ITV

Category: Television

  • NXTDIGITAL appoints Sooraj Keswani as chief customer experience officer

    NXTDIGITAL appoints Sooraj Keswani as chief customer experience officer

    Mumbai: NXTDIGITAL, the rapidly growing digital media division of technology-led customer experience company Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd. (HGS), with a presence in digital television via cable and satellite, broadband, enterprise services, OTT aggregation and content syndication is in expansion mode – launching a slew of digital products whilst expanding its footprint across India.

    Focusing on changing consumer preferences and enhancing the quality of service to its customers, the group has appointed veteran communications and customer engagement executive Sooraj Keswani as its Chief Customer Experience Officer. With over three decades of experience in media, retail, marketing and enterprise consulting across leading companies like The Indian Express Newspapers, Madison, Concept Communication, Hansa Cequity and Mirum India, Sooraj will lead the organisation’s initiatives in enhancing customer experience across all product portfolios. He will work with the group’s large pan-India franchisee base to develop and deliver products customised to hyperlocal preferences. As an extension of his role, Sooraj will also manage the branding and marketing functions.

    Commenting on this appointment, HGS whole time director and head of the media group, Vynsley Fernandes said, “We are delighted to welcome Sooraj Keswani to HGS and the NXT Media Group. His diverse experience across media, communications, technology-led marketing and building customer experience aligns perfectly with our company’s digital vision for the future. We look forward to the exciting journey ahead with him at the helm driving delightful experiences for our customers.”

    Keswani said, “The Hinduja Group is known for its integrity and customer focus. NXT Media Group has aggressive growth plans across its business verticals and I am very excited to join them in this journey to scale customer experience and brands to the next level.”

  • Reliance set to finalise a multibillion dollar deal with Walt Disney Co.

    Reliance set to finalise a multibillion dollar deal with Walt Disney Co.

    Mumbai: Reliance Industries Ltd., is all set to finalise a multibillion dollar deal with Walt Disney Co. to buy its India operations, according to media reports.

    The RIL is expected to enjoy a controlling stake in the Disney Star business, which has an estimated valuation of $10 billion. The US entertainment giant will end up holding a minority stake in the business. Reliance views the assets at between $7 billion to $8 billion, as per close sources.

    The giant acquisition is expected to be declared by the companies next month. Under the proposal, Disney is likely to continue holding on to a minority stake in the Indian company after the completion of cash and stock swap transaction. According to the news report, Disney could choose to hold onto assets for a bit longer.

     

  • CNBC-TV18 returns with season 2 of ‘Financial Quotient’

    CNBC-TV18 returns with season 2 of ‘Financial Quotient’

    Mumbai: CNBC-TV18, a purpose-driven brand and the undisputed leader in the English business news space, has announced the second season of Financial Quotient, a unique and insightful series dedicated to empowering women in their financial journey. Hosted by Personal finance expert and Market Anchor Surabhi Upadhyay, this series focuses on encouraging women to become financially independent by providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed financial decisions. Featuring six informative episodes, the series will be launched on 25th October 2023, Wednesday at 3.30 PM, and will continue to be aired every Wednesday at 3.30 PM.

    In 2021, CNBC-TV18 introduced season one of this investment series dedicated to enabling financial freedom for women. Now, the second season promises to delve even deeper into the financial landscape, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that women face in managing their finances. Each episode will focus on contemporary and relevant topics such as early investing, money & marriage, mid-life crisis, financial planning, retirement, etc. while sharing solutions and knowledge to tackle real-world financial challenges.  

    CNBC-TV18 managing editor Shereen Bhan reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to championing financial literacy & economic empowerment, saying, “Empowering women with financial education is vital for India’s economic growth. We are very excited to launch the second season of this unique series, where we’ll share expert insights & shared experiences, to help empower women to make independent, financially sound decisions. Each episode will discuss various instruments & platforms that are available to women and how they can make use of them. Overall this series is a valuable resource for every woman looking to secure her financial future”

    Network18 business COO – Smriti Mehra commented, “In season 2 of ‘Financial Quotient,’ we continue to champion the cause of fostering financial freedom for women. This year, we will be focusing on how women ca up their ‘FQ’ to tackle the various challenges they face at different life-stages. At CNBC-TV18, we recognize that financial security is extremely crucial for women today, and season 2 is our attempt towards helping women achieve true freedom and stability. We are excited about this season and its potential to inspire, educate, and empower women to seize control of their destinies.”

     

  • News18 Keralam to host Vijaya Dashami Day event celebrating knowledge and literature

    News18 Keralam to host Vijaya Dashami Day event celebrating knowledge and literature

    Mumbai:  In a glorious celebration of knowledge and literature, News18 Keralam, in collaboration with the esteemed Thunchan Smaraka Samithi and DC Books, is thrilled to announce a magnificent live event on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami Day, 24 October. This event is dedicated to honoring the spirit of knowledge and literature by bringing together 300 children who will embark on their educational journey.

    At the event, 300 children will write their first letters in the sand in the presence of the well-respected Thunjath Ezhuthachan, also revered as the father of Malayalam literature. Ezhuthachan’s legacy has left a permanent mark on the literary landscape of Kerala, and this event aims to pay tribute to his enduring influence while also paying homage to Kerala’s rich literary heritage.

    The event will feature distinguished chief guests from various domains, prominent celebrities, and thought leaders from diverse fields, highlighting the event’s significance in the cultural landscape of Kerala. Furthermore, keeping with the spirit of fostering a love for literature and knowledge, DC Books will be giving books to the young minds in attendance. The gesture displays the commitment to nurturing a passion for reading and learning among the next generation.

    The grand event will be broadcast live on News18 Keralam TV and Digital Platforms on the morning of 24 October, ensuring that this memorable celebration reaches a wide and enthusiastic audience. It will provide viewers with an opportunity to witness and be a part of this cultural and educational extravaganza.

    Tune into News18 Keralam on October 24th for this extraordinary celebration of knowledge, literature, and culture.

     

  • Warner Bros. Discovery premieres ‘Mission Big Cat’

    Warner Bros. Discovery premieres ‘Mission Big Cat’

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery is delighted to announce “Mission Big Cat,” an exhilarating new anthology dedicated to the mesmerizing world of regal felines. This edition’s captivating lineup will present exclusive content that delves deep into the lives of lions, tigers, leopards, and other awe-inspiring species. Scheduled to premiere on 23 October 2023, on Animal Planet, the series will air from Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM, with a repeat broadcast the following day at 4:00 PM. This unique programming represents a compelling endeavour to unveil the intricacies of these magnificent creatures, providing viewers with insights into their behaviour, predatory skills, family dynamics, and much more.

    The seven-week lineup, running until 15 December, will include shows such as “Big Cat Country,” “Creative Killers,” “Lions vs Hyenas,” “Lethal Attractions,” “Story Of Cats,” “The Lions Queens: Fighting For Survival,” “The Brother’s Pride,” “Brotherhood of Lions,” and “Lions Country: Night & Day.” These shows will shed light on territorial disputes among these magnificent creatures, unveil their ingenious hunting techniques, explore the bonds of brotherhood that bind them, and uncover the fascinating origin stories of these apex predators.

    Watch Mission Big Cat, 23 October onwards, Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM on Animal Planet

  • World Esports Day: Indian stakeholders drive the shift of Video Gaming into mainstream sports.

    World Esports Day: Indian stakeholders drive the shift of Video Gaming into mainstream sports.

    Mumbai: Gone are the days when Esports was stereotyped as a pastime activity. Esports all over the world has now transformed into a mainstream sporting and entertainment phenomenon, drawing in sponsors, athletes, and fans.

    So, video gaming enthusiasts converge on the 21 October to celebrate the meteoric rise of this industry’s remarkable progress on ‘World Esports Day.’ This day serves as a reminder of how far the industry has come and how profoundly it has impacted the lives of millions worldwide.

    According to Newzoo’s Global Gamer Study Data 2023, 79 per cent of the total online population engages with video games. The report also states that video games have become important marketing tools for many companies and 50 per cent of players and/or viewers discovered new brands while gaming.

    Sharing his insights on the growth of video gaming and brand deals within the ecosystem, S8UL Esports co-founder and founder & CEO of 8Bit Creatives Animesh Agarwal aka 8Bit Thug commented, “The Esports industry, globally and in India, has evolved significantly in its ability to attract sponsors and brands. This transformation is driven by the immersive nature of gaming, allowing brands to connect deeply with their target audience. The response from fans and viewers offers brands a unique opportunity to enhance their visibility and influence. Gaming has become a dynamic platform that enables brands to engage with people in ways beyond traditional advertising, fostering exciting collaborations and an expanded presence in the gaming community”
    The Indian Esports industry is witnessing not just brands but well-renowned mainstream sports athletes get associated with the sector. India’s sporting sensations Neeraj Chopra, Rohit Tokas and Pramod Bhagat recently appeared at the BGMI India Series final LAN event, demonstrating how the lines between traditional sports and Esports are blurring. Even the country’s other sporting icons such as M.S. Dhoni, Sunil Chhetri, and all-rounder Hardik Pandya have all joined the Esports revolution, becoming ambassadors for games such as Free Fire and BGMI.

    Sahil Jakhar, also known as SOUL Omega, captain of Team SOUL, the champions of the Battlegrounds Mobile India Pro Series (BMPS) 2022, shared his thoughts on the impact of traditional sports athletes entering Esports, stating, “Esports and traditional sports share fundamental traits, including discipline, strategy and a competitive spirit. Witnessing cricket, football, boxing, and athletics stars become a part of Esports is truly inspiring for athletes like us. It validates the industry among the broader public who may still be unaware of its remarkable growth. Moreover, it serves as a driving force for players to grind hard with the aspiration of one day reaching the same heights as these legends in their respective sport.”

    After being recognized as an official multi-sport event by the government in December 2022, Esports has been included as a full-fledged medal event at the Asian Games 2022 and has also been confirmed as a medal sport for the 2026 edition of the prestigious tournament.

    Esports Federation of India (ESFI) director of and Asian Esports Federation vice-president of (AESF) Lokesh Suji talks about the increasing visibility of Esports as a new-age sport and its inclusion at the Olympics someday. “After the presence of Esports at the Commonwealth Esports Championships, Asian Games 2022 as well as the introduction of the Olympics Esports Week, we are witnessing the growing visibility of Esports as a new-age sport. Going by the IOC President Thomas Bach’s positive comments at the 141 IOC Session in Mumbai regarding the development of the Olympic Esports Games, it is safe to say that it is not a matter of ‘if,’ but ‘when’ it will find its place as a medal sport at the Olympics.

    The global reach of Esports and its ability to unite people from different backgrounds make it a powerful contender for recognition on the world’s grandest sporting stage,” said Mr. Suji.
    As Esports makes its way into the mainstream and major international tournaments, it leaves a lasting impact on the video gaming ecosystems of countries all over the world. Akshaj Shenoy, the captain of India’s League of Legends team that achieved a historic fifth-place finish at the Asian Games 2022 sheds light on this aftermath, said, “Esports has started to become a serious and rewarding career option in India. The platforms, support, and recognition that we athletes receive today are unparalleled. Representing the country at the Asian Games in Hangzhou was an honour for me and I can surely say that aspiring Indian video gamers are already dreaming of competing for India in such a competition one day. India’s Esports ecosystem is all set to benefit from this participation through new talent right from the grassroots level that will proliferate the country’s presence on the global stage.”

    Looking ahead, the future of Esports is promising. The integration of cutting-edge technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) will offer new dimensions to the gaming experience. With the backing of industry leaders, influential athletes, and a growing fan base, the future holds limitless opportunities for Esports, not just in India but globally. 

  • History TV18 unveils new documentary on India’s Jal Jeevan Mission, ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’

    History TV18 unveils new documentary on India’s Jal Jeevan Mission, ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’

    Mumbai: History TV18 has announced the premiere of its new documentary, Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’, releasing on 23 October, 2023 at 8 p.m. The 40-minute documentary unravels the remarkable story of India’s ambitious ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’, a nationwide initiative aimed at providing permanent water connections to 16 Crore rural households by 2024. The mission is set to quench the thirst of millions of Indians and prevent the impending water crisis in the country.

    Narrated by renowned journalist Richa Anirudh, ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’ takes viewers on an inspiring journey that traces the beginning of India’s water revolution, which started in Gujarat. The film features personalities like Bharat Lal, (Former JJM Mission Director), Ashok Gulati (Agricultural Economist and Professor at ICRIER), Vini Mahajan (Secretary, Jal Shakti Ministry – DDWS), Sunita Narain (Environmentalist – Centre for Science and Environment) and R. K. Sama (Project Director – WASMO, Gujarat), who highlight the tireless efforts of India’s ‘water warriors’, including the inspiring ‘Jal Sahelis’, dedicated ‘Pani Panchayat members’ and ordinary citizens who are making valuable contributions towards water security for all.

    ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’ transcends geographical boundaries as it travels from the parched valleys of Ladakh to traditionally water-stressed regions like Bundelkhand and Vidarbha. It explores the difficulties encountered in areas in and around the Thar desert, and urban coastal landscapes in cities like Chennai.

    While the film highlights the daily struggles of people due to water scarcity, it also showcases the historic milestone of laying water pipelines that reach even the most remote and inaccessible corners of India, transforming ‘Har Ghar Jal se Nal’ into a people’s movement.

    The documentary provides audiences with insights into India’s innovative ‘Water Model,’ a blend of traditional water wisdom and cutting-edge technology. It highlights the revival of traditional water sources, the construction of check dams and watersheds for rainwater harvesting, and the significance of ‘catching the rain where it falls, when it falls.’ The film also explains how technology is empowering individuals and communities while creating new opportunities for livelihood and financial security. It features large-scale projects for water management, desalination, and greywater treatment, as well as satellite mapping, climate-smart farming, and sustainable housing.

    The Jal Jeevan Mission is not only shaping a sustainable and water-secure future for India but also serving as a global model for future initiatives.

    ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’ premieres on History TV18 on 23 October, 2023 at 8 p.m. and will also be made available on the factual entertainment leader’s YouTube channel.

  • MADverse launches nationwide hunt for rising stars

    MADverse launches nationwide hunt for rising stars

    Mumbai: MADverse, the leading tech-driven music platform, is excited to announce a game-changing event for talented musicians across India. Starting on October 15th, 2023, this event is a rallying call to independent artists nationwide, introducing the MADVerse Empower Fund. This initiative is dedicated to recognizing and supporting extraordinary musical talent within the independent music scene and consists of two vital components: the Marketing Fund and the Mix & Master Fund.

    The event is supported by three honored partners including Superkicks India as the culture partner, Global Music Institute as the education partner, and the Indian Music Diaries as the media partner. A distinguished panel of music industry figures, including Rohan Nesho Jain, Anurag Tagat, Dhruv Vishwanath, Kamakshi Khanna, and Sandhya Surendran, will select three outstanding artists or bands from the pool of applicants.

    The Creative & Marketing Fund, in collaboration with SymphonyOS, a US-based AI marketing company, will provide each selected artist with marketing funds valued at 30,000 INR, dedicated to promoting their upcoming releases. SymphonyOS is a data-driven, smart-automated platform focused on building creators’ fan bases and promoting their content.

    The Mix & Master Fund offers the winning artist a chance to partner with Bharg, India’s top music producer, known for collaborations with artists like King, Krishna, and Rawal. The artist will receive complimentary mixing and mastering services for one of their tracks, followed by distribution and promotion through MADverse.

    MADverse CEO & founder Rohan Nesho Jain, emphasised the importance of empowering independent artists in a competitive music industry. The fund allocation for each selected artist totals Rs 50,000 with a total fund value of Rs 1.5 lakh. The application window is open from 15 October to 15 November 2023, with winners to be announced by 29 November 2023.

    The MADVerse Artist Fund is open to artists of all backgrounds, ages, and languages, promoting inclusivity and diversity. It’s a platform where artists can shine, regardless of their musical genre, and MADVerse welcomes all independent artists to embrace this extraordinary opportunity to redefine their musical journeys. MADverse empowers artists with a comprehensive suite of services, liberating them from traditional record label dependencies and connecting them with a global community of independent musicians. Join MADverse in revolutionizing the music industry!

  • Warner Bros. Discovery India offers festive deals on discovery+ subscriptions

    Warner Bros. Discovery India offers festive deals on discovery+ subscriptions

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery India is ushering in the festive season with enticing offers on discovery+, its definitive non-fiction and real-life entertainment subscription streaming service. Starting from October 25, 2023, viewers can enjoy a flat 25 per cent discount on the discovery+ annual membership, offering a diverse and premium content library of renowned shows.

    discovery+ brings fans a differentiated direct-to-consumer (D2C) streaming experience. With thousands of hours of exclusive content spanning over 55 genres, including Science, Adventure, Food and Lifestyle, and available in seven languages such as Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Bengali. Premium subscribers gain access to a curated selection of never-before-seen premium Discovery titles, must-watch documentaries, homegrown India originals, and exclusive acquisitions. As viewers set out to unwind for the holidays, they can enjoy premium content at reduced prices.

    Warner Bros. Discovery head – Subscriber Growth & Retention, APAC,  Praveen Chaudhary said, “We are delighted to elevate the festivities this season with exclusive discovery+ subscription pricing.  In addition to an extensive premium library, we have a compelling lineup of upcoming releases on the horizon that we know viewers will enjoy. discovery+ has indisputably pioneered the realm of real-life entertainment content in India, offering an extensive array of non-fiction subjects that deeply engage audiences across the country. From standout true crime shows, exhilarating adventure reality series, and delectable culinary delights, there’s something for everyone.”

    Kickstart the festive season and subscribe to discovery+ only at Rs 299 starting 25 October 2023. 

  • Colors Kannada launches the biggest ever family Drama of Kannada entertainment – BRUNDAVANA

    Colors Kannada launches the biggest ever family Drama of Kannada entertainment – BRUNDAVANA

    Mumbai: This Vijayadashami, the Kannada GEC market is set to witness an unparalleled family fiction show, boasting a cast of 36 powerhouse actors playing unique characters who are all part of the same family, uniting to captivate audiences within a single frame.

    True to its commitment to delivering fresh and captivating content, Colors Kannada proudly presents Brundavana, a family-based fiction show that promises a unique and engaging storyline previously unseen in the market.

    Brundavana, with the tagline “Dodda Mane – Sanna Thappu – Gantu Mooru” which translates to “A grand abode – small mistakes – three knots”, will make its grand debut exclusively on Colors Kannada starting 23 October at 8 PM, airing from Monday to Saturday.

    Speaking about the show, Colors Kannada business head Prashanth Nayak said, “At a time when a joint family is a rarity, we are bringing this show which has 36 members living under the same roof. This show represents the rustic essence of Kannada culture where diverse characters coexist in the same household purely driven by love, affection, and harmony. We are immensely proud to launch this beautiful story of Brundavana, and with the auspicious occasion of Vijaya Dashami, we are confident that the Navaratri fervor will be magnified among all our audiences across Karnataka”.

    The story revolves around a sprawling joint family of 36 members. The elderly matriarch, on the brink of her final moments, holds a heartfelt wish to see her grandson, Akash, embark on a journey of education abroad and find matrimonial bliss. The question arises: Will our protagonist honor his grandmother’s dying wish, setting the stage for the dramatic interplay surrounding Akash’s wedding and unraveling the individual storylines of all 36 family members.

    Helmed by the celebrated Kannada television director, K S Ramji, “Brundavana” is produced under the Gagana Enterprises banner. Vishwanath Haveri, renowned for Kannada Kogile and BIGG BOSS Season 8, plays the role of Akash in this show.

    This exceptional cast also includes promising talents like Chitkala Biradar from the popular show Kannadathi, which concluded earlier this year, portraying the role of the Grandmother, and real-life couple Veena and Sundar. The show has 33 other characters, ranging from a 5-year-old child to an 80-year-old man. What’s more, the storyline introduces four additional characters from a different family, adding depth to the unfolding events.