ITV

Category: Television

  • Bhakti Kandalkar joins ProducerBazaar as content syndication head

    Bhakti Kandalkar joins ProducerBazaar as content syndication head

    Mumbai: ProducerBazaar, a platform in decentralised intellectual property rights (IPR) management, analysis, and trading, has announced the appointment of Bhakti Kandalkar as content syndication head. Bhakti brings with her over two decades of extensive experience in the media industry as a content strategist, further strengthening Producer Bazaar’s leadership team.

    Bhakti Kandalkar is a recognised name in the media industry with exceptional expertise in content strategy and planning. She has held prestigious positions, including global content lead as director of content strategy and planning at ZEE5, where she led platform content strategy and curated a diverse range of global content. Bhakti’s career is marked by her strategic vision, leadership, and deep understanding of the media landscape, helping major media houses secure premium content and drive viewership. Her skills include content creation, acquisition, syndication, market analysis, trend identification, team leadership, negotiation, business planning, budget planning and platform planning and promotions.

    At ProducerBazaar, Bhakti will leverage her extensive experience to drive the syndication business, expand the platform’s reach, and forge new partnerships within the media and entertainment industry. Additionally, she will head international syndication and trade content through ProducerBazaar globally, ensuring that the right content is placed on the right platform. Under her leadership, ProducerBazaar will enhance its global licensing operations, offering verified and certified content, and making it more accessible to international buyers.

    ProducerBazaar’s approach is not just about aggregation, syndication, and licensing; it’s about implementing a 21st-century content strategy that sustains subscribers and enhances creators with planned outcomes. The platform aims to revolutionise the IPR management space, ensuring that the story of Indian regional films scales effectively with great content by identifying, acknowledging, and acquiring it proficiently.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Bhakti Kandalkar to our team. Her vast experience and deep understanding of the media industry will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our platform. Her expertise in the media industry will undoubtedly contribute to our mission of revolutionizing the IPR management space,” said ProducerBazaar founder & CEO GK Tirunavukarasu.

  • Nitish Sharma appointed business head for Hindi Entertainment Channel at Sun TV Network

    Nitish Sharma appointed business head for Hindi Entertainment Channel at Sun TV Network

    Mumbai: Nitish Sharma has recently been appointed as the business head for the Hindi Entertainment Channel (GEC) at Sun TV Network. Before joining Sun TV, Sharma spent over three years at ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, where he held the positions of chief channel officer and business head for Zee Anmol and Big Magic. His tenure at ZEE began in 2021 when he took on the role of business head for Big Magic.

    Sharma’s career also includes notable positions at Star Sports, Aditya Birla Group, and Sony Pictures Networks India. In his new role at Sun TV Network, Sharma will report directly to Aparna Bhonsle, who joined the company in June.

  • CNBC-TV18 launches ad campaign and claims to establish its dominance on budget day

    CNBC-TV18 launches ad campaign and claims to establish its dominance on budget day

    Mumbai: CNBC-TV18, an English business news channel, has launched an engaging print ad to establish the CNBC-TV18 claims leadership and dominance on budget day.

    In a front-page ad in The Economic Times, CNBC-TV18 claims that the business news channel showcased a massive lead over its nearest competitor on budget day (July 23).  With an edgy visual and copy, the ad reiterates CNBC-TV18’s unbeaten position in the English business news genre.

    A press release issued by the channel states that, according to the latest BARC data, CNBC-TV18 captured a remarkable 91.2 per cent market share on budget day. (Source: BARC India | Market: India | Target Group: 22+ AB M | During FM’s Speech, 23rd July (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM) Week 30, 2024 | 2 Channels considered)

    The channel has also stated that “In its 25th year, CNBC-TV18 put together innovative and standout coverage of the Union Budget post-elections under the theme of “Go for Growth”. The channel captured diverse expectations and recommendations from various sectors and industries to the finance ministry, reflecting the current economic climate and identifying the key issues the government needs to address with shows such as the Budget Countdown series and Budget Townhall.”

    The channel’s power-packed performance and programming are helmed by a stellar line-up of anchors such as Shereen Bhan, Latha Venkatesh, Prashant Nair, Sonia Shenoy, Surabhi Upadhyay, Nigel D’Souza and Parikshit Luthra. CNBC-TV18 also launched the Budget Buddy, an AI-powered tool that simplifies union budget jargon and concepts.

    CNBC-TV18 has further claimed that the nation’s Budget Headquarters, CNBC-TV18 always endeavours to capture the expectations of the common citizen from the Budget, thus reflecting the nation’s sentiments. The ‘CNBC-TV18 Budget Box – Share Your Budget Wishlist for the FM’ initiative by the channel, furthered this endeavour by providing a platform for citizens to express their hopes for Budget 2024 from the FM, with this Budget Box having travelled to multiple locations in Mumbai and Delhi across leading malls, PVR cinema halls, colleges and convenience stores to engage viewers in real-time. The Budget Box was also available virtually on the CNBC-TV18 website to allow social media followers to share their wishlist for the Budget.

  • CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India concludes ‘HSBC presents CNBC-TV18 SME Champion Awards’

    CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India concludes ‘HSBC presents CNBC-TV18 SME Champion Awards’

    Mumbai: CNBC-TV18, India’s leading business and financial news channel, in collaboration with HSBC India, successfully concluded the “HSBC presents CNBC-TV18 SME Champion Awards”. The awards ceremony, held at the prestigious Taj Mahal, Man Singh in New Delhi, marked the culmination of a transformative six-month initiative dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the extraordinary achievements of India’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The evening began on a high note with a  performance by singer Usha Uthup. 

    The awards ceremony was graced by the Honorable Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, Shri. Nitin Gadkari. While addressing the audience he said, “MSMEs have been excelling with new research, technology, and innovations. We believe this is the right time for India to reduce imports and increase exports. For instance, the government spends INR 2,00,000 crores annually on fertilizer subsidies. Today, we passed a resolution in the cabinet regarding the same. By using new technologies like nano fertilizers and nano pesticides, we can reduce costs and increase profitability. MSMEs are doing an excellent job in this regard and boosting exports.”

    CNBC-TV18 managing editor Shereen Bhan gave a welcome address to the audience. In her address, she said, “CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India SME Champion Awards celebrate the outstanding individuals driving the SME sector. As we honour these remarkable champions, it’s important to acknowledge the impact of the MSME sector. With 63 million enterprises, MSMEs contribute approximately 30% to India’s GDP, 45% to manufacturing, and 40% to the country’s exports, generating over 110 million jobs and showcasing their vital role in employment creation. Embracing digital transformation, 72% of MSME payments are now conducted online, and 43% are engaged in e-commerce, highlighting their adaptability and competence. Additionally, the recent budget emphasises development with a capital expenditure allocation of 20,000 crores for creating industry clusters, tech hubs, and common facility centers, enhancing operational efficiency and competitiveness.

    SMEs from various sectors were recognised for their remarkable work in their respective industries. Thirteen organisations, including two entrepreneurs, were honoured under seven different categories such as Manufacturing SME of The Year, Excellence In Sustainability Practices, Retail & E-Commerce SME of The Year, and Entrepreneur of The Year, among others. These awards underscore the sector’s essential role in driving the nation’s economic growth and honour the resilient spirit of India’s entrepreneurial landscape.

    HSBC India CEO Hitendra Dave took the stage for a keynote address. He said “We aim to support entrepreneurship by honouring entrepreneurs. The tagline ‘Excellence Meets Recognition’ embodies our belief that SMEs are crucial to the country’s economy, often more than we realise. Managing small and micro businesses is incredibly tough, and only those who have experienced it can fully grasp the challenges. We are dedicated to supporting entrepreneurship and are pleased that these awards and their visibility will inspire younger generations.”

    The discussion delved into the impact of PLI Schemes with insights from Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, DPIIT, and S Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, in an intriguing fireside chat. Speaking about the PLI Schemes Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, DPIIT said “The overall progress of the PLI schemes highlights significant achievements across various sectors. Notably, sectors such as electronics, food processing, bulk drugs, and pharmaceuticals have shown exceptional performance. We have recorded sales of nearly 1,10,000 crores, around 13,000 crores in new greenfield investments, and exports totaling approximately 40,000 crores. Moreover, these initiatives have created employment opportunities for over 8.12 lakh individuals. The swift development in these rapidly advancing sectors has helped offset some slower areas, benefiting a broader ecosystem of vendors, mainly from the MSME sector.”

    Furthermore, S Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India said “If I were in the electronics sector and these schemes were introduced, it would present a significant opportunity for growth. With internships and similar initiatives, the industry can address the major challenge of skills by providing the necessary manpower, thereby facilitating the establishment of new units. The government is actively supporting these efforts.”

    A subsequent fireside chat featuring Rajnish Kumar, Former Chairperson of SBI, addressed the critical importance of enhancing credit availability within the financial system. T. Koshy, MD & CEO of ONDC, discussed ONDC’s preparations to ensure equal opportunities for both small and large enterprises. These fireside chats provided valuable industry insights. Ajay Sharma, MD and Head of Commercial Banking at HSBC India, delivered a special talk highlighting the financial challenges faced by Indian SMEs. The event featured a Q&A session with the esteemed jury panel.

    The event concluded with an enchanting performance by Usha Uthup, dedicated to Kargil Diwas on July 26, which deeply moved the audience.

    Mentioned below is the list of winners –

    Umbrella Sr. No Category Winners
    Medium Enterprises 1 Excellence in Community Engagement RuralShores Business Pvt Ltd
    2 Excellence In Export Promotion Real Time Data Services Pvt Ltd
    3 Excellence In Sustainability Practices Banyan Sustainable Waste Management Pvt Ltd
    4 Manufacturing SME of The Year Rotex Automation Pvt Ltd
    5 Retail & E-Commerce SME of The Year Ikon Retail Pvt Ltd
    6 Services SME of The Year eMudhra Ltd  
    Special Jury Awards 7 Entrepreneur of The Year Sanjay Kabra –Raghav Productivity Enhancers Ltd
    Small Enterprises 8 Excellence in Community Engagement VSS Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd
    9 Excellence in Digital Transformation IoTechWorld Avigation Pvt Ltd
    10 Excellence In Export Promotion Noble Cast Comp Pvt Ltd
    11 Excellence In Sustainability Practices Health Wheels Pvt Ltd
    12 Manufacturing SME of The Year Upstander Technologies Pvt Ltd
    13 Retail & E-Commerce SME of The Year Newjaisa Technologies Ltd
    14 Services SME of The Year Meraqui Ventures Pvt Ltd
    Special Jury Awards 15 Entrepreneur of The Year Dhaval Mehta –Upstander Technologies Pvt Ltd
  • Star Sports’ Wimbledon Championships 2024 sets record for most-watched grand slam

    Star Sports’ Wimbledon Championships 2024 sets record for most-watched grand slam

    Mumbai: Disney Star has set a new viewership record for major sporting events with its coverage of The Championships, Wimbledon 2024. According to BARC, Star Sports’ broadcast of Wimbledon 2024 became the most-watched grand slam ever in India. The total watch time increased by 40 per cent from the previous edition, reaching a claimed 930 million minutes. The 2024 tournament attracted 36.3 million viewers, a reported 176 per cent rise from 2023. The newly introduced Hindi coverage reached 18.4 million unique viewers, contributing notably to the viewership growth in Hindi-speaking regions such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, UP/Uttarakhand, MP/Chhattisgarh, and Bihar/Jharkhand.

    Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select 2 – Disney Star’s premium sports channels for core viewers – also watched 106 minutes of the tournament on average and clocked seven per cent growth in overall watch time.

    Disney Star recorded the highest ratings ever for both the men’s and women’s finals across any grand slam. The men’s singles final, featuring Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic, achieved the highest rating for a men’s Grand Slam final, with a claimed 22 per cent increase in TVR compared to the previous highest. The women’s singles final between Barbora Krejcikova and Jasmine Paolini set a new record with a reported 91 per cent increase in TVR from the previous highest, making it the highest-rated women’s Grand Slam final.

    Disney Star head – sports Sanjog Gupta said, “Star Sports has taken the tradition and prestige associated with Wimbledon to new viewers this year. Our production efforts entailing live coverage in Hindi, programming efforts entailing improved surround programming and highlights in Telugu and Kannada and marketing efforts entailing a consideration-driving 360-degree campaign have piqued the interest in the ‘Grandest Slam’, fuelling its growth. The enhanced viewing experience served to Tennis fans and viewers of Star Sports Select network has also fuelled a significant boost in engagement metrics.”

    All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) commercial and marketing director Usama Al-Qassab said, “Broadening our audience in India is key for Wimbledon to achieve its global targets. Disney Star is a critical partner and has contributed significantly to the exponential growth of the Wimbledon brand which has never been stronger in India. We look forward to building on those results in 2025.”

    Indian legend and Tennis Hall of Famer, Vijay Amritraj provided expert insights on the matches and engaged with the biggest celebrities building the Indian context for the tournament including Sachin Tendulkar, Aamir Khan, Rohit Sharma, Sidharth Malhotra, and Kiara Advani. The surround programming shows like Wimbledon Daily Live, Wimbledon Daily Review, and Wimbledon Heroes witnessed a growth of 231 per cent in reach and 71 per cent in consumption compared to the previous edition. The shows and packaged highlights in Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada reached out to an additional 14 million viewers who sampled the marquee property for the first time. The gripping action on the grass courts notwithstanding, Wimbledon 2024 on Disney Star delivered a viewing experience like no other. Star Sports had six sponsors on board for The Wimbledon Championships 2024 – Jaquar, ICICI Prudential, Amul, Castrol Edge, OnePlus, and LIC.

    Source:

    BARC data for 2+U+R

  • Neeraj Vyas to move on from Sony Pictures Networks India

    Neeraj Vyas to move on from Sony Pictures Networks India

    Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has announced that Sony Entertainment Television, Sony SAB, PAL, and Sony MAX Movie Cluster – business head Neeraj Vyas, will be leaving the company effective 31 August 2024. After an illustrious career spanning close to three decades, Neeraj has decided to embark on a new entrepreneurial journey.

    Neeraj Vyas has been instrumental in shaping several key businesses at SPNI, including the flagship general entertainment channels (GECs), Sony Entertainment Television, Sony SAB, Sony PAL, and the Hindi movies cluster. His journey with SPNI began in sales for Sony Entertainment Television (SET), and he swiftly rose to the position of national sales head for the channel in 2005. Within five years, he was appointed Executive Vice President for Sony MIX, the network’s Hindi music channel, demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

    In 2011, Neeraj took on the responsibility for Sony MAX, followed by Sony SAB and Sony PAL in 2017, and Sony Entertainment Television in 2023. Under his guidance, Sony SAB was successfully repositioned as a premium entertainment brand, achieving significant growth through a revitalized programming line-up and content strategy. His leadership has been a source of inspiration for many in the industry.

    N.P. Singh said, “Neeraj Vyas’s journey with Sony Pictures Networks India has been remarkable. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in transforming our entertainment channels into market leaders. Neeraj has an innate ability to understand the pulse of the audience and create content that resonates deeply with viewers. On a personal level, Neeraj’s passion for excellence and his innovative spirit have always inspired those around him. His departure marks the end of an era for us, but we are excited about the new ventures he will undertake. Neeraj leaves behind a legacy of success, and we wish him all the best as he embarks on his entrepreneurial journey.”

    Neeraj Vyas said, “My time at Sony Pictures Networks India has been an incredible journey filled with learning, growth, and countless memorable moments. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities to lead dynamic teams and work on groundbreaking projects. As I move on to explore new entrepreneurial ventures, I carry with me the invaluable experiences and relationships built over the years. I am excited for what lies ahead and remain confident that the teams at SPNI will continue to achieve great heights.”

  • CNBC-TV18’s Future. Female. Forward. launches the College Connect Series to guide future leaders in building an equitable future

    CNBC-TV18’s Future. Female. Forward. launches the College Connect Series to guide future leaders in building an equitable future

    Mumbai: In a steadfast commitment to inspire real change, CNBC-TV18 has launched the ‘Future Female Forward – A Women’s Collective,’ presented by HSBC India, a transformative movement aimed at bridging gender parity gaps in the workforce. This groundbreaking initiative continues to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future with the introduction of the ‘College Connect Series’, a unique program designed to converse with and nurture the leaders of tomorrow- the students! These series seek to empower young changemakers by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to foster more inclusive and diverse workplaces. The goal is to cultivate a new generation of leaders who are not only prepared to succeed in their careers but are also committed to creating equal, inclusive workplaces.

    The inaugural event of College Connect will be held at the prestigious IIT Delhi campus on August 3, 2024, starting at 3:00 PM.

    This association with one of India’s premier educational institutes which has given the country few of the best entrepreneurs and leaders of Corporate India underscores our commitment to advancing gender equality and nurturing future leaders. This collaboration aims to harness the intellectual and innovative spirit of IIT Delhi to inspire and empower the next generation of changemakers. What a way to give back to the alma matter IIT, with alumni such as KV Subramanian, Former CEA, & ED, IMF; Abhiraj Bhal, CEO, Urban Company; Saraniya P, Vehicle Director, Agnibaan SOrTeD; Anu Acharya, CEO, MapmyGenome; Neha Singh, Founder, Chairperson & Managing Director, Tracxn speaking to the students.  

    The event will feature a distinguished panel of speakers, including Hitendra Dave, CEO of HSBC India; KV Subramanian, Former CEA & ED, IMF; Abhiraj Bhal, CEO of Urban Company; Seema Goel, Vice President, HCLTech; Punit Goyal, Co-Founder of BluSmart; Anuradha Acharya, CEO of MapmyGe1nome; Neha Singh, Founder, Chairperson & Managing Director of Tracxn; and Saraniya P, Vehicle Director, Agnibaan SOrTeD. These esteemed guests will share their experiences and provide valuable insights to inspire and mentor the next generation of business leaders.

    The event will commence with an opening address by CNBC-TV18, managing editor Shereen Bhan who will set the context for the day’s discussions. This will be followed by a special keynote address by Hitendra Dave, CEO of HSBC India CEO Hitendra Dave who will highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The program will then feature a fireside chat with Urban Company CEO Abhiraj Singh Bhal exploring how Urban Company has revolutionised Gig work for women and the pivotal role of innovation in business. This will be followed by a special talk by BluSmart co-founder Punit Goyal where he will share how BluSmart has scripted a smart mobility story in the field, culminating in an ‘Ask Me Anything’ session, allowing students to engage directly with him.

    A panel discussion titled ‘Clutter Breakers: Women Scripting a New Success Story’ will feature Seema Goel, Vice President, HCLTech; Anuradha Acharya, CEO of MapmyGenome; Neha Singh, Founder, Chairperson & MD of Tracxn; and Saraniya P, Vehicle Director, Agnibaan SOrTeD. This session will focus on the achievements and challenges of these remarkable women leaders & the power of deep tech. This would be followed by an interesting fireside chat with KV Subramanian, Former CEA & ED, IMF on his latest book ‘India – The Economic Powerhouse’. The event will conclude with a Q&A session, giving students the opportunity to ask questions and gain further insights from the speakers.

    Talking about the initiative, Shereen Bhan said, “With the launch of the College Connect Series, under Future. Female. Forward we are taking a meaningful step towards connecting the leaders of today with the leaders of tomorrow – with the hope of driving conversations around building a diverse, inclusive workforce driven by the quest to deliver on excellence.  This series celebrates the resilience and innovation of tomorrow’s trailblazers”

    Hitendra Dave  elaborated, “At HSBC, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation and success and we remain committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. The College Connect series, part of “Future. Female. Forward – The Women’s Collective”, is our attempt to empower the next generation of leaders to build a more equitable future. By prioritizing inclusivity and equity, we can unlock a brighter future for all and create a society where all voices are valued and empowered.”

    Network18 business news CEO Smriti Mehra  said, “We believe that addressing and nurturing students who are the leaders of the future will foster inclusive and diverse workplaces, promote equal opportunities, and prepare them to address complex societal and business challenges. CNBC-TV18 has always been at the forefront of promoting gender equality, and through the College Connect Series, we aim to address the transformative impact of diverse leadership. Our sessions will explore the personal and professional journeys of these remarkable leaders, offering invaluable insights and inspiration for the student attendees. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to nurturing the next generation of inclusive and forward-thinking business leaders.”

  • COLORS’ new show Megha Barsenge to premiere on 6 August

    COLORS’ new show Megha Barsenge to premiere on 6 August

    Mumbai: In a world where wedding vows echo with promises of eternal love, in India, reportedly more than 40,000 brides have seen their dreams shattered by husbands who promised love but delivered betrayal, by abandoning them. Rising from the ashes of these betrayals, COLORS endeavours to bring a storm of change by shedding light on ‘chhodi hui aurat’ (the issue of bride abandonment) with its new offering ‘Megha Barsenge’.

    Caught in the throes of treachery, Megha, a newlywed bride, abandoned by her NRI groom Manoj is challenged with weathering the deceit and restoring her family’s reputation. Amidst her struggle, she finds an unexpected ally in Arjun, an IAS officer who aids her quest to confront the elusive groom. Despite torrential hardships, Megha stands her ground, challenging the tide of tradition that silences forsaken brides and compelling her runaway husband to return to India. Celebrating the courage of a newlywed girl who becomes the architect of her fate, the new show carries the powerful message that life doesn’t begin or end with marriage.

    Starring Neha Rana as Megha, Neil Bhatt as Arjun, and Kinshuk Mahajan as Manoj and produced by Parin Multimedia, ‘Megha Barsenge’ premieres on 6 August and thereafter will air every day at 7 pm only on COLORS.

    Viacom18 president – general entertainment, Alok Jain said, “At COLORS, we’ve always been a catalyst for social change as we believe in contributing to the greater good of the society. With Megha Barsenge, we carry forward this legacy by spotlighting critical issues. The new show addresses bride abandonment, a harrowing reality that scars thousands of women, families, and communities across India. Our goal is to not only shed light on this pervasive issue but also celebrate the unbreakable spirit of women. As the clouds of challenges gather in ‘Megha Barsenge’, they herald more than just rain; they promise awareness, empathy, and action. We believe our efforts will sow the seeds of change, paving the way for a united stand against injustice and fostering a more compassionate world.”

    In the bustling city of Amritsar, Megha, a beacon of joy for her middle-class family, is blissfully unaware that shadows are gathering around her dreams of a happy marriage. Manoj, a conman disguised as prince charming, threatens to shatter her fairy-tale romance. Blinded by love, Megha cannot see through his deceit. What was supposed to be a joyous wedding day soon turns into a tragic play of betrayal. In this storm of deception, Arjun, an IAS officer on a mission to catch fraudulent grooms, steps into her life. As Megha navigates through this tempest of betrayal, will she discover a silver lining in the dark clouds of her fate?

    Set to be seen essaying the role of Megha, Neha Rana said, “It is incredibly fulfilling to portray Megha’s journey from being a wide-eyed bride to a woman who finds herself questioning everything she once believed in. One of the most challenging aspects of this role was capturing the many emotions that Megha goes through – from the initial excitement of marrying an NRI to the devastating realization that she has been abandoned, and finally, her determination to confront her husband. I feel responsible for bringing out each sentiment with utmost sincerity and rawness, honouring strong women who have been in Megha’s shoes. I hope our show will lend a voice to the silent storm of bride abandonment.”

    Ready to embody the role of Arjun, Neil Bhatt said, “I’m grateful to COLORS for offering me a role in a show that sparks crucial conversations about bride abandonment. This issue often goes unaddressed, and I believe it’s important for television as a medium to bring everyone’s attention to it. Returning to COLORS feels like coming home. In a world where we often hear about toxic masculinity, it’s refreshing and necessary to showcase men who are catalysts for positive change. If my portrayal can inspire even a handful of viewers to reflect on these issues or stand up against injustice, I’ll consider it a job well done.”

    Expressing his excitement about portraying Manoj, Kinshuk Mahajan said, “Taking on the role of Manoj in Megha Barsenge has been both challenging and eye-opening. As an actor, I’ve always strived to portray diverse characters, but playing a con man who exploits the dreams and trust of an innocent bride has been particularly intense. My character represents a dark reality that unfortunately exists in our society. Manoj’s actions are reprehensible, and I hope that by showcasing the manipulation involved in such schemes, viewers will be alert to these dangers.”

    In a striking visual campaign to raise awareness about the plight of abandoned brides, women dressed in bridal attire were spotted at Chandigarh airport, drawing curious glances from travelers. Airports are where we witness joy and longing, but for abandoned brides they have become symbols of endless waiting. This spotting echoes the sentiments of newlywed women, left behind by husbands who have gone abroad, sparking conversations about the cascading effect of the social evil on the institution of marriage and families.

  • Shrimad Ramayan to now air on Sony SAB from 12 August

    Shrimad Ramayan to now air on Sony SAB from 12 August

    Mumbai: Shrimad Ramayan transitions to Sony SAB, a family entertainment channel from 12 August, as the story enters a new chapter. The anticipated climax and an action-filled episode of Lord Ram culminating in one of the most legendary battles with Raavan is set to air on Sony SAB on August 12 at 7.30 PM. With this battle unfolding, Sony SAB will now bring to focus the mostly unfamiliar story of what happens after Lord Ram and Sita unite and return to Ayodhya.

    The new chapter of the divine tale of Shrimad Ramayan explores the joys and trials of Lord Ram and Sita’s life after their return to Ayodhya and the birth of their twins Luv and Kush. This new phase of the show will beautifully encapsulate the many untold stories and deep meaning of the journey that Lord Ram and Sita’s life takes after their return to Ayodhya.

    Sony SAB business head Neeraj Vyas said, “We are delighted to present the next phase of Shrimad Ramayan exclusively to our audiences on Sony SAB. The show’s impactful storytelling and portrayal of strong family values resonate harmoniously with our channel’s values. We are confident that this remarkable show will not only entertain but also inspire our audience, providing a truly enriching viewing experience.”

    Sujay Reu as Lord Ram said, “Sony SAB has been entertaining audiences with shows that resonate with every member of the family and stories that are meaningful and full life insights. It’s surreal to be part of the channel’s legacy now. I’m excited for viewers to witness a fresh chapter of Ramayan – a show that is timeless. Playing Lord Ram has been a truly humbling experience, and I can’t wait to share these new chapters with our audience.”

    Prachi Bansal as Sita said, “I am excited the show will now air on Sony SAB, a channel my family and I spend most of our time watching together and hence holds great nostalgia for me. I hope just like our family, a lot of families across the country will watch the show with their loved ones and continue to shower us with their generous love and affection. I am inspired by Sita’s grace, resilience, and unwavering devotion, and I am looking forward to playing the role in the upcoming episodes that explore new depths of her character.”

    Stay tuned and watch Shrimad Ramayan, from August 12th Mon-Sat at 7.30 pm only on Sony SAB

  • Aaj Tak Tops Charts across platforms with Unmatched Viewership on Union Budget 2024 Coverage

    Aaj Tak Tops Charts across platforms with Unmatched Viewership on Union Budget 2024 Coverage

    Aaj Tak has set new benchmark with its coverage of the Union Budget 2024, reinforcing its position as the leading Hindi news channel. According to the latest BARC data, Aaj Tak was the most-watched channel during the Finance Minister’s live speech as well as throughout the budget day.

    During the live telecast of the Finance Minister’s speech on Union Budget 2024, which took place on 23rd July from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Aaj Tak led the Hindi news segment with a notable 15.2% share, demonstrating its dominance in the coverage of this crucial event. Throughout the entirety of Union Budget Day, Aaj Tak continued to lead with a 14.9% viewership share, highlighting its absolute dominance and audience engagement over the 24-hour period.

    In addition to its success on traditional television, Aaj Tak also achieved a significant milestone in the digital realm. The channel’s YouTube Live stream during the FM speech garnered an impressive average concurrent user count of 127.9k. This achievement underscores Aaj Tak’s leadership and impact in digital news viewership, further cementing its role as a key player in both traditional and online media.

    Source: BARC |HSM | 15+ | 23-07-2024 | 11:00:50 – 12:28:24 Hrs | Gross AMA’000

    Source: BARC |HSM | 15+ | 23-07-2024 | 24 Hrs | Gross AMA’000

    Source: Ratingology | YouTube Live | 23-07-2024 |11:00-12:27 Hrs | Average Concurrent Users