ITV

Category: Television

  • Star Sports redefines IPL viewing with Indian Sign Language

    Star Sports redefines IPL viewing with Indian Sign Language

    Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of TATA IPL 2024, in association with India Signing Hands (ISH News), and support from the BCCI, is set to revolutionise the cricket viewing experience for the marquee tournament with the introduction of a new Indian sign language feed with descriptive commentary. For the first time, the TATA IPL will be customised for deaf, hard-of-hearing and visually impaired fans. The feed enables fans to fully immerse themselves in the excitement of the game along with their friends and family.

    The feed will provide ball-by-ball updates using Indian sign language in consultation with specialists who are being brought on board by India Signing Hands. What makes it even more special is its ability to engage with visually impaired fans with commentators describing every moment of the game along with regular verbal score updates. This feed is truly inclusive which allows the joy of community viewing by breaking barriers that simplify the broadcast without compromising on viewing experience for all.

    Video message by Virendra Singh, Captain of the Deaf Cricket Team:

     

     

    Disney Star head – sports Sanjog Gupta said “Star Sports has always believed in widening access for Cricket and taking it to newer cohorts of fans. Our pioneering foray into regional coverage has reached an unparalleled scale and has defined the modern Cricket broadcast. With this initiative, we seek to address fans who’ve been deprived of the complete Cricket experience. The ‘language’ of commentary takes a new leap in inclusivity with the introduction of Indian Sign Language on Tata IPL 2024 for fans with impaired hearing and descriptive commentary for fans with sight impairment.”

    India Signing Hands founder and CEO Alok Kejriwal which has been awarded the National Award 2023 for empowerment of people with disabilities, said, “This feed will allow millions of differently-abled people like me to experience the thrill and excitement of IPL for the very first time in a language that we understand. I was born Deaf, and I always enjoyed watching cricket with my family while growing up. But the experience just wasn’t the same for me as it was for them, since I could not hear the commentary and so, I would miss a lot of nuances. I thank Star Sports for pioneering this initiative at this scale, and I am certain that this collaboration will inspire millions of differently abled people to take interest in sports, while paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible ecosystem.”

    The initiative underscores Star Sports’ commitment to make the sport more inclusive and foster a sense of belonging among all cricket enthusiasts.

    Watch the new Indian Sign Language feed for Tata IPL 2024 on Star Sports 3 starting 22 March 2024.

  • Times Network emerges as the fastest growing Digital Video News Publisher Across News Categories

    Times Network emerges as the fastest growing Digital Video News Publisher Across News Categories

    Mumbai: Times Network, India’s premium broadcast network, emerged as the fastest-growing digital news networks in the country, amassing over four billion monthly reach across channels during February 2023-24. This milestone solidifies its position as the go-to source for credible, accurate, and decisive news & analysis across English and Hindi general news and business news categories.

    Dominating the digital news video landscape, Times Now emerged as the most watched English news channel on YouTube, garnering over 8.1 crore views in February 2024 and clocking close to one billion reach every month. Reaffirming its position as a formidable force in the English news category, Times Now demonstrated exceptional growth, recording an impressive surge of 185% during February 2023-24. During pivotal National events like the Ram Mandir inauguration and Republic Day, the channel dominated YouTube with a staggering peak live concurrency of over 2 lakh viewers on Republic Day. (Source: Databeings & Playboard Data)

    In a remarkable surge, Times Now Navbharat experienced an unprecedented growth of 235%, emerging as the fastest-growing Hindi news channel on YouTube between February 2023 and February 2024. Outshining its counterparts by threefold in year-on-year expansion, Times Now Navbharat has amassed 90 lakh subscribers on YouTube in just two and a half years since its inception, solidifying its position as a preferred choice of Hindi heartland. Boasting over 2.4 billion reach and garnering 30 crore monthly views, the channel has become the go-to destination for viewers. Notably, the channel witnessed a surge of 373% in LIVE views in FY24 compared to the previous fiscal year and a substantial increase in watch time by about 450% during FY24. (Source: Playboard data)

    In the English business news category, ET Now experienced an astonishing 853% y-o-y growth. Subsequently, ET Now Swadesh’s YouTube views surged by 245% year-on-year in the Hindi business news category. The two business channels together have a reach of around half a billion every month. (Source: Playboard data)

    Times Network COO and president Rohit Chadda said, “This is a remarkable growth trajectory for Times Network, making it the preferred news publisher in digital videos across the world. All our news channels have consistently outpaced competition in growth, underscoring our unwavering commitment to excellence. With the rise in SVOD consumption in the entertainment genre, Live News is one of the few genres that still allow brands to advertise to premium consumers at scale. Our bespoke video advertising solutions empower brands to craft compelling messages and strategically target the right audiences. This momentum encourages us to continue creating innovative content solutions for the brands and setting industry benchmarks.” 

  • BHOJPURI STARS CELEBRATE HOLI WITH B4U BHOJPURI AT VARANASI GHAT

    BHOJPURI STARS CELEBRATE HOLI WITH B4U BHOJPURI AT VARANASI GHAT

    Mumbai: B4U is one of Bharat’s oldest & leading entertainment networks with bouquet of 5 popular channels across 3 genres (B4U Music, B4U Movies, B4U Kadak, Dhamaka Movies & B4U Bhojpuri). Spanning across 3 Decades the network is dedicated to deliver quality & entertaining content to its viewers.

    The network recently organized a mega Holi event at the pious & famous Assi ghat of Varanasi, which saw the presence of almost all popular Bhojpuri stars. Eminent personalities like Hon’ble MP Shri Manoj Tiwari, Hon’ble MP Shri Dinesh Lal Yadav, Shri Khesari graced the event with their presence. The event was one of its kind wherein a beautiful set was created on the theme of Bhojpuri Holi at the ghats of revered river Ganga.

    All Bhojpuri stars performed and created magic through their singing & dancing performances. The event also saw some Impromptu singing performances by stalwart of Bhojpuri industry Shri Manoj Tiwari ji, which he is famous for.  

    On this occasion, Pawan Kumar Sharma (Business Head-B4U Network) said “B4U brand has always believed in providing quality & entertaining content to its audience. We strongly believe that as content provider, we owe a great responsibility towards our viewers and society at large and that’s visible through the type of content we’ve been producing for our leading channel-B4U Bhojpuri. We won’t shy away to admit that we’ve been the initiator & flag bearer of producing family content for Bhojpuri Market, which has worked really well and we are happy to see other players also adding great value by contributing to this trend. We carry a vison of not only setting new benchmarks for our product (B4U Bhojpuri), but contributing to the lives of each and every member of Bhojpuri cinema industry too.” He further added, “talking of about this mega event, I can proudly say that this event will definitely reverberate as one of the biggest ever Holi event done on Bhojpuri Landscape. We intentionally chose Varanasi as a Venue, being a strong Bhojpuri stronghold (being epicenter of Purvanchal) and most importantly the cultural and spiritual relevance attached with the place too.

    Sandeep Singh (Head Programming; B4U Bhojpuri) said that “ We at  B4U Bhojpuri are always eager to explore new possibilities in Bhojpuri genre. We ventured into home Production of Movies  and the same has done phenomenally well, breaking all records. Movies such as Badki didi, Saas Anadi Bahu Khiladi, Bahu Rani Saas Maharani, are ruling the TRP Charts. We followed the same excellence while designing Holi event also, which saw participation from all mega stars of Bhojpuri Industry and certainly a unique event in this genre. Look forward to create more magic

    Johnson Jain (CR0-B4U) said that our Holi extravaganza in Varanasi serves as a testament to our commitment to connecting with our audience at the grassroots level, while simultaneously diversifying revenue streams. Through this initiative, we leverage our expertise not only for our own benefit but also to offer innovative solutions to our partners in pursuit of growth

    We want to thank our partners @ITC @Coca Cola @P&G and @Adani for being part of this celebrations and showing trust in the brand. We stand committed together to cater to our consumers and provide best quality products.

    The said event will be telecasted on the day of Holi on 24th March 2024 at 6Pm and on 25th March 2024 at 10am on leading Bhojpuri channel-B4U Bhojpuri. 

  • The power of music in storytelling: Going beyond visuals in scripts

    The power of music in storytelling: Going beyond visuals in scripts

    Mumbai: In the realm of storytelling, where words sometimes fall short in capturing emotions, music emerges as a powerful language that bridges the gap. It not only complements the narrative but also enhances the viewer’s experience by filling the spaces between the lines with raw emotion. This article delves into the profound impact of music in storytelling, drawing insights from personal experiences and industry experts.

    Unlocking emotions:

    Giving an example of the recently released series Chamak on SonyLiv which is a crime drama set in the vibrant music industry of Punjab, where a son seeks revenge for his father’s untimely demise. In such narratives, where emotions run deep and words seem inadequate, music steps in as the silent yet eloquent narrator. It has the remarkable ability to evoke feelings that transcend language barriers, resonating with audiences worldwide.

    Creating Atmosphere :

    Beyond just accompanying scenes, music has the power to shape the entire atmosphere of a story. Whether it’s a haunting melody or an uplifting tune, the right composition can transport viewers into the heart of the narrative, immersing them in its world. From the poignant strains of a piano to the lively beats of a Punjabi folk song, each note adds depth and texture to the storytelling canvas.

    Enhancing performances:

    In the hands of skilled filmmakers, music becomes a transformative tool that can elevate performances and transcend the limitations of actors. Background scores not only underscore the emotions portrayed on screen but also have the ability to mask flaws and enhance the impact of both good and mediocre acting. Through strategic use of music, directors can breathe life into characters and evoke a spectrum of emotions in their audience.

    Time travel through music:

    One of the most remarkable aspects of music in storytelling is its ability to transcend time and space. Iconic themes like the haunting melody from “Karz” or the soul-stirring mouth organ theme from “Sholay” have become timeless classics, capable of transporting listeners back to a bygone era with just a few notes. Similarly, modern hits like the soundtrack of “Aashiqui 2” have the power to evoke feelings of love and nostalgia, tapping into universal emotions that resonate across generations.

    Storing emotions in melodies:

    What makes music truly powerful is its ability to encapsulate emotions within melodies, creating pockets of nostalgia that can be revisited time and again. Just like revisiting an old photograph brings back memories of a specific moment, hearing a familiar song can stir up emotions associated with past experiences. These emotional connections forged through music have the power to enrich storytelling, creating lasting impressions on audiences.

    In conclusion, the power of music in storytelling cannot be overstated. From evoking raw emotions to shaping entire atmospheres, music serves as a universal language that transcends the boundaries of culture and language. By harnessing the emotive power of music, storytellers can create immersive experiences that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. As we continue to explore the endless possibilities of storytelling, let us never underestimate the transformative impact of a well-composed melody.

    The article has been authored by filmmaker, director and producer Rohit Jugraj.

  • MTV announces the latest season of its dating reality show ‘MTV Splitsvilla X5’

    MTV announces the latest season of its dating reality show ‘MTV Splitsvilla X5’

    Mumbai: India’s leading youth entertainment brand, MTV, has announced the return of the biggest dating reality television show – MTV Splitsvilla X5: ExSqueeze Me Please. Co-hosted by Sunny Leone and Tanuj Virwani, the newest season of love, sizzling chemistry and never-ending drama will witness 21 hot singles step up their game to win ‘Dil aur Fame’. The fifteenth season welcomes new sponsors NEWME and Fixderma Shadow Sun Protection, as Wild Stone Deos and Perfumes comes on board for the second consecutive year. MTV Splitsvilla X5 is set to premiere on 30 March, and thereafter every Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 pm on MTV and simultaneously on JioCinema, making it the first-ever television and digital simulcast of a reality show.

    MTV Splitsvilla X5 promises a never-seen-before experience for viewers with its new theme ‘ExSqueeze Me Please’. Fans will find out how the ‘ex’ factor will unlock a whole new level of drama and a gamut of emotions for unsuspecting contestants, in the ultimate quest to find that one ideal match and win the game.

    “MTV Splitsvilla’s upcoming season – ‘ExSqueeze Me Please’ promises to offer its Gen-Z and Millennial fans a super-sized doze of entertainment this summer. India’s biggest dating reality show will be presented in a ‘never-experienced-before’ avatar on JioCinema with interactivity, exclusive footage, and multiple content formats in addition to the regular episodes which will also be telecast on MTV. We are thrilled to have sponsors from varied categories including fashion-tech, dermaceutical, and FMCG brands.” said Viacom18 head – youth, music and English entertainment Anshul Ailawadi.

    Fixderma co-founder and CEO Shaily Mehrotra expressed her excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Associating with MTV Splitsvilla X5 gives us an opportunity to propagate the message of sun protection in a way that resonates with today’s youth and become a brand that they can relate to. We’re on a mission to make skincare fun and accessible for everyone and this collaboration is a step in that direction.”

    NEWME CEO & co-founder Sumit Jasoria said, “We at NEWME are thrilled to be one of the partners of MTV Splitsvilla X5, the popular reality TV show that embodies the spirit of today’s youth. Fashion trends and personal style have always been well reflected in MTV Splitsvilla X5 via the contestants who understand that fashion is more than just clothing. Today fashion is synonymous with self-expression – a sentiment which resonates with the youth. This strategic alliance reflects our commitment to engaging with this dynamic demographic across all platforms. As a partner, we recognize the pivotal role of youth in shaping society and are excited to connect with them through this electrifying entertainment avenue.”

    “Wild Stone has always been synonymous with adventure, allure, and a spirit of youthful exuberance. Our two-year journey with MTV Splitsvilla has been an exhilarating ride, blending the essence of our brand with the vibrant energy of the show. This partnership is a celebration of bold choices and the audacity to follow one’s heart, much like choosing a fragrance that truly represents you. Here’s to the wildness within, and the adventures that await.” said McNROE Consumer Products Pvt Ltd head – business development Ankit Daga.

    The genre-defining IP has enthralled fans across the country for more than a decade. The latest season is all set to continue to reflect contemporary relationships and the nuances of modern romance, resonating with India’s wide youth demographic.

    How far can one go in the name of love and fame, to win the game? To find out, tune-in to the first-ever television and digital simulcast of MTV Splitsvilla X5, co-powered by NEWME, Fixderma Shadow Sun Protection, and Wild Stone Deos and Perfumes, premiering on 30 March, Sat-Sun at 7 pm on MTV and JioCinema.

  • Star Sports sees a 24 per cent increase in overall build-up programming reach ahead of IPL 2024

    Star Sports sees a 24 per cent increase in overall build-up programming reach ahead of IPL 2024

    Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of Tata IPL 2024, has already set new viewership benchmarks for the upcoming season. Since the commencement of its IPL build-up programming, Star Sports has witnessed a remarkable 24 per cent increase in viewership compared to last year, reaching an astounding 245 million viewers as of 15 March 2024. The total consumption for build-up programming has soared to 21.3 billion minutes, an impressive 26 per cent higher compared to last year. This unprecedented engagement, even before a ball is bowled, highlights the overwhelming popularity, enhanced storytelling in multiple languages, and the network’s connection with fans across different cohorts.

    Star Sports has left no stone unturned in delivering an exciting opening. Viewers on TV will get to see exclusive interviews with 8 of the 10 IPL captains on their vision for the upcoming tournament. Outside of the opening ceremony, Star Sports will be airing exclusive content with some of the biggest celebrities including Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, Kareena Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, A R Rahman, Vijay Devarakonda, Prabhudeva and many more.

    With a Starcast of more 150 commentators and presenters, including former players with more than 40 IPL titles among them, 12 IPL team coaches, 18 World Cup Winners, 12 international captains and more, viewers can expect an engaging broadcast. There is already a lot of excitement for the comeback of Navjot Singh Sidhu in the Star Sports commentary box after almost a decade.

    This weekend, Star Sports will also be premiering some of their innovations. The biggest one being the AI technology that enables international commentators to speak Hindi in their original voice, connecting with a wider audience during the thrilling TATA IPL 2024 matches throughout the season. Additionally, the ‘Shor Meter,’ will capture real-time crowd noise decibel levels, quantifying the nation’s passion for their biggest heroes and best cricketing moments.

    The official IPL broadcaster has always believed in customising feeds. Along with the focus on languages, Star Sports is going to be launching a special feed for hearing-impaired and visually-impaired fans- Indian Sign Language feed. In addition, kids can enjoy a special Sunday feed to get closer to the game. Also, for the first time, the broadcaster is producing IPL in the unmatched combination of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.

    Star Sports is geared up for an electrifying season that promises fans unprecedented access, cutting-edge technology, and a star-studded lineup of cricketing legends and esteemed commentators.

    Watch the thrilling action of the TATA IPL 2024 on television live from 22 March only on the Star Sports Network.

  • Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024: A spectacular evening of excellence and glamour

    Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024: A spectacular evening of excellence and glamour

    Mumbai: The much-anticipated Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024 concluded on 5 March at the opulent Taj Santacruz, marking a glorious celebration of innovation, talent, and excellence in the culinary, lifestyle and hospitality realms. With an electrifying atmosphere, the event showcased the crème de la crème of the industry, honoring their outstanding contributions and remarkable achievements.

    The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement as industry leaders, renowned chefs, esteemed restaurateurs, and distinguished personalities gathered for the event. The occasion boasted the presence of illustrious guests, such as Bollywood icons Bobby Deol, who received the Unlimit Performance of the Year award, Manoj Bajpayee, honored as the Iconic Artist, and Babil Khan, recognised as the Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Chitrangda Singh was featured as the digital cover star for February 2024. With their charismatic aura and impeccable style, these personalities elevated the evening, infusing it with a sense of grandeur and sophistication.

    Speaking of the event, Zee Zest chief channel officer Amit Nair said, “We gathered at the Zee Zest Unlimit awards to celebrate the trailblazers who transformed ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards are a testament to the relentless pursuit of perfection and the boundless creativity that defines the fields of Cuisine, Travel and Culture. As we applaud the visionaries and the trendsetters, we hope to ignite a spark of inspiration among future stars.”

    The success of The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024 was made possible by key sponsors such as L’Oreal Paris Hyaluron Moisture (co-presenting sponsor) and Cadbury Dairy Milk (co-powered by), along with Dazller Cosmetics as the beauty partner and Hell Energy as the energy drink partner. Other vital partners included Thriwe as the Technology Facilitator, Taj Santacruz Mumbai as the Hospitality Partner, Novotel Mumbai International Airport as the Jury Meet Partner, and exclusive gifting experiences provided by Plum, Tidy Up, Ashnam, Callebaut, and Australian Macadamia Nuts as the Gifting Partners.

    An esteemed panel renowned for their significant contributions to the industry meticulously assessed and scrutinized entries across every category, while consumers cast their votes for their preferred choices to determine the victors. The jury – a mix of culinary and beverage experts, authors and filmmakers, influencers, photographers, and music artists – evaluated the entries based on their understanding and expertise in the industry. Their discerning judgments ensured that only the most deserving establishments and individuals were honored at the prestigious Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024.

    Among the distinguished winners were:

    Best Japanese Restaurant: Mizu Izakaya, Mumbai

    Best Progressive Indian Restaurant: Masque, Mumbai

    Destination Dining: NAAR, Kasauli

    Best Café: Cou Cou By Oberoi, Mumbai

    Best Concept Restaurant: Ekaa, Mumbai

    Best Restaurant in a 5 Star: Wasabi By Morimoto, Taj, Mumbai

    Best New Restaurant: Lupa, Bengaluru

    Best Asian Restaurant: Yi Jing, ITC Kohenur, Hyderabad

    Best Regional Indian Restaurant: O Pedro, Mumbai

    Legacy Restaurant (Luxe): Bukhara, ITC Maurya Delhi

    Legacy Restaurant (Popular Choice): Chaitanya Assal Malvani Bhojangruh

    Best Vegan Restaurant: Justbe By Nidhi Nahata, Bengaluru

    Best Designed Restaurant: The Bagh Gourmet Garden and Bar, Amritsar

    Best Indian Craft Beer: People’s Lager, Goa Brewing Co.

    Best Indian Wine: The Source Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, 2023

    Best Nightclub: antiSOCIAL, Mumbai

    Best Cocktail Bar: Copitas, Bengaluru

    Best Indian Craft Gin: Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin

    Best Indian Whisky: Amrut Fusion

    Best Boutique Hotel: The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa

    Best Sustainable Resort: Brij Lakshman Sagar, Pali

    Best Wellness Resort: Raffles Udaipur

    Best Wildlife Resort: Tipai by Wildlife Luxuries India, Tipeshwar

    Hotel Brand of the Year: ITC Hotels

    In addition to these remarkable establishments, the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards also recognised individuals who have left an indelible mark on the industry:

    The Unlimit Icon: Jiggs Kalra

    The Unlimit Icon: Floyd Cardoz

    Best Mixologist: Varun Sharma

    Best Expat Chef In India: Bawmra Jap

    Best Indian Chef Working Internationally: Chintan Kiran Pandya

    Chef Of The Year: Regi Mathew

    Iconic Artist: Manoj Bajpayee

    Breakthrough Artist of the Year: Babil Khan

    Unlimit Performance of the year: Bobby Deol

    The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024 not only celebrated excellence but also served as a platform to inspire and motivate the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals. As the industry continues to evolve, these awards stand as a testament to its resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards of excellence.

    The show will be telecast on 30 March 2024 at 9 pm on Zee Zest, Zee Zest HD and 31 March 2024 9:00 pm on Zee Café, and will be available to stream on zeezest.com.

    Watch the glimpses from the evening: https://zeezest.com/food/zee-zest-unlimit-awards-2024-sees-winners-all-around-some-expected-and-some-surprises-5615

  • NDTV Battleground: Decoding Maharashtra’s political landscape

    NDTV Battleground: Decoding Maharashtra’s political landscape

    Mumbai: NDTV’s legacy program Battleground is back with Sanjay Pugalia, editor-in-chief, NDTV Network at the helm. The platform delves deep into the intricacies of seat distribution in upcoming elections, challenges for the current government and the opposition, and much more with the foremost experts in the field. The first episode, brought together a panel of esteemed experts to dissect the dynamics shaping the electoral battleground in Maharashtra, just a month before the elections.

    The discussion, aired on 18 March 2024, offered invaluable insights into the current political scenario, policy perspectives, growth indicators, and challenges confronting both the ruling coalition and the opposition in Maharashtra. With two significant political realignments in the past three years, including the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, the state’s political landscape has witnessed considerable shifts, setting the stage for a fiercely contested electoral battle.

    The panelists engaged in a robust exchange of ideas and analyses, covering a wide array of topics crucial to understanding Maharashtra’s electoral dynamics. From the impact of electoral bonds on political funding to the intricacies of affordable housing projects and the imperative of cooperative federalism, the discussions provided a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted issues influencing voter sentiments and electoral outcomes.

    Notable highlights from the discussion include observations from political strategists like Amitabh Tiwari, who emphasized the complexity of voting behaviour and the significance of late deciders and floating voters in shaping election results. Chief economist of Axis Bank Neelkanth Mishra stressed on the importance of infrastructure development in driving growth and addressing key challenges such as unemployment, while political analyst Manisha Priyam shed light on the evolving perceptions of leadership and governance among voters. Understandings from panelists like Nilesh Shah, Managing Director of Kotak Mutual Fund, added depth to the discussion, highlighting the imperative of both cooperative federalism and competitive federalism in driving growth and development. His remarks emphasized the significance of fostering collaboration among states whilst promoting healthy competition to spur progress.

    Insights from senior journalists Rohit Chandavarkar and Sandeep Shastri further enriched the discussion, with Chandavarkar highlighting the pivotal role of Maharashtra as a deciding state due to its substantial electoral representation, and Shastri laid impetus on the standing of states like Maharashtra in reflecting the national mood.

    The panelists’ diverse perspectives and expert analyses underscored the nuanced nature of Maharashtra’s political landscape, characterized by a blend of regional dynamics, socio-economic factors, and ideological considerations. As Maharashtra braces for a pivotal electoral contest, the discussions on #BattlegroundOnNDTV provided stakeholders with valuable insights to navigate the complexities of the state’s political terrain.

    For further updates and in-depth analysis, viewers can tune in to NDTV for comprehensive coverage of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and stay informed about the latest developments shaping Maharashtra’s political landscape. Up next, NDTV heads towards Battleground Karnataka in the coming week.

  • Paramount Global get $11 billion buyout offer from Apollo Global

    Paramount Global get $11 billion buyout offer from Apollo Global

    MUMBAI: Even as the dust is settling on the $517 million Viacom18 television stake sale deal between Reliance and US media behemoth Paramount Global, comes the news that the latter itself is the target of a a buyout offer. The Wall Street Journal has reported that private equity firm Apollo Global Management, has made a $11 billion offer to the buy the film and television studio. 

    This is not the first acquisition offer that a reluctant controlling shareholder Shari Redstone has received. Earlier, the David Ellison-controlled production company Skydance Media had  proposed to buy Paramount parent National Amusements and fuse it with his firm as a whole. Skydance had bid in excess of $4 billion for a 70 per cent stake. Ellison’s offer – which plans to keep all the studio  assets but sell off the rest – is still on the table.

    Paramount Global’s assets include Paramount Pictures, broadcaster CBS, Viacom cable networks including MTV as well as PlutoTV. The media conglomerate has a current valuation in excess of $7.7 billion. 

    Earlier this month, Paramount’s chief financial officer Naveen Chopra had dismissed any move towards selling the company at a Morgan Stanley media conference. “From management’s perspective, we are focused on execution. And we believe the continued execution of our plan will unlock value. We’re very conscious of the fact that our job as management is to create value for all of our shareholders…To the extent that there are other alternatives, we’ll be diligent about exploring them,” he had said. 

    The company has been grappling with the changing dynamics of content consumption under CEO Bob Bakish. In its latest quarter overall revenue shaved six per cent year-on-year to $7.64 billion, worse than an expected $7.9 billion. TV media revenue and filmed entertainment revenues respectively fell 12 per cent to $5.17 billion and 31 per cent to $647 million. The saving grace was direct to consumer revenues which rose 34 per cent to $1.87 billion.

    “Our disciplined execution and strong content offering drove our results in 2023, as we continue to evolve our business for profitable growth in 2024 and beyond. In Q4, Paramount+ revenue increased 69 per cent,  direct to consumer adjusted Operating income before depreciation and amortization (OIBDA) improved for the third consecutive quarter, and we now expect to reach domestic Paramount+ profitability in 2025 – a significant milestone,” Bakish had told shareholders at the time of the earnings release. “Looking ahead, we continue to be focused on maximizing the return on our content investments and scaling streaming, while transforming the cost base of our business. And I couldn’t be more thrilled with the early momentum we’ve had across every platform in 2024, demonstrating the power of our strategy and assets.”

  • Five must-watch Hindi-dubbed series for max entertainment

    Five must-watch Hindi-dubbed series for max entertainment

    Mumbai: Embark on an exhilarating journey through the world of Hollywood’s finest series, now tailored to resonate with Hindi-speaking audiences worldwide. From gripping dramas to spine-chilling mysteries, these five must-watch series promise to transport you to realms of intrigue, suspense, and unbridled excitement. Whether you’re a fan of legal thrills, epic fantasy, or adrenaline-fueled heists, there is something here for everyone.

    Better Call Saul

    Set to premiere on Zee Cafe on 1 April at 10 pm, the series dubbed in Hindi has already become a much anticipated show, evident from fans’ reactions across the internet. The prequel to Breaking Bad follows Jimmy McGill’s transformation into the morally flexible lawyer ‘Saul Goodman’ played by Bob Odenkirk. Within the same universe as Breaking Bad, the series explores Saul’s backstory, his diverse clientele, and the intricate legal landscape. With stellar performances and captivating storytelling, Better Call Saul is essential viewing for fans craving intense drama and compelling character arcs.

    Breaking Bad

    Premiered as ‘Baap of all shows’ Breaking Bad in Hindi last year on Zee Cafe is a groundbreaking series that chronicles the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher, Walter White (Bryan Cranston), into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. Fueled by Bryan Cranston’s Emmy-winning performance as Walter White, this dark and gritty drama explores themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s choices. Dubbed in Hindi, the series retains its intensity and suspense, making it an unforgettable viewing experience.

    Game of Thrones

    Game of Thrones, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s renowned novels, takes viewers to the mythical realms of Westeros and Essos, where noble houses compete for the Iron Throne. The captivating fantasy series has entranced audiences across the globe with its intricate plotlines, well-developed characters, and stunning visuals. Watching Game of Thrones in Hindi offers an immersive experience, enhancing the enjoyment of its richly woven narrative and epic conflicts, making it a compelling choice for fans of fantasy and political drama.

    Stranger Things

    The series chronicles the adventures of a group of kids in Hawkins, a small town, as they confront supernatural entities and unravel government secrets. Drawing inspiration from iconic 80s cinema and television, this sci-fi horror masterpiece pays tribute to the pop culture of its era. With a blend of suspense, humour, and touching moments, Stranger Things has evolved into a cultural sensation, captivating audiences of every generation. Watching Stranger Things in Hindi offers a nostalgic journey infused with the essence of the era, making it an irresistible choice for viewers seeking immersive entertainment in their native language.

    Money Heist

    Money Heist follows the meticulous planning and execution of daring heists orchestrated by the enigmatic Professor and his team of skilled criminals. Set in Spain, this Spanish thriller is known for its adrenaline-pumping action, intricate plot twists, and complex characters. Dubbed in Hindi, the series has gained a massive international following and has become one of most popular offerings. With its high-stakes heists and gripping suspense, the series is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

    These series are not just dubbed, they are reimagined for Hindi audiences, ensuring a truly unforgettable viewing experience. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of Better Call Saul, Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, Stranger Things, and Money Heist.