ITV

Category: Television

  • Liberty Shoes collaborates with Indian Olympic Association as ceremonial footwear partner for Indian contingent of Asian Games

    Liberty Shoes collaborates with Indian Olympic Association as ceremonial footwear partner for Indian contingent of Asian Games

    Mumbai: In a momentous announcement, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) unveiled the highly-anticipated official ceremonial attire and playing gear for the Indian contingent set to compete at the forthcoming 2023 Asian Games. The event is scheduled to take place in Hangzhou, China, from 23 September to 8 October.

    During this significant occasion, Liberty Shoes, a renowned Indian footwear brand, proudly declared its partnership with the Indian Olympics Association (IOA) as the official ceremonial footwear sponsor for the Indian contingent participating in the Asian Games 2023. With more than 600 Indian athletes poised to make their mark in China, the ambitious goal of securing 100 medals, the highest ever, looms large.

    On the occasion, Liberty officials said, “We are thrilled to be named the official footwear partner for this momentous event. The footwear, conceptualized and meticulously designed by Liberty Shoes, not only signifies our partnership but also embodies our pride in our athletes. The entire Liberty Shoes family is confident that the historic performances by Team India will result in the highest-ever medal tally at Hangzhou.”

    This exciting partnership between Liberty Shoes and the Indian Olympic Association not only marks a significant moment for the brand but also highlights the unwavering support and commitment towards India’s sporting excellence on the international stage. With the Asian Games 2023 just around the corner, the nation eagerly anticipates the stellar performances of its athletes, proudly adorned in Liberty Shoes’ specially crafted footwear.

  • Legends League Cricket ropes in Munish Rao as director of business operations

    Legends League Cricket ropes in Munish Rao as director of business operations

    Mumbai: Legends League Cricket (LLC) has expanded its team. Munish Rao has joined as the director of business operations. Legends League Cricket is focused on bringing top talent to the organization as part of its vision to create a world – class upcoming sports event. Legends League has announced its new season, which will be played in India from 18 November – 9 December.

    Rao is hands-on in sports management with over 18 years of experience, along with investment management with a strong focus on sports assets and athlete management. This experience has exposed him to developed and emerging market landscapes through his involvement in projects across India, Middle East & ASEAN. In recent years, Rao has worked with Institutions such as Bahrain Islamic Bank, CG Corp Global, Rhiti Sports, SportsKingdom, etc. He has also worked on several sports initiatives for MS Dhoni & Rohit Sharma contributing to the business development and operation of their sports ventures.

    Legends League Cricket co-founder and CEO, Raman Raheja said, “After setting a benchmark with the previous 3 seasons, we are now getting ready for the next level. Enhanced fan experience is the utmost priority and our team will work on it. Business Operation is the backbone of the smooth execution of the league. Munish brings immense experience from various aspects of operations and we are looking forward to his contribution in the business.”

    Rao said, “Legends League Cricket has created a niche for itself in the cricketing fraternity as well as the fans. I am up for a challenge to match and deliver on the promise. I am very excited to be part of Legends League Cricket, being a cricket fan myself; I look forward to this new journey and bringing new values to the whole equation”.

  • Enjoy the ultimate musical experience at home with &PrivéHD

    Enjoy the ultimate musical experience at home with &PrivéHD

    Mumbai: &PrivéHD is the home to nuanced cinema, bringing critically acclaimed films to Indian audiences. To take its offerings a notch higher, the channel had previously introduced Privé Theatre; a creative collaboration with Zee Theatre which has been mainstreaming premium theatrical content and teleplays to a worldwide audience since 2018. The synergistic aim was to keep the love for theatre alive amongst audiences, and now continuing the same legacy, the channel has announced Privé Musicals, another collaboration with Zee Theatre. Through the new property, the channel and Zee Theatre will co-present musical plays that are timeless classics and some even have been inspirations for blockbuster Hollywood films.

    Privé Musicals offer a form of entertainment that appeals to those seeking high-quality performances, refined storytelling, and a sophisticated theatre experience. It creates its relevance in the present time by incorporating contemporary themes, modern music styles, and relevant storylines. Musicals are a treat for those who enjoy music in all its forms. These include classics like ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Peter Pan Live!’, ‘Billy Elliot: The Musical’ and ‘Hairspray Live!’.

    Speaking about this new initiative, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd chief channel officer – English cluster Rishi Parekh shared, “Since its inception, we at &PrivéHD, have been committed to delivering differentiated and niche content to the TV-viewing audience and after introducing World Box Office and Privé Theatre, our next step in this direction is Privé Musicals. This new IP will host some of the most renowned musical plays on the channel, which must be on the bucket list of both music and theatre lovers. Musicals like ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Peter Pan Live!’, ‘Billy Elliot: The Musical’ and ‘Hairspray Live!’ are some evergreen classics that will be a part of our programming and our aim is to give viewers a chance to witness these masterpieces from the comfort of their homes.”

    ‘The Sound of Music’ is based on an original 1959 Broadway production which was inspired by Maria von Trapp’s, ‘The Story of the Trapp Family Singers.’  In 1965, came the iconic film starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. This version stars Grammy winner Carrie Underwood as Maria.

    ‘Peter Pan Live!’ is based on Scottish novelist and playwright J. M. Barrie’s story about a boy with a never-ending childhood. Academy award winner Christopher Walke plays Captain Hook while Critics’ Choice Award nominee Allison Williams stars as Peter Pan.

    ‘Hairspray Live’ was watched by over nine million viewers and went on to win three Emmy awards in 2016 and revolves around Tracy Turnblad, a small-town girl who becomes an overnight success after appearing on a TV dance show. The musical boasts a dream cast including marquee names like Ariana Grande and EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson.

    ‘Billy Elliot: The Musical,’ is an aspirational story set to Sir Elton John’s tunes. Set in a dreary English mining town, it traces the journey of a young boy who chooses ballet shoes over boxing gloves. It stars Elliot Hanna, Ruthie Henshall and Deka Walmsley.

    Privé Musicals resonate with the interests and sensibilities of all generations including the modern GenZs. This is a golden chance for all to enjoy the brilliance of world-renowned presentations, from the comfort of their homes, musicals that are certainly on every theatre lover’s bucket list.

    Stay tuned for more information on Privé Musicals.

  • Zee TV brings a new show – ‘Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai’

    Zee TV brings a new show – ‘Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai’

    Mumbai: Bringing stories that have resonated beautifully with Indian audiences over the last three decades, Zee TV is all set to present viewers with yet another thought-provoking fiction show – ‘Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai’. The story will take viewers to Gujarat, where amidst a vibrant Navratri celebration, a storm begins to brew within the Rajgaur family of Surat when the youngest bahu – Hetal seeks separation. This unexpected turn of events leaves Ambika, the eldest bahu devastated, as it has been her top-most priority to keep the family together. With an intense desire to disprove her sister-in-law’s belief that ‘Saas kabhi maa, aur Bahu kabhi beti nahi ban sakti’, Ambika, in a unique step, adopts a baby left at the doorstep of their family orphanage and plans to raise her – not as a beti but as a future bahu who’ll keep the family together. Produced by Guroudev Bhalla Screens LLP, this intriguing narrative is all set to keep the audience hooked as it premieres on 18 September and airs every day at 6:30 pm, only on Zee TV!

    Featuring an exciting ensemble cast of actors like Manasi Joshi Roy and Navika Kotia, the story is set in the beautiful city of Surat. Manasi Joshi Roy will be seen essaying the role of the strong-willed Ambika, who lives by the principle that naye vicharon ke saath aage badhna achha hai, lekin hume apne barson se chale aa rahe sanskaron ko kabhi nahi bhulna chahiye. She adopts Kesar at a tender age and hopes to get her married to her son with her consent, of course, when both of them are mature enough to decide for themselves. Navika Kotia, who made quite an impact with her role in English Vinglish, will be seen essaying the role of Kesar who grows up to be an affable girl. She is ambitious but knows how to balance her own dreams along with the dreams of her family. What’s more is that she has a ‘never give up’ attitude as she believes ‘ya toh jeet loge, ya toh seekh loge’.

    While the show has already created a lot of chatter on social media after its first promo went on air, Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai was recently launched in Mumbai through a captivating media experiential on the sets of the show, where the actors made an auspicious beginning through an Ambe Maa ki Maha Aarti. The leads then took the media contingent for a walk through of the sets. The experience continued with a delectable feast, where the attendees indulged in a traditional Gujarati Thali with local delicacies from Surat.

    Zee TV business head Aparna Bhosle said, “Our next fiction show revolves around a landmark step taken by a strong woman who adopts and raises a child, not as her daughter, but as someone she hopes will be her daughter-in-law in the future. Her intent is to inculcate the right values that’ll make her an ideal bahu capable of keeping the family together. Rooted in core family values and emotions that form the bedrock of our Indian culture, we hope the story connects with audiences.”

    Producer Guroudev of Guroudev Bhalla Screens LLP said, “This is our first association with Zee TV, and we are delighted to present this fresh concept. Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai is an intense family drama where a mother adopts a girl child to be her ‘Bahu’ when she grows up. The story explores what leads her to do something so unique and all that transpires after this first-of-its-kind move. We have some stellar performances on board with veterans like Manasi Joshi Roy, Gopi Desai and Dolphin Dubey playing pivotal parts and an impressive debut by Navika Kotia as the leading lady of our show. With this novel narrative, we hope to touch hearts and entertain the audience.”

    Manasi Joshi Roy said, “I’m very happy to be playing a central character in an unique show like Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai. Ambika is a layered, author-backed role that any actor would aspire to play as it enriches you as a performer. The entire gamut of emotions that Ambika goes through will make the audiences root for her throughout her journey. As an actor I’m extremely excited to get into her skin & become Ambika!”

    Navika Kotia said, I am thrilled to bag my first lead role with this show, and I will forever be grateful to Zee TV as well as my production team for giving me this opportunity. Playing Kesar is really enjoyable as I am just like her in real life when it comes to balancing work and personal life. The concept has never been explored on television before and I am sure the audience will connect with the characters as well as the message of the show that every Mother and daughter-in-law can be just like Maa Beti at the end of the day.”

    Presenting an intriguing tapestry of intense emotions and delicate human relationships, Kyunki… Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai will surely keep the audience glued to their TV screens. Tune into the show every day at 6.30 pm, starting 18 September, only on Zee TV!

     

  • Zee 24 TAAS presents ‘Govinda – re – Gopala’: A mesmerising Janmashtami celebration

    Zee 24 TAAS presents ‘Govinda – re – Gopala’: A mesmerising Janmashtami celebration

    Mumbai: Janmashtami, the radiant festival that marks the birth of Lord Krishna, holds a special place in the hearts of Indians, especially in the vibrant state of Maharashtra. Zee 24 TAAS, is thrilled to announce a spectacular Janmashtami special program, ‘Govinda – re – Gopala’, which will go on air on 7 September 2023 from 10 am onwards.  This special program will allow citizens to witness the essence of this beloved festival and its significance in Maharashtra, featuring prominent celebrities who will join in the jubilant celebrations.

    ‘Govinda – re – Gopala’ promises to be an unforgettable experience for viewers, offering a comprehensive look at the essence of Janmashtami. The on-ground reporters of Zee24 TAAS will be covering the festival’s essence from various locations across the state of Maharashtra. This vibrant program will not only explore the spiritual importance of this festival, but also provide an in-depth glimpse into how people or devotees across the state of Maharashtra come together to celebrate this auspicious day, emphasizing the unity and devotion that Janmashtami fosters.

    Viewers will also have the privilege of witnessing the darshan of their favourite celebrities in their moments of devotion during the festive celebration. Their heartfelt participation and insights into their own Janmashtami traditions will undoubtedly add an extra layer of charm and excitement to the program.

    Speaking on the relevance of the special programming, Zee 24 TAAS editor Nilesh Khare said, “Janmashtami is a time when our nation comes together to celebrate the divine birth of Lord Krishna. Mumbai epitomizes a spirit of resilience and unwavering togetherness. ‘Govinda – re – Gopala’ is our way of bringing this celestial beauty of Janmashtami closer to our viewers, allowing them to partake in the joy and devotion that Janmashtami embodies. We invite our viewers to join us in this celebration of unity, faith, and the enduring legacy of Lord Krishna. We hope this program will reinforce the cultural richness and spirituality that define our nation.”

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd. CEO Abhay Ojha further added, “At Zee Media Corporation Limited, we believe in fostering connections with our viewers through the celebration of our cultural heritage.’Govinda – re – Gopala’ is a testament to this belief, offering an immersive experience into the vibrant and soulful celebration of Janmashtami in Maharashtra. This program is a reflection of our dedication to providing not just news but also cultural enrichment. Join us as we take you on this mesmerizing journey of faith and joy, and let’s collectively celebrate the enduring legacy of Lord Krishna.”

  • Applause Entertainment partners with Zindagi for South Asian content

    Applause Entertainment partners with Zindagi for South Asian content

    Mumbai: In a groundbreaking move, Applause Entertainment and Zindagi have joined forces to energise investment in South Asian content creation. Sameer Nair and Shailja Kejriwal, are well-known for their significant contribution to television, with shows like Kaun Banega Crorepati, Star Bestsellers, and the Saas Bahu dramas. This partnership marks their reunion after more than a decade.

    This alliance is a game-changer in the rapidly evolving global entertainment landscape, marking a significant shift in the ever-changing entertainment industry, aiming to produce a wide range of South Asian narratives across genres that connect with today’s diverse global audience.

    Sameer Nair, a stalwart in the media and entertainment industry and managing director of Applause Entertainment, renowned for acclaimed series like Criminal Justice, City of Dreams, and the Scam franchise stated: “Working with Shailja Kejriwal is like revisiting a cherished chapter of our creative journey. Our shared vision and passion for storytelling have always been the driving force of our partnership. Now, with the world as our canvas and the OTT stage as our platform, we’re thrilled to collaborate once more, bringing the rich tapestry of South Asian content to a global audience.”

    Shailja Kejriwal, a well-known name in television and content curation, chief creative officer of special projects at Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd recognised for introducing stars like Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan to India with iconic dramas Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Humsafar and subsequently creating originals like Churails, Dhoop Ki Deewar, Qatil Haseenaon Ke Naam said, “Reuniting with Sameer after a decade is like homecoming for me and I’m thrilled to team up with him in this new era of content creation. Zindagi’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of South Asian storytelling backed by Punit Goenka’s vision & continued support has remained unwavering. With Sameer’s pioneering spirit and the legacy of iconic shows, coupled with Applause Entertainment’s innovative zest, we’re poised to create content that not only resonates across borders but sets new benchmarks in South Asian storytelling.”

    The collaboration of Applause Entertainment and Zindagi marks the beginning of an era of innovative global projects. Sameer and Shailja’s previously remarkable collaboration at Star Plus and Imagine stands as a testament to their creative brilliance.

  • IOA unveils uniquely designed ceremonial dress and player kit for 19th Asian Games

    IOA unveils uniquely designed ceremonial dress and player kit for 19th Asian Games

    Mumbai: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA), on Tuesday, unveiled the much-anticipated official ceremonial dress and playing kit for the Indian contingent that will compete at the forthcoming 2022 Asian Games scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, China from 23 September 23 to 8 October.

    IOA also conducted a glittering send-off ceremony which was graced by the union minister for information & broadcasting and youth affairs & sports Anurag Singh Thakur, IOA president and legendary sprinter PT Usha along with other senior officials.

    The Indian contingent was represented by Indian hockey goalkeepers PR Sreejesh (men), Savita Punia (women), shooting sensation Manu Bhaker and 2018 Asian Games shot put gold medallist Tajinderpal Singh Toor among sportspersons from many other disciplines.

    Conceived and uniquely designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology, the ceremonial dress includes a khaki textured saree for women and khaki kurta for the male players.

    The bandhgala jacket of male athletes and the high neck blouse for the women seamlessly blends Indian motifs and prints with quintessential Indian silhouettes that represents the rich cultural tapestry of India on the global stage. The attire embraces nature with recycled fabrics that promotes sustainability.

    Speaking on the occasion Anurag Singh Thakur commented, “It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of pride and identity for our athletes. The uniform proudly represents India’s self-reliance and showcases the country’s diverse heritage and design leadership. I am confident that as much as the team will represent the young and new India; we will ensure historic performances and return with the best medal count. I urge the country to stand behind our athletes and cheer for them.”

    The playing kit, crafted by JSW Inspire, official sport apparel partner of the contingent, is designed by the talented Kashmiri designer Aaquib Wani who has also designed the Indian cricket team jersey. It is inspired by the country’s varied art forms that serves as a visual ode to the incredible diversity and unity that defines India, ensuring that every athlete carries a piece of their home state with them onto the field.

    IOA President Dr. PT Usha said she expects every member of the contingent to make the best effort to make India proud. “We have waited long for the 2022 Asian Games and are delighted that India is sending its largest contingent of 634 athletes. We believe that this squad has the potential to get India its best medal haul as well,” she said.

    “In the IOA, we have made every effort to place the athlete in the centre of our universe and ensure that they are well looked after.”

    With 33 members, rowing has the largest unit after athletics going to Hangzhou to stake claim at the medal. Meanwhile, a 15-member Esports team will also be at the Asian Games as the event makes its official debut.  

    The Indian contingent clinched 70 medals, including 16 gold, in the last edition of the Asian Games held in 2018.

    JSW Inspire, Reliance Foundation, Adani Sportsline and Samsonite are the principal sponsors to Team India for the 2022 Asian Games while Borosil, Skechers, Amul, SFA, Inox Group and The Leela palace hotels and resorts have joined hands as the associate sponsors and partners.

  • Warner Bros. Discovery unveils September kids’ channel line-up

    Warner Bros. Discovery unveils September kids’ channel line-up

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery Kids entertainment channels – Cartoon Network, POGO, and Discovery Kids – are gearing up for an action-packed September, filled with thrilling adventures, new series, and exciting episodes. Brace yourself for a month-long journey that promises something for fans of all ages, as we usher in a September filled with superheroes, festive celebrations, and pure entertainment. Starting the month with a manga bonanza, Cartoon Network introduces ‘My Hero Academia’ in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam with a thrilling ‘Super Sunday’ premiere on 10 September at 1:00 PM.

    The might of Manga royalty lands on Cartoon Network

    Get ready to be thrilled this September as Cartoon Network unveils its latest anime show, ‘My Hero Academia.’ The show promises an exhilarating journey of Izuku Midoriya into a world where “Heroes” and “Quirks” take center stage. From being “Quirkless” to earning a coveted spot at U.A. High School—an esteemed institution for aspiring heroes, the series will surely take the excitement a level up for all manga fans.

    Festivities begin with Janmashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations!

    To celebrate the upcoming Janmashtami festival, Cartoon Network has prepared a special treat for you. Starting on Thursday, 7 September, the channel is all set to kickstart an exciting month with a special “Swag of Titans” as ‘Teen Titans Go!’ will light up your screens at 9 am.

    POGO also invites kids to join the fun with a delightful Janmashtami lineup with the royal adventures of Baby Little Singham in a special – ‘Baby Little Singham Royal Rajasthan Adventure’. Additionally, fans will get to celebrate the birth of Little Krishna with the ‘Janmashtami with Bheem, Little Singham & Little Krishna’ special only on POGO on 6 & 7 September at 11:30 am. That’s not it! Discovery Kids will also join in the Janmashtami festivities with the thrilling premiere of ‘Kris aur Aflatoon Africa’ on Wednesday, 6 September, at 11:30 am and 7:30 pm, followed by a special movie ‘Krishna aur Kans’ on Thursday, 7 September, at 11:30 am and 7:30 pm.

    The next phase of festivities begins with a Ganesh Chaturthi line-up across channels. Discovery Kids will provide families and kids the opportunity to celebrate with ‘Family Time with Kris’ starting from 18 till 22 September, Monday to Friday, at 12:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Additionally, little fans will get to immerse themselves in the joyous spirit with ‘Ganesh Chaturthi with Chhota Bheem’ and ‘Little Singham’ from 18 to 29 September, Monday to Friday, at 1:00 pm and 7:30 pm only on POGO.

    84th Batman day celebrations begins!

    Make sure to mark your calendars for    

    the very exciting Batman Day on Saturday, 16 September, a celebration dedicated to the iconic caped crusader. Tune in at 6:30 pm for a special treat as Cartoon Network airs ‘Batman: The Animated Series’, a timeless classic that will delight fans of all ages with its thrilling adventures.

    Live-action avatar of Bean Arrives on Discovery Kids

    Get ready for a comedic blast from the past and a delightful surprise for the young fans as Mr. Bean, the beloved live-action character, makes a triumphant return to television! Starting on 9 September, Discovery Kids will be airing the timeless adventures of Mr. Bean every weekend at 8:30 pm. Mark your calendars for this family-friendly journey into the wacky world of Mr. Bean.

    Don’t miss out on the adventure, laughter, and excitement that awaits you this September on Cartoon Network, POGO, and Discovery Kids. Get ready for a month filled with fun and entertainment!”

  • Rahul Shivshankar starts his new innings with a column on News18

    Rahul Shivshankar starts his new innings with a column on News18

    Mumbai: Noted TV news personality Rahul Shivshankar, who joined Network18 as a consulting editor on Monday, has started his innings at the network with a column on news18.com.

    The article titled, ‘Bharat’s Question for the G20: Are Some Global Concerns More Equal Than Others?’, explores the prioritisation of global concerns by the G20, emphasising that not all critical issues receive equal attention. The article calls for a more balanced approach, stressing the need to address various global concerns, including social and economic disparities, with equal urgency to achieve a fair and sustainable world order.

    A news industry veteran with nearly three decades of experience in print and television journalism, Rahul cut his teeth in the profession as a reporter for The Times of India. He was one of the youngest leader-writers for the edit page of the newspaper. When Times Now launched, he was a part of its founding team. He then went on to become the face of the channel as well as its editor.

    At Network18, he will add a strong digital dimension to his body of work and add further lustre to the star cast of anchors, reporters, editors, and commentators.

    Rahul has received critical acclaim for his coverage of the 26/11 Mumbai Terror attacks. He was invited to contribute to an anthology of investigative narratives about the attacks published by Roli Books. He has also authored a soon-to-be-released book on the 2024 Elections, commissioned by Penguin Random House.

     

  • NDTV Rajasthan launches on 5 September

    NDTV Rajasthan launches on 5 September

    Mumbai: NDTV Rajasthan, NDTV’s second regional channel, launches on 5 September 2023.

    The regional channel and website https://rajasthan.ndtv.in/ brings NDTV’s legacy of trust to the ‘land of kings,’ the largest state by area in India.

    NDTV will bring its 35 years of journalism to the state, promising to go beyond politics. Our focus on ground reports will give the public that much-needed voice. Our focus on hyper-local utility news, on issues that matter to the youth, on gender and climate, incisive coverage of the cities and villages, NDTV’s legacy of covering elections from the ground and intelligent analysis gives the regional channel a global touch. Our channel will focus on the rich cultural diversity of the state, its history, music, dance, entrepreneurship and language.

    NDTV’s executive director and editor-in-chief Sanjay Pugalia reiterated the company’s commitment to journalism of trust.

    “Our decision to go regional stems from our desire to provide hyper-local, relevant news to people living in Rajasthan. Our reporters and stringers will ensure no region, city or village feels alienated from the capital.”

    Adding to the sentiment, NDTV’s executive director Senthil Chengalvarayan added, “The launch of NDTV Rajasthan comes at a time when news has increasingly become limited to politics and not much else. We want to change  this  and ensure  every citizen of Rajasthan feels that their voice matters.”

    NDTV Rajasthan will be available on leading local cable and DTH networks.

    Follow and subscribe to our handles:

    On Youtube: @NDTVRajasthan
    On Twitter: @NDTV_Rajasthan
    On Facebook: @NDTVRajasthanOfficial

    NDTV Rajasthan and NDTV Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh mark the beginning of NDTV’s foray into regional news, with many more launches planned in the next few months.