Category: Television

  • TKR ropes in Stake as title sponsor in multi-year global partnership

    TKR ropes in Stake as title sponsor in multi-year global partnership

    MUMBAI: The Trinbago Knight Riders just hit a sponsorship sixer. Caribbean Premier League’s most decorated franchise has inked a multi-year title partnership with Stake, the world’s leading online casino and sportsbook adding some serious global firepower to its off-field playbook. With four CPL titles under its belt (2015, 2017, 2018, 2020), TKR’s winning legacy now aligns with a brand that’s betting big on cricket. Stake already has marquee partnerships across the sporting spectrum, including UFC, Everton FC, and the Stake F1 Team. Its latest Caribbean swing follows recent forays into cricket with the Paarl Royals, European Cricket Championships, and Major League Cricket.

    “This partnership marks a significant milestone for us,” said Knight Riders Sports Group CMO Binda Dey. “Bringing together two globally recognised brands, we aim to elevate fan engagement through innovation and technology.”

    And innovation is already in motion. The announcement was hyped with a teaser campaign starring Knight Riders legends Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Dwayne Bravo alongside Stake-backed athletes from across the world. The result? A viral buzz building up to the big reveal, with cross-sport fandom fuelling the fire.

    “TKR’s success and passionate fanbase make them the perfect addition to our cricket portfolio,” said Stake’s CMO Akhil Sarin. “Our aim is to build immersive, tech-driven fan experiences that channel the thrill of T20 cricket.”

    This partnership is more than a logo swap, it’s a play for deeper, digital-first engagement. Expect gamified fan zones, interactive content drops, and a Stake-powered edge to TKR’s growing global fanbase.

    In the high-stakes world of franchise cricket, this Knight–casino combo could be a jackpot move.
     

  • Banijay Asia and Collective Artists Network collaborate to script India’s biggest creator-led universe

    Banijay Asia and Collective Artists Network collaborate to script India’s biggest creator-led universe

    MUMBAI: In a major move to redefine the creator economy in India, Banijay Asia, one of India’s leading content powerhouses, has joined hands with Collective Artists Network, the country’s premier talent and creator company, to launch a first-of-its-kind creator-led content and IP engine.

    This landmark collaboration will conceptualize, develop, and produce creator-first and creator-controlled properties across scripted, unscripted, branded, and digital-first formats — spanning long-form shows, short-form skits, micro-dramas, and vertical social content.

    At the heart of this alliance lies the powerful convergence of creators, content, and commerce — leveraging Collective Artists Network’s expansive creator and brand network, and Banijay Asia’s expertise in content creation and production at scale.

    The collaboration has already onboarded leading creators like Aisha Ahmed, Dolly Singh, and Kashish to develop brand-friendly content. Collective is also in active conversations with large FMCG and E-commerce advertisers to co-create high-impact, culturally resonant content that merges entertainment with brand purpose.

    Deepak Dhar, Founder & Group CEO, Banijay Asia &EndemolShine India said: “This partnership marks a bold new chapter in content creation — where creators are no longer just participants but become the driving force behind the narrative. By joining forces with Collective Artists Network, we’re building a powerful ecosystem at the intersection of content, creators, and brands. Together, we’re setting the blueprint for the future of entertainment.”

    Mrinalini Jain, Group Chief Development Officer, Banijay Asia &EndemolShine India added: “We see this as a creator-powered revolution. The future lies in content that’s authentic, scalable, and culture-shaping — and creators are at the center of it. With Collective Artists Network’s unmatched access to talent and brands, and Banijay Asia’s storytelling DNA, we’re launching a next-gen engine that’s built for today’s platforms and tomorrow’s audiences.”

    DhruvChigopekar, Co-Founder, Collective Artists Network, said: “This partnership marks a meaningful step forward for both traditional and new-age content. Banijay has built some of India’s most iconic shows, and to see that scale and storytelling depth now extend to the creator space is exciting. What’s changing is how stories are being told, creators are becoming part of the process instead of just the output. This collaboration allows us to explore that shift thoughtfully, combining structure with spontaneity, and legacy with a fresh lens. We believe it’s a strong foundation for what the next decade of entertainment could look like.”

    What this collaboration unlocks:

    –  Launching a new destination for Collective Artists Network’s creators to tell their stories spanning scripted, unscripted, and branded formats, which are genre and platform-agnostic.

    – Talent integration into Banijay Asia’s existing IPs, opening new doors for creators to host, act, write, or contribute creatively to Banijay Asia’s broad content slate.

    –  Co-creating digital-first, short-format content, micro-dramas, skits, sketches, vertical stories, and social-first formats specifically with Collective Artists Network creators.

    –  Leveraging Collective Artist Network’s expertise to lead brand integration and sponsorship across all joint content initiatives.

    –  Developing a creator-driven content universe across Instagram, YouTube and Facebook, which then potentially expands into other platforms.

    The partnership reflects Banijay Entertainment’s global vision of aligning with creators to modernise brands, bridge the gap between creators and creatives,  and reach new audiences through culturally-resonant formats. 

  • Jhingan joins IOS in a new defensive strategy off the pitch

    Jhingan joins IOS in a new defensive strategy off the pitch

    MUMBAI: From boots to brand play, Sandesh Jhingan is lining up a new formation. Indian football’s defensive rock, Sandesh Jhingan, is now dribbling into new territory brand management. The 31-year-old centre-back has signed with IOS Sports and Entertainment, marking a strategic off-field move aimed at amplifying his brand presence and widening his impact beyond the beautiful game.

    Jhingan, currently with FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL), brings over a decade of international experience to the IOS stable. Since making his debut for India in 2013, the Chandigarh-born defender has racked up more than 50 caps for the national side, captained India in marquee tournaments like the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and has become a household name in Indian football.

    Known for his no-nonsense defending, aerial dominance, and vocal leadership, Jhingan has turned out for ISL heavyweights such as Kerala Blasters, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and Chennaiyin FC. His brief but landmark stint with Croatian club HNK Šibenik in 2021 made him one of the rare Indian players to play in Europe, adding an international edge to his résumé.

    He was named the AIFF Men’s Player of the Year for 2020–21, further cementing his status as one of Asia’s top defenders.

    On signing with IOS, Jhingan said, “I’m excited to join the IOS Sports and Entertainment family and work with a team that has such an impressive track record with India’s top athletes. Their expertise feels like the perfect assist as I look to amplify my story and connect with more people at a deeper level.”

    IOS, known for managing India’s sporting icons like Vijender Singh, Mirabai Chanu, Anju Bobby George, Lovlina Borgohain, and Manpreet Singh, sees Jhingan as a valuable addition to its football playbook.

    “Sandesh represents everything we look for in an athlete exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and the ability to inspire others,” said IOS COO Rahul Trehan. “His addition strengthens our commitment to supporting India’s sporting heroes across all disciplines.”

    The partnership aims to elevate Jhingan’s brand through holistic management from endorsement deals and media visibility to community initiatives and content-driven storytelling. With football gaining ground as a serious sport-business in India, Jhingan’s play with IOS could be just the pivot the sport needs.

    After all, he’s long been the last line of defence now, he’s ready to be the face of a new offensive.

  • Zee TV heads back to the heartland with Chhoriyan Chali Gaon

    Zee TV heads back to the heartland with Chhoriyan Chali Gaon

    MUMBAI: Zee TV is shaking up its daily primetime with Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, a high-energy, rooted reality format that promises equal parts laughter, drama, and cultural discovery. Premiering 3 August at 9 PM, and airing daily from 9:30 PM, the show is an adaptation of Zee Marathi’s hit format Jau Bai Gavat and is produced by Zee Studios.

    In this social experiment, 11 celebrity contestants leave behind their urban comforts for 60 days of rural living — no gadgets, minimal luxuries, and a crash course in village life. From milking cows to cooking on chulhas, the show blends raw challenges with genuine bonds, under the watchful eye of host Rannvijay Singha.

    The line-up includes Anita Hassanandani, Krishna Shroff, Aishwarya Khare, Sumukhi Suresh, Anjuum Faakih, Rameet Sandhu, Reha Sukheja, Erika Packard, Surabhi Mehra, Samriddhi Mehra and Dolly Javed — each swapping high heels for muddy fields.

    Zee chief content officer Raghavendra Hunsur said, “Our original Zee Marathi format Jau Bai Gavat found success for its honest, culturally rooted storytelling that struck an emotional chord with audiences. With Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, we’ve taken that same core; the fun, the emotions, the authenticity and reimagined it for Zee TV’s wider, national audience. This show reflects our belief in going back to the roots and creating stories that are both entertaining and meaningful. It’s a fresh yet familiar narrative that celebrates the village life of India and the spirited women who call it home.”

    Zee TV chief channel officer, Mangesh Kulkarni said, “At Zee TV, we’ve always believed in formats that don’t just entertain, but spark reflection and emotional connection. With Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, we’re bringing a concept that blends the raw charm of rural India with the resilience of today’s urban woman. We’re excited to see how viewers connect with this unique journey of simplicity, struggle, and self-discovery.”

    With its daily slot, Chhoriyan Chali Gaon is set to become a primetime fixture, offering viewers nostalgia, novelty, and a taste of the simple life, one task at a time.

  • Gujarat’s unsung heroes take centre stage at ABP Asmita Sanman Puraskar 2025

    Gujarat’s unsung heroes take centre stage at ABP Asmita Sanman Puraskar 2025

    Mumbai, 29 July 2025 – ABP Asmita honoured the state’s silent trailblazers at the prestigious Asmita Sanman Puraskar 2025 in Ahmedabad. The event celebrated individuals whose grit, innovation and service have quietly reshaped Gujarat’s social, cultural, and economic fabric.

    Chief minister Bhupendra Patel, the chief guest, lauded the awardees as the true force behind Gujarat’s growth, while Shankar Chaudhary, speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, praised them for embodying the state’s resilient spirit.

    The honours spanned diverse fields from Rakesh Patel, who turned a rural government school into a model of excellence, to poet Kavi Rajendra Shukla for his enduring literary impact. Singer Bhoomi Trivedi was feted for her music, actor Siddharth Randeria for his contributions to theatre and cinema, and Paru Jaykrishna, the first woman president of GCCI, for her trailblazing leadership in industry.

    The Maha Sanman went to Dr J.M. Vyas for his groundbreaking work in forensic science and engineering, while grassroots champions like Raskibhai and the villagers of Biliaamba were recognised for reviving kho-kho at the community level.

    From unsung educators to cultural icons, ABP Asmita’s celebration was a reminder that Gujarat’s story is written not only in boardrooms and government offices but in classrooms, playgrounds, and quiet acts of service.

  • Star Gold brings Chhaava home this Independence Day

    Star Gold brings Chhaava home this Independence Day

    MUMBAI: This Independence Day weekend, Star Gold will deliver a television event of heroic scale with the World TV Premiere of Chhaava on 17 August at 8 pm. The historical blockbuster traces the extraordinary life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, blending action, emotional intensity, and sweeping cinematic grandeur.

    Backed by early sponsors Tide+ and Adani Ambuja Cement, the premiere is poised to become a magnet for both viewers and advertisers. Star Gold has a proven track record in turning TV premieres into cultural events: Stree 2 drew 41 million viewers—30 per cent of them first-time channel audiences—while Pathaan and Brahmastra pulled in 50 million and 42 million respectively, cementing Star Gold’s dominance in the high-stakes premiere space.

    Directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, Chhaava has already conquered the box office. It holds the No. 1 spot on IMDb’s “Most Popular Indian Movies of 2025” and has been declared the year’s biggest blockbuster by Ormax Media.

    With its tale of valour and sacrifice, Chhaava promises not just entertainment but a rousing television experience, bringing one of India’s most compelling historical chapters to living rooms nationwide.

    Mark your calendars: 17 August, 8 pm only on Star Gold.

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  • Apex and Baseline strike deal to boost sports investment in India

    Apex and Baseline strike deal to boost sports investment in India

    BENGALURU: Apex, a Europe-born sports investment firm backed by world-class athletes, has inked a strategic partnership with Baseline Ventures, one of India’s most prominent sports and entertainment outfits. The tie-up aims to unlock new investment opportunities in India’s booming sports ecosystem while giving Indian capital direct access to premium deals across Europe and the US.

    Baseline Ventures, founded in 2014, has carved a formidable position in Indian sport, with businesses spanning athlete management, league creation, licensing, and brand partnerships. The firm represents some of the country’s top names including Smriti Mandhana, Abhinav Bindra, PR Sreejesh, and Nikhat Zareen, and co-founded the Prime Volleyball League.

    Apex brings deep experience in venture capital, growth, and private equity across the global sports and media sectors. Its athlete-led model has drawn in investors such as Formula 1 drivers Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, and footballers Trent Alexander-Arnold and Marcelo Vieira. Earlier this year, Smriti Mandhana became the first Indian athlete to invest in Apex — a symbolic milestone in its growing Indian play.

    Apex partner & chief commercial officer Pedro Felix da Costa said the move was a “natural step” for the firm: “India is one of the most dynamic sports markets in the world. Partnering locally helps us navigate it with intent, while also offering Indian capital high-quality exposure to Europe and US deals.”

    Baseline Ventures Co-Founder & Director Vishal Jaison called the tie-up a win-win: “Sports is now one of the most lucrative asset classes, delivering strong value appreciation. With Apex, Indian investors get a gateway to some of the biggest global sporting entities.”

    The deal marks a significant moment in the convergence of global capital and India’s sports industry — one where returns and fandom are racing side by side.

    (If you are an Anime fan and love Anime like Demon Slayer, Spy X Family, Hunter X Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, Dan Da Dan and Slime, Buy your favourite Anime merchandise on AnimeOriginals.com.)

  • JioStar reignites the Kyunki effect, locks in eight big-brand sponsors

    JioStar reignites the Kyunki effect, locks in eight big-brand sponsors

    MUMBAI: The much-anticipated return of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi has sent waves of excitement across living rooms and boardrooms. Ahead of its July 29 premiere, eight marquee brands have already signed on, betting big on the enduring cultural clout of the daily prime-time juggernaut.

    On Star Plus, Tide+, Kalyan Jewellers, and Maruti Suzuki India co-present the show, with Fortune Soyabean Oil, Colgate, and Smart Bazaar joining as co-powered sponsors. Over on JioHotstar, Kalyan Jewellers and Maruti Suzuki return as co-presenters, alongside Fortune Chakki Fresh Atta, UTI Mutual Fund, and Smart Bazaar, bringing the brand tally to a powerful eight across platforms.

    The advertiser playbook spans everything from TV integrations and graphic placements to JioHotstar’s arsenal of branded feature trays, pause ads, co-branded vignettes, and even interactive quizzes, ensuring visibility from screen to stream.

    “The return of Kyunki is a full-spectrum media moment. The show is a multi-generational IP which brings together a powerful blend of nostalgia, reach and cultural depth, which helps connect family members together, each finding their own story in the same narrative. Very few properties offer that kind of intergenerational resonance today, and Kyunki delivers on that with precision.We’re thrilled to see such strong interest from brands who recognise the long-term value this property offers across both TV and digital,” said JioStar head of revenue, entertainment & international, Ajit Varghese.

    Produced by Balaji Telefilms, the reboot marks 25 years since the show’s debut, bringing back Smriti Irani’s iconic Tulsi and Amar Upadhyay’s Mihir while introducing a new generation to the Virani universe. With a seven-day-a-week schedule and a dual-platform strategy marrying Star Plus’s reach with JioHotstar’s precision targeting, Kyunki is set to be 2025’s tentpole event for viewers and advertisers alike.

    (If you are an Anime fan and love Anime like Demon Slayer, Spy X Family, Hunter X Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, Dan Da Dan and Slime, Buy your favourite Anime merchandise on AnimeOriginals.com.)

  • Stripes on Screen as BBC Player Roars with Tiger Day Special

    Stripes on Screen as BBC Player Roars with Tiger Day Special

    MUMBAI: From Ranthambore with roar. This World Tiger Day, BBC Player is sinking its claws into the untamed heart of India with Legendary Tigers of India, a gripping documentary that prowls onto screens this Independence Day, 15 August . Narrated by the late, legendary conservationist Valmik Thapar, the film is more than just stripes and stares. It’s a moving chronicle of survival, strength, and the shifting story of India’s national animal. Thapar, one of the world’s foremost tiger experts, spent a full monsoon-to-monsoon year tracking a new generation of Bengal tigers deep within Ranthambore, one of India’s most iconic tiger reserves.

    With intimate access and five decades of experience behind the lens and in the wild, Thapar offers rare glimpses of tigers not just as apex predators, but as emotionally complex, intuitive creatures navigating shrinking habitats and growing human presence.

    The film roars to life from Thapar’s own jungle home at the forest’s edge, blending dramatic visuals with a deeply personal narrative. From mother cub dynamics to solitary alpha males, the documentary captures the instinctual ballet of survival, mating, territoriality and raw jungle drama woven through the lens of ecological urgency and reverence.

    Premiering exclusively on BBC Player in India via Tata Play Binge and Prime Video (add-on subscription required), this special release is BBC’s tribute to India’s tiger legacy. With India currently home to more than 70 per cent of the world’s wild tigers 3,682, as per the 2023 census the documentary feels both timely and timeless.

    In an age of noisy content, Legendary Tigers of India invites audiences to pause, listen, and marvel. Not just at the majesty of the tiger, but at a conservation journey that began with 1,411 tigers in 2006 and roared back in triumph. This isn’t just a documentary. It’s a call to protect what still prowls.

  • District by Zomato aces it as official ticketing partner for World Padel League Season 3

    District by Zomato aces it as official ticketing partner for World Padel League Season 3

    MUMBAI: The World Padel League (WPL) is back and it’s bigger, bolder, and now backed by a brand-new ticketing ace. ‘District by Zomato’ has been announced as the official ticketing partner for Season 3 of the WPL, scheduled from 12-16 August at Nesco Center, Mumbai. Tickets for the league stage are now live on the District app and website.

    From high-speed rallies to global talent across 6 fierce teams, the five-day spectacle promises 11 action-packed matches with two games a day to keep fans on their toes. Courtside seats start at just Rs 999, letting you dive into the drama without breaking the bank.

    Commenting on the partnership, World Padel League spokesperson said, “Our partnership with District by Zomato is a strategic move to enhance fan experience and cater to a larger attendance this season. By making the ticketing process seamless and accessible, we are ensuring that more fans can experience global padel action live, which is crucial for the growth of the sport in India. We are gearing up for an exciting season ahead and we look forward to welcoming padel-lovers courtside, soon!”

    “The impressive growth of padel among urban consumers aligns perfectly with District by Zomato’s culturally-first ethos. It is about identifying and shaping new trends. We’re excited to be the official ticketing partner of the World Padel League, ensuring every fan can easily immerse themselves in the high-energy of live, world-class padel”, said District by Zomato spokesperson.

    It’s the sport taking over social feeds and urban weekends. A sizzling blend of tennis and squash, padel is played in doubles on a glass-walled court. With its quick-fire rallies, strategic rebounds, and social-first appeal, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the fastest-growing sports globally.

    Book early. Get close. Feel the smash. This August, the World Padel League is serving up pure adrenaline and only a few seats remain.

    Book your tickets on: https://link.district.in/DSTRKT/WorldPadelLeagueSeason3