ITV

Category: Television

  • News18 India rolls out red carpet for Diamond States Summit’s Grand Finale

    News18 India rolls out red carpet for Diamond States Summit’s Grand Finale

    MUMBAI: News18 India is setting the stage for the Diamond States Summit (DSS) Grand Finale, where India’s states come dressed to impress—politically speaking, of course. Having toured states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and beyond, the DSS series has racked up quite the mileage, showcasing incredible stories of governance. Now, the grand finale in New Delhi on 23 March promises to be the grandest affair yet—think Oscars, but with more khadi and fewer acceptance speeches.

    The DSS platform honours states excelling in implementing central government’s public welfare schemes. Simply put, it’s a high-powered show-and-tell where states proudly flaunt their developmental achievements and governance wins. From improved living standards to transformative economic growth, these states have certainly done their homework—and they’re here to receive their due applause.

    The summit promises lively discussions with an A-list guest list featuring India’s political heavyweights. Expected to grace the event are Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukku, Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini, and Meghalaya’s dynamic Conrad Sangma, among other key political figures. Also in attendance will be influential cabinet ministers, deputy chief ministers, and bureaucratic bigwigs ready to swap notes on governance excellence.

    Political conversations will flow faster than chai at a street corner, tackling India’s most pressing issues and showcasing visionary strategies. Citizens looking to gain insider insights into the workings of governance—grab your notepads.

    Watch the grand spectacle unfold live on News18 India from 11 am onwards, 23 March. This isn’t your average summit—it’s the Olympics of governance, and every participant’s already won gold in transformative action. 

  • JioStar bowls advertisers a golden opportunity with Brand Spotlight during IPL opener

    JioStar bowls advertisers a golden opportunity with Brand Spotlight during IPL opener

    MUMBAI: As cricket-mad Indians prepare to be glued to their screens for the Tata  Indian Premier League (IPL), JioStar is padding up to bowl advertisers a rather tempting delivery. The media behemoth is launching the second innings of Brand Spotlight—a  scheme to showcase select commercials exclusively during the golden first six overs of matches, when viewership hits fever pitch.

    For the first time, this advertising honeypot will extend beyond digital platforms to linear television, allowing deep-pocketed sponsors to splash their wares during the tournament’s opening clash on Star Sports. A veritable who’s who of Indian advertisers—including My11Circle, Campa Energy, GPay, Birla Opus, Poker Baazi, PhonePe, Thums Up, Dream 11, TVS, Asian Paints, MRF, Joy Consumer Products and Carat Lane—have stumped up handsomely for the privilege.

    “The opening match at IPL is a marquee moment in India’s sporting calendar, commanding unmatched audience attention,” said an excited  JioStar chief business officer for sports revenue, SMB and creator Ishan Chatterjee. “Brand Spotlight places brands at the centre of this excitement.”.

    JioStar’s masterstroke includes a dedicated Brand Spotlight content tray on the JioHotstar app, where advertising mavens will explain the creative genius behind their commercials. This behind-the-scenes peek aims to transform mundane adverts into “cultural moments”—corporate-speak for “please don’t skip our ads.”

    Last year’s maiden venture proved quite the crowd-pleaser, with six brands dominating the crucial early overs of the curtain-raiser between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Unlike traditional ad spots, where viewers typically dash to the loo or frantically search for the remote, these commercials enjoyed what JioStar calls “uncluttered and appointment-driven visibility”—a fancy way of saying “you can’t escape them.”

    What JioStar is attempting—with considerable chutzpah—is to create India’s version of America’s famed Super Bowl advertising extravaganza, where commercials often generate more buzz than the sporting action itself.
    By transforming IPL’s opening overs into prime advertising real estate, JioStar is exploiting cricket’s vice-like grip on the national psyche. It’s a textbook case of capitalism meeting cricket fever—a marriage made in commercial heaven.

    Whether viewers will embrace this Super Bowl moment or simply use it as an opportunity to stock up on samosas or kathi rolls  remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: in the battle for eyeballs, JioStar has just hit advertisers for a commercial six.

  • Ajith Vijay Kumar logs into India TV as managing editor – digital

    Ajith Vijay Kumar logs into India TV as managing editor – digital

    MUMBAI:  Ajith Vijay Kumar is on the move. The seasoned digital news editor has joined India TV as managing editor – digital, bringing his wealth of experience to the network’s online operations.

    Ajith’s latest role follows a two-year stint at TV9 as senior executive editor, where he led digital news strategy. Before that, he helmed digital operations at Times Now and Times Network, shaping their online newsroom over a six-year run.

    With over a decade in the fast-paced world of digital news, Ajith’s arrival at India TV signals a push to further strengthen its online presence.

  • South Korean format factory Something Special gets cash injection

    South Korean format factory Something Special gets cash injection

    MUMBAI: Seoul-based format agency Something Special has secured a financial booster shot from two South Korean investment heavyweights, Daekyo Investment and SB Partners, to fuel its global expansion ambitions.
    The deal, whose financial particulars remain under wraps, sees Daekyo providing the lion’s share of capital with SB Partners chipping in supporting funds. The cash injection comes as Something Special celebrates its fifth birthday, giving it ample ammunition for its next growth phase.

    The format agency, helmed by president and executive producer Jin Woo Hwang and executive VP and head of content InSoon Kim, has already made significant inroads in the global format marketplace. Its smash hit Battle in the Box  has been snapped up in 23 territories, while Still Alive has found homes in 11 markets.

    Its  latest offering, Unforgettable Duet—a heartstring-tugging format featuring dementia patients reconnecting with memories through beloved songs—debuted on MBN as one of 2024’s highest-rated unscripted launches. The show has since secured a full ten-episode commission for 2025 and caught the fancy of Helium Pictures, which optioned it for Australia and New Zealand in December 2024.

    Daekyo Investment, which manages the Daekyo K-Contents Scale Up Fund targeting small and medium-sized venture companies in Korea’s cultural content sector, seems pleased with its new portfolio addition. The firm’s executive director Roh Jai Seung gushed: “Something Special has proven itself to be a globally known and highly respected content company. They are shining a light on the best of Korean creativity to the world.”

    Hwang and Kim responded: “We are honoured that Daekyo Investment and SB Partners recognise Something Special’s vision and potential. As the leading independent Korean agency representing A-list producers and formats worldwide, we remain committed to our motto: We connect and create.”

    The Seoul outfit also represents the white-hot format The Traitors in Korea and boasts partnerships with format behemoths including FremantleMedia, Banijay, ITV UK, UKTV and Warner Brothers International Television.

  • TV9 Network and Sensodyne brush up on oral health for the third time lucky

    TV9 Network and Sensodyne brush up on oral health for the third time lucky

    MUMBAI: When it comes to oral health, TV9 Network and Sensodyne certainly know how to keep their pearly whites shining bright. For the third consecutive year, this dynamic duo is back, brushing up on India’s oral hygiene habits. Launching on World Oral Health Day (20 March 2025), this nationwide campaign urges citizens to ‘Take the First Step’ and #BeSensitiveToOralHealth. And this isn’t just another toothy grin—it’s a full-fledged mission to conquer cavities and declare war on dental woes!

    Graced by Union minister of state, Ministry of Health and family welfare Anupriya Patel, the campaign kicked off with strong government backing. Patel noted, “The Government of India is making several efforts to create awareness about oral health because even today, a large population in our country lacks basic knowledge about oral health care. And when we talk about quality and affordable health care services in the context of oral health care, accessibility is still limited compared to our actual needs. I would like to congratulate Sensodyne and TV9 Network on this initiative.”

    Sensodyne is leaving no stone unturned—or should we say, tooth unbrushed—by rolling out two state-of-the-art mobile dental vans across Indian cities. Offering free dental check-ups and personalised oral care advice, these vans aim to bridge the dental divide, especially in underserved communities.

    Commenting on the partnership, Haleon India subcontinent BU general manager Navneet Saluja said, “We are honoured to continue our collaboration with TV9 Network for the third consecutive year. Sensodyne’s ‘Take the First Step’ campaign focused on World Oral Health Day, has been dedicated to driving meaningful progress in oral health awareness and accessibility across India. Our partnership with TV9 Network has played a crucial role in amplifying this mission, allowing us to reach millions with the message of proactive dental care. This year, by leveraging innovative solutions like Mobile Dental Vans and AI-driven diagnostics, we are making oral health solutions more accessible and actionable for communities nationwide. I firmly believe that through collaboration and shared expertise, we can create a lasting impact on India’s oral health landscape and contribute to a healthier future for all.”

    Adding sparkle to the campaign, TV9 Network CRO Amit Tripathi said, “We are delighted to partner with Sensodyne for the third time in a row for this impactful initiative aimed at raising awareness around oral health, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. At TV9 Network, we believe in leveraging the power of our platforms to drive conversations that matter and create meaningful change.”

    Further amplifying the message, TV9 Network has introduced a futuristic touch—a QR Code Amplification across their broadcast and digital channels, leading users to AI-driven diagnostic tools and free dental consultations. Talk about making oral hygiene high-tech!

    This commitment is also part of Sensodyne’s ongoing partnership with TV9 Network’s Mega Thought Fest – What India Thinks Today, reinforcing preventive care and sustained oral hygiene as priorities.

    In the spirit of PM Narendra Modi’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047, this campaign pushes oral health to centre stage, hoping to create a brighter, healthier future—one smile at a time.

  • Times Now absorbs Mirror Now in strategic shake-up

    Times Now absorbs Mirror Now in strategic shake-up

    MUMBAI: India’s leading English news channel, Times Now, is getting even bigger. In a bold strategic realignment, Mirror Now will be merged into Times Now, consolidating the network’s editorial firepower and strengthening its grip on the English news market.

    With a legacy spanning nearly two decades, Times Now has built a reputation for hard-hitting, agenda-setting journalism. The merger is set to amplify its impact, ensuring sharper analysis, stronger reportage, and a more unified editorial voice.

    As the media landscape shifts, Times Network is doubling down on growth, innovation, and excellence—not just for viewers but for its newsroom talent. By fostering a high-energy, forward-thinking editorial ecosystem, the network is cementing its place as a powerhouse of fearless journalism and impactful storytelling.

    Meanwhile, Times Now Navbharat continues to shake up the Hindi news space with its action-driven journalism. On the business front, ET Now and ET Now Swadesh remain India’s most trusted sources for market insights, delivering expert analysis and deep financial intelligence to audiences across the country.

    With this realignment, Times Network is making it clear: in the fast-moving world of news, it’s staying ahead of the curve—and the competition.

  • CNN-News18 dominates as India’s top english news channel for three years

    CNN-News18 dominates as India’s top english news channel for three years

    MUMBAI: CNN-News18 has reinforced its position as holding the top spot in BARC ratings for three consecutive years. This remarkable achievement underscores the channel’s commitment to credible, insightful, and engaging journalism.

    To celebrate this milestone, CNN-News18 has unveiled a bold new visual identity, prioritising immersive storytelling with fewer words and more powerful visuals. The redesign delivers a sleeker, cleaner aesthetic, enhancing the on-screen experience and setting a new standard in news presentation.

    The revamped format embraces a One Screen, One Form, One Stream approach, seamlessly integrating content across TV and digital platforms. This convergence-first strategy ensures news is dynamic, interactive, and future-ready. The channel also introduces documentary-style reportage, delivering in-depth analysis with a focus on exclusivity and diversity.

    For three consecutive years, CNN-News18 has remained at the top, consistently outperforming rivals such as Republic TV, Times Now, and India Today TV.

    English & Business News, Network18 CEO Smriti Mehra said, “This milestone is about more than numbers—it is about trust. Our audience expects the best in journalism, and this transformation ensures they receive a world-class news experience.”

    CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added,  “Our focus on depth over sensationalism has been key to our dominance. The new look reinforces our commitment to evolving storytelling formats while maintaining accuracy and impact.”

    In a rapidly changing world, CNN-News18 has remained steadfast in its pursuit of factual, analytical, and incisive journalism. The channel’s success is driven by its team of seasoned journalists and anchors, including Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, and Rahul Shivshankar, who deliver sharp analysis and in-depth coverage of critical issues.  

  • Bloomberg Media expands reach with Brandwidth Mediaè tie-up

    Bloomberg Media expands reach with Brandwidth Mediaè tie-up

    MUMBAI: Bloomberg Media, the multi-platform media company for business and financial information, is doubling down on its regional presence with a strategic partnership with Brandwidth Mediaè. The collaboration aims to deliver Bloomberg’s cutting-edge financial intelligence to a wider audience across the subcontinent.

    Brandwidth Mediaè founder & managing director Rahul Sood said, “This partnership with Bloomberg allows us to bring unparalleled financial insights to audiences across the subcontinent. We’re excited to deliver Bloomberg’s dynamic and authoritative news to viewers on all screens.”

    Bloomberg is globally celebrated for its rapid, precise and insightful reporting on business and financial affairs, empowering audiences with real-time updates and deep market intelligence. “We are excited to introduce not just Bloomberg TV, but also Bloomberg TV+ and Bloomberg Originals, further expanding their reach and strengthening the brand in this dynamic region,” said Brandwidth Mediaè founder & managing partner  Rohit Jaiswal.

    Brandwidth Mediaè is an independent content, technology, and media sales company, dedicated to helping global brands expand their footprint and monetise their services. It provides high-impact opportunities for businesses to generate new revenue streams and amplify their reach.

    With a star-studded roster of partners—including CNN, Al Jazeera and TV Today in broadcast, and Frammer AI & Benchmark in tech—Brandwidth Mediaè continues to build up its presence in the media world. Its latest partnership with Bloomberg Media is set to raise the bar for financial journalism in the region, delivering top-tier insights to an ever-growing audience.

  • Bharat Pavilion makes debut at Hong Kong Filmart

    Bharat Pavilion makes debut at Hong Kong Filmart

    MUMBAI: India’s film industry has gone global, with the Bharat Pavilion at Hong Kong’s International Film & TV Market (Filmart, 17-20 March) being unveiled a couple of days ago. The pavilion, inaugurated by Hong Kong & Macau’s consul general of India, Satwant Khanalia, marked a milestone moment in India’s cinematic outreach. Filmart concludes today in Hongkong.

    Spearheaded by the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the initiative was a power play to boost Indian cinema’s global footprint. Backed by the consulate general of India, Hong Kong & Macau, the pavilion was positioned as a launchpad for cross-border partnerships, international co-productions and market expansion.

    “India’s film industry is one of the world’s largest, telling stories that transcend borders. The Bharat Pavilion is a new chapter in global collaborations, unlocking fresh opportunities for Indian cinema,” said Khanalia.

    NFDC also spotlighted Waves – The World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit, set to hit Mumbai from 1-4 May 2025. Billed as a premier content hub, the event will pull in industry titans, innovators and investors, pushing India as the epicentre of global content creation and trade.

    NFDC, a veteran in promoting Indian cinema at Cannes, Berlinale and Filmart, continues to drive co-productions, market expansion and distribution deals. The Bharat Pavilion was the latest jewel in its crown, offering Indian filmmakers a fast-track to international markets.

    The opening day saw a whirlwind of activity—networking frenzies, industry huddles, and high-stakes talks on co-productions and content sales. Indian producers, distributors and filmmakers seized the moment, pitching projects, shaking hands, and scouting fresh markets.

  • Japanese watchmaker Seiko partners with RCB for T20 cricket season 2025

    Japanese watchmaker Seiko partners with RCB for T20 cricket season 2025

    MUMBAI: Cricket matches and watches—both share an obsession with perfect timing. Seiko, the Japanese maestro with 140 years of ticking expertise, knows this game all too well. Partnering with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the 2025 T20 cricket season, Seiko proves once again that it doesn’t just watch the clock—it masters it. This isn’t merely a brand deal; it’s cricketing elegance meeting horological precision, a classic pairing like a Virat Kohli cover drive—beautiful, timeless, and precise.

    Announced on 20 March in Bengaluru, Seiko’s alliance with RCB brings together over 200 years of combined heritage in sports and craftsmanship. With RCB’s fiery gameplay and Seiko’s meticulous craftsmanship, this collaboration promises to redefine ‘match timing’—literally.

    Speaking about the partnership, Seiko India president & COO Niladri Mazumder stated, “Seiko has a longstanding legacy in sports, built on precision, innovation, and performance—qualities that mirror the ethos of Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Our partnership with them is a natural extension of our commitment to excellence, and we are proud to be associated with a team that exemplifies resilience and performance. This collaboration allows us to engage with cricket enthusiasts in a meaningful way, reinforcing Seiko’s presence in the world of sports.”

    Echoing the sentiment, Royal Challengers Bengaluru COO Rajesh V Menon said, “RCB is renowned for pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable experiences for our fans. We are thrilled to partner with Seiko to mark the celebration of cricket, forever etched in time.”

    With co-branded campaigns and exclusive fan experiences planned, Seiko aims to capture every nail-biting, cheer-inducing second of the T20 season 2025. Fans can look forward to a season where precision isn’t just expected—it’s guaranteed. Miss a moment? Not with Seiko around. After all, every second counts when you’re chasing victory on the pitch or checking if it’s finally lunch break yet.