ITV

Category: Television

  • Sony Music and Tiger Baby birth new label, Tiger Baby Records

    Sony Music and Tiger Baby birth new label, Tiger Baby Records

    MUMBAI: Sony Music Entertainment India and Tiger Baby have unveiled Tiger Baby Records, a fresh joint venture designed to champion emerging talent and weave musical narratives. This new label, a fusion of Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti’s creative clout, and Ankur Tewari’s musical vision, with Sony Music’s global reach, promises to shake up the Indian music scene.

    Tiger Baby Records has already made waves, collaborating with jewellery brand Tanishq on a wedding song composed by Abhishek-Ananya and performed by Poorvi Koutish, directed by Kagti. They’ve also released the soundtrack for “Superboys of Malegaon,” featuring compositions by Sachin-Jigar and lyrics by Javed Akhtar.

    The label will also showcase original music curated by Tewari, highlighting diverse styles and emerging artists. To further support budding talent, Tiger Baby Records is launching the “City Sessions” initiative, in partnership with Mumbai’s Island City Studios. This program will offer a platform for artists to experiment and collaborate in a dynamic environment.

    “Tiger Baby Records represents a new era of music in India, where compelling storytelling and groundbreaking collaborations take center stage. We are thrilled to be part of this journey, pushing boundaries and bringing fresh, authentic voices to the forefront of the industry and are excited to partner with Zoya, Kagti, and Tewari, who have an exceptional track record in music and creative storytelling,” said Sony Music Entertainment India managing director Vinit thakkar.

    “Music has always been a vital part of our storytelling, and with Tiger Baby Records, we want the music to be the main story. Partnering with Sony Music India allows us to bring our vision to life and provide a platform for indie, homegrown talent to shine,” commented Tiger Baby Films co-founder Zoya.

    “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for us at Tiger Baby. With Tiger Baby Records, we aim to delve into the diverse soundscapes of the subcontinent and represent them globally. By collaborating with brands and upcoming artists, we hope to have this music reach a large audience,” added, Tiger Baby Films co-founder Kagti.

    “Tiger Baby Records is all about fostering an environment where creativity thrives. I’m thrilled to be a part of this journey where we get to build a legacy with artists who are using the power of their voice to express freely,” said, Tiger Baby Films singer-songwriter & music supervisor at Tewari.

  • Refex Group bowls over CSK with sponsorship deal

    Refex Group bowls over CSK with sponsorship deal

    MUMBAI: Refex Group, a diversified business heavyweight, has struck a deal to sponsor Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of cricket’s most celebrated franchises. Refex’s first CSK partnership mixes sports with eco-friendly goals.

    The collaboration signifies a growing trend of industry titans aligning with sports giants, a move Refex hopes will “drive innovation, growth, and a bit of crowd-pleasing razzmatazz.”

    “We’re not just sponsoring a team; we’re sponsoring a sustainable revolution,” declares Refex Group managing director Anil Jain. “CSK’s winning spirit mirrors our own, and together, we’ll champion a greener future.”

    “We’re chuffed to have Refex on board,” says CSK managing director KS Viswanathan. “Their commitment to eco-friendly initiatives aligns perfectly with our values. We’re aiming to hit a six for sustainability.”

    Refex hopes to use the partnership to amplify its message of environmental responsibility, leveraging CSK’s massive fanbase to promote sustainable practices. “We’re not just playing the game; we’re changing the game,” Jain adds. “And we’re doing it with a bit of style.”

  • India’s M&E sector tipped for third place, Vaz declares at FICCI Frames curtain raiser

    India’s M&E sector tipped for third place, Vaz declares at FICCI Frames curtain raiser

    MUMBAI: JioStar chief executive officer -entertainment business TV & digital and chairperson of the Ficci media and entertainment committee Kevin Vaz, kicked off the Ficci Frames curtain raiser with a bullish assessment of the nation’s entertainment sector, predicting it will be the third largest globally by 2028. He unveiled the 25th edition of the Ficci IEY M&E Report 2025, the industry’s official bible, amidst a flurry of industry heavyweights.

    “We are not an ‘OR’ market, but an ‘AND’ market,” Vaz declared, emphasising the co-existence of television and digital platforms. “Television will grow from 190 million households in 2024 to 214 million households by 2026, while digital platforms continue to soar.” A rather tidy bit of growth, one might say.

    He highlighted India’s global clout, citing Cannes and Oscar wins, and its emergence as a VFX powerhouse. Southern cinema, he noted, has reached “unprecedented heights,” showcasing some rather grand storytelling.

    Sports, particularly the IPL, is driving content consumption like a runaway train. “IPL 2025…it will be exciting to see how it reaches new heights and break records across both TV and digital platforms once again,” Vaz quipped, clearly anticipating a right royal viewership bonanza. He reported the 2024 IPL reached 525 million viewers on TV and a staggering 550-600 million on streaming platforms.

    OTT, he asserted, is set to become a “major force,” while television remains the “bedrock,” commanding over 30 per cent of the market. A rather sturdy foundation, then.

    Vaz welcomed industry luminaries including Sylvie Forbin, Gaurav Dwivedi, Ashish Pherwani, Arjun Nohwar and Munjal Shroff. He also plugged the Best Animated Frames (BAF) Awards, adding a touch of animated flair to the proceedings.

    “Let’s celebrate our achievements and the exciting opportunities ahead,” Vaz concluded, urging attendees to engage in discussions that would “propel the Indian M&E sector to the global stage.”

  • Horror havoc terror films aligns with Panic TV

    Horror havoc terror films aligns with Panic TV

    MUMBAI: Terror Films Releasing (TFR) has forged a strategic alliance with Cape May Studios’ newly launched horror channel, Panic TV, it was announced today. TFR has initiated this partnership by licensing a substantial collection of horror and thriller films from its catalogue to Panic TV, with plans to expand the content offering as the channel grows.

    “Terror Films continues to be trusted by filmmakers and fans alike with some of the best and most diverse indie horror content in the streaming space. Our job is to continue to secure new platform relationships in order to bring these films to a wider audience and this new partnership is what it’s all about,” stated TFR CEO Joe Dain.

    Based in New Jersey, Cape May Studios is developing a global network of FAST and AVOD channels, catering to niche audiences with strong, passionate fandoms whose content preferences are currently underserved. Their inaugural brand, Panic TV, offers a unique content proposition, addressing the demand for ‘recreational fear’ entertainment, with the brand promise ‘Fear Comes Home’.

    Panic TV will provide viewers with access to award-winning and genre-bending movies and TV content from contemporary storytellers, seamlessly blending genres such as action, thriller, mystery, crime, paranormal, science fiction, horror, and creature features.

    Targeting young millennials and Gen Z (18-40 years old), Panic TV aims to deliver authentic, thought-provoking content that resonates with their hyper-digital world.

    Panic TV is launching globally in English, Spanish, and Hindi over the coming weeks, with further language localisations planned for international markets.

    Cape May Studios founder & CEO Sachin Gokhale said, “We are beyond thrilled to partner with Terror Films, whose catalog of gripping horror and thriller titles aligns perfectly with our audience’s appetite for high-quality, innovative, adrenaline-fueled content. This agreement strengthens our content library and enhances our ability to provide a compelling and immersive ‘Fear’ centric viewing experience to our consumers.”

  • NDTV’s board level announcements

    NDTV’s board level announcements

    MUMBAI: News broadcaster NDTV has orchestrated a strategic board recalibration, bringing back heavyweight independent directors for another three-year performance while reshuffling key leadership roles.

    The corporate choreography  features the comeback of three seasoned professionals:

    * Upendra Kumar Sinha, former Seb supremo, returns as independent director and chairperson from 27 March 2025

    * Dipali Balkrishan Goenka, a powerhouse of the home textile universe from the Welspun group, secures her second independent director term

    * Dinesh Kumar Mittal, an administrative service veteran, extends his directorial stint

    Senthil Chengalvarayan’s has decided to transition from  whole-time director to non-executive, non-independent director— because of personal commitments. 

    Sinha, who previously helmed Sebi from 2011 to 2017, brings gravitas, while Goenka—a Forbes-recognised business maverick—adds entrepreneurial spark to the boardroom.

    Mittal, an ex-IAS  officer with a physics doctorate, completes this triumvirate of corporate heavy-hitters, promising continued governance sophistication.

  • Sony Marathi unveils Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar-India’s first reality show celebrating kirtan

    Sony Marathi unveils Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar-India’s first reality show celebrating kirtan

    MUMBAI: Sony Marathi proudly announces the launch of Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar, India’s first reality show dedicated to celebrating the sacred and artistic tradition of Kirtan. With 108 participants from all 36 districts of Maharashtra, the show is a heartfelt tribute to the timeless art of spiritual storytelling—an art form that has resonated across generations.

    The unveiling event in Mumbai was graced by the Honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, who revealed the magnificent Veena-shaped silver trophy handcrafted by the legendary P. N. Gadgil Jewellers. Shri Gaurav Banerjee (MD & CEO, Sony Pictures Networks India) and stalwarts from the Kirtan community were also in attendance.

    Held as a devotional evening, the launch featured a mesmerising Kirtan performance by Avadhoot Sudhir Gandhi. Esteemed judges—Hari Bhakta Parayan (H.B.P.) Radhatai Sanap and H.B.P. Jagannath Maharaj Patil—were felicitated, along with the show’s anchor and renowned lyricist, Ishwar Andhare.

    H.B.P. Radhatai Sanap has brought glory and prestige to Mahasangvi Sansthan by creating social awareness through her Kirtans, especially about education and other societal causes. Through his Kirtans delivered in an authentic local dialect, H.B.P. Jagannath Maharaj Patil raises awareness on similar themes, making his performances both impactful and relatable.

    Adding spiritual significance to the evening, the Chief Minister honoured descendants of Maharashtra’s most revered saints for preserving this rich tradition. Attendees included:

    . H.B.P. Madhav Maharaj Namdas (descendant of Sant Namdev Maharaj)
    . H.B.P. Ravikant Maharaj Vasekar (descendant of Sant Savata Maharaj)
    . H.B.P. Jabbar Maharaj Sheikh (descendant of Sant Sheikh Muhammad)
    . H.B.P. Bapusaheb Maharaj Dehukar (descendant of Sant Tukaram)
    . H.B.P. Janardan Maharaj Jagnade (descendant of Santaji Jagnade)
    . H.B.P. Gopalbuwa Makashir (descendant of Sant Nilobaray)
    . H.B.P. Pramod Pathak (descendant of Sant Bahinabai)

    Their presence added reverence and depth to the evening, highlighting the spiritual lineage that the show seeks to celebrate.

    Comments:

    Honourable Chief Minister, Shri Devendra Fadnavis:

    “Maharashtra’s rich spiritual heritage has always been its strength-and Kirtan is at the heart of that legacy. It has educated, uplifted, and united generations through devotion and storytelling. I commend Sony Marathi for creating a platform that honours this tradition while bringing it to a new generation. Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar is not just a show but a cultural movement that will keep our sacred legacy alive and thriving.”

    Gaurav Banerjee, MD & CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India:

    “At Sony Pictures Networks India, we’re passionate about telling stories that resonate deeply and authentically. Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar is more than just a show-it’s a celebration of Maharashtra’s spiritual legacy, brought alive through soul-stirring storytelling and devotion. At Sony Marathi, our philosophy of ‘Vinuya Atut Naati’ is about building lasting emotional bonds with our audience, and this show embodies that spirit perfectly.”

    Kirtan has long been at the heart of Marathi culture, bridging spiritual teachings and social commentary through lyrical narratives. Long before the advent of the printing press, Kirtankars served as messengers of knowledge, morality, and devotion. Recognising its timeless relevance, Sony Marathi is revitalising this sacred tradition for today’s audiences.

    To ensure authenticity, the show is guided by acclaimed Kirtan composer and scholar Dr. Sadanand More, acclaimed writer, poet, playwright, critic, historian, and a stalwart in Sant Sahitya.

    Tune in to the Kon Honar Maharashtracha Ladka Kirtankar grand premiere on April 1, 2025, at 8:00 PM, only on Sony Marathi. And let the spirit of devotion unfold every Monday to Saturday.

     

  • Live Times hits 500 million views news hub surges

    Live Times hits 500 million views news hub surges

    MUMBAI: Live Times, has achieved 500 million views in just 200 days, demonstrating significant audience trust and demand for fact-based journalism. This milestone underscores the channel’s growing influence and its commitment to delivering accurate and authentic news.

    In the Delhi market, Live Times has secured a Gross Rating Point (GRP) of 2.3 and an Average Time Spent (ATS) of 16 minutes in Week six, highlighting its increasing audience engagement. The channel maintains an average time spent of over 12 minutes across viewer segments, exceeding 16 minutes in some, indicating deep and meaningful audience interaction.

    This achievement reflects Live Times’ emergence as a credible source of news and information in India. The channel remains dedicated to delivering truthful content and supporting core democratic values.

    Live Times founder Dilip Kumar Singh expressed, “Feeling more humbled, with such a large number of viewers placing their trust with Live Times. These numbers are huge encouragement to Our mission of delivering truth. This achievement belongs to our viewers alone. At Live Times, we stand committed to provide authentic and impactful news and information that continues to empowers citizens.”

    Live Times is accessible across multiple platforms, including Tata Play (Channel 539), DishTV (Channel 665), Airtel Digital TV (Channel 385), Jio TV (Channel 3069), and Sikka Cable TV (Channel 319).

  • Moneycontrol tops charts business news dominance

    Moneycontrol tops charts business news dominance

    MUMBAI: Moneycontrol has reinforced its position according to the latest Comscore data for February 2025. The global audience measurement agency confirmed Moneycontrol’s top ranking across key digital metrics, including unique visitors, page views, and time spent.

    The Comscore India MMX data, encompassing mobile, desktop, and app traffic, revealed Moneycontrol’s continued dominance. With 39.89 million unique visitors (UVs) in February, Moneycontrol exceeded The Economic Times’ (ET) 32.39 million UVs, widening its audience share.

    Moneycontrol also outperformed ET in other crucial digital metrics. The platform recorded 349.10 million page views, more than double ET’s 120.74 million. Readers spent 326.11 million minutes on Moneycontrol, compared to ET’s 146.5 million minutes.

    Moneycontrol managing editor Nalin Mehta stated, “Moneycontrol’s sustained management position reaffirms the deep trust our audience has reposed in us for reliable market-focused business news and insights. We are relentlessly focussed on providing market intelligence that can help investors make informed decisions and this strengthens our resolve to double down on creating even more innovative and useful tools for our readers.”

    The Comscore data solidifies Moneycontrol’s status as India’s premier markets, finance, and business news platform, reflecting its commitment to delivering high-quality, authoritative content for the Indian investor and business community.

    In October 2024, Moneycontrol Pro, the platform’s subscription service, surpassed one million paying subscribers, establishing itself as India’s largest news subscription platform and ranking among the top 15 globally.

  • News18 Showsha Reel Awards stars shine bright

    News18 Showsha Reel Awards stars shine bright

    MUMBAI: The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 celebrated the best of film and OTT at a glamorous event in Mumbai, bringing together the industry’s finest. Hosted by actor Arjun Kapoor, the evening recognised outstanding talent and storytelling across films and web series, with a star-studded red carpet.

    The event drew a collection of prominent figures, including Janhvi Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Jaideep Ahlawat, Abhishek Bachchan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Ramesh Sippy, Salim Khan, Ravi Kishan, Jyothika, Riteish Deshmukh, Yami Gautam, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Kabir Khan, Raj & DK, and Sonu Nigam. Nikhita Gandhi’s live performance added to the night’s vibrant atmosphere.

    Rajkummar and Janhvi received the Best Actor and Best Actress (Popular Choice) awards, while Dhawan and Samantha won Best Actor and Best Actress (OTT). Ahlawat and Hydari were also recognised for their OTT performances. Rising Star Awards went to Raghav Juyal and Pratibha Ranta. Pankaj Tripathi was named Entertainer of the Year.

    Abhishek, upon receiving Best Actor (jury), remarked, “This is actually my first-ever Best Actor Award. I’d like to thank the esteemed jury it’s an honour that you find me worthy of this award. But the credit for this performance has to go entirely to Shoojit (Sircar) Da. He’s made such a wonderful film.”

    Hydari, winner of the OTT Star of the Year (Female) award, shared, “This one is very special. Heeramandi is very special. My director Sanjay sir is very special. I love him dearly. I am because of my directors and I hope I will continue to be because of them. Every single ad on set, every single human being on set, every single four-legged puppy on set, everybody was part of that universe, and it really made those years that we spent shooting. I can’t be more grateful.”

    Kabir won Best Director for Chandu Champion, and Stree 2 won Best Film. Sippy and Salim were honoured with the Reel Legend Award. Raj & DK and Sonu Nigam also received awards.

    The jury, comprising Sachin Pilgaonkar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Mukesh Chhabra, Tavishi Paitandy, Lilette Dubey, and Shabana Azmi, ensured a fair selection process.

    Indian Language News18 and Local18 (TV & digital) chief executive officer Mitul Sangani said, “At News18, we take immense pride in recognizing exceptional talent across diverse formats, and genres. The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 stands as a beacon of creative excellence, bringing together the best of Indian entertainment celebrating both mainstream and regional storytelling. We congratulate all the winners who have captivated audiences with their outstanding performances and storytelling.”

    English & Business News, Network18 CEO Smriti Mehra added, “The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of cinema and OTT on audiences worldwide. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, we are proud to recognise the artists and creators who challenge conventions and craft unforgettable narratives.”

  • Punjab Kings roar into IPL 2025 with ‘Bas Jeetna Hai’ campaign

    Punjab Kings roar into IPL 2025 with ‘Bas Jeetna Hai’ campaign

    MUMBAI: Punjab Kings have set the stage for IPL 2025 with a battle cry that leaves no room for doubt ‘Bas Jeetna Hai!’ The team’s electrifying new campaign, featuring Captain Shreyas Iyer, Head Coach Ricky Ponting, and a power-packed squad, embodies their relentless pursuit of victory.

    The high-energy video captures Punjab Kings’ stars Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson, Yuzvendra Chahal, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Marco Jansen gearing up for the season with raw intensity. A standout moment sees Arshdeep unleashing a lion’s roar ‘sher di dahaar’ perfectly encapsulating the fearless Punjab spirit, amplified by the commanding vocals of Punjabi singer Parmish Verma.

    The campaign also spotlights Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and promising youngsters Priyansh Arya and Musheer Khan, reinforcing Punjab Kings’ strong Indian core.

    Punjab Kings CEO, Satish Menon said, “With this campaign, we’re not just showcasing our team we’re celebrating a spirit. ‘Bas Jeetna Hai’ is more than a tagline. It’s an emotion every Punjab Kings fan live by. We’re building a fun and fearless identity on the field and off it. The atmosphere in the camp perfectly reflects what we’ve envisioned, and the boys are ready to give it their all. I’m confident fans will connect deeply with this campaign. Here’s wishing the team a memorable and successful season ahead.”

    Punjab Kings kick off their IPL 2025 journey today against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Following an away clash with Lucknow Super Giants, the team will bring the action home to the newly built PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, hosting Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings in back-to-back encounters. With their war cry set and their squad raring to go, Punjab Kings are ready to make this season one to remember.