Category: Television

  • Times Now announces Amazing Indians Awards 2023

    Times Now announces Amazing Indians Awards 2023

    Mumbai: Times Now, India’s leading English news channel has announced Amazing Indians, a prestigious national platform that celebrates and honors the indomitable spirit of India’s common people who have performed uncommon deeds for the improvement of society.  The awards ceremony will be held on 29 September in New Delhi. Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs & Food & Public Distribution, and Textiles & Smriti Zubin Irani, Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Minority Affairs will grace the event as chief guests and will deliver keynote addresses.

    Times Now Amazing Indians features inspiring stories of individuals who through their grit, determination and selfless acts of service have significantly impacted people’s lives. The premier national awards night will felicitate winners across 12 categories – Agriculture, Animal Welfare, Education, Environment & Climate, Food Management and Nutrition, Girl Child And Women’s Rights Empowerment, Healthcare, Medical & Clinical Assistance, Rural Development, Sanitation And Water, Slum Care, Shelter Management and Tech For Good. The awards night will also witness special felicitations for Dr. Veeramuthuvel, Project Director, Chandrayan- 3, ISRO and Dr. Nigar Shaji, project Director, Aditya – L1 Mission, ISRO for their outstanding contributions to India’s space endeavors.

    Adding to the grandeur of the ceremony, the event will feature a special Jugalbandi performance by Anuradha Pal, India’s first female Tabla Maestro, and a captivating musical presentation by the exceptionally talented members of Shreerang Charitable Trust.

    Times Network MD & CEO MK Anand said, “As India’s most influential news leader, Times Now has played a pivotal role in driving change and action. Amazing Indians Awards is our initiative to highlight the extraordinary achievements of ordinary Indians who have made a positive impact on society. Over the years, the platform has featured the remarkable journeys of over 500 such individuals, each of whom has crafted a legacy through courage, determination, and an unwavering spirit. I am confident that the stories of these ‘Amazing Indians’ will inspire a new generation of changemakers, contributing to a better India.”

    A panel of esteemed jury comprising General M. M. Naravane (PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM (RETD), former chief of the Army Staff, Indian Army), Prasoon Joshi (chairman, McCann Worldgroup Asia Pacific and CEO & CCO, McCann Worldgroup India), Ritesh Agarwal (founder and group CEO, OYO), Anand Kumar (founder, Super 30),  Dr. S. Rangarajan (former director ISRO, MCF, ISTRAC & Satcomm) and Sonam Wangchuk (social reformist, Ramon Magsaysay awardee) have shortlisted the winners through an exhaustive pan-India screening process duly evaluated by Ernst & Young (process partner).

  • Zee Media Corporation Ltd re-engages with BARC to strengthen data transparency

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd re-engages with BARC to strengthen data transparency

    Mumbai: Zee Media Corporation Ltd (ZMCL) is pleased to announce its  decision to re-register for the Television Audience Measurement System with the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC). This move comes after constructive discussions with BARC, resulting in an  agreement to share raw data on a timely basis. It reflects ZMCL’s steadfast commitment to  transparency and a mutually beneficial partnership.

    ZMCL’s renewed alliance with BARC reaffirms the media industry’s collective commitment to  transparent and credible audience measurement. It has consistently advocated for corrective actions  and is firmly rooted in its commitment to upholding data accuracy and transparency standards in the  media industry.

    Emphasising the significance of this collaboration, Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha said, “We, at ZMCL, have always valued the integrity and transparency of data. Our decision  to rejoin forces with BARC reflects our firm belief in BARC’s commitment towards robust data  mechanisms and our anticipation of a productive partnership ahead. We remain committed to  delivering trustworthy news and content to our viewers and advertisers.”

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd perceives this as a pivotal stride toward achieving greater  transparency and data-driven decision-making within the media sector. This development also aligns  with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s recent approval of BARC’s proposal to share  respondent-level data (RLD) on a four-week rolling basis with broadcasters.

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India’s leading media companies, has a strong presence in the  news and regional genres, with 16 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than  528+ million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

  • Sun King announces electrifying partnership with Bengaluru FC

    Sun King announces electrifying partnership with Bengaluru FC

    Mumbai: Sun King, a renowned name across lighting, electrical, and solar industries, is proud to announce its partnership with Bengaluru FC, establishing itself as the official lighting partner. This collaboration will see Sun King integrating the football team’s brand across its marketing collaterals and product packaging.

    An electrifying partnership

    Embarking on a partnership until July 2024, Sun King is set to illuminate the experiences of Bengaluru FC fans with a 360-degree campaign launching soon. The comprehensive campaign will not just limit itself to vivid marketing collateral but also offer Bengaluru FC aficionados a golden opportunity to meet their favourite players, such as Sunil Chhetri, India’s all-time top goal scorer and world number three top goal scorer after Messi and Ronaldo at the international level. Select lucky Sun King customers will also get free tickets to witness the positively electric atmosphere of a live match in Sree Kanteerava Stadium, aptly dubbed the Fortress.

    A shared commitment to community and environment

    Unlike many clubs in India with a long heritage, Bengaluru FC was established only in July 2013. Yet, its swift rise as a powerhouse in Indian football is undeniable. Similarly, Sun King, founded in 2009, rapidly ascended as a significant player in the Indian electrical and solar sector. With their pioneering spirit and entrepreneurial flair, both brands naturally complement one another.

    Sun King delivers green electrical solutions, helping communities enhance their surroundings with clean solar energy and energy-efficient fans, lights, and light bulbs, helping families and businesses make affordable, green, and smart choices.

    Through its ‘For The Planet’ initiative, Bengaluru FC ardently advocates for the adoption of renewable energy, given the mounting concerns of electricity shortages in various parts of India. Emphasising the immense potential of solar energy, the club underscores that solar panels can efficiently produce power even on overcast days, with long-term benefits including pollution reduction, energy independence, and significant return on investment. This commitment aligns seamlessly with Sun King’s dedication to advancing solar solutions, spotlighting two entities’ harmonious synergy, and championing a cleaner, more sustainable future.

    Voices of enthusiasm

    Surabhi Sharma, Marketing Lead for Asia at Sun King, expressed, “Aligning with Bengaluru FC represents a significant milestone. This partnership mirrors our shared values and drive for excellence. We eagerly anticipate the luminous journey ahead.”

    “Over the years, we’ve continuously strived to reduce the carbon footprint that Bengaluru FC leaves behind on the planet, and our association with Sun King is another step in that direction. We’re looking forward to collaborating with Sun King in a big way this year, and I’m eager to see all the possibilities this partnership holds,” said Darren Caldeira, Bengaluru FC’s Director of Football.

    Shining a light on Sun King products

    Sun King, a global frontrunner in off-grid solar solutions since 2009, proudly serves over 100 million users across 65 countries. Addressing Asia’s energy challenges, they’ve launched the ‘Infinity’ electrical range, targeting both urban and rural communities. This range prioritises energy efficiency, long-lasting battery life, and performance. Their LED product lineup includes a nine-watt LED bulb with a four-hour battery backup to the Trendline 20-watt LED Batten light that boasts a two-year warranty and high-lumen efficacy. With every innovation, Sun King reaffirms its dedication to quality, durability, and energy conservation.

  • FC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 official hospitality packages on sale in India

    FC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 official hospitality packages on sale in India

    Mumbai: MATCH Hospitality Asia has today confirmed that a leading sports travel agency, GainAccess Sports & Entertainment, has been appointed as its Sales Agent in India for the sale of the Official Hospitality Programme of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. The 18 edition of the tournament will take place from 12 January to 10 February 2024.

    GainAccess is one of the leading sports travel agencies in India specialising in servicing both consumer and corporate clients with travel, leisure, ticketing, hospitality programmes and accommodation services for major sporting events.

    MATCH Hospitality Asia is the exclusive global rights holder appointed by the Asian Football Confederation to produce, promote and sell, either directly or via a network of sales agents, official commercial ticket-inclusive hospitality packages for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. MATCH Accommodation Asia has also been appointed as an official accommodation agency and an official Ticket and accommodation Package provider for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

    GainAccess co-founder Rakesh Rajendran added: “GainAccess is honoured to act as an Official Sales Agent for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Official Hospitality Programme in India. Thanks to this agreement, our company will bring this territory a lot closer to the most coveted football competition in Asia”.

    GainAccess will also offer various services in conjunction with the hospitality packages, including flights, accommodation, transport and social events.

    Enrique Byrom CEO of MATCH Hospitality Asia, said, “MATCH Hospitality Asia strongly believes in the unique potential of the AFC Asian Cup 2023. I am delighted to announce our decision to appoint GainAccess in an exciting new chapter in our long-standing relationship”.  

    MATCH Hospitality Asia director John Parker said: “India represents an important territory within our overall strategic sales operations for the AFC Hospitality Programme and, working in partnership with GainAccess, we are extremely optimistic that many Indians will travel to Qatar to support their national team at the Asian Cup Qatar 2023.”  

  • Star Sports cheers for Team India to get eighth consecutive victory against Pakistan at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023

    Star Sports cheers for Team India to get eighth consecutive victory against Pakistan at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023

    Mumbai: When India and Pakistan face off in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, it’s more than just a sporting event – it’s a blockbuster that captures the hearts of millions of passionate fans. As the official broadcaster of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the Star Sports Network unveils a quirky and emotionally charged campaign film that is sure to leave fans in anticipation and excitement. With India maintaining a perfect record against Pakistan in the ODI Cricket World Cup, having won all seven encounters between the two sides, the upcoming clash set for 14 October 2023, promises to be a mouth-watering battle that the world eagerly awaits.

    The campaign highlights India’s ‘Wait for Eight,’ as they look to maintain their unblemished record against Pakistan in the ODI World Cup, while acknowledging the fervent hopes of Pakistani fans for their team’s elusive victory. The film also encapsulates the emotions of Indian cricket fans who vividly remember the World Cup victories against Pakistan and eagerly anticipate another triumph. It also introduces an endearing twist as the ghost of a familiar passionate Pakistani cricket fan, still waiting for his ‘Mauka’ (opportunity) to see his team win against India in the World Cup, meets the confident Indian ghosts, symbolising the unbroken streak of victories India holds against Pakistan in ODI World Cups. The film stars none other than iconic Team India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, popular Bollywood sensation Shehnaz Gill, and stand-up comedian Akash Gupta. This exceptional ensemble cast seamlessly blends cricket and entertainment to deliver a campaign that is bound to strike a chord with fans across the globe.

    The last game between the ‘Greatest Rivals’ (India & Pakistan) in Asia Cup 2023 was the highest-rated ODI match ever, outside of World Cups. The fervour and enthusiasm surrounding the encounter between these two nations will be at all-time high as they clash at the biggest ICC event in India after more than a decade.

  • Imtiaz Ali and Raghu Rai to Judge #nofilter Photography Show

    Imtiaz Ali and Raghu Rai to Judge #nofilter Photography Show

    Mumbai: The world belongs to those who can capture its beauty. All one needs is a camera. With an aim to empower the photography community and display their talent on a grand scale, IndiGo, in collaboration with National Geographic India, announces nine finalists out of 90,000+ participants for a photography reality show, #nofilter by IndiGo. Fronted by judges Imtiaz Ali, an acclaimed film director, and Raghu Rai, a celebrated photographer, nine participants will capture the essence of India through their lenses, evoking emotions, and weaving captivating stories with each unfiltered shot. The show will premiere on 30 September at 8 p.m. on National Geographic platforms, including television and YouTube.  

    Set against the backdrop of Delhi’s vibrant streets, the participants will face various challenges that showcase the city’s rich tapestry of life. In their quest to claim the coveted title of the show’s best photographer, judges Imtiaz Ali and Raghu Rai will challenge each one of them to explore the iconic locations of Delhi under specific themes, capturing the most powerful, unfiltered photo essays. In each episode, the participants will immerse themselves in the city’s true emotions, turning their lenses towards Old Delhi’s bustling streets, traditional kitchens, women in uniform after work, and the captivating charm and chaos of the bazaars that offer a window into the spirit of the city itself. As the judges determine the fate of each participant, they will be seen engaging in an in-depth discussion about every entry and will reveal the episodic winner.

    “National Geographic has always held a distinctive and revered position in the world of photography. Our innovative visual storytelling with iconic imagery has been a source of inspiration for our audience for 135 years. Through #nofilterbyIndiGo, we are excited to empower the photographers’ community to share their unadulterated, inspiring, yet beautiful stories. In addition to that, having two renowned personalities from the realms of photography and filmmaking as judges, we anticipate this show will raise the bar for photography excellence,” said a National Geographic spokesperson.

    “As a filmmaker, I share a deep passion for the camera, and I believe that photography is a powerful means of storytelling. I’m thrilled to witness these talented photographers come together and compete with unfiltered creativity. Serving as a judge alongside the prolific Raghu Rai, we shoulder the responsibility of handpicking the most exceptional shots. My gratitude goes out to National Geographic and IndiGo for providing a platform that not only celebrates the art of photography but also fosters the growth of emerging talent,” said Imtiaz Ali.

    “India is a country of diverse cultures and landscapes, and photography is perhaps the best way to share the beauty of the country with everyone. As part of our #IndiaByIndiGo initiative, the #nofilter partnership between IndiGo and Nat Geo celebrates the diversity of India and the passion of the photographers who bring it to life. We look forward to the episodes with our 9 finalists and wish them great success.” said  IndiGo CDIO Neetan Chopra.

    A community-building initiative for passionate photographers, #nofilter by IndiGo began in May 2023. Below are the nine entrants who have been shortlisted for the four-part series.

    Riya David, Fashion Photographer

    Madhur Nangia, Landscape & Travel Photographer

    Pubarun Basu, Documentary Photographer

    Anju Mishra, Engineer & Photography Enthusiast

    Smita Goyal, IT Professional & Photography Enthusiast

    Harsh Kharwar, Wedding Photographer

    Ayshi Roy, Street & Documentary Photographer

    Rayan Hussain, Tour Guide & Travel Photographer

    Shyam Madhavan, Businessman, Content Creator & Photographer

    #nofilter by IndiGo will premiere on National Geographic in India at 8 PM on 30 September 2023 and the episodes will air every Saturday thereafter.

  • GainAccess Sports & Entertainment appointed as official sales agent for AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 hospitality in India

    GainAccess Sports & Entertainment appointed as official sales agent for AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 hospitality in India

    Mumbai: MATCH Hospitality Asia has confirmed that leading sports travel agency, GainAccess Sports & Entertainment, has been appointed as its sales agent in India for the sale of the official hospitality programme of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. The 18th edition of the tournament will take place from 12 January to 10 February 2024.

    GainAccess is one of the leading sports travel agency in India specialising in servicing both consumer and corporate clients with travel, leisure, ticketing, hospitality programmes and accommodation services for major sporting events.

    MATCH Hospitality Asia is the exclusive global rights holder appointed by the Asian Football Confederation to produce, promote and sell, either directly or via a network of sales agents, official commercial ticket-inclusive hospitality packages for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. MATCH Accommodation Asia has also been appointed as an official accommodation agency and an official Ticket & Accommodation Package provider for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

    GainAccess co-founder Rakesh Rajendran added: “GainAccess is honoured to act as an Official Sales Agent for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Official Hospitality Programme in India. Thanks to this agreement, our company will bring this territory a lot closer to the most coveted football competition in Asia”.

    GainAccess will also offer various services in conjunction with the hospitality packages, including flights, accommodation, transport and social events.

    MATCH Hospitality Asia CEO Enrique Byrom said: “MATCH Hospitality Asia strongly believes in the unique potential of the AFC Asian Cup 2023. I am delighted to announce our decision to appoint GainAccess in an exciting new chapter in our long-standing relationship”.  

    MATCH Hospitality Asia director John Parker said: “India represents an important territory within our overall strategic sales operations for the AFC Hospitality Programme and, working in partnership with GainAccess, we are extremely optimistic that many Indians will travel to Qatar to support their national team at the Asian Cup Qatar 2023.”

  • ‘Filmy Masala’ premieres on News9 Plus Lounge

    ‘Filmy Masala’ premieres on News9 Plus Lounge

    Mumbai: Get ready to embark on a cinematic culinary journey like no other as News9 Lounge proudly presents ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala,’ a groundbreaking series hosted by the charismatic chef Kunal Kapur. This isn’t just your ordinary cooking show; it’s a blockbuster extravaganza where the enchanting world of Bollywood meets the delectable wonders of Indian cuisine.

    In ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala,’ viewers will be treated to an enchanting fusion of two great Indian passions: food and cinema. Each episode unfolds as a three-course gastronomic adventure, where iconic Indian dishes are brought to life by drawing inspiration from unforgettable moments in the world of silver screen magic. Chef Kunal Kapur, renowned for his culinary prowess, takes centre stage to unravel the secrets behind these iconic dishes, all while sharing captivating backstories, anecdotes, and enchanting tales. The entire experience is enriched with dazzling animated stories that captivate the imagination.

    ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala’ promises to be a sensory spectacle that tantalizes taste buds, tugs at heartstrings, and fills the soul with the warmth of nostalgic Bollywood moments. Ordinary ingredients will transform into extraordinary masterpieces under the expert hands of chef Kunal Kapur, who weaves together the magic of Bollywood with the art of cooking. Infused with iconic Bollywood dialogues, expert commentary, and intriguing fun facts, ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala’ is a symphony of Flavors, emotions, and cherished memories.

    Speaking on the association with News9 Plus Lounge, Hamdard Laboratories India chief sales and marketing officer Mansoor Ali said “It’s a delight to be associated with News9 Plus Lounge’s ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala’ with Chef Kunal Kapur. The delight is doubled, as Chef Kunal is also associated with us as brand ambassador for Hamdard Khaalis Spices. The show is a deadly combination of Bollywood masala and ‘khane’ ke masale, as it brings to you the magic of the recipes created in some of the most memorable Hindi movies based on food. Relive your love for food with the characters in these movies and recreate the magic of heritage cuisine with Hamdard Khaalis Masale in your kitchens! Happy viewing.”

    Whether you’re a gourmet guru, a passionate cinephile, or simply someone with an appetite for exceptional entertainment, ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala’ offers a backstage pass to the most entertaining culinary show on the planet.

    Prepare to be captivated, educated, and satiated as ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala’ makes its grand debut. Tune in to experience a show where every dish tells a story, and every story is a feast for the senses. Your taste buds will dance, your heart will sing, and you’ll be left craving for more. Lights, Camera, Cooking!

    ‘Hamdard Khaalis Filmy Masala’ streaming now exclusively on News9 Plus Lounge.

    https://www.news9plus.com/webseries/filmy-masala

  • Sony SAB and the Indian Cancer Society empower women against breast cancer stigma

    Sony SAB and the Indian Cancer Society empower women against breast cancer stigma

    Mumbai: In an unprecedented collaboration, Sony SAB has teamed up with the Indian Cancer Society (ICS) to tackle a pressing and often unspoken issue – breast cancer. In a society where fear and embarrassment frequently shroud discussions about this critical health concern, Sony SAB is taking a bold step forward through its popular show, ‘Wagle Ki Duniya’, and its strategic partnership with ICS. The objective is to encourage viewers to shed their inhibitions and openly engage in conversations about breast cancer, creating awareness, self-examination and screenings leading to early detection, and ultimately saving lives. This partnership underscores Sony SAB’s commitment to fostering open dialogue on vital topics.

    Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey is a family-oriented drama that touches upon the everyday challenges faced by the quintessential Indian family. The ongoing track in the show highlights Vandana’s (portrayed by Pariva Pranati) battle against breast cancer. It aims to inspire women to overcome fear and embarrassment, as staying silent could have grave consequences. In an effort to reinforce this message, Sony SAB has joined hands with the Indian Cancer Society and is set to air a promo encouraging viewers to log on to www.indiancancersociety.org or call the helpline number 8411803040, for essential information and support related to early detection and self-examination for breast cancer. With the #shekickscancer initiative, Sony SAB hopes to address such crucial topics openly and contribute to a more healthy and aware society.

    Neeraj Vyas, Business Head, Sony SAB

    “We believe in the power of storytelling to drive awareness about critical social issues and Sony SAB is committed to touching themes that are thought-provoking and can inspire viewers to look at concerns and challenges in the most positive way. As part of the ongoing theme in Wagle Ki Duniya, we are happy to create value for our viewers by tying up with the Indian Cancer Society. We hope to create awareness and are confident that this collaboration has the potential to make a meaningful difference to women.”

    Usha Thorat Hon. secretary and managing trustee Indian Cancer Society

    “We are happy to see Sony SAB promoting open dialogue and raising awareness about a crucial issue such as breast cancer. In a time when breast cancer casts a long shadow over the lives of many, the importance of awareness and early intervention cannot be overstated. This initiative is sure to transcend beyond the TV screens and inspire many women to speak up and seek help to ensure early detection.”

     

  • Netherlands cricket team partners with Nordek as title sponsor

    Netherlands cricket team partners with Nordek as title sponsor

    Mumbai: Ahead of the much-awaited ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, the Netherlands Cricket Team ropes in Global blockchain and Web3 Payments company Nordek as its title sponsor for the upcoming ICC World Cup Cricket 2023.

    Nordek’s sponsorship of Team Netherlands (nicknamed ‘The Flying Dutchmen’) comes after a slew of major fintech and edutech players have become title sponsors in the past few years of major Cricket teams including Team India.

    Founded by Blockchain entrepreneurs Kashyap and Kishor, the company aims to capitalize on its presence in the European blockchain market.

    The European blockchain market is anticipated to witness remarkable growth, expanding from a valuation of US$ 1.2 billion in 2021 to a substantial US$ 59.1 billion by 2028.

    Nordek’s founder & promoter, Kishor and Kashyap said, “This is a great period of boom in sports especially in India, which is the fastest growing economy. With venturing into Cricket, we aim to reach out to the Global Sports Fans and students who can explore more opportunities in blockchain. Nordek strives to be the most business and consumer-friendly blockchain ecosystem for mainstream adoption of web3 payments. And, our target audiences are the ones who understand the length, breadth and depth of agility, just like their understanding of Cricket. We believe the Cricket fans would also fall in love with the fast and most EVM-compatible Network Blockchain, i.e., Nordek.”

    To this, Monica Visser, CEO of Netherlands Cricket reiterated that “With a growing business of blockchain across the world and the revolutionizing of the fintech industry, we are happy to on-board Nordek as the title sponsor. The partnership will not only build trust in the ever-evolving fintech industry but will also open new market avenues in tandem with sporting events for learning as well as growing, together”.

    With venturing into the world of Cricket, Nordek is planning to make its brand presence felt across countries where blockchain is gaining traction, including the Middle East where blockchain and technology in fintech is taking a tenfold increase. Nordek also provides education to universities and colleges on the subject called ‘blockchain’. The company provides free of cost education to more than 100 universities and colleges.

    The global blockchain market is expected to reach $56 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 56.9 per cent forecast and Nordek plans to be a major player in the market.

    Team Netherlands has arrived in India to have an acclimatisation camp in Bengaluru, where they will play a couple of local sides. Following that, they will face India and Australia in the pre-tournament warm-up matches at Thiruvananthapuram. The Dutchmen qualified for the World Cup earlier in July ahead of teams like two-time champions West Indies.