ITV

Category: Television

  • CNBC-TV18 books full profit in business news with 90 per cent share

    CNBC-TV18 books full profit in business news with 90 per cent share

    MUMBAI: When it comes to business news, CNBC-TV18 isn’t just reporting the market, it is the market. The channel has pulled in a staggering 89.8 per cent market share in the English Business News segment, according to the latest BARC India data (Week 26’25–29’25 | TG: 22–40 Male | Mega Cities | All Day). That means nearly 9 out of every 10 viewers tuned into English business news are watching CNBC-TV18 leaving its competitors fighting over scraps.

    It’s a commanding lead in a genre the channel has owned for 25 years. From the dot-com bubble to the post-COVID recovery, CNBC-TV18 has kept its audience ahead of the curve, and the latest data reaffirms that legacy of dominance.

    What’s fuelling this near-monopoly? It’s a steady mix of cutting-edge reportage, market-moving insights, and flagship shows like Bazaar Open Exchange, Bazaar Morning Call, Closing Bell, and India Business Hour. These programmes have become essential viewing for India’s business decision-makers whether they’re behind a Bloomberg terminal or a kirana counter eyeing the Sensex.

    Anchored by a seasoned team of journalists and trusted by a who’s who of CEOs, policymakers, and retail investors, CNBC-TV18 is more than a channel, it’s where India’s business day begins and ends. Its influence stretches beyond viewership, shaping investment strategies, boardroom decisions, and the national business narrative.

    Even as rivals scramble to differentiate themselves, CNBC-TV18 continues to expand its lead, showing week-on-week growth and innovation. The channel’s commitment to sharp analysis, uncluttered storytelling, and forward-looking coverage has made it the de facto nerve centre for business content in the country.

    As India navigates an increasingly volatile economic landscape, CNBC-TV18 remains the one constant distilling complex numbers into actionable insight, with nearly 90 per cent of the business news audience voting with their remotes.

    If business news were a stock, CNBC-TV18 would be the bluest of blue chips.

     

  • Shaadi, shots and showdowns as colors serves up a spicy new reality dish

    Shaadi, shots and showdowns as colors serves up a spicy new reality dish

    MUMBAI: Move over roses and violins Colors is gatecrashing dinner with a side of drama, as it unveils its first ever real-ationship reality show, Pati Patni Aur Panga – Jodiyon Ka Reality Check. Premiering on 2nd August, this shaadi-meets-showdown series will air every Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 pm, promising a generous dollop of laughter, love, and ludicrous household fights.

    Fresh off the finale of Laughter Chefs, the channel has traded spoons for squabbles, roping in seven celebrity couples to bring their private quirks to primetime. These aren’t rehearsed roles, they’re raw, real, and ready to air their laundry (possibly quite literally) in front of the nation.

    The show features a power-packed lineup of couples, Debinna Bonnerjee–Gurmeet Choudhary, Hina Khan–Rocky Jaiswal, Rubina Dilaik–Abhinav Shukla, Avika Gor–Milind Chandwani, Swara Bhasker–Fahad Ahmad, Geeta Phogat–Pawan Kumar, and Sudesh Lehri–Mamta Lehri. From love to laughter and every little panga in between, these jodis bring their quirks, chaos and chemistry to the screen.  

    The show’s glossy, high-energy finish owes much to the behind-the-scenes crew that stitched it all together. Director of photography Tribhuvan Babu lends a vibrant visual grammar to the episodes, while Swapnil Patole, Chief Colourist at the Independent Colourists Guild (ICG), ensures every frame carries emotional weight and tonal harmony. Technical finesse is handled by DI Technician Sachin More, Line Producer Sameer Shaikh, and DI Colour Assistant Kiran Gulgule, with Famous Studios Ltd leading post-production duties. Together, the team brings a cinematic sheen to the dinner-table chaos that unfolds in every episode.

    On the brand front, the show has attracted a wide swathe of consumer-facing names as sponsors each with a strategic reason to align with a format rooted in everyday intimacy and relatability. Nivea, as presenting sponsor, ties in seamlessly with themes of care, comfort, and authenticity, reflecting the emotional subtext of the show. Sugar Free Green, Rajdhani Besan, Cadbury Dairy Milk, and Pour Home Air Fresheners are all brands woven into the domestic fabric of Indian households just like the show’s celebrity couples navigating real-life love and laundry. Supporting brands like Envy Perfumes, Vikram Tea, Colgate, and Catch Masale see the high-engagement, weekend primetime slot as a direct route to the hearts and kitchens of Indian families. For these partners, ROI isn’t just about impressions or TRPs; it’s about cultural salience, brand recall, and showing up where the emotion is most real right between a laugh, a fight, and a plate of hot pakoras.

    Hosting this panga-packed party are Sonali Bendre, bringing poise and patience, and Munawar Faruqui, the designated “towel crime” police and chaos coordinator. Dubbed The Sonu-Monu Show by the crew, their repartee is already the stuff of reality-TV legend, a mix of zingers, comebacks, and cringe confessions.

    Behind all the glam, the show peels back layers of public personas to reveal unfinished sentences, kitchen fails, love languages, and one-word replies that spark weeklong sulks. Viewers are invited to peek behind the velvet curtains of celebrity marriages from ridiculous pet names to strategic foot rubs and witness the delicate art of surviving, thriving and occasionally fighting in love.

    To up the stakes, family members and housekeepers also chime in with their versions of truth bombs, making this not just a couples show but a full house of fun and friction.

    Speaking about the channel’s pivot to deeper emotional territory, Alok Jain of JioStar said, “We’ve always led from the front in non-fiction formats, and Pati Patni Aur Panga is our next big bet. This isn’t just content, it’s connection, showing the real, raw parts of celeb relationships that mirror our own homes.”

    Shweta Dalal, Marketing Director of Nivea India, added, “This show mirrors the same values we believe in care, trust, and authenticity. We’re thrilled to be part of a format that speaks so honestly to everyday companionship.”

    Sonali Bendre, returning to TV in a more emotionally hands-on avatar, shared, “This is not just about tasks or points. It’s about catching those in-between moments the real stuff that makes or breaks a relationship. And Munawar brings the madness to my method!”

    Munawar Faruqui, never one to hold back, quipped, “Main hoon yahan ka certified panga maker. I say what most husbands are thinking but are too scared to say out loud and I love every awkward second of it.”

    So if you’re ready for a hearty laddu of shaadi reality, not just the goals, but the gaffes too mark your calendars. Pati Patni Aur Panga is not your average reality show; it’s reality in all its messy, mushy, magnificent glory. Premieres 2 August, Saturdays & Sundays at 9:30 pm only on Colors.

     

  • News18 India leaves rivals behind with top TRPs and a 17 per cent lead

    News18 India leaves rivals behind with top TRPs and a 17 per cent lead

    MUMBAI: The ratings are in, and News18 India has clearly won the prime-time war no breaking news ticker needed. According to the latest BARC data (Week 29, 2025), the channel has cemented its top spot in the Hindi news genre, outpacing Aaj Tak by a wide 17 per cent margin in Average Minute Audience (AMA). News18 India recorded a market share of 13.9 per cent with 75,225 AMA’000s, while Aaj Tak trailed with 11.9 per cent and 64,332 AMA’000s. (Source: BARC | Metric: Avg. Weekly AMA’000s | TG: NCCS All 15+ | Period: Wk 29’25, 24 Hrs, All Days | Market: HSM).

    These figures reaffirm News18 India’s reign as the most-watched Hindi news channel in the country, a title it has held through a blend of editorial depth, impactful anchors, and an expansive national footprint.

    Driving this dominance is a high-octane line-up of anchors including Kishore Ajwani, Amish Devgan, Rubika Liyaquat, Prateek Trivedi, and Aman Chopra. The channel’s programming, especially around major news events, is frequently backed by real-time field reports from its wide network of correspondents, keeping the pulse of the nation at its fingertips.

    But it’s not just bodies in the field the backbone is strong in tech and storytelling. With an editorial engine bolstered by cutting-edge presentation and a viewer-first curation strategy, News18 India continues to innovate how news is consumed.

    The channel forms the flagship of the News18 Network, India’s largest news network, which boasts 14 regional channels, reaches 26 states, and broadcasts in 15 languages, offering a footprint that few can rival.

    In a fiercely competitive news market, News18 India’s latest numbers show that it’s not just breaking news, it’s breaking away from the pack.

  • CNN-News18 remains undisputed leader of English News Genre

    CNN-News18 remains undisputed leader of English News Genre

    MUMBAI:  According to the latest data from the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC), CNN-News18 continues to dominate the English news genre, maintaining a strong lead of 179 per cent ahead of Times Now and 79 per cent ahead of NDTV.

    As per the latest data,  CNN-News18 has outperformed its competitors NDTV 24×7 and Times Now with a market share of  41 per cent. The market share of NDTV 24×7 stood at 22.9 per cent, while Times Now stayed at just 14.7 per cent.  (Source: BARC India | MKT: India | TG: 2+ | Period: AVG Wk 29’25 |Market share%)

    With a consistent lead over its competitors, CNN-News18 has remained the undisputed leader of the English news genre, thanks to its sharp editorial focus, credible journalism, and unmatched viewer trust.

    CNN-News18 has always been the voice of the people, bringing major public issues to the forefront. Adding to its commitment is the latest initiative, #SaveOurCities, because We The People deserve better. CNN-News18’s #SaveOurCities campaign asks the tough questions: Flooded roads, traffic chaos, potholes, piles of garbage, drainage failures, crumbling infrastructure—same problems, every monsoon.

    Speaking about CNN News18’s No.1 position and its latest initiative, Zakka Jacob, Managing Editor of CNN News18, says,  “CNN-News18 has been No.1 for the last three years now. There is no competition anywhere close to us, even in the latest BARC data. The gap between the No.1 and No.2 players is wide, and I believe this is a strong affirmation of our journalism. We put citizens’ concerns first and bring their issues and concerns to the forefront. For example, our latest initiative, #SaveOurCities, focuses on the monsoon season in Delhi, Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru, where urban infrastructure is completely failing with overflowing drains and flooded roads. This is the story of urban India, and urban India is tuning in to CNN-News18 to watch stories like these.”
    “We are very happy with our journalism, the kind of story we do, and we are delighted that our viewers are accepting this. The numbers reflected in the BARC ratings, where we continue to hold the No.1 spot, are proof of that,” he added.

    Led by award-winning journalists like Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar and Shivani Gupta, the channel has maintained its number one position in the English news genre since the resumption of BARC ratings in March 2022. In order to maintain CNN-News18’s position far ahead of its competitors, the News18 network has made substantial investments in technology and editorial resources.

     

  • Zee TV brings big relief to the middle class this monsoon

    Zee TV brings big relief to the middle class this monsoon

    MUMBAI: The Indian middle-class family runs on the unshakeable values of bachat, budget, ration, EMIs, and month-end jugaad. Every rupee matters; whether it’s choosing a sim recharge over a snack or holding back on a purchase to save for the future. In this world, ₹2 may seem trivial to some, but for a middle-class person, it holds real weight.

    Zee TV, through its renewed brand philosophy Aapka Apna Zee TV, resonates deeply with these lived experiences. And through its recently launched fiction show Tumm Se Tumm Tak, it brought to life a character like Anu — a girl rooted in practicality, self-respect, and middle-class sensibilities. In a moment that struck a chord with viewers, Anu argued with a rickshaw driver over ₹2 change, firmly saying: “Agar ek crore mein do rupaye kam ho gaye, toh woh ek crore nahi hota.” This moment stayed with Aryavardhan, the male lead, and changed his outlook — leading him to launch a product with a ₹2 discount on mobile recharge, which ultimately transformed his telecommunication business.

    An extension to this thought, Zee TV’s latest initiative brings a heartfelt gesture to the streets of Mumbai, Delhi, and Lucknow, distributing raincoats for just ₹2 to women and daily-wage earners who brave the rains every day. For many, especially women, walking around in drenched clothes can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing. More than a distribution drive, this is about empathy, making a necessity accessible while preserving dignity and a sense of ownership. That ₹2 isn’t just symbolic; it’s a powerful nod to the reality that ₹2 bhi bohot badi cheez hoti hai.

    Adding authenticity to the campaign, actor Niharika Chouksey, who plays Anu in Tumm Se Tumm Tak, joined the initiative in Mumbai. Her character and her iconic line mirrors the philosophy behind this entire drive.

    Zee TV chief channel officer, Mangesh Kulkarni said, “At Zee TV, we believe entertainment is only one part of our connection with the audience. The real bond is built on shared experiences, emotions, and mutual care. With our brand philosophy ‘Aapka Apna Zee TV’, we wanted to step into the lives of our viewers in a more tangible way. The ₹2 raincoat drive is a heartfelt gesture that brings our care for the audience to life. With this, we’re not just telling stories; we’re living our values.”

    Niharika Chouksey, aka Anu from Tumm Se Tumm Tak, shared: “I am honoured to be a part of this initiative by Zee TV. As Anu, and even in real life, I’ve seen how small things can make a big difference. For many women working through the rains, a simple raincoat isn’t just protection; it’s a layer of comfort and dignity. And when it comes at just ₹2, it becomes a powerful reminder that even the smallest amount can make a big difference — because ₹2 bhi bohot badi cheez hoti hai.”

  • Ajit Varghese exits JioStar less than a year into top revenue role

    Ajit Varghese exits JioStar less than a year into top revenue role

    MUMBAI: Ajit Varghese has quit as head of revenue, entertainment and international at JioStar, the Reliance–Disney joint venture created in November 2024. His departure, confirmed via an internal memo, comes under a year after he was brought in to drive monetisation across television, digital and overseas businesses.

    Mahesh Shetty, currently head of  revenue for the 90 plus channels and JioHotstar for large client universe which acounts for more than 80 per cent of the platform’s income will take charge of the entertainment revenue mandate. A Viacom18 alumnus, Shetty has more than 20 years’ experience in media sales, including a stint as head of network sales.

    Varghese, a veteran with over three decades in advertising and media, joined Disney Star in January 2023 to head network sales before moving to JioStar. He earlier led monetisation at ShareChat and Moj, and spent over a decade at WPP, where he rose to global president of Wavemaker.

    He was recently awarded with an Indian Telly Award for his performance as head of revenue. 
    Industry watchers are now keenly awaiting Varghese’s next move, given his track record of steering businesses through transformation across agencies, broadcasters and digital platforms.

  • Zee TV UK’s watch party for “ChhoriyyanChali Gaon” delivers laughter, nostalgia, and rave reviews

    Zee TV UK’s watch party for “ChhoriyyanChali Gaon” delivers laughter, nostalgia, and rave reviews

    MUMBAI: Zee TV UK hosted an exclusive Watch Party in Central London, offering a first look at its latest reality show ChhoriyyanChali Gaon (Beauties Goes to Village). The invite-only event welcomed over 35 guests from media, entertainment, and business, and delivered an evening filled with laughter, nostalgia, and heartfelt connection.

    This event marks a first-of-its-kind initiative in the UK by any Indian television channel — a curated preview held a full week before the show’s official launch, underscoring Z’s commitment to innovation and audience engagement. The gesture was not just bold — it was precocious, setting the tone for a new era of immersive content experiences.

    Guests were treated to a preview of the show’s first four contestants, whose journey from city life to village challenges sparked surprise, admiration, and plenty of laughter. From fetching water to cooking on mud stoves, the women’s experiences will resonate deeply with the audience, many of whom shared their own village memories during the evening and got emotional.

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. president – International Business, Amit Goenka stated, “Z has always stood at the forefront of innovation, and with ‘ChhoriyyanChali Gaon’, we are proud to pioneer a format that blends entertainment with cultural authenticity. This is not just a show — it’s a movement that reconnects our global audiences with the soul of India. Hosting a preview event in the UK, ahead of the official launch, is a bold step that reflects our commitment to creating immersive, meaningful experiences. We are proud to be the first Indian broadcaster to do so, and we believe this marks the beginning of a new chapter in culturally rooted storytelling.”

    Hosted by Parul Goel, Territory Head of Zee Entertainment UK Ltd, the event featured gourmet starters and light drinks, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. A special video message from the deputy CEO and chief financial officer of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, India, Mukund Galgali, added gravitas, highlighting Z’s commitment to bold, culturally rich storytelling.

    The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees expressed that audiences are craving something new — a break from the repetitive reality formats that lack innovation or cultural depth. ChhoriyyanChali Gaon was hailed as a refreshing concept that reconnects Indians abroad with their roots, offering both entertainment and emotional resonance.

    Attendees praised the show’s concept for reconnecting Indians abroad with their roots and expressed excitement for upcoming episodes. “Only Z could come up with something so real, so entertaining, and so close to home,” was a common sentiment. Guests left with smiles, stories, and genuine excitement for the episodes to come.

    The evening concluded with warm wishes for the show’s success and appreciation for Z’s innovative programming. ChhoriyyanChali Gaon is poised to become a cultural bridge — one that entertains while celebrating the essence of Indian village life. The show is launching on 3 August at 9pm. 

  • CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India celebrate India’s champions on the most coveted SME Awards platform

    CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India celebrate India’s champions on the most coveted SME Awards platform

    MUMBAI: CNBC-TV18, in partnership with HSBC India, successfully concluded Season 2 of the HSBC Presents CNBC-TV18 SME Champion Awards, a celebration of the resilience, innovation, and ambition powering India’s small and medium enterprises. Held on July 25, 2025, at the iconic Taj Mahal, New Delhi, the ceremony marked the grand culmination of a six-month journey recognising exceptional businesses that are not only navigating challenges but also actively shaping the future of the Indian economy.

    The evening opened with a welcome note from Shereen Bhan, Managing Editor, CNBC-TV18, who reiterated the network’s longstanding commitment to spotlighting India’s real economy. “It is a privilege to open Season 2 of the HSBC Presents CNBC-TV18 SME Champion Awards, a platform dedicated to celebrating the true engines of India’s economic momentum. Small and medium enterprises are not just businesses; they are drivers of employment, innovation, and resilience. Over the last few years, SMEs have navigated challenges with determination—from pandemic disruptions to global supply chain shifts, and have continued to grow, adapt, and lead. At CNBC-TV18, we believe it is crucial to tell their stories, spotlight their success, and ensure they get the recognition they truly deserve. Today is about honouring that spirit—the spirit of Indian entrepreneurship that builds from the ground up and aspires for global scale. These awards are a celebration of that journey, and we’re proud to champion the changemakers shaping tomorrow’s India.”

    The keynote address was delivered by the Guest of Honour, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, Minister for Communications and Development of NorthEasternRegion, Government of India. Addressing an audience of entrepreneurs, policymakers, and jury members, he highlighted the importance of empowering SMEs through policy, credit, and infrastructure. “India’s true transformation is being written not in the towering glass buildings of metros alone, but in the silent, steady rise of entrepreneurs across every lane and landscape of this country. From small towns to remote villages, from hand-built workshops to digital storefronts, they are turning ideas into enterprises and ambition into impact. These are not just SMEs; they are the soul of India’s economy. What they lack in scale, they make up for in spirit. With innovation as their toolkit, resilience in their bones, and purpose lighting their path, they are reimagining what’s possible. What was once seen as local is now proudly global. And what was once called small is now leading the charge into India’s century. This is not the future; it is already underway. Today, entrepreneurs from even the most remote corners of India can brand, process, and sell their products in global markets, thanks to the power of digital infrastructure. A shining example of this is our UPI ecosystem, which has witnessed a staggering 2.16 trillion transactions annually, amounting to nearly $3 trillion. Remarkably, 46 per cent of the world’s digital transactions now originate from Bharat. This is not just digital progress, it’s digital leadership,” he remarked.

    Guest of Honour, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State in the ministry ofMSME; & Ministry of Labour and Employment, GoI highlighted the government’s continued focus on SMEs. “India’s SMEs are not only engines of economic growth but also vehicles of social transformation. Whether it’s rural employment, women-led ventures, or value-driven exports, SMEs are ensuring inclusive development. Platforms like the SME Champion Awards play a vital role in recognising these silent contributors and inspiring others,” she said.She further added, “MSMEs have always been at the heart of India’s development—from Mahatma Gandhi’s call to support small and cottage industries during the freedom struggle, to today’s rural entrepreneurs driving change on the ground. Today, 2.6 million women and 85 per cent SC/ST entrepreneurs are registered on the MSME portal—clear proof that even in rural India, people are stepping forward to build their own businesses and shape their own futures. As we welcome a new year, the next generation will take the lead—and many will rise from India’s MSME sector. With Indian Government support through subsidies, tech upgrades, and export incentives, MSMEs are scaling up to meet global demands. This is no longer a growing sector—it’s a transforming force. By 2047, India’s rise as a global powerhouse will be driven not just by big business, but by millions of small enterprises building boldly and inclusively.”

    The awards recognized outstanding enterprises across sectors such as manufacturing, exports, sustainability, digital transformation, and community engagement. Key highlights included the Special Jury Awards for SME Entrepreneur of the Year and SME Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, which acknowledged individuals for their resilience and innovation. Other award categories included Excellence in Tech Export Promotion, Goods Export Promotion, Community Engagement, and Sustainability Practices, which also featured a Special Jury Mention.

    Awards were presented by Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia,Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India; Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State in the ministry of MSME; & Ministry of Labour and Employment, GoIand Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary of Indiaalong with Ajay Sharma, Head – Banking, HSBC India. Jury members who attended the event and participated in the final evaluation process included Dinesh Kumar Khara,Former Chairperson, State Bank of India;Subhash Chandra Garg,Former Finance & Economic Affairs Secretary of India;B Thiagarajan, Managing Director, Blue Star Ltd; Shashank Srivastava,Member, Executive Committee, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd;Subhrakant Panda,Managing Director, Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd. and Former President, FICCI; Chandrakant Salunkhe, Founder & President, SME Chamber of India and Start-up Council of India and Manish Singhal, Secretary General, ASSOCHAM.

    A compelling fireside chat with Rajesh Kumar Singh,Defence Secretary of India, offered a strategic perspective on the role of SMEs in India’s defencesector,“Self-reliance in defense is not a destination, it is a layered process that demands trust in our own industrial base, commitment to indigenous innovation, and the courage to invest in long-term capability. From MSMEs supplying critical sub-systems to private players stepping into complex production roles, every link in the supply chain matters. We cannot afford to rely solely on imports when the next conflict may demand speed, autonomy, and resilience. The real strength of a nation lies not just in the firepower it possesses, but in its ability to design, develop, and deliver that power from within”, he remarked.

    Hitendra Dave, CEO, HSBC India, closed the evening with a strong message of support for India’s SME sector, “At HSBC, our role in the SME Champions Awards isn’t just about recognition—it’s about responsibility. Everyone talks about Viksit Bharat, but it won’t happen on slogans alone. Someone has to roll up their sleeves and do the work. Entrepreneurs need global access, and that’s where we come in,we understand international buyers, their quality expectations, payment cycles, and reliability metrics. Through partnerships like this one with CNBC-TV18, we aim to bridge the gap and help Indian SMEs become key players in global supply chains. Honestly, running a multibillion-dollar company might just be easier than managing a ₹20 crore one, so this is our way of saying, well done, we see you, and we salute you.”

    The night concluded with a soul-stirring performance by Rajasthani folk sensation Mame Khan, leaving the audience with a sense of pride and inspiration. The HSBC Presents CNBC-TV18 SME Champion Awards Season 2 is more than just a celebration of business excellence; it is a reflection of India’s entrepreneurial ambition, a spotlight on those who turn adversity into advantage, and a reminder that the next chapter of India’s growth story will be written by its SMEs.

    Winners of SME Champion Awards-

    S.No

    Category

    Segment

    Winners

    1

    Excellence in Community Engagement

    Small Enterprises

    WeVOIS Labs Private Limited

    2

    Excellence in Digital Transformation

    Small Enterprises

    Jayam Solutions Private Limited

    3

    Excellence in Global Expansion

    Small Enterprises

    Innoplexus Consulting Services Private Limited

    4

    Excellence in Goods Export Promotion

    Small Enterprises

    Axio Biosolutions Private Limited

    5

    Excellence in Sustainability Practices

    Small Enterprises

    AgriDigi Tech (OPC) Private Limited

    6

    Excellence in Tech Export Promotion

    Small Enterprises

    Elogix Software Private Limited

    7

    Manufacturing SME of the Year – Industrial Excellence

    Small Enterprises

    Kalyani Cast-Tech Limited

    8

    Manufacturing SME of the Year – Agro& Food

    Small Enterprises

    Shubhshree Biofuels Energy Limited

    9

    Manufacturing SME of the Year – Health & Pharma

    Small Enterprises

    Axio Biosolutions Private Limited
  • Bigg Boss Malayalam season 7 to storm Asianet with Ezhinte Pani

    Bigg Boss Malayalam season 7 to storm Asianet with Ezhinte Pani

    MUMBAI: Asianet has pulled out all the stops for the launch of Bigg Boss Malayalam season 7, which is to be unveiled on 3 August at 7pm with superstar Mohanlal at the helm. The reality behemoth returns with the fiery tagline Ezhinte Pani, a clarion call for a season built on grit, guile and unrelenting competition.

    The premiere episode will showcase a vibrant, eclectic mix of contestants—actors, influencers, professionals and mavericks—ready to test their mettle inside the Bigg Boss house. Mohanlal, in trademark style, will set the tone for a season that promises power plays, unpredictable twists and no shortage of fireworks.

    Breaking from the familiar, Asianet has constructed its own custom-built set for the first time: the most spacious and opulent Bigg Boss house yet. It features sweeping lawns, a sprawling dining hall, a gleaming kitchen, plush bedrooms, a grand living room and the ever-enigmatic confession chamber, where strategy and emotion collide.

    Season 7 also raises the stakes with tougher tasks, more complex strategies and sharper audience engagement. The new format pivots on public opinion as much as on smart gameplay, ensuring that no contestant can rest easy.

    Episodes will air Monday to Friday at 9.30pm and weekends at 9pm. For die-hard fans, every unfiltered moment is available round the clock on JioHotstar.

    With Ezhinte Pani, Bigg Boss Malayalam promises not just entertainment, but a test of endurance, wit and resilience—cementing its place as Asianet’s crown jewel in reality television.

  • She power surge as Sheshakti makes its maiden move to Mumbai

    She power surge as Sheshakti makes its maiden move to Mumbai

     MUMBAI: Bharat’s builders wear bangles and they mean business. News18’s flagship platform Sheshakti, in partnership with Lions Clubs International, is back with its third edition and this time, it’s taking a regional route. The first-ever Mumbai chapter of News18 SheShakti 2025 rolls out on 31 July, spotlighting Maharashtra’s women trailblazers who are breaking barriers and building Bharat.

    Titled “From Breaking Barriers to Building Bharat,” this year’s theme shifts the focus from token celebration to structural transformation. The summit will culminate in a grand finale in Delhi on 21 August, but the Mumbai edition is poised to set the tone with a power-packed line-up of policymakers, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and change-makers.

    Leading the charge are dignitaries like Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Ashwini Bhide, and Sujata Saunik, alongside global voices such as Ambassadors Chavanart Thangsumphant (Thailand) and Mateja Vodeb Ghosh (Slovenia), offering an Indo-global dialogue on leadership and inclusion.

    From boardrooms to Bollywood, Sheshakti’s guest list reads like a who’s who of women who’ve redefined the game:

    .  Naiyya Saggi (founder & CEO, Edition)

    .  Laxmi Iyer (group president, Bajaj Finserv)

    . Dr Neerja Birla (chairperson, Aditya Birla Education Trust)

    .  Priti Rathi Gupta (founder, Lxme)

    . Harsha Mundhada (partner, Inflexor Ventures)

    . Roshi Jain (sr. fund manager, HDFC Mutual Fund)

    .  Chitralekha Patil (director, PNP Group)

    .  Olympian Anjali Bhagwat and para-badminton star Manasi Joshi

    . Actors Nimrat Kaur, Shriya Pilgaonkar, and Renuka Shahane

    Also joining are popular radio voices RJ Malishka, RJ Archana, and RJ Stutee, and Sarita Sonawale, recipient of the Savitri Bai Phule Award, for her grassroots advocacy.

    The event will not just echo inspiration, but also actionable impact. With over two chapters across two months, SheShakti 2025 seeks to mobilise ideas, incubate collaborations, and inspire the next generation of women leaders. It also positions Maharashtra as a microcosm of India’s inclusive growth, celebrating how women are influencing sectors from urban infrastructure to wellness startups.

    Network18 Group chief strategy officer, Puneet Singhvi summed it up: “Sheshakti is not just an event. It’s a movement. And we’re thrilled to bring it to Mumbai for the first time.”

    Network18 (Broadcast) CEO Avinash Kaul added, “This regional expansion is a testament to the influence women wield in shaping India’s social, economic and cultural blueprint.”

    As the country prepares to celebrate Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day, Sheshakti offers a timely reminder that true progress is built on the shoulders of those who don’t just smash glass ceilings, but raise the roof for everyone else.