ITV

Category: Television

  • NAB 2025: LiveU redefines news production with new automated story-centric workflows

    NAB 2025: LiveU redefines news production with new automated story-centric workflows

    MUMBAI: LiveU will spotlight its latest technical collaborations around efficient story-centric workflows and cloud collaboration in its expanded EcoSystem at the upcoming NAB Show 2025 (south hall lower booth SL4911). With its IP-Positive architecture, the LiveU EcoSystem is designed for easy interoperability between production systems, enabling broadcasters and other organisations to speed up and optimise production processes.

    LiveU’s chief product officer & general manager (Americas) Gideon Gilboa said, “Creating more value from video and solving customers’ pain points – that’s our goal. With ever-faster news cycles and the growing demand for more content, these creative workflows enable faster turnarounds, more stories to be covered and an end to costly manual processes. By expanding the LiveU EcoSystem and seamlessly connecting the systems behind the scenes, we free creators up to concentrate on what matters most – crafting compelling content – while opening the doors to new monetisation streams and serving expanding digital audiences.”

    The LiveU EcoSystem is a modular set of best-of-breed components, allowing customers to deploy different configurations and workflows, aligned with their production requirements. It is underpinned by LiveU’s resilient and low latency LRT (LiveU Reliable Transport) protocol and further enhanced by LiveU IQ (LIQ), LiveU’s revolutionary connectivity solution.

    At the core of these new integrations is the LiveU Ingest automatic recording and story metadata tagging solution. LiveU Ingest allows live content to be accessed from anywhere and is interoperable with other production tools, connecting live video from the field and growing files with NRCSs (newsroom computer systems), AI-enabled transcription, MAM (media asset management), and storage systems.

    Story-centric workflows,

    . LiveU + Dina, Mimir + Trint: This NEW AI-enabled integrated solution creates immediate value by ingesting live content, making it instantly accessible alongside rich, searchable metadata (via Dina) and growing real-time transcription (via Trint) in Mimir’s MAM system. Content is easier to find and edit so that editors can begin working in real-time from any location as files continue to grow. Content can also be re-used and repurposed for new revenue-generating opportunities. See the solution in action at booths SL6826 (Dina and Mimir), SL6005 (Trint) and SL4911 (LiveU).

    .  LiveU + Marquis + Avid: LiveU and Marquis are now bringing growing file support to Avid systems to streamline news and sports production workflows. The enhanced solution gives customers the ability to begin editing as soon as live recording starts and supports metadata-based auto-ingest for improved efficiency. See the solution in action at booths SL4528 (Marquis), SL1516 (Avid) and SL4911 (LiveU).

    .  LiveU + AP Storytelling: LiveU and AP Storytelling are teaming up to support a story-centric workflow whereby AP Storytelling is able to generate story metadata in LiveU Central allowing field operators to easily select them and assign them to any live transmission. Live content is recorded in LiveU Ingest with the relevant associated metadata providing a faster news turnaround. See the solution in action at booths SL1905 (AP Workflow Solutions) and SL4911 (LiveU).

    Streamlined creative collaboration

    .  LiveU + LucidLink: LucidLink and LiveU enable live content to be brought directly into LucidLink’s storage collaboration platform as part of a seamless cloud-based workflow for content creators, broadcasters, and production teams. LiveU DataBridge provides essential connectivity for remote LucidLink users to connect and collaborate from anywhere. See the solution in action at booths SL2705 (LucidLink) and SL4911 (LiveU).

    Visitors to the LiveU booth will experience hands-on demonstrations showcasing how these technologies integrate with existing broadcast infrastructures and emerging cloud-based production environments.

    In addition, experts from Tupelo Honey, AWS, Vizrt and LiveU will be presenting tried and tested solutions for efficient live cloud sports production based on REMI, hybrid lightweight production workflows. The session will take place on Tuesday, April 8 between 14.00-14.30 PST at the Creator Lab Theater B – south Hall Lower.

  • News18 India blows the competition out of the water on Youtube views

    News18 India blows the competition out of the water on Youtube views

    MUMBAI: In the noisy, over-caffeinated newsroom that is Indian Youtube, News18 India just walked in wearing aviators and dropped a mic. The Hindi news juggernaut smashed viewership records this March with 845 million views, claiming the crown as the most-watched channel in the news & politics category — not just in India, but globally.

    That’s right, globally.

    Not bad for a channel that also manages to look dramatic during rainfall updates.

    According to Playboard stats, News18 India stayed a staggering 43 per cent ahead of its rival, which managed 589.4 million views.

    It wasn’t even close.

    At this point, News18 could file a restraining order against second place.

    This viewership feat reinforces the channel’s iron grip on digital dominance and reflects a dual-platform loyalty that would make most marketers swoon. It’s not just about Youtube either. As per BARC data (Wk 08’23-07’25), News18 India has been the most-watched Hindi news channel on television for two straight years. Consistency, thy name is Kishore Ajwani… and company.

    “This milestone reflects News18 India’s commitment to delivering impactful journalism at scale, meeting audiences where they are, and setting new benchmarks in the digital news landscape,” the network stated. Viewers have stuck around for the channel’s power-packed programming and not just the breathless countdowns.

    Credit for the digital fireworks goes to a high-octane anchor line-up that includes Kishore Ajwani, Amish Devgan, Rubika Liyaquat, Prateek Trivedi, and Aman Chopra. Their collective ability to turn news into theatre – with facts, mind you – has clearly paid off. And with a nationwide reporting network feeding them updates faster than social media can trend a hashtag, real-time coverage remains the channel’s bread and butter.

    News18 India’s numbers didn’t just spike during slow news days either. The Delhi polls, counting days, and other high-octane political events were all met with newsroom adrenaline and viewer loyalty. As India continues its love affair with digital content, News18 India appears to be the main character in this ongoing rom-com of facts and ratings.

  • IFFLA 2025 opens with Bad Girl, closes with Little Jaffna, expands reach

    IFFLA 2025 opens with Bad Girl, closes with Little Jaffna, expands reach

    MUMBAI: The 23rd Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) returns with a stellar lineup, reaffirming its status as the premier showcase for South Asian cinema in the U.S. This year’s festival, running from 6-10 May 2025 at Landmark Theatres Sunset and WGA Theatre, opens with Varsha Bharath’s directorial debut Bad Girl and concludes with Lawrence Valin’s Little Jaffna, both deeply rooted in south Asian narratives.

    IFFLA 2025 also expands its Industry Day into a two-day forum, connecting south Asian filmmakers with Hollywood executives and offering a $10,000 Pitch Competition Grant to support emerging talent.

    The festival will screen 27 films, spanning India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the U.S., the U.K., and Canada, alongside international co-productions from France, Singapore, and Norway. This year’s slate includes two world premieres, six north American premieres, three U.S. premieres, and 14 Los Angeles premieres, reflecting a dynamic mix of new voices and bold storytelling.

    “Beyond individual highlights, this year’s lineup celebrates the rich diversity of south Asian cinema with a strong emphasis on female-driven narratives both in front and behind the camera,” said IFFLA’s artistic director Anu Rangachar. “We are thrilled to present an expanded lineup that not only showcases an exciting mix of talent, ranging from fearless new voices to returning alums and established auteurs, but also sparks vital conversations.”

    Among the must-watch films is Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears), fresh off its Grand Jury win at Sundance. Directed by Rohan Kanawade, the film is a groundbreaking exploration of queer intimacy within India’s rigid societal norms.

    Other standout features include, north American premiere of Raam Reddy’s The Fable – a gripping mystery starring Manoj Bajpayee, Priyanka Bose, and Tillotama Shome, Deepak Rauniyar’s Pooja, Sir – a tense police procedural set in a Nepalese border town, Rima Das’ Village Rockstars 2 – continuing her acclaimed coming-of-age saga, Aranya Sahay’s Humans in the Loop – exploring AI ethics through the life of a single mother working as a data annotator.

    The documentary A Fly on the Wall, from Nilesh Maniyar and Shonali Bose (Margarita with a Straw), delivers an unflinching look at one man’s quest for autonomy over his final moments.

    IFFLA 2025 will also host the Los Angeles premiere of the psychological drama DUI Shaw by Bangladeshi filmmaker Nuhash Humayun, blending supernatural horror with south Asia’s stark realities. A special masterclass with the filmmaker will follow the screening.  

  • Infosys turbocharges Formula E with AI-powered stats centre

    Infosys turbocharges Formula E with AI-powered stats centre

    MUMBAI: Infosys has launched an AI-powered Formula E stats center to electrify fan engagement for the world’s premier all-electric racing championship. The digital services giant has partnered with the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship to create an interactive platform that transforms complex racing data into digestible insights for motor racing enthusiasts.

    The new platform, powered by Infosys Topaz, uses generative AI to deliver dynamic stat cards and AI-generated narratives across Formula E’s decade-long history. Fans can track their favourite drivers and teams through current and past seasons via a trendy bubble chat format that serves up curated questions about stellar performances and key milestones.

    Says Formule E chief executive officer Jeff Dodds,:  “Fans are at the heart of what we do, and we’re thrilled to offer them a new and engaging way to connect with the sport. As our first technical partnership with Infosys, we’re showcasing how innovation and technology can elevate the experience for everyone who loves Formula E, by making race data more accessible and easier to understand. Fans will be able to  follow their favorite driver and team with in-depth insights and track their performance over the seasons ahead.”

    The tech partnership coincides with Formula E’s introduction of the lightning-quick Gen3 Evo vehicle in Season 11. This engineering marvel accelerates from 0-60 mph in a jaw dropping 1.82 seconds—30 per cent faster than current Formula 1 cars—while maintaining the championship’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

    Adds Infosys EVP & chief marketing officer  Sumit Virmani: “Our partnership with Formula E
    proves how technology can revolutionize fan engagement. The AI-powered Stats Center, fueled by Infosys Topaz, transforms raw data into compelling narratives, offering fans an immersive journey through driver and team performance, celebrating key milestones and unlocking compelling stories. From dynamic stat cards that adapt to the race timeline to an AI companion that prompts engaging questions, we’re supercharging the Formula E fan experience, making its rich history, and exciting present more accessible and engaging, ultimately raising the bar for digital fan engagement.”

    Infosys has also helped shift Formula E’s central datalake to Google Cloud, creating a robust architecture for the racing series’ marketing, business intelligence and sporting operations.

    The collaboration represents another lap in Formula E’s race to combine cutting-edge motorsport with sustainable innovation, giving fans more reasons to get charged up about the electrifying championship.

  • Dreamsetgo bags Olympic first, skis into history with Milano Cortina 2026 deal

    Dreamsetgo bags Olympic first, skis into history with Milano Cortina 2026 deal

    MUMBAI: When an Indian brand lands a gig at the winter Olympics, it’s not just a deal—it’s a snowball-sized milestone. Dreamsetgo, the homegrown sports travel outfit that’s more Rolls than rickshaw, has been named the first-ever official hospitality sales agent from India for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. That’s right. India is now on the Olympic winter map, and no, it didn’t involve curling up in a blanket.

    Announced on 2 April 2025, the partnership with On Location—the official hospitality provider for the Olympic games—means Indian fans can now sip Prosecco in VIP lounges while watching ski legends hurtle down the Italian Alps. This isn’t armchair fandom. This is full-throttle, fur-lined Olympic indulgence.

    “Our collaboration with On Location for Milano Cortina 2026 enables us to offer passionate fans an unparalleled hospitality experience, bringing them closer to the world’s premier winter sporting event. This collaboration allows us to provide not only exceptional hospitality but also an unforgettable experience that goes beyond simply watching the action unfold,” said Dreamsetgo co-founder & CEO Monish Shah.

    Taking place from 6–22 February 2026, the XXV Olympic Winter games will see a line-up of frosty spectacles like alpine skiing, ice hockey, figure skating, and the debut of ski mountaineering. Dreamsetgo’s luxury packages will feature:

    ●   Official winter Olympics tickets: Guaranteed, no-waiting-in-line access

    ●   Luxury hospitality: Think VIP lounges, gourmet bites, and seating better than your couch

    ●   Elite accommodations: The crème de la Cortina across Milan, Cortina and beyond

    ●   Exclusive fan access: Behind-the-scenes glitz and local cultural flavour

    ●   Personalised travel services: Private transfers, concierge wizards, and zero chaos

    It’s not just about watching someone land a triple axel. It’s about doing it with a glass of Chianti and a personal butler. And with this strategic leap, Dreamsetgo has once again shown it knows how to play in the big leagues—not just in cricket-mad India, but on icy global turf.

    Olympic dreams? Pack your gloves, your appetite, and maybe your fanciest jumper. Dreamsetgo is taking Indian fans on a one-way ticket to sporting opulence.

  • Edstead brings in storytelling sorceress Charu Budhiraja to supercharge business mojo

    Edstead brings in storytelling sorceress Charu Budhiraja to supercharge business mojo

    MUMBAI: In the boardroom of content creation, few wield the narrative wand like Charu Budhiraja. Known for turning brand briefs into blockbuster ideas, she’s now swapped the corporate corridors of Warner Bros. Discovery for the storytelling stronghold of Edstead. As of 2 April 2025, Budhiraja officially steps in as chief business officer at the research-led documentary studio with a cause.

    With decades of experience (and probably a few dusty awards by now), Budhiraja brings a lethal mix of creativity and commercial sense. From crafting campaigns that hit you right in the feels to plotting partnerships that print money, her career reads like a masterclass in modern media hustle.

    She now aims to channel that magic into Edstead’s next act. The mission? Turn powerful, purpose-led storytelling into big business. And she’s not just here to play nice. Expect brand partnerships, content alliances, and revenue blueprints as bold as the stories Edstead wants to tell.

    “Edstead stands for storytelling with purpose—stories that challenge perspectives, ignite conversations, and create real impact. In today’s media landscape, authenticity and depth matter more than ever, and Edstead has built a strong foundation in this space. I’m excited to build on that momentum, foster strategic partnerships, and help scale Edstead’s reach while staying true to its mission,” said Budhiraja.

    Edstead’s founder Shekhar Bhattacharjee rolled out the welcome mat, saying, “Edstead is driven by the belief that powerful stories can inspire change. Charu’s expertise in branded content and content strategy will be instrumental in amplifying our impact and expanding our reach. Her ability to bridge creativity with business strategy makes her the perfect partner as we take Edstead into its next phase of growth.”

    Before this appointment, Budhiraja held the creative head position at Warner Bros. Discovery, leading award-winning content across themes like travel, lifestyle, education, and culture. She has also worked across Discovery, Ogilvy, Creativeland Asia, and JWT, bridging storytelling with marketing like it was child’s play. Her fingerprints are on some of India’s most iconic brand narratives.

    With Budhiraja now in the driver’s seat, Edstead looks set to scale up its storytelling superpower, turning brains and budgets toward purpose-driven content that isn’t just good-looking but does good, too.

  • Euro chips in with Gujarat Titans to make this IPL season crunchier

    Euro chips in with Gujarat Titans to make this IPL season crunchier

    MUMBAI: The only thing crunchier than a toe-crushing yorker this IPL season? Euro India Fresh Foods’ snacks. In a pitch-perfect partnership, the Gujarat-based snack giant has been crowned the official snacking partner of Gujarat Titans. That’s right—this cricket season, it’s sixes, wickets, and sizzling wafers, all under one stadium roof.

    Announced in Surat, this tie-up combines cricketing firepower with the unmistakable joy of munching mid-match. From stadium seats to sofa setups, Euro’s flavour-packed offerings promise to make every GT fan’s experience lip-smackingly unforgettable.

    “In India, cricket is more than just a sport. It is an emotion and passion that brings people together. At Euro, we are thrilled to be part of this cricketing journey, ensuring that fans enjoy not only the excitement on the field but also an exceptional snacking experience with our delicious range of products,” said Euro Fresh Foods India Ltd Manhar J. Sanspara.

    This isn’t just a branding gig; Euro’s bringing the party. The partnership features interactive fan engagements, contests, and good old-fashioned giveaways. Think spicy namkeens, cheesy chips, and a chance to win Gujarat Titans merchandise or even those elusive match-day tickets. Yes, snacks could now be your ticket to the big game.

    Fans can expect a season sprinkled with surprises, as Euro India Fresh Foods rolls out a full toss of marketing madness—from social media games to match-day magic. Whether you’re at the edge of your seat during a last-ball thriller or chilling with mates on a lazy Sunday, Euro’s got your snack cravings covered.

    The Titans, meanwhile, are ready to roar through another high-octane season, now with a crunch that can rival any cover drive. So next time you bite into a chip, it might just echo in the stands.

  • Raja partners with Society Tea for IBSF Championship, brewing success

    Raja partners with Society Tea for IBSF Championship, brewing success

    MUMBAI: In a move that promises to steep the competition, Society Tea has teamed up with India’s cue sports champion, Venkateswaran Subramanian, fondly known as Raja, ahead of the International Billiards & Snooker Federation (IBSF) Championship in Ireland. The event, taking place from April 12 to 16, 2025, will see Raja don the Society Tea logo proudly on his waistcoat, representing a partnership that’s as strong as the finest brew.

    Raja’s journey in the world of billiards is steeped in perseverance. From his roots in local circuits to making his mark globally, he has become a beacon of resilience. Despite facing multiple disabilities, Raja competes against the world’s top cueists, showing the world that passion and skill know no boundaries. His journey from the grassroots to the global stage is a testament to his unwavering determination and talent.

    Society Tea director, Chintan Shah said, “Raja is more than just a champion in his sport, he is family. We have seen his journey up close, and supporting him as he represents India on the global stage is an absolute honor. At Society Tea, we believe in standing by our own, and Raja is a perfect example of that. We are proud to support him in this journey and look forward to celebrating his achievements as he represents India at the IBSF Championship.”

    Expressing his gratitude, Venkateswaran Subramanian (Raja) said, “India has secured an impressive 45 World Championships in the twin sports of Billiards and Snooker, showcasing its rich legacy of excellence. It is truly commendable that Society Tea is stepping forward to support and promote this magnificent sport, setting an example for corporate backing in the sporting arena.”

    With Society Tea by his side, Raja is all set to take the cue sports world by storm, proving once again that with the right support, champions can rise above all odds. Whether on the green baize or in the corporate world, this partnership is brewing up something special.

  • India TV’s Wellness Weekend delivers expert health insights

    India TV’s Wellness Weekend delivers expert health insights

    MUMBAI: India TV successfully hosted its highly anticipated ‘Wellness Weekend’, bringing together prominent health experts to discuss key health concerns affecting millions. Covering everything from heart disease and diabetes to sleep deprivation and gut health, the event empowered viewers with practical lifestyle advice.

    The sessions featured renowned specialists, including cardiologists, endocrinologists, psychiatrists, and orthopaedists, who highlighted the urgent need for healthier choices in daily life.

    Public health expert Sameer Bhati warned about the rising trend of sleep deprivation among youth, emphasising its impact on overall well-being.

    Fortis Escorts Heart Institute chairman Ashok Seth shed light on the 50 per cent rise in heart attacks in India over the past 15 years, particularly among those under 50. He attributed this to sedentary lifestyles, smoking, stress, and poor diets. His advice? Brisk walking for 200 minutes a week can cut heart attack risk by 25 per cent.

    Max Saket group chairman of cardiac sciences Balbir Singh clarified misconceptions about angioplasty, bypass surgery, and stents, discussing medical advancements that improve post-surgery recovery.

    Max Healthcare chairman of endocrinology Ambrish Mithal stressed the need for annual blood sugar tests from age 25, given the high prevalence of diabetes in India due to genetics, obesity, and poor diets.

    IDHS Medanta vice chairman Amarender Singh Puri explained that gut biodiversity declines with age, making gut health management crucial for digestion and immunity.

    Sanjeev Saxena highlighted early warning signs of kidney issues and recommended limiting salt intake to five grams per day for healthy individuals and 2.5 grams for those with hypertension. He also advised drinking 2.5 to three litres of water daily to prevent kidney disease.

    PSRI chairman of pulmonary Gopichand Khilnani warned about India’s worsening air quality, particularly in Delhi, Kanpur, and Kolkata. He also noted the lasting effects of excessive steroid use during Covid-19, prominent to an increase in asthma and bronchitis cases.

    India TV managing director & CEO Ritu Dhawan remarked, “Well-being is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life, and with ‘Wellness Weekend,’ we aim to empower our audiences with expert insights on physical and mental health. This initiative is our commitment to fostering a healthier society by bringing together medical experts and fitness enthusiasts to inspire meaningful lifestyle changes.”

    Through this initiative, India TV continues its mission to raise awareness and provide reliable health information, ensuring viewers make informed choices for a healthier future.

  • TAM Sports: Ad volumes surge as IPL 2025 hits a six with brands

    TAM Sports: Ad volumes surge as IPL 2025 hits a six with brands

    MUMBAI: The latest advertising fiesta around Indian Premier League cricket has bowled over expectations, with commercial volumes jumping sevem per cent in the first five matches of IPL 2025 compared to last year’s opening spell.

    The IPL advertising carnival, which kicked off on 22 March, has attracted a whopping 29 per cent more advertisers (55+ in IPL18 vs 40+ in IPL17) than the previous season, according to data from TAM Sports. The number of product categories hawking their wares has also climbed by 12 per cent (45+ vs 40+), suggesting marketers are stumping up more cash for India’s premier sporting extravaganza.

    Mouth fresheners have emerged as the surprise package this season, gobbling up 11 per cent of total advertising time and displacing last year’s champion, the gaming platforms. These minty merchants, led by Vishnu Packaging’s Vimal Elaichi, clearly believe cricket fans need fresh breath while biting their nails during nail-biting finishes.

     

    Top categories

    The digital gaming sector hasn’t thrown in the towel, however, claiming the second spot with a hefty 10 per cent share of advertising volumes. Dream11.com’s parent Sporta Technologies remains a formidable presence, though it has slipped from last year’s top advertiser position.

    Biscuit baron Parle has crumbled the competition to claim the advertiser’s crown, contributing 8 per cent of total ad volumes. Its Platina Hide & Seek brand made its IPL debut as the most prominent among 67 new brands that have joined the advertising innings this season.

    Tech giant Apple has also dialled up its presence, with its iPhone 16E campaign helping the company secure third place among top advertisers.

    The food and beverages sector continues to have a healthy appetite for cricket audiences, with two of the top five advertising categories coming from this segment. Meanwhile, automobile makers have driven into the top five for the first time, with the ‘Cars’ category parking itself in fifth position with a six  per cent share.

    As the cricketing carnival continues, brands are clearly betting big on the IPL’s ability to deliver eyeballs. With 28 channels now broadcasting the cricket extravaganza—up from 24 last year—advertisers have more platforms than ever to bowl over potential customers during the six-week sporting spectacle.