). Nachiket has consistently demonstrated strategic prowess and leadership in his previous roles at SPNI, including managing P&L for SET, developing iconic franchises, and boosting advertising and distribution revenues. His broader role will enable him to leverage his extensive expertise to deliver exceptional entertainment experiences across both platforms.

    Ajay Bhalwankar, who has been with SPNI since 2014, currently heads its Marathi channel. He previously served as the chief creative director for SPNI’s flagship general entertainment channel, Sony Entertainment Television (SET). Under his leadership, Sony Marathi has seen significant growth, delivering high-quality, engaging content that resonates with Marathi audiences. Ajay’s strategic vision has enabled Sony Marathi to carve a niche in the crowded Marathi GEC market. His emphasis on progressive and relatable content has helped the channel capture a nine per cent market share. Moving forward, Ajay will additionally spearhead Sony SAB as its business head. With his experience and creative acumen, Ajay is well-positioned to bring fresh and engaging content to Sony SAB’s diverse audience, further strengthening the channel’s reputation for quality entertainment.

    Tushar Shah is the business head of English, Bengali, and infotainment channels and the chief marketing officer (CMO) at Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI). He oversees prominent channels such as Sony PIX, Sony AATH, and Sony BBC Earth. With nearly 18 years of experience across two tenures at SPNI, Tushar has driven significant growth and profitability and enhanced viewership. His strategic leadership has also been crucial in the successful reach and expansion of Sony AATH in West Bengal. Going forward, Tushar will additionally oversee Sony MAX, Sony MAX HD, Sony MAX 2, Sony WAH and Sony PAL. His expertise will fuel further innovation across these channels, enhancing their market presence.

  • Calinos continues to conquer Brazil’s TV screens

    Calinos continues to conquer Brazil’s TV screens

    Mumbai: Calinos Entertainment has secured a new deal in Brazil with Globo’s Viva Channel for one of its most sold and well-known titles of its catalogue -The Girl named FERIHA.

    Produced by Medyapim, it follows the story of a girl, who comes from a poor background. Feriha is awarded a scholarship at an elite university, where she meets a wealthy playboy – Emir Sarrafoğlu (Cagatay Ulusoy). Feriha lies about her life due to the fear of being rejected. In time they fall in love but as their affection for one another grows, Feriha becomes even more trapped in her own lies.

    The Girl named Feriha’s first episode will be broadcasted on 12 August at 8:30pm local time. 

  • 100 Sports Management Pvt Ltd. acquires exclusive broadcasting rights for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in India

    100 Sports Management Pvt Ltd. acquires exclusive broadcasting rights for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in India

    Mumbai: 100 Sports Management Private Ltd has announced that it has been awarded the exclusive broadcasting and digital media rights for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in India. This partnership underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to promoting inclusivity in sports and ensuring that the inspirational stories of Paralympic athletes reach every corner of India

    The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, scheduled to take place from 28 August to 8 September 2024, will feature extraordinary athletes from around the world competing in a wide range of sports. By securing these rights, 100 Sports Management Private Limited is dedicated to making the Games accessible to millions of viewers, celebrating the achievements of athletes who embody resilience, determination, and the true spirit of sport.

    “This is more than just a broadcasting deal for us,” said 100 Sports Management Private Ltd founder Ravindra Bhati. “It’s about sharing stories that inspire and motivate, about creating a platform where everyone can witness the power of human potential. We are committed to providing comprehensive coverage that not only entertains but also educates and uplifts our audiences.”

    Talking about the same, Paralympic Committee of India president Devendra Jhajharia said, “We are thrilled that 100 Sports has secured the exclusive rights to broadcast the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in our region. This is a monumental step towards increasing the visibility of our athletes and the Paralympic movement in India. The Paralympic Games are a celebration of human resilience, and with this partnership, we are confident that the stories of our incredible athletes will reach and inspire millions across India.”

    Sumit Antil, who has been a dominant figure in F64 category Javelin throw said, “As an athlete, it’s incredibly motivating to know that our performances at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be broadcast across India. This partnership with 100 Sports Management means that our stories, our struggles, and our victories will be shared with millions of people who may never have seen Paralympic sports before. It’s a chance to inspire the next generation and show them that no challenge is too great to overcome.”

    100 Sports Management Private Ltd will offer extensive coverage across television and digital platforms, including live events, expert analysis, and exclusive features that delve into the athletes’ journeys. The goal is to bring the Paralympic movement closer to the people, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for these incredible competitors.

  • News18’s ‘Rising Rajasthan’ summit to be held on 13 August

    News18’s ‘Rising Rajasthan’ summit to be held on 13 August

    Mumbai: News18 Rajasthan has announced its flagship event, ‘Rising Rajasthan,’ which will take place on 13 August at The Lalit, Jaipur. Rajasthan chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma will grace the event as the chief guest and will speak extensively on his vision for the state’s progress.

    Rising Rajasthan will emphasise the actions that the current government is taking to fast-track changes and initiatives for the region’s development. Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma will outline the government’s strategies.

    The event will bring together top leaders from Rajasthan to discuss the state’s progress across various sectors. Among the distinguished attendees are Rajasthan deputy CM Dr Prem Chand Bairwa; Government of India minister of law & justice Arjun Ram Meghwal; Government of India minister of culture and tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; Rajasthan minister of industry, commerce, youth affairs & sports Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore; Rajasthan minister of school education & panchayati raj Madan Dilawar; member of the legislative assembly Sachin Pilot; Lok Sabha member of parliament, Nagaur Hanuman Beniwal; and State BJP president Madan Rathore.

    News18 has been leading discussions on development across the country for years with its ‘Rising’ series, organized in various states. This platform brings together key figures from governance, politics, and other sectors to discuss regional challenges and future strategies.

    Tune in for ‘Rising Rajasthan’ only on News18 Rajasthan on 13 August, starting from 3 pm onwards.

    News18 Rajasthan 

  • Star Sports to broadcast Premier League 2024/25 season in 4K resolution

    Star Sports to broadcast Premier League 2024/25 season in 4K resolution

    Mumbai: Star Sports Network, the official broadcaster of the Premier League, has announced that the 2024/25 season will be broadcast in stunning 4K definition for the first time on Indian linear television. This marks a momentous leap for football viewing audiences in India, offering fans unparalleled clarity and immersion as they cheer on their favourite teams in the top tier of English football.

    Starting from 17 August, Premier League fans can watch the new season in 4K resolution on Star 4K. The opening fixture, Manchester United vs. Fulham at 12:30 am, will kick off the broadcast. The first game week will also include Ipswich Town vs. Liverpool and Chelsea vs. Manchester City on Sunday.

    Star 4K is available exclusively as a value-added service (VAS) on Airtel Xstream and TATA Play Binge+. Current and potential 4K users should contact their DTH providers to access this service.

    Throughout the season, Star 4K will broadcast selective matches featuring the ‘Big 6’ teams—Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Tottenham. Fans of these legendary clubs can look forward to experiencing their games in crystal-clear 4K, with four times better picture quality and a highly enhanced audio experience.

    Star 4K first made its debut during TATA IPL 2024, and since then, it has elevated the viewing experience of major tournaments such as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Wimbledon 2024, Women’s Asia Cup 2024, Tamil Nadu Premier League 2024, and BGMI Masters Series Season 3. This new milestone with the Premier League further underscores Star Sports’ commitment to providing state-of-the-art sports content for fans across India.

    In addition to the Premier League, Star 4K will also feature a stellar lineup of upcoming sports events, including the Caribbean Premier League, ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, and the much-awaited Pro Kabaddi League Season 11. Additionally, Star 4K recently elevated the viewer experience by hosting the 4K TV Premieres of several blockbuster Bollywood movies, including Brahmastra, Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, and 83. This highlights the service’s dedication to delivering premium content and further strengthens its value proposition and offerings.

  • Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 16 airing on Sony Entertainment Television

    Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 16 airing on Sony Entertainment Television

    Mumbai: Celebrating the strength and determination of the common man/woman, Kaun Banega Crorepati returns for its 16th season on Sony Entertainment Television. This season’s campaign, ‘Zindagi Hai. Har Modh Par Sawaal Puchegi. Jawab Toh Dena Hoga’, sparks introspection and reflects the belief that at pivotal moments, life presents us with challenges that test us, and our responses to these situations guide us to new paths. Premiering on 12th August, the beloved game show will air every Monday to Friday at 9 p.m., with the legendary Amitabh Bachchan continuing to inspire us as host. For 24 years, the show has been a beacon of hope and knowledge for millions of viewers and this season promises to be even more thrilling and engaging with exciting new elements.

    This year, the contestants will face a captivating new twist: the ‘Super Sawaal.’ The Super Sawaal is a bonus question between questions 5 and 6 which challenges players to answer without options or lifelines. A correct answer unlocks the ‘Dugnaastra,’ giving contestants the chance to press the buzzer and double their amount on any one question of their choice between questions 6 to 10. The fast-paced ‘Super Sandook’ remains in this season as well to add thrill to the game; the contestant, after successfully crossing INR 3,20,000 will be put to the test with a 10-question rapid-fire quiz which must be answered in 90 seconds.

    Roping in 22 brands, the 16th season of Kaun Banega Crorepati is Co-presented by Hyundai Motor India Limited and Aditya Birla Group. It is Co-powered by Mountain Dew PepsiCo India, Mondelez India, Ultratech Cement and Parag Milk Foods (Gowardhan Ghee). With Special Partner Patanjali Dantkanti, Lauritz Knudsen Electrical & Automation and Ceat, and Banking Partner State Bank of India, the show’s Associate Sponsors are Asian Paints, Kalyan Jewellers, Raymond, Life Insurance Corporation of India, Bikaji, Dorset, RC Plasto Tank and Pipes Pvt Ltd, Amazon.in and Aakash Educational Services Ltd. The reality quiz show also has large partnership deals with the Reserve Bank of India, GSK, and Dr. Morepen.

    Sony Entertainment Television, Sony SAB, Sony PAL, and Sony MAX Movie Cluster business head Neeraj Vyas said, “Over the years, Kaun Banega Crorepati has emerged as a cultural phenomenon that celebrates Indians who dare to dream big and have the courage to turn their dreams into reality. This season’s campaign pays homage to the indomitable spirit of these individuals who are ready to face life’s toughest questions with befitting answers. Year after year, we strive to add fresh and engaging elements to keep the audience captivated and the introduction of ‘Super Sawaal’ adds a new layer of excitement and strategy to the game. This knowledge-based reality quiz show possesses the ability to unite families and promotes wholesome viewing, truly setting it apart from other television shows.”