ITV

Category: Television

  • Mumbai Indians strike fragrance deal Lattafa joins squad

    Mumbai Indians strike fragrance deal Lattafa joins squad

    MUMBAI: Mumbai Indians, has announced a novel partnership with Lattafa Perfumes, securing the middle eastern perfumery as their official fragrance partner for the upcoming season. This collaboration marks a unique fusion of cricket and luxury fragrance, aiming to enhance fan engagement and sensory experiences.

    The alliance pairs Mumbai Indians’ esteemed legacy with Lattafa’s expertise in premium fragrances, creating an immersive experience for supporters.

    “Fragrance is more than just a scent it’s an identity, a symbol of confidence, and a statement of prestige. Much like Mumbai Indians’ legacy, Lattafa embodies excellence, strength, and ambition. This partnership celebrates the winning spirit both in cricket and in life.” Lattafa Perfumes founder Sheikh Shahid Ahmed.

    A Mumbai Indians Spokesperson stated, “We are delighted to welcome Lattafa Perfumes to the Mumbai Indians family. This partnership brings together two distinctive brands that excel in their fields cricket and fragrances making for a perfect synergy. We look forward to an exciting journey together.”

    Lattafa Perfumes head of marketing Nayana Tharoor explained, “At Lattafa, we see fragrances as powerful expressions of identity and emotion, much like the passion that fuels every cricket match. Partnering with Mumbai Indians allows us to bring this philosophy into the world of sports, offering fans a deeper connection to the team through signature scents. By partnering with Mumbai Indians, we aim to enhance the fan experience through our signature fragrances while capturing the spirit of champions both on and off the field.”

    Under the campaign tagline ‘Ignite the Game – The Scent of Champions,’ the partnership will implement several key initiatives, Television commercial campaign a series of advertisements featuring Mumbai Indians’ top players, showcasing moments of preparation, intensity, and victory, all enhanced by Lattafa’s Khamrah fragrance. Kit sponsorship Lattafa branding will be prominently displayed on Mumbai Indians’ helmets and caps. Digital strategy a comprehensive digital campaign involving Indian and global influencers, bridging sports, lifestyle, and luxury. Game-day activities, exclusive scents and fan interaction.

    The collaboration extends to include an exclusive Mumbai Indians x Lattafa Fragrance collection, featuring a limited-edition range with team-inspired packaging. Furthermore, fans can anticipate immersive fragrance experiences at Mumbai Indians’ home matches through stadium activations and fan zones. Digital engagement will be fostered through social media campaigns, contests, and giveaways, offering prizes such as signed merchandise and match tickets, all accessible via Lattafa Perfumes’ Instagram page.

    Lattafa India aims to become an integral part of the Mumbai Indians’ season, providing players and fans with the scent of champions.

  • Alastair Cook returns to the crease for Easemytrip WCL glory

    Alastair Cook returns to the crease for Easemytrip WCL glory

    MUMBAI: Sir Alastair Cook is dusting off his cricket whites and stepping back onto the pitch, marking a historic return to competitive cricket. The legendary English batsman will join the England Champions squad for the Easemytrip World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, set to take place at Edgbaston this July.

    Cook, who retired from international cricket in 2018 as England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer, will reunite with his former teammate and captain Eoin Morgan, who is set to lead the England Champions in the highly anticipated tournament.

    Alastair Cook said, “It is great to be back playing for my country. I am really looking forward to being back on the field with Eoin and the other guys. The EaseMyTrip World Championship of Legends is providing the chance to be back involved with cricket at its best. I can’t wait!”
    Easemytrip WCL founder and CEO Harshit Tomar said, “Having a player of Sir Alastair Cook’s caliber join the Easemytrip World Championship of Legends will be a tremendous boost for the tournament. His legendary status will undoubtedly elevate the competition and bring immense value to the England Champions team.”

    “Sir Cook’s decision to return to cricket through the Easemytrip WCL platform demonstrates the tournament’s growing prestige and appeal to cricket icons worldwide,” Harshit Tomar added.

    England Champions owner Praveen Sharma said, “This is more than just a team announcement, it’s history in motion. With Cook and Morgan at the helm, England Champions is ready to take the Easemytrip WCL by storm.”

    Captain Eoin Morgan welcomed Cook saying, “Having Alastair back is not just about cricket, it’s about camaraderie, history, and creating new memories. We’re not just playing the game, we’re honoring it.”

    Easemytrip chairman and founder and Easemytrip WCL chief patron Nishant Pitti said, “We are thrilled to witness the return of Sir Alastair Cook to international cricket through the Easemytrip World Championship of Legends. His participation, alongside other cricket icons, perfectly aligns with our vision of supporting world-class sporting events that bring joy to millions of fans globally.”

    Cook’s career record speaks for itself, 161 Test matches, 12,472 runs at an average of 45.35, and 33 centuries, securing his place among the game’s greats. His return to competitive cricket is set to be a spectacle, reigniting old rivalries and bringing back the elegance of his batting to the global stage.

    As the Easemytrip World Championship of Legends gears up for its July showdown, Cook’s comeback ensures that this tournament will be more than just a nostalgic trip, it will be a thrilling contest of cricketing giants reliving their glory days.

  • Storytelling powerhouse Edstead enlists media veteran Megha Tata

    Storytelling powerhouse Edstead enlists media veteran Megha Tata

    MUMBAI: Edstead, the research-driven documentary studio known for its compelling narratives, has recruited media heavyweight Megha Tata as strategic advisor, signalling a strategic pivot in its content innovation journey.

    With three decades of media leadership under her belt, Tata brings a formidable arsenal of experience from industry giants like Star, Turner, HBO, and Discovery. Her appointment promises to turbocharge Edstead’s mission of purpose-driven storytelling.

    “I am delighted to work with Edstead at this transformative stage,” Tata commented, hinting at the studio’s potential to reshape media narratives, “We’re poised to create content that truly informs and inspires.”

    Edstead  founder Shekhar Bhattacharjee expressed unbridled enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Her leadership insights are invaluable as we craft stories that matter.”

    Tata’s impressive credentials include lecturing at top-tier institutions like IIT, IIM, and ISB, positioning her not just as an industry leader but a talent-shaper.

    The move signals Edstead’s ambitious strategy to elevate documentary storytelling from mere information to a catalyst for societal change.

  • Knight Riders Zidd Ki Nahi Hadd sets season’s tone

    Knight Riders Zidd Ki Nahi Hadd sets season’s tone

    MUMBAI: The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), holders of three Tata Indian Premier League (IPL) titles, have revealed their seasonal campaign, Zidd Ki Nahi Hadd.

    The campaign showcases the entire KKR team, including captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, and Sunil Narine. Head coach Chandrakant Pandit and team mentor DJ Bravo also feature, emphasising the Knight Riders’ determined and audacious approach on the cricket field.

    Zidd Ki Nahi Hadd is designed to galvanise both supporters and players, setting the stage for a highly charged season for the defending champions.

    The Kolkata Knight Riders are set to resume their campaign against the Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday, 26 March.

    The campaign can be viewed via the following link:

     

     

  • Rusk Media, Amazon MX Player to launch fitness reality show Battleground

    Rusk Media, Amazon MX Player to launch fitness reality show Battleground

    MUMBAI: Rusk Media and Amazon MX Player have joined forces to introduce Battleground, a high-energy fitness reality show that promises to be a game-changer in the genre. Featuring 16 contestants, the show will put participants through a rigorous 28-day competition designed to test endurance, strength, and strategy.

    The show, set to premiere in April, will feature four teams Mumbai Strikers, Haryana Bulls, Delhi Dominators, and UP Dabangs  competing for supremacy. Each team of four contestants will be mentored by renowned fitness and lifestyle experts, guiding them through physically demanding challenges and strategic gameplay. Ultimately, one male and one female contestant will claim the coveted title of India’s top fitness talents.

    “Battleground is more than just a fitness competition it’s a revolution in fitness entertainment. This show celebrates strength, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. We are excited to partner with Amazon MX Player to bring this high-octane experience to audiences across India,” said Rusk Media CEO & co-founder Mayank Yadav.

    Amazon MX Player director Aruna Daryanani added, “With Battleground, we take another step forward in our commitment to delivering diverse and engaging content to our audiences for free. This unique format not only inspires fitness enthusiasts but also redefines sports and reality entertainment, offering advertisers a powerful platform to connect with highly engaged viewers.”

    The show is backed by a strong lineup of sponsors. Charged serves as the presenting partner, while HMSI Honda Bigwing supports the competition with its CB350 bikes. Big Muscles Nutrition is the official nutrition partner, ensuring contestants maintain peak performance. Additionally, Kayam Churna, American Pistachios, and Ritebite Max Protein provide support as pain relief, snacking, and protein partners, respectively.

    With its unique blend of competition, fitness, and entertainment, Battleground is set to redefine reality television in India. The show will stream exclusively on Amazon MX Player from April.

  • Zee Telugu’s Ugadi Mass Jathara 2025 promises grand festive extravaganza

    Zee Telugu’s Ugadi Mass Jathara 2025 promises grand festive extravaganza

    MUMBAI: Zee Telugu is bringing an unmissable festive treat this Ugadi with a grand entertainment spectacle, Ugadi Mass Jathara. Airing on 30 March at 6 pm, the special event will feature a host of celebrity appearances, thrilling performances, and exciting games, making it a perfect celebration for Telugu audiences.

    Ramya Krishnan, Aishwarya Rajesh, Hero Nithin, Pradeep Machiraju, and several other stars will grace the event, engaging in entertaining segments and lively interactions. Anchors Ravi and Siri will host the show, bringing energy and charm to the evening.

    A key highlight of the event is the City vs. Village Antakshari competition, with Krishnan and Aishwarya renowned their respective teams in a fun-filled musical battle. Drama Juniors kids will recreate iconic scenes from Narasimha, creating a deeply nostalgic and emotional moment for Krishnan. Adding a personal touch, Chandu’s daughter’s Aksharabyasam ceremony will blend tradition with entertainment.

    The event will also feature high-energy dance performances, including Ashika and Bhoomi’s visually stunning act, as well as Rithu, Sangeetha, Maheshwari, and Hanvika’s electrifying routine. Adding to the excitement, Maanas, Tejaswini, and Nirupam Pallavi will bring the world of Pushpa-1 and Pushpa-2 alive on stage.

    Film stars will also take centre stage, with actor Nithin promoting Robinhood while performing alongside Ravi and Krishnan. Meanwhile, Machiraju will engage in light-hearted banter as he promotes his upcoming film, Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi.

    With a perfect mix of music, dance, nostalgia, and entertainment, Ugadi Mass Jathara 2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration of Telugu culture and cinema.
     

  • The Sleep Co scores big with Mumbai Indians partnership

    The Sleep Co scores big with Mumbai Indians partnership

    MUMBAI: In a knockout collaboration that’s set to change the game, The Sleep Co  (TSC) has been named the Official Comfort Partner for Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2025 campaign, bringing a  nice twist to athletic performance.
    The brand’s latest campaign “Jam ke soyenge, tabhi toh jam ke dhoyenge” (loosely translated: “Sleep hard to play harder”), isn’t just another marketing gimmick.

    A recent survey revealed that 86 per cent of athletes swear by pre-match naps, believing they’re the secret sauce to peak performance. Further, studies suggest that quality sleep plays a vital role in physical and mental well-being and increased cognitive flexibility. 

    Through this association, TSC wants to bring to the fore the role of peaceful sleep in achieving success in everyday life. Sleeping well prior to the night of a big day is what fuels present-moment awareness and confidence, leading to victory and the making of legends. 

    TSC co-founder Priyanka Salot quipped, “Mumbai Indians is one of the favourite teams among cricket fans. Associating with a team that inspires millions with its winning spirit, solidifies our position as a performance-driven comfort brand. For cricketers and athletes who always stay in the canopy of fitness, ultimate recovery starts with resting and sleeping well. Through this campaign, we want to communicate to the people that striking a right balance between effort and recovery leads to assured success.”

    The partnership aims to spotlight the often-overlooked MVP (most valuable player) of athletic prowess: quality shut-eye.

    ” As India’s most beloved sport, cricket serves as the perfect platform to bring people’s attention to the often-overlooked role of quality sleep in life,” said TSC chief marketing officer Ripal Chopda. “Rest and recovery aren’t just important to perform well on a cricket field, they are important for every individual – be it in sports, work or life. We aim to inspire people to take their health seriously and prioritise peaceful sleep which can boost their overall productivity and efficiency.” 

    The brand has launched an exclusive digital film featuring an anthem that’s part battle cry, part lullaby. 

    Steve Priya  chief creative officer Priya Pardiwalla noted: “Most IPL films are all about high energy, high action, and high intensity. But what if fans saw their favourite cricketers in a way they’ve never seen before – fast asleep. Our goal was to carve out a distinct tone and voice, ensuring both the brand and category stood out in the noise, despite the challenges. More importantly, we wanted to remind audiences of a simple yet powerful truth: peaceful sleep has the power to elevate performance, sharpening both what you do and how well you do it.”

    Fans can now splurge on exclusive Mumbai Indians merchandise, from mattresses to ergonomic chairs that’ll make working from home feel like a winning streak.

    Who knew sleep could be the ultimate game-changer? 

    The Sleep Co, that’s who.
     

    Watch the campaign here: 

     

  • Ecolink fans the flames of IPL 2025 with Punjab Kings partnership

    Ecolink fans the flames of IPL 2025 with Punjab Kings partnership

    MUMBAI: With IPL 2025 ready to bowl over fans, lighting brand Ecolink has swung into action by striking a breezy new partnership with Punjab Kings. The brand, known for its efficient lighting solutions and now an emerging player in the fan segment, has been named the official partner of the Kings for the season.

    Announced on 25 March 2025, this electrifying tie-up puts Ecolink’s name on the back of the Punjab Kings’ headgear – caps and helmets alike – and across team promotions, digital activations and matchday madness. Think: head-turning branding, literally.

    The collaboration aligns perfectly with the onset of India’s scorching summer and Ecolink’s timely fan product launches. The brand wants to breeze into millions of homes while the Kings try to blow away their opponents on the pitch. It’s synergy with spin, swing, and smart branding.

    “Cricket is more than a sport in India; it’s a unifying force. We are thrilled to partner with Punjab Kings and connect with millions of passionate fans. This collaboration provides Ecolink with a powerful platform to strengthen our presence in the Indian market. We look forward to supporting the team and creating unforgettable experiences for fans, both on and off the field. Through this partnership, we aim to enrich homes and the cricketing world, demonstrating our shared commitment to excellence,” said Signify greater India – head of marketing, strategy, govt. affairs & CSR, Nikhil Gupta.

    Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon shared in the excitement, “We are delighted to welcome Ecolink as our official partner for IPL 2025. This partnership reflects our shared pursuit of excellence and innovation, both on and off the field. We are confident that this collaboration will add immense value to the Punjab Kings family, while enhancing the experience for our passionate fans.”

    Ecolink, which operates in over 20 countries, has earned its stripes with durable, high-performance lighting products. Its aim? To be a trusted fixture in Indian homes. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, brings the heat with a retooled squad, now under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting. The team’s power-packed lineup includes Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell.

    With two strong brands rallying around innovation and high performance, this partnership is more than just a logo on a cap—it’s a full-blown blitz of sport and strategy.

  • BT Mindrush 2025 honours top CEOs and business icons in Mumbai

    BT Mindrush 2025 honours top CEOs and business icons in Mumbai

    MUMBAI: India’s top executives and business pioneers gathered at BT Mindrush 2025 on 22 March in Mumbai, where Business Today unveiled its prestigious India’s Best CEOs Awards 2025. The event honoured remarkable figures shaping the corporate landscape while offering insights into strategies for navigating global economic shifts.

    Aditya Birla Group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, was named Business Icon of the Year, while minister of external affairs S. Jaishankar, received the Impact Icon of the Year award. The Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Marico Ltd. chairman Harsh Mariwala and Thermax former chairperson Anu Aga for their enduring contributions.

    Among the other honourees, Narayana health chairman Devi Prasad Shetty was recognised as the Most Trusted Leader, while Eternal founder & CEO Deepinder Goyal received the Resilient CEO award. Tata Power CEO & MD Praveer Sinha was honoured as the Green Growth Visionary, and Physics Wallah founder & CEO Alakh Pandey earned the Startup of the Year title. Sun Pharma CMD Dilip Shanghvi was acknowledged for Services Vanguard, whereas TVS Motor MD Sudarshan Venu won for Manufacturing & Retail Excellence. MOFSL group MD & CEO Motilal Oswal was named among The Wealth Makers, while Mankind Pharma chairman Ramesh Juneja was recognised as The Deal Maker. Interglobe Aviation CEO Pieter Elbers was awarded the Glocal CEO title, and Jindal Stainless MD Abhyuday Jindal was honoured as an Urban Visionary. Solar Industries MD & CEO Manish Satyanarayan Nuwal was named among the Pillars of Progress, while KPIT Technologies’ Kishor Patil and Persistent Systems’ Sandeep Kalra received Tech Titans awards. Additionally, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders former CMD Sanjeev Singhal was recognised as the Bharat PSU Icon.

    The theme, Vucanomics 2025: Thriving in Turmoil – Turning Global Disruptions into Growth, steered discussions on leveraging technology and capital to transform uncertainties into opportunities.

    Birla, said, “Each overseas acquisition must be driven by clear strategic rationale securing raw materials, strengthening value chain resilience, or accessing higher-margin markets with lower volatility.” He added, “India is firmly on course to achieve developed-country status by 2047.”

    Union minister Nitin Gadkari, the event’s chief guest, announced that a national tolling policy would be introduced before 1 April, ensuring “reasonable concessions to commuters” and unveiling 36 new green express highways. Jaishankar, awarded Impact Icon of the Year, highlighted India’s balanced approach in global diplomacy, remarking, “From Russia and Ukraine to Israel and Iran and from the BRICS to the QUAD India engages across divides with the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’”

    Financial markets and policy stability were also key discussion points. Motilal Oswal urged cautious optimism in equities, while SEBI chair Tuhin Kanta Pandey assured, “Taxation has been rationalised; let’s not unsettle that certainty.” NSE MD Ashish Chauhan noted a shift in market dynamics, saying, “Domestic investors are increasingly becoming a stabilising force even as foreign flows ebb and flow.”

    The event culminated in the unveiling of Business Today’s special annual issue, honouring India’s finest executives. The issue was launched by Union ministers Gadkari and Jaishankar, Birla, and India Today group chairman Aroon Purie.

    With 18 eminent speakers across 13 sessions, BT Mindrush 2025 hosted over 200 CXOs from corporate India. The event was supported by Pwc (Presenting Partner), Diageo (Celebration Partner), Polymatech (Semiconductor Partner), Becquer Solar Studio (New Energy Partner), Logitech (Collaboration Partner), GAIL (Energy Partner), Sofitel Mumbai BKC (Hospitality Partner), and Laqshya Media Group and Omark Media Around Life (Outdoor Partners).

  • Haier goes hat-trick on JioHotstar, bowls over IPL viewers again

    Haier goes hat-trick on JioHotstar, bowls over IPL viewers again

    MUMBAI: In the world of cricket and consumer durables, Haier is proving it can swing both bats and branding. The global appliance giant has locked in its third consecutive year as the digital streaming partner for Tata IPL 2025 on JioHotstar, hitting another six in its all-out ‘Sport-O-Tainment’ strategy. From spin cycles to spin bowling, Haier seems determined to own both.

    Announced on 25 March 2025, the partnership marks a calculated play to stay in front of young, premium, and sports-obsessed eyeballs. After a successful 2024 IPL season and a high-octane showing at the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, Haier has returned to the IPL crease with digital dominance in mind.

    “At Haier India, we have consistently invested in major sporting events year after year, and this strategy has played a pivotal role in strengthening our position as a leading brand in the consumer durables space. Our continued partnership with JioHotstar as the digital streaming partner for IPL 2025 reflects our commitment to connecting meaningfully with consumers across the country. Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Indians, transcending beyond sport to become a cherished part of our culture and celebrations.

    IPL presents an unparalleled platform to engage with young audiences, premium consumers, and Indian households alike. As one of the India’s most celebrated sporting events, IPL, through its coverage on JioHotstar offers a powerful opportunity for us to expand our reach, strengthen brand visibility, and build deeper emotional connections with cricket fans – both regionally, as they passionately support their home teams, and nationwide — further solidifying Haier’s position as an industry leader in innovation and consumer engagement,” said Haier Appliances India president NS Satish.

    Sport may be a passion in India, but it’s also a growing business juggernaut. The country’s sports market is projected to skyrocket from $52 billion to $130 billion by 2030, growing at a solid 14 per cent CAGR, according to Deloitte and Google. Haier, clearly not one to miss a run, has already stitched itself into the game. With IPL 2023 and 2024 under its belt, plus recent partnerships with the ICC Men’s World Cups and tennis grand slams like Wimbledon, US Open, and Roland-Garros, the brand has aced its multi-sport marketing serve.

    In 2024, Haier tapped into record-breaking IPL viewership to push brand salience and forge emotional ties with fans – not bad for a company better known for fridges than fours and sixes. The brand now aims to up the ante in 2025, using this digital innings to stay top-of-mind across Indian homes and hearts.

    A refrigerator brand investing in cover drives? That’s Haier for you – cooling homes while heating up India’s sportainment scoreboard.