Category: Television

MyTeam11’s game-changing moves amidst taxation headwinds for real-money gaming: Vinit Godara

Mumbai: The Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry in India has brought about a revolutionary transformation in the world of sports. While allowing sports enthusiasts to engage with their favourite teams and athletes like never before, they have also brought in a wide variety of newer audiences, thereby generating huge additional revenue for both the sport and the sportsperson. India’s exhilarating performance at the recently concluded ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 led to a 40 per cent surge in user engagement on the MyTeam11 platform alone.

A report by Delloite FIFS highlighted the RMG industry’s potential to create over 5,000 direct and 7,000 indirect jobs. Quite the contrary however, as the GST council notification which came into effect on October 01, 2023, imposing the highest 28 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the deposits, whether one of skill or chance, acted as a huge setback. We believe no industry has ever faced a situation where tax liabilities have headed north to the extent of 400-1000 per cent in one go.

Be that as it may, MyTeam11 has always believed in thinking innovatively and out of the box to circumvent business challenges. Positive thinking often helps resolve the most difficult of problems.

The company absorbed the entire tax liability, choosing not to pass it on to the users. This showcased the platform’s dedication to provide an enjoyable and uninterrupted experience to fantasy sports enthusiasts, as also towards contributing to the overall growth of the industry.

Then from a long-term sustainability perspective, MyTeam11 came up with the real game-changer- the Fantasy Sports Network (FSN). As the industry navigated through challenges such as layoffs and closures, MyTeam11’s FSN emerged as a lifeline, particularly for the smaller players.

Operating both B2C and B2B models, the FSN provided a robust technology backbone that empowered emerging players to overcome the complexities posed by the new tax regulations. As a result, as many as 10 FSN partners today have experienced a significant reduction in their operational costs and also a remarkable 300 per cent increase in user engagement.

The true advantage of FSN lies in empowering partners and enabling them to focus extensively on marketing and promotion. This exposure extends to larger leagues, allowing them to operate efficiently with lean teams and effectively navigate challenges brought by the new GST Amendment.

There is no doubt that the industry is facing huge uncertainties. However, given MyTeam11’s spirit of innovation, the platform remains committed to driving positive change to maintain its leadership position in the RMG industry.

December 29, 2023
“Ensuring user safety and privacy is paramount at Togeth૪ing”: Maadhav Bhide

Mumbai: Togethering are a bunch of enthusiastic people who believe in the power of togetherness and everything can achieve collectively. Founder and CEO Maadhav Bhide who came up with the idea of Togeth૪ing when he felt the need to have an app that could allow people to enjoy music together in real time irrespective of time or distance.

Thus he began a journey that has now evolved into a complete ecosystem that brings together brands, communities, and individuals to help them connect communicate celebrate.

The app empowers every smartphone user to become a successful influencer and build a high-revenue business instantly

Indiantelevision.com caught up with Bhide where he gives some more insights regarding this app.

Edited excerpts

On Togeth૪ing appealing or unique compared to other similar apps designed for co-listening and co-watching experiences

At Togeth૪ing, we pride ourselves on providing a distinctive co-listening and co-watching experience that sets us apart from other apps in this space. Unlike many alternatives, our app eliminates the need for users to share screens or devices. What truly sets us apart is our Multiparty control feature, allowing all participants to jointly control play/pause/forward/reverse functions while co-listening or co-watching. Moreover, participants can engage in synchronous chat or video chat without disrupting the shared experience, creating an immersive environment that mimics everyone being in the same room and enjoying the media together.

On the feature of earning rewards through co-actions enhances your experience when enjoying music and videos with friends and family

At Togeth૪ing, our philosophy is clear and compelling: users should be rewarded for opting to share social moments, yet it remains a matter of personal choice. Participation in co-listening or co-watching isn’t bound by mandatory rewards; rather, it’s an optional enhancement for those inclined to partake. Moreover, this feature serves as a gateway for businesses to establish connections with users based on their individual preferences and choices. We aspire to extend gratitude to our users for designating Togeth૪ing as their favored social platform. This approach allows them to seamlessly receive rewards at their discretion—empowering them to enjoy incentives anytime, anywhere. It’s our way of acknowledging and appreciating the users who contribute to the vibrant community within Togeth૪ing.

On ways do you envision using Togeth૪ing within your social circles or daily routines

In alignment with contemporary lifestyle preferences, where mobile devices serve as the primary hub for various activities, Togeth૪ing stands as a unique platform poised to redefine real-time social interactions. In contrast to prevalent asynchronous platforms, which have inadvertently given rise to feelings of isolation and the escalating phenomenon of FOMO, Togeth૪ing takes pride in its inherent 1000000% synchronous nature. This deliberate design fosters meaningful connections among siblings, friends, and families, mitigating the pervasive sense of FOMO.

Moreover, in an era where businesses globally seek visibility through diverse social media platforms, Togeth૪ing emerges as a distinct channel. Unlike asynchronous alternatives or conventional community buying platforms, our platform transcends mere communication, offering genuine real-time interactions and collaborations — a fundamental aspect that distinguishes Togeth૪ing.

Use Case Scenarios:

1. Emotional Connections: Picture a scenario where family members scattered across cities or continents collectively watch videos or photos of their children. The discretion to every member in the family session, to control play /pause/forward etc in synchronous environment which also allows for simultaneous chatting and video interactions, replicating the feeling of being in the same room, complete with expressive elements like emojis and gifs.

2. Inter-generational Bonding: Grandparents engaging in virtual story sessions, sharing the magic of Tintin books with their grandchildren. Through video calls, they can point out specific pictures or lines, creating a shared reading experience.

3. Personalized Music Sessions: Envision the joy of listening to romantic music with a fiancé or curating a playlist of devotional songs for an elderly family member together. Togeth૪ing allows for shared music experiences with personalized controls on the entire group session.

4. Community Entertainment: For enthusiasts of series like Marvel or Game of Thrones, a simple click on a shared episode informs the entire group of ongoing viewing. Friends can instantly join the show, fostering a virtual daily gathering akin to meeting for a casual activity like having a cigarette, a drink, or tea/coffee.

Accessibility and Business Use Cases:

To enhance accessibility, Togeth૪ing ensures a user-friendly experience. Users registered on the app enjoy additional features at no extra cost, creating a seamless process akin to other social media platforms. Moreover, the platform extends its utility beyond personal connections to encompass business scenarios, particularly in the domains of food and entertainment.

1. OTT Channel Offers: Imagine an OTT channel or blockbuster movie releasing exclusive offers within your social circles, accompanied by rule-based rewards. This not only incentivizes participation but also instills a sense of pride among users for actively engaging with friends in deciding whether to partake in the offer or not, with rewards serving as a delightful bonus. In return, the OTT channel could secure guaranteed attention, followers, and additional opportunities to attract paying consumers.

2. Student Instant Budget Solutions: Consider the scenario of college students on a tight budget seeking cost-effective deals. Togeth૪ing emerges as a solution by allowing users to enjoy content with a friend anytime & anywhere globally. After a brief 45 seconds, both users receive options from listed partners such as restaurants, cafes, QSRs, and Fine dining establishments on the Togethring platform, facilitating a budget-friendly choice. Describing Togethring as an “Instant Coupon Generator platform” aptly captures its functionality in this context. This, in fact, represents a classic case for envisioning Togeth૪ing as a daily necessity for students or communities on a budget, and more.

In summary, these use cases exemplify our confidence in Togethring’s potential to connect consumers and businesses deeply, presenting an unparalleled opportunity to grow together.

On security measures or assurances would you look for in an app that allows synchronous and collaborative experiences without sharing screens or devices

Ensuring user safety and privacy is paramount at Togeth૪ing. The foundational advantage of not mandating users to share screens or devices stands as our initial line of defense. Furthermore, all communications within our platform are fortified with end-to-end encryption, creating a secure and protected environment for our users. For those desiring individual enjoyment, a straightforward click enables them to isolate themselves from groups or other parties during live sessions, offering enhanced control and peace of mind in their Togeth૪ing experience.

On improvements or additional features would you suggest to make the app even more engaging or user-friendly

In the contemporary landscape of AI and ML, XR Togeth૪ing has an extensive lineup of features strategically curated to meet evolving user needs for the next decade. While specific details cannot be disclosed at this time, rest assured that our commitment to innovation and user satisfaction remains at the forefront of our development efforts. Stay tuned for exciting updates that will further enhance the engagement and user-friendliness of the Togeth૪ing app.

On instant rewards or discounts would motivate you the most to participate actively in co-listening and co-watching sessions using this app

At Togeth૪ing, we strongly emphasize providing enduring incentives, particularly in the realms of food and entertainment. Our target audience, spanning from kids and millennials to newly salaried individuals, can indulge in a plethora of rewards from well-established restaurant and cafe brands. Partnerships with esteemed names such as Rocomama, Cafe Peter, Rolls Mania, Crazy Cheesy, Agent Jacks, and Malaka Spice ensure a delightful variety of choices for Dine-in rewards. What sets us apart is our commitment to offering more than just incentives. In collaboration with industry leaders like Reliance Animation and MESC, Togeth૪ing extends exciting opportunities for content and education rewards. This strategic alliance adds a layer of diversity and engagement to our platform, ensuring that our users experience a rich and multifaceted journey every time they actively participate in co-listening and co-watching sessions.

December 29, 2023
Top five fantasy gaming apps transforming digital entertainment in India

Mumbai: In the ever-evolving landscape of digital entertainment, these cutting-edge applications promise to redefine the fantasy gaming experience. From breathtaking graphics to innovative gameplay mechanics, these titles are set to transport players into realms where imagination knows no bounds. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a novice explorer, our carefully curated list ensures an unforgettable journey filled with mythical creatures, magical landscapes, and epic quests. As the gaming industry continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, these applications stand out as the vanguards of the fantastical, offering players a ticket to unparalleled virtual adventures. Brace yourself for a year of enchantment, as we dive into the immersive worlds crafted by the top fantasy gaming applications.

Dream 11

In India, Dream 11 is the most widely used fantasy sports app and is currently trending the most. Users of this software can play a variety of fantasy sports, such as basketball, kabaddi, football, hockey, and cricket. Co-founded by Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth, Dream11 is the greatest fantasy sports app in India. With over 110 million daily users, the app has various brand ambassadors, including M. S. Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. The company pays out about ₹250 million in wins every day.

Super4

Super4 is one of the leading cricket fantasy gaming applications. It’s built with users’ convenience in mind. Its user-friendly interface allows them to effortlessly navigate through the app, discover new games, and engage in seamless gameplay. The company prioritizes users’ safety and privacy, implementing robust security measures to ensure a secure gaming experience. Users can join Super4 on an extraordinary journey as it revolutionizes the gaming landscape in India. Super4 is there to empower, inspire, and ignite the passion for gaming. Users are encouraged to embrace the spirit of India’s own gaming app.

My11 Circle

If you have a strong interest in cricket, you really should give My11Circle a try. Renowned athletes like Rashid Khan and Shane Watson serve as brand ambassadors for the organisation, along with Sourav Ganguly, President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. With over 13 million users, the platform is among the most reliable fantasy sports app producers in India. Additionally, the app has paid out more than ₹1 billion in prizes. There is no maximum withdrawal amount specified on My11Circle, in contrast to many other fantasy sports software platforms.

My Team11

MyTeam 11’s brand ambassador is Virender Sehwag. One can play games like cricket, soccer, football, rugby, hockey, and basketball, among others, on the platforms of the fantasy sports app development company, which offers nine different language possibilities. With over 15 million downloads, the MyTeam11 app gives over Rs five million in daily prizes through more than 100 events. In addition, MyTeam11 provides a Rs 100 welcome incentive.

Fan2 Play

The fantasy sports software Fan2Play was just released in the Indian market. Established in 2020 by Fan2Play Games Pvt. Ltd., a fantasy app development business, the quickly expanding platform lacks a predetermined design. When engaging in one-on-one challenges, users can form teams of two, three, or four players on this flexible and adaptable platform. The app additionally provides the traditional 11-player competitions. In addition, players are permitted to play with their social circles and family members and create private competitions.

December 28, 2023

Gulf Giants unveil power-packed squad for DP World ILT20 season 2

Mumbai: Gulf Giants, the defending champions of DP World International League T20 (ILT20), have today announced their star-studded squad for the upcoming second season. With a perfect blend of experience and youth, the Gulf Giants are geared up to dominate the league and defend their DP World ILT20 championship. The Adani Sportsline owned-franchise has announced Andy Flower as the team’s Head Coach for the upcoming season, which will be led by England batter James Vince.

After meticulous planning and scouting, Gulf Giants has announced the signing of new players such as Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb-ur-Rahman along with the likes of T20 sensation Dominic Drakes. The newly-signed players will be complemented by a power-packed squad combination featuring T20 maestros Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies), Chris Jordan (England), Chris Lynn (Australia), and Carlos Brathwaite (West Indies), to name a few.

Flower, arguably Zimbabwe’s greatest cricketer, has forged a successful coaching career since his retirement in 2003, capped by the title run at the 2010 men’s T20 World Cup with England. He has since worked with the Afghanistan men’s national team as well as franchise teams at the IPL, the PSL, the CPL, and in the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament.

Starting 19th January, 2024, the DP World ILT20 defending champions – Gulf Giants will be facing Sharjah Warriors. Cricket fans can watch this only-global T20 league on Zee’s most widely distributed and viewed 10 linear TV channels: &Pictures, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema, Zee Zest, Zee Ganga, Zee Cinemalu HD, &Flix, &Flix HD and Zee Zest HD and on one of India’s leading OTT platforms – ZEE5. All single header matches will be broadcast Live at 8 PM India prime time, starting with the pre-match presentation at 7:30 PM. The afternoon match on the double-header’s day will start at 4:00 PM.

Speaking on the announcement, Gulf Giants’ head coach Andy Flower said, “As we gear up for the upcoming season of International League T20, the Gulf Giants are focused on defending our ILT20 title with a pragmatic approach. Undoubtedly, a pinnacle of T20 competitiveness on the global stage, this tournament features the participation of top-tier players, making it truly a standout event on the international cricket calendar. Taking forward the learnings from the inaugural season, we have strategically enhanced our squad with valuable additions, including Mujeeb-ur-Rahman and Dominic Drakes, while also retaining key players such as Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan, Chris Lynn, and Carlos Brathwaite, who played crucial roles in our previous success. Our goal is straightforward – to build on past achievements and skilfully navigate the challenges of the new season.”

Australian cricketer, and hard-hitting right-hander Chris Lynn said, “It gives me immense pride to be part of Gulf Giants squad, together we are determined to replicate the successful run of the inaugural season. As defending champions of one of the world’s toughest T20 leagues, I am confident about the team’s ability to perform well in the upcoming season. It’s always a great experience sharing the dressing room with cricketing greats of the modern game, look forward to contributing to the team’s success.”

Adani Sportsline spokesperson, chief business officer Sanjay Adesara said, “As we unveil our squad for the upcoming season of the International League T20, we are optimistic about the team’s ability to build upon the success achieved in the event’s inaugural season. With Andy Flower leading our coaching staff, we believe that the assembled squad is robust, and the players will have the opportunity to develop their skills under his guidance. We trust that Flower’s mentorship will also contribute to aligning our players with our vision of connecting and engaging with cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The International League T20 has solidified its standing as the world’s second-most-watched T20 extravaganza. Its widespread global viewership, facilitated by the extensive distribution network of ZEE, adds to its prominence and is set to become ‘bigger and better’ in years to come. We appreciate the unwavering support of our fans, whose consistent support has been a driving force for us, and look forward to hosting them once again.”

For the full list of newly-signed an retained players refer to the list below:

Retained Players	Newly-Signed Players
James Vince (England)	Mujeeb-ur-Rahman (Afghanistan)
Chris Jordan (England)	Dominic Drakes (West Indies)
Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies)	Jamie Smith (England)
Jamie Overton (England)	Jordan Cox (England)
Chris Lynn (Australia)	Usman Khan (Pakistan)
Aayan Afzal Khan (United Arab Emirates)	Mohammad Zohaib Zubair (UAE)
Richard Gleeson (England)	Saurabh Netravalkar (United States of America)
Carlos Brathwaite (West Indies)	Karim Janat (Afghanistan)
Rehan Ahmad (England)
Gerhard Erasmus (Namibia)
Sanchit Sharma (United Arab Emirates)

The 34-match event will be played at the three iconic UAE venues – Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah – starting 19 January 2024 to 17 February 2024. The truly international league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Dubai Capitals (Adani Sportsline), Dubai Capitals (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global).

December 28, 2023

Troo Good appoints Wunderman Thompson for their advertising and communications

Mumbai: Troo Good millet snack enterprise announced the selection of Wunderman Thompson as its advertising agency, solidifying a multi-year, multi-crore collaboration. This transformative partnership positions Wunderman Thompson to spearhead comprehensive advertising campaigns and promotional initiatives for Troo Good, strategically conveying the brand’s ethos to its target audience while fortifying and perpetuating the brand’s market standing.

Under the terms of this pivotal mandate, Wunderman Thompson assumes responsibility for crafting compelling advertising and digital communications strategies for Troo Good across various social media platforms too. The agency’s integral role encompasses the development of communication and creative frameworks, ensuring the brand’s messaging is articulate and resonant with consumers. Wunderman Thompson is set to orchestrate Troo Good’s inaugural mass media campaign, spotlighting the brand’s distinctive attributes, centered on taste, nutrition, and affordability.

In the meticulous selection process for its advertising partner, Troo Good invited agencies nationwide to vie for the mandate. Following a rigorous shortlisting process, Wunderman Thompson emerged triumphant among 43 participating agencies, excelling in criteria such as national presence, business acumen, experience in managing comparably scaled high-growth enterprises, and a demonstrated prowess in creative communication strategies.

Troo Good, a trailblazer in the millet snacking industry, has significantly expanded its footprint from 15,000 to 30,000 outlets within the past six months. Presently operating six state-of-the-art factories, the brand’s reach extends across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Notably, Troo Good has achieved a revenue of Rs 53 crores for the fiscal year 2022-23, projecting an ambitious revenue target of Rs 100 crores for the fiscal year 2023-24. This strategic collaboration with Wunderman Thompson underscores Troo Good’s commitment to elevating its brand presence and market share in the evolving landscape of millet-based snacks.

Speaking on the announcement, Troo Good founder and CEO Raju Bhupathi said, “Troo Good has seen exponential growth since inception. We are making heavy investments in brand building and retail to further expand on that momentum and are exploring the utilization of all possible channels to highlight the benefits of millet-based snacks to consumers and make them aware of our affordable and healthy offerings. As a means of achieving this, we have assigned our advertising mandate to one of the top agencies in the country, Wunderman Thompson, after a detailed shortlisting process. We see a strategic fit and a professional alignment in this association that will help us accomplish our marketing goals.”

Commenting on winning Troo Good’s advertising mandate, Vijay Jacob Parakkal, Managing Partner at Wunderman Thompson, said, “We are delighted to partner with the new exciting millet brand Troo Good. Our strategy weaves affordability and nutritional excellence into Troo Good’s brand story. By amplifying the brand’s unique selling proposition, we are poised to deliver a compelling narrative that not only captures attention but also reinforces Troo Good’s market distinction.”

Headquartered in New York, Wunderman Thompson was founded in 2018 after Wunderman was merged with J. Walter Thompson Co., and is an industry leader with a rich legacy of expertise in advertising, branding, digital marketing, and data analytics.

December 28, 2023
Sony AATH wraps up a spectacular year!

Mumbai: Sony AATH, one of the most loved family entertainment channels, has been consistently enthralling viewers with a slew of interesting programming and engagements. As the channel closes on an outstanding 2023, here are the key highlights for the year.

Key content launches

Depicting the popular ‘adda’ culture of the villages, ‘Gultemama’ is the story of a Bengali hamlet Galadpur & its people. It connects viewers to the everyday life of Bengal. Gultemama spends his day gossiping with his friends. He is someone who would always find himself at the receiving end of his tricks.

Set against the backdrop of Kolpopur, a small village in Bengal during the late 17th century, ‘Kolpopurer Golpo’ captures the culture, emotions, and everyday life of a common man. It revolves around the story of Kanai, a hardworking farmer and devout follower of Maa Kali, who, despite tough financial conditions, is content with his life. The show largely portrays the trials and tribulations faced by the peasant class due to the Zamindari system.

Sony AATH introduced the famous Gopal Bhar in an entirely new avatar as he made his cinematic debut. Having completed more than 1000 episodes of the iconic show on the channel, Sony AATH went beyond to regale the audiences with some new and unique characteristics of Gopal in an advanced 3D animation format. The first movie, titled ‘Goyenda Gopal – Daaba’r Chal’ showcased Gopal Bhar wearing the hat of a detective, unravelling mysteries, and saving his kingdom while maintaining his nonchalant comic and witty style. An extensive promotional campaign was planned with the mascot of Gopal Bhar making appearances at popular historical places such as Victoria Memorial and New Market, much to the pleasant surprise of the onlookers. He also visited two popular malls in the city, allowing everyone to not just meet him but also get an instant photo clicked.

The channel premiered another Gopal Bhar movie titled ‘Goyenda Gopal – Shesh Chakranto’. The saga of conspiracy with Gopal Bhar getting into the shoes of the detective to save the King and the Kingdom continued with more challenges and interesting turn of events.

Following the phenomenal response received for the Gopal Bhar movies, the channel plans to come up with a couple of more Gopal Bhar movies in the coming months.

Sony AATH launched ‘Aamar Sai Shradha and Dahirjia’ which revolved around the life and teachings of Sai Baba. It took viewers through the life journey of Sai Baba – right from his young days to his journey of becoming a revered spiritual leader who touched lives with compassion and wisdom.

The much-anticipated biographical drama ‘Shakuntala Devi premiered on Sony AATH to captivate the Bengali audience. Shakuntala Devi, often referred to as the Human-Computer, was a mathematical prodigy whose phenomenal abilities left the world in awe. The Bengali version of the film brought Shakuntala Devi’s story to life in a language that resonated with the heart of Bengal.

Key initiatives & IPs

Gopal Bhar 1000 episode celebrations: Gopal Bhar is a show that has carved a special place for itself in the hearts of Sony AATH viewers. The show completed a significant milestone of running 1000 episodes on the channel, the maximum for any animation series in Bengal.

Hollywood Hungama: Season three of Hollywood Hungama was launched with an exciting line-up of movies from creature Features to Action and adventure. A mass visibility outdoor plan across West Bengal was planned with advertising on Metro stations and cable networks.

Mahalaya and Kolkata Durga Pujo: Sony AATH celebrated Mahalaya with a specially curated day-long programming line-up titled ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’ dedicated to the glory of the mighty Maa Durga. The channel celebrated Pujo by having the Gopal Bhar mascot make visits to select pujo pandals such as Thakurpukur S B Park, Dakshin 41 Pally, Hindusthan Park Sarbajanin and Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha. The activity garnered an average footfall of over 200 people participating and interacting in various activities along with winning Sony AATH merchandises.

December 28, 2023
An odyssey of entertainment: COLORS wraps the year, ruling the roost across genres

Mumbai: COLORS sparked a television revolution in 2023, welcoming a new era of diverse dazzling content. India’s trailblazing HGEC seized the moment to redefine the content landscape with a rollercoaster ride through the realms of different genres such as social dramas, musical drama, compelling love stories, supernatural and romance fantasy. Living up to its promise of setting the trend in the entertainment arena, it curated a robust and diverse content palette leaving viewers spellbound and clamouring for more. The channel offered a delightful mix of fiction and non-fiction shows that had audiences glued to their television screens. As we bid adieu to 2023, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and relive the carnival of emotions, magic, suspense, and jaw-dropping moments that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

The milieu of mythology

Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyag Tandav – Brahmand ki pehli prem gatha

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COLORS presented a visually breathtaking saga of the revered deities Shiv and Shakti unfolding their journey of duty, sacrifice, and separation, leading to moments of ‘tap’, ‘tyag’, and ‘tandav’. Ram Yashvardhan and Subha Rajput took on the roles of Shiv and Shakti, portraying two divine entities bound by an inseparable bond across ages.

Chhoti soch ke khilaaf ek muhim

Neerja… Ek Nayi Pehchaan – Pehchaan banaane ka ek anokha safar.

No child should be bound by their parents’ profession; however, a sex worker’s daughter is expected to walk the same path as her mother in COLORS’ ‘Neerja… Ek Nayi Pehchaan’. Challenging this prejudice, the social drama spotlighted the lives of Protima (Sneha Wagh) and Neerja (Aastha Sharma), a resilient mother-daughter pair. These two strong-willed individuals are set on surpassing societal biases and making a fresh identity as they navigate the complexities of life in Sonagachi, Asia’s largest red-light district.

Doree – Chhoti umr se chhoti soch takrayi hain

COLORS’ ‘Doree’ sheds light on the pervasive grip of ‘chhoti soch’ (narrow-mindedness) still prevalent in society, urging an immediate shift in the perception and value attributed to the girl child. ‘Doree’ is a portrayal of a girl’s struggle from birth and her fight for societal rights. Starring Sudhaa Chandran as Kailashi Devi Thakur, Amar Upadhyay as Ganga Prasad, and Mahi Bhanushali as Doree, the show is set against the backdrop of Varanasi. As it explores the social issue of girl child abandonment, ‘Doree’ narrates the story of a six-year-old, Doree, living with her foster father Ganga Prasad in the Bunkar mohalla and fighting a regressive mindset. To bring societal change and address the gender bias against girl child, COLORS joined hands with the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative to raise awareness about the social evil of girl child abandonment. In addition to launching a primetime show on the subject, as part of this association, COLORS promoted the 24-hour emergency toll-free Childline India helpline number (1098) for those seeking assistance for any abandoned girl child across the nation.

Love makes the world go round

Chand Jalne Laga – Ek pyaar ka junoon aisa bhi

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The most passionate love story of the year COLORS’ ‘Chand Jalne Laga’ struck a chord with the viewers with its storyline of two souls separated by the cruel hand of destiny. Starring Vishal Aditya Singh and Kanika Mann as the dreamy duo Dev and Tara, this fairytale depicts how love remains unchanged when everything else is fleeting. The show wrote itself into the history of television as the first one to have a digital-first release of its love anthem, which garnered a thunderous response across social media platforms.

Suhaagan – Do behno ki kismat ka khel

‘Suhaagan,’ delves into the plight of Bindiya, tasked with household duties by her extended family, who want to seize her inherited property. Despite facing these challenges and an uncertain future, Bindiya remains a kind and hopeful elder sister, looking after her younger sister Payal, often taking responsibility for Payal’s antics. The unexpected twist unfolds as Bindiya marries Krishna, who is in love with Payal, setting the stage for a gripping love triangle.

Junooniyatt – Junoon, pyaar aur sangeet ka safar

‘Junooniyatt,’ an emotional and musical odyssey of three individuals—Elahi (portrayed by Neha Rana), Jahaan (played by Ankit Gupta), and Jordan (enacted by Gautam Vig). Elahi and Jahaan find solace in love and music, while Jordan is driven by a relentless ambition to conquer the music realm and possess Elahi. The show ruled the hearts of viewers with its blend of music, drama, and romance.

The supernatural realm

Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal – Ye ishq nahin aasaan

Set in the mystical town of Landsdale, ‘Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal,’ a romantic fantasy revolved around the journey of Eisha, entangled with warring werewolf brothers Armaan and Veer. The show left the audiences spellbound with its gripping narrative and stellar performances, cementing its place as a fan-favourite.

Bekaboo – Ek rakshas aur pari ki jung

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COLORS’ ‘Bekaboo’ unfolded the epic clash between mystical entities vying for control of the multiverse. Starring Shalin Bhanot, Eisha Singh, and Monalisa, the fantasy drama delved into the journey of a pari and rakshas, embroiled in an ancestral feud but unexpectedly entangled in love.

Entertainment ka sabse bada dose

The viewers were treated to different avenues of entertainment with the new season of – India’s favourite reality TV show ‘BIGG BOSS,’ the adrenaline-pumping ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 13’ and the uproarious ‘Entertainment Ki Raat – Housefull’. These shows brought an avalanche of drama, jaw-dropping challenges, and laugh-out-loud moments that kept audiences for each episode with bated breath.

BIGG BOSS – Iss baar game nahi sabke liye same to same

Leveraging its unparalleled fan base, ‘BIGG BOSS’ took a groundbreaking leap in its latest edition, diving deep into the Dil, Dimaag, aur Dum of the contestants. Departing from its principle of equality, this season introduced a unique twist – ‘BIGG BOSS’ now has its own set of favourites! Amidst all the novelty, one thing was constant —Dabangg Salman Khan, reprising his role as the host.

Khatron Ke Khiladi 13 – Har level darr next level

The 13th edition of ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’, was a high-octane spectacle led by the iconic filmmaker and action master, Rohit Shetty. Fourteen contestants, hailing from various backgrounds, ventured into the scenic landscape of South Africa, sparking the ultimate battle against fears and phobias.

A new dawn of entertainment in 2024

COLORS will continue to honour its commitment to delivering captivating content for its audience in 2024. Starring Adnan Khan and Mallika Singh, a love saga that changes the course of history ‘Prachand Ashok’ will grace the HGEC’s lineup. The channel is set to premiere a one-of-a-kind love story ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar’, shedding light on underage marriages and bringing a riveting love story of two individuals who are as different as day and night. The stage is set for aspiring dancers of every age as the biggest dance battle – ‘Dance Deewane’ is primed to hit the television screens. Madhuri Dixit Nene will be bringing her queen energy as the judge of this dance extravaganza. With these diverse shows in its lineup, COLORS is poised to offer another promising year of wholesome entertainment!

Keep watching your favourite shows on COLORS.

December 28, 2023
Star Sports lines up new ‘Believe’ story

Mumbai: In the realm of sports storytelling, Star Sports – India’s leading sports broadcaster – soars to new heights with its flagship ‘Believe’ series. This trailblazing series, driven by the innate desire of fans for contextually relevant original programming, has become a resounding show of celebrating hero moments, and demonstrating to fans that anything is achievable; inspiring them to believe. The inaugural episode, ‘Believe – A Diwali Miracle’ featuring cricketing virtuoso Virat Kohli, received immense love as 73 million viewers tuned in on television to watch the two-part inaugural story, and over 11.2 million views were garnered on Star Sports’ social handles (YouTube and Facebook) for the show. The show was also aired in the UK, US, Canada, Middle East, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Speaking on the success of the first episode of the ‘Believe’ series, a Star Sports spokesperson said, “The phenomenal success of the ‘Believe’ series serves as a powerful testament to fans’ appetite for relevant original programming. At Star Sports, we firmly believe in the transformative power of high-quality content-content that not only entertains but also inspires and forges a profound connection with fans on a deeper, more meaningful level. It reinforces our commitment to delivering narratives that resonate globally and transcend the conventional boundaries of sports broadcasting.”

Beyond the impressive numbers, the ‘Believe’ series stands as a testament to providing athletes with a voice to share their journeys, offering fans a glimpse into their minds, and inspiring the next generation of sports stars. This trailblazing series, driven by the innate desire of fans for contextually relevant original programming, has become a resounding show of celebrating hero moments, and demonstrating to fans that anything is achievable; inspiring them to ‘Believe’. Building on the momentum, the upcoming episode will feature KL Rahul detailing his remarkable comeback from a point where walking seemed impossible to becoming India’s wicketkeeper for the World Cup, returning stronger than ever before to be the point of difference in India’s enthralling campaign. The feature will air after the first Test match between South Africa & India on the Star Sports Network.

KL Rahul in his inspirational interview in the ‘Believe’ series delved into how he kept the noise out and coped with the criticisms during his lowest periods, he said, “You can’t really change people. You’re allowed to say what you feel, and a lot of it at that time felt more hurtful than it actually was probably. Now looking back, I feel I could have looked at it very differently, but also a lot of it has to do with where you are personally. I wasn’t in a great space mentally at that time to take that kind of criticism.”

The series also highlights the inner Belief that lies within KL Rahul as he continues his journey, he said, “There’s always been something within me from a very early age, a voice or an energy that always felt right. Like I always felt I was in the right direction. As always, I am very grateful that I picked a career path that I really enjoy, and I wanted to do. So, every time I find myself in a position like Oh, what am I doing? Why am I going through these injuries? Or why are so many people criticizing me? I always go back to thinking that this is what you wanted to do, so it’s a part of your game. I believe that it’s all part of the journey, and you need to take the good and the bad in a very balanced way. And it’s all part of an individual’s growing and journey to getting stronger as a person. And as you get stronger as a person, it reflects on what you do professionally.”

The ‘Believe’ series will follow this with tales of other heroes like Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant, and fans can anticipate more first-hand accounts through the year of world class athletes who have charted the arduous paths that have led them to the pinnacle of sports excellence. Star Sports’ ‘Believe’ series is not just a show; it’s a celebration of resilience and triumphs, showcasing the indomitable spirit of India’s champions across sports with a new feature every month.

Catch KL Rahul in action as he features on Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar special “Believe” show on 28 December, 2023, 9 pm onwards.

December 27, 2023
U Mumba’s valuation soars 60 per cent with eight new sponsors in PKL season 10

Mumbai: U Mumba, backed by eight brands, has garnered maximum sponsorship with a valuation increase of 60 per cent in the latest edition of the Pro Kabaddi League. Amassing these sponsorships is a testament to the growing stature of Brand U Mumba and the strong appeal and vision that the Mumbai team has in Kabaddi across India.

U Mumba had signed top sports news portal Melbat Live as its title partner and has partnered with Macho Hint as it’s powered by Partner, a millennial and Gen Z-focused brand in the innerwear category which is a sub-brand category from the stables of the renowned brand, Macho.

For the associate partner category, U-Mumba has onboarded six brands led by Rajdhani Besan, pioneers in producing agro-food products in India, along with pioneering construction firm Je & Vee Infrastructures, and internationally acclaimed beauty, skincare, personal care, and cosmetic products manufacturer Vi John.

Great White Electricals, innovators in the home electrics space, the Indian Public Sector Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, and the well-renowned footwear brand, Abros Shoes are all also donning the Mumbai colours in Season 10.

U Mumba CEO Suhail Chandok commented on the team’s high marketability, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome some new distinguished partners & the return of a couple too, to the U Mumba family. United by a shared vision of the brand’s identity, values, offerings, and success, we are confident that we will be able to elevate and inspire brand loyalty for U Mumba to new heights. We have a strong vision in place for the growth we want to see for our team and the trust placed in us by these esteemed brands is a testament to the value we have meticulously built over the years, showcasing the power of brand recognition. Our Indian sport of Kabaddi has truly taken the world by storm and continues to be a trusted vehicle for brands that need a targeted platform to reach a massive consumer base that is pan-India.”

U-Mumba has also forged collaborations with 92.7 Big FM; Nivia, a noteworthy homegrown sports brand; Swades Foundation, a premier NGO in Mumbai; Fast&Up, a foremost nutrition provider and Baller Athletik, India’s pioneer in energy-enhancing transformative clothing as promoting partners for the season.

According to the ‘India Sports Sponsorship Report 2023’ by GroupM, Sports Sponsorship in India recorded a figure of Rs 5907 Cr ($Mn 748) in 2022 with a growth of 105 per cent. Emerging sports witnessed an overall revenue of Rs 1503 Cr ($Mn 190), which in YoY terms represents an incremental value of Rs 829 Cr ($Mn 104).

U Mumba is set to take on Telugu Titans next in their Pro Kabaddi League match in Noida on the 30 of December before the Pro Kabaddi caravan moves to Mumbai for U Mumba’s Home leg starting on the 5 of January.

Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India stats showed the opening weekend of PKL Season 10 alone witnessed 80.1 million viewers, clocking a 32 per cent increase from the 2022 season, with consumption increasing by 27 per cent to 2.7 billion minutes over just the first four matches.

December 27, 2023
COLORS presents its first love story of 2024 ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar’

Mumbai: As the curtains fall on a remarkable year of impactful launches, COLORS is all set to kick off the new year with another exciting love saga, ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar’. With a rich history of celebrating love with extraordinary narratives that bring societal change, stir emotions, and immortalize onscreen romantic pairs, COLORS continues its tradition of offering diverse content with this one-of-a-kind love story of two individuals, with opposite ideologies. The show stars Shagun Pandey and Shruti Choudhary as Veer Pratap Singh and Bulbul Rajawat respectively and traces the love story of a couple whose marriage is based on a lie that threatens to crumble the foundation of their relationship. Produced by Shashi Sumeet Productions, ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar’ premieres on 3 January and airs every Monday to Friday at 9:30 pm only on COLORS.

Set in picturesque locations of Rajasthan, ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar’ unfolds the journey of Bulbul and Veer who are as disparate as day and night but have intertwined destinies. Bulbul is a lively young girl who follows what her mother tells her to do. She is underage but unaware of this fact completely. On the other hand, Veer, an honest IPS Officer, firmly opposes deceit in any form. Bulbul doesn’t know that her parents have concealed her true age. Meanwhile, Veer, a crusader against underage marriages, unknowingly marries Bulbul, not knowing that she is a minor. Will love blossom in this loveless marriage against the backdrop of deception and destiny?

Producer Shashi Mittal expressed, “We take immense pride in crafting impactful stories that resonate with a mass audience, reaching even the hinterlands of India. Our new show, ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar,’ unfolds a distinctive love story between Veer and Bulbul, set against the vibrant backdrop of Rajasthan. Shot in real locations like Mandawa, Pushkar, and Kishangarh, the show captures the local essence of these beautiful places, aiming to authentically bring the look and feel of real Rajasthan to the audience.”

Producer Sumeet Mittal further added, “The collaboration between our production house and COLORS has consistently produced incredible shows, and this show stands out among our previous ventures as it addresses the issue of underage marriage wherein Veer and Bulbul find themselves entangled in a marriage scam. We are confident that viewers will appreciate the refreshing storyline and on-screen chemistry between Shagun and Shruti.”

Sharing his thoughts on essaying the role of Veer Pratap Singh, Shagun Pandey said, “I am thrilled to step into the shoes of an honest IPS officer who stands firm against deceit. This role is exactly what I’ve been eagerly waiting for, and I am delighted to introduce Veer Pratap Singh to the audience – a man of principles. He is known for his opposition to underage marriages, but under tricky circumstances marries Bulbul without knowing that she is a minor. Having previously collaborated with COLORS, it’s a pleasure to work with the brand again and I am hopeful that viewers will shower their love on my pairing with Shruti.”

Set to be seen embodying the role of Bulbul, Shruti Choudhary said, “In my acting journey, I’ve enjoyed playing different roles and I’ve waited for a long time to spearhead a show. I’m excited that my dream came true, and I landed an opportunity to work with COLORS for this exciting show. This role is special because I get to embody a teenager who is thrust into the complexities of adulthood and marriage based on a lie. My focus would be to bring out her nuances of innocence, vulnerability, and courage with a sincere effort to create a portrayal that instantly forges a connection between the viewers and Bulbul’s character.”

Will Veer and Bulbul restore the foundation of their marriage? Find out as ‘Mera Balam Thanedaar’ premieres on the 3 January, airing every Monday to Friday at 9:30 pm only on COLORS.

December 27, 2023