Category: Television

  • Warner Bros. Discovery unveils Shiva-inspired mural in Mumbai

    Warner Bros. Discovery unveils Shiva-inspired mural in Mumbai

    MUMBAI: Warner Bros. Discovery, in collaboration with Aravani Art Project & ting, has brought mythology to life through a striking artistic tribute. To celebrate the launch of Legends of Shiva with Amish on Discovery Channel India and discovery+, a bold Ardhanarishwara mural now adorns a Mumbai billboard, symbolising the balance of masculine and feminine energies.

    Created by the Aravani Art Project, a collective of transgender and non-binary artists, the mural represents identity beyond gender, echoing the themes explored in the series. Its creation was captured in a digital film by ting and ting studios, amplifying the message of self-expression and inclusion.

    Warner Bros. Discovery head of marketing south Asia Janhavi Vyas remarked, “India is a land of contrasts, and few figures embody this duality like Lord Shiva. He is both a recluse and a householder, a seamless blend of masculine and feminine. This initiative goes beyond just promotion it is a step towards inclusion, recognition, and celebrating diversity. At Warner Bros. Discovery, we are committed to fostering a world where every voice is heard and valued.”

    Ting partner Sudharshan Anandkumar added, “At ting, we craft stories that do more than just promote they spark conversations. Collaborating on Legends of Shiva with Amish allowed us to showcase mythology in a way that resonates with today’s world. The Ardhanarishwara mural is more than art, it is a symbol of balance and inclusivity. Through our digital film, we wanted to emphasise that mythology isn’t just history it is a living dialogue that continues to inspire.”

    This initiative goes beyond television, elevating unheard voices and reaffirming the timeless relevance of Shiva’s teachings in contemporary society.

  • Amit Sadh shifts gears with Gully Gladiators, revving up storytelling game

    Amit Sadh shifts gears with Gully Gladiators, revving up storytelling game

    MUMBAI: Familiar with the phrase, “Life is like riding a motorcycle-keep moving or you’ll fall?” Well, actor Amit Sadh took it a bit too literally. Hindi cinema’s favourite rugged adventurer has kickstarted his production house, Gully Gladiators Productions LLP, and he’s cruising full throttle into the content-creation fast lane. Yes, folks, storytelling just got a whole lot more exciting (and louder).

    On 18 March 2025, Sadh officially unveiled his latest brainchild-Gully Gladiators Productions, dedicated to delivering compelling, high-octane storytelling. The first project from this creative stable, Motorcycles Saved My Life, has already zoomed ahead in popularity, currently in its gripping second season. But Sadh isn’t stopping there; he’s shifting up gears with several new fiction and non-fiction narratives under development. Fasten your helmets; it’s about to get bumpy!

    “With Gully Gladiators, my vision is to tell stories that resonate deeply and leave a lasting impact. From my early days in television to carving a path in cinema, these two decades have been a journey of passion, growth, and storytelling. As we embark on this new chapter, Motorcycles Saved My Life becomes the perfect catalyst for us to shift gears! Through this journey, we aim to bring narratives to life that inspire, connect, and push creative boundaries,” shares Sadh.

    Motorcycles Saved My Life isn’t your typical Sunday cruise-it’s a powerful non-fiction ride that delves deep into life’s transformative journeys, celebrating freedom, adventure, and the resilience of the human spirit. Its latest episode explores Ladakh’s nomadic tribes, offering raw, unfiltered tales of unconventional living. Available now on Youtube, it’s the perfect escape route from your average, mundane existence.

    Want a taste of freedom? Watch Sadh trade film sets for the open road and uncover extraordinary tales of survival, adventure, and self-discovery in Motorcycles Saved My Life.

  • Bodhitree announces rights issue even as Ashok Ma.Ma hits 100 episodes on Colors Marathi

    Bodhitree announces rights issue even as Ashok Ma.Ma hits 100 episodes on Colors Marathi

    MUMBAI: Even as its heartwarming family drama Ashok Ma.Ma. notches up 100 episodes on Colors Marathi, producer Bodhitree Multimedia has announced plans to fatten its coffers through a Rs 4,443 lakh rights issue opening next month.

    The popular Marathi show, which stars veteran actor Ashok Saraf as a disciplined retiree thrust into guardianship of his three grandchildren after a family tragedy, has captivated audiences with its emotional journey from strict grandfather to doting “Ma.Ma.” (grandpa).

    “At Bodhitree Multimedia, we have always believed in telling stories that create impact and build human emotions,” gushed Mautik Tolia, founder and managing director of the production house, seemingly oblivious to the fact that most stories do precisely that.

    While celebrating the milestone, Bodhitree is also looking to beef up its balance sheet. The company’s rights issue committee yesterday approved a record date of March 24 for its forthcoming cash call, which will see eligible shareholders offered four new shares for every nine currently held.

    The Rs 8 per share offer opens on April 15 and closes on April 28, with the company seeking to issue 55,537,777 fresh equity shares. The move follows board approval last May for a rights issue worth up to Rs 4,500 lakh.

    Back on screen, Ashok’s evolution from solitary disciplinarian to loving guardian has struck a chord with Marathi viewers. His initially frosty relationship with headstrong, wealthy Bhairavi (played by Rasika Wakharkar)—who starts as the children’s preferred guardian before unexpectedly becoming his daughter-in-law—provides the emotional heart of the show.

    “Ashok is a multifaceted character, with his own set of complexities, emotions and layers,” noted Saraf with the kind of actorly insight that suggests he’s been reading his own press releases. “I feel immense pride in portraying a character who has connected so well with the viewers.”

    Whether investors will feel similarly connected to Bodhitree’s forthcoming share offering remains to be seen. The company’s stock currently trades under the ticker BTML on the National Stock Exchange and 543767 on the Bombay Stock Exchange.

  • Alike.io says ‘I Do’ to JioHotstar for reality show love affair

    Alike.io says ‘I Do’ to JioHotstar for reality show love affair

    MUMBAI: Choosing a life partner feels a bit like booking the perfect holiday? You sift through endless options, pray the photos match reality, and hope the journey doesn’t crash and burn. Well, Alike.io just turned this metaphor literal. Partnering up with JioHotstar’s sizzling dating reality series Engaged – Roka Ya Dhoka, Alike.io cleverly mixes romance with roaming the globe—because nothing tests compatibility like losing your luggage together!

    Launching as the global destinations partner of Engaged – Roka Ya Dhoka, Alike.io amplifies its brand among young, thrill-seeking travellers. The show sees 15 adventurous contestants travel and tackle relationship-testing challenges over an intense 240-hour escapade. Think love is hard? Try proving compatibility while navigating foreign customs and questionable street food.

    “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Rusk Studios for season one of Engaged. The series perfectly captures the highs and lows of choosing a life partner—or facing an unexpected twist. This partnership allows us to showcase how we curate handcrafted luxury experiences tailored to individual tastes for today’s generation. And this FOMO-worthy Bali getaway is just the beginning for our winning duo, Karan & Sifat!” said Alike.io co-founder Ashish Sidhra.

    The cherry on top? The winning couple, Karan and Sifat, snagged a lavish, all-expenses-paid romantic getaway to Bali—a dreamy reward sure to make everyone else insanely jealous. An online contest, ‘Jab Proposal Met Travel’, also gave lovebirds a chance to bag a luxury glamping trip to Shimla, alongside quirky smart bag trackers and Alike cash vouchers.

    Sifat, still riding high on the victory wave, said, “Coming on Engaged, I didn’t know what to expect. I was hopeful about love but never imagined winning the show. Alike.io has made this win even more special—we’re beyond excited for our Bali trip! Huge thanks to the entire team for this incredible opportunity to escape and rediscover our love.”

    Her thrilled partner, Karan, echoed the sentiment, adding, “A huge thank you to Alike.io for making our victory on Engaged even sweeter with this incredible trip to Bali! From breathtaking beaches to unforgettable experiences, this journey will be nothing short of magical. Grateful for the excitement, the adventure, and the luxury—this is truly the perfect way to celebrate!”

    But beyond romantic escapades and envy-inducing prizes, the series also gives contestants a major boost in social media fame, igniting discussions about modern relationships and “situationships” in the digital age. Who knew reality TV could offer more than just petty drama and public heartbreak?

    Through this glamorous partnership with Rusk Studios, Alike.io solidifies itself as the go-to platform for curated travel experiences and luxury adventures, effortlessly fusing travel and romance. 

  • Curious Eyes Cinema hits big with short film spotlighting Jaunsari tribe time at Visions du Réel

    Curious Eyes Cinema hits big with short film spotlighting Jaunsari tribe time at Visions du Réel

    MUMBAI: Ever felt annoyed by rain interrupting your Netflix binge? There’s a tribe whose entire existence revolves around it—and now even they’re fed up! Cue Rains Don’t Make Us Happy Anymore, a quirky yet poignant short film diving headfirst into the rapidly disappearing world of the Jaunsari tribe of Uttarakhand. And guess what? This delightful cinematic gem has bagged its world premiere at Europe’s leading documentary extravaganza, Visions du Réel. Talk about making a splash!

    Produced by Sharad Mehra under Curious Eyes Cinema and masterfully crafted by writer-director Yashasvi Juyal, the film is set to premiere on 10 April 2025, at the festival’s 56 edition in Nyon, Switzerland. The festival, running from 4-13 April 2025, boasts an impressive roster of 154 films from a record-breaking 57 countries.

    “We are absolutely thrilled that our film has been chosen for this prestigious festival featuring 154 films from a record 57 countries. It’s an incredible platform to share our labour of love and passion with a wider audience, and we can’t wait for the world to experience it,” says Mehra.

    Nestled in Lohari village within Uttarakhand’s remote Jaunsar-Bawar region, the documentary vividly captures the tribe’s fascinating yet fading culture. From faith healing rituals to intricate terraced farming, cultivating wheat, barley, and lentils, their traditions are rich—but increasingly rare. Why? Well, because young folks prefer city lights over candlelit Himalayan nights. Who can blame them?

    Juyal adds perspective, noting, “This film sheds light on the pressing issue of displacement caused by the development of hydroelectric projects and dams in the Himalayas, highlighting the profound impact on both the land and its people. With limited representation of Himalayan narratives, this selection marks a monumental moment for us, and we are excited to embark on this journey, sharing this important story with the world.”

    Will a short film finally put the Jaunsari tribe on the global cinematic map, or will their traditions fade faster than your New Year’s resolutions? Either way, it’s about time someone gave rains and tribes their due attention.

  • Homesure Tileex partners with Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025

    Homesure Tileex partners with Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025

    MUMBAI: Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., a prominent name in the building and construction materials sector, has announced a partnership with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for IPL season 18. Through this collaboration, its Homesure Tileex brand becomes the official tile adhesive partner for the franchise, reinforcing its growing presence in the market.

    With Uttar Pradesh being a key market for Homesure, partnering with LSG one of the tournament’s most consistent teams in recent years was a natural fit. The association also benefits from the team’s strong lineup, featuring star players such as Rishabh Pant, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Nicholas Pooran, David Miller, and Mitch Marsh.

    Commenting on the partnership, Walplast’s managing director, Kaushal Mehta, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with Lucknow Super Giants, a team known for its determination and competitive spirit. Cricket is deeply ingrained in Indian culture, and this association enables us to connect with millions of fans while reinforcing our commitment to high-quality construction solutions. Just as a solid foundation is key to a successful team, superior materials are essential for durable structures.”

    Walplast senior vice president & marketing, CSR & business head, P2P division Aniruddha Sinha, added, “IPL provides an unparalleled platform to engage with our audience. Partnering with LSG enhances Homesure Tileex’s visibility and strengthens our connection with customers who trust our products in their everyday projects. Through this collaboration, we aim to integrate our brand seamlessly into the cricketing experience, reaching homeowners, builders, and industry professionals alike.”

    Lucknow Super Giants chief operating officer Vinay Chopra said,“We are pleased to welcome Homesure Tileex as our official partner for IPL 2025. Their strong market presence and expertise make them a valuable addition to our growing network of partners, and we look forward to a successful association.”

    As part of the partnership, Homesure Tileex will engage fans through various brand activities throughout the IPL season, further strengthening its connection with cricket enthusiasts and industry professionals.

  • National women’s hockey league final round tees off with Coca-Cola India

    National women’s hockey league final round tees off with Coca-Cola India

    MUMBAI: The final showdown of India’s premier women’s hockey competition kicked off yesterday in Ranchi, as eight elite teams clash in a battle for national supremacy. The National Women’s Hockey League 2024-25, now in its climactic phase, runs until 28 March with backing from soft-drink behemoth Coca-Cola India and its charitable arm Anandana.

    Following a rollicking first phase last spring, the tournament continues to serve as both talent showcase and potential national team audition. The cream of Indian hockey—drawn from Hockey Haryana, Hockey Maharashtra, Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey Madhya Pradesh, Hockey Bengal, Hockey Mizoram, Manipur Hockey, and Hockey Association of Odisha—are slugging it out on the turf after qualifying through the 14th Senior Women National Championship.

    For Coca-Cola, the league forms part of its #SheTheDifference campaign, which aims to boost women’s participation in sports. The partnership delivers more than just fizzy drinks, providing specialized coaching, training kit, nutritional advice and tournament organization.

    “We are thrilled to host the final phase of the National Women’s Hockey League,” said Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, barely containing his excitement. “This partnership is instrumental in elevating women’s hockey in India, providing young athletes with the resources and opportunities needed to excel.”

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh, , struck a similar tone, praising the “steadfast commitment” from Coca-Cola that has “created a strong foundation for female athletes.”

    The initiative represents more than mere corporate box-ticking for the beverage giant. “The National Women’s Hockey League is not just a tournament—it’s a platform that nurtures the next generation of women athletes,” explained Coca-Cola India Foundation  director Rajiv Gupta, waxing lyrical about the power of sport.

    Through their #SheTheDifference campaign—a name that would make even the most hardened marketing executive wince—Coca-Cola aims to inspire “more young women to break barriers and pursue their passion in sports.”

    Whether this corporate largesse helps India’s women hockey players match the gold-medal-winning exploits of their cinematic counterparts in “Chak De! India” remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on Ranchi, where sticks are swinging, balls are flying, and dreams of national glory hang in the balance.

  • Sankranthiki Vasthunnam smashes records on Zee5 and Zee Telugu

    Sankranthiki Vasthunnam smashes records on Zee5 and Zee Telugu

    MUMBAI: Zee5, has set new benchmarks with the phenomenal success of Sankranthiki Vasthunnam. Since its digital debut on 1 March, the film has amassed over 360 million streaming minutes, marking the most successful launch ever on Zee5. Its television premiere on Zee Telugu was equally groundbreaking, achieving a staggering 18.1 TVR (SD+HD), the highest World Television Premiere (WTP) rating in India in the last 2.5 years.

    The film is also the only one in the past 2.5 years to exceed 10 million AMAs (Average Minute Audience), recording an impressive 11.1 million AMAs. This exceptional performance highlights the growing appetite for high-quality entertainment on both digital and TV platforms.

    Originally released in cinemas to widespread acclaim, the Venkatesh Daggubati-starrer enthralled audiences with its vibrant festive setting and engaging storyline, grossing over Rs 300 crore worldwide. Its OTT debut on Zee5 shattered previous platform records, surpassing 100 million streaming minutes within just 12 hours.

    Zee5 stated, “The overwhelming response to Sankranthiki Vasthunnam reaffirms our dedication to bringing compelling storytelling to audiences across India and beyond. This record-breaking performance underscores our promise to deliver top-tier entertainment.”

    Directed by Anil Ravipudi, the film follows Damodara Raju (Daggubati), a former deputy commissioner of police, as he is approached by his ex-girlfriend and assistant commissioner Meenakshi (Meenakshi Chaudhary) for help in solving a high-profile kidnapping case. The victim, Satya Akella, a CEO of a multinational conglomerate, vanishes under mysterious circumstances. Adding a comedic element to the intense investigation, Damodara Raju’s wife, Bhagyalakshmi (Aishwarya Rajesh), insists on joining the mission to keep a close watch on her husband and his former flame. The film seamlessly blends action and humour, making it an instant favourite among viewers.

  • India masters bowl over West Indies, legends hit IML 2025 for six!

    India masters bowl over West Indies, legends hit IML 2025 for six!

    MUMBAI: What happens when cricket legends dust off their gear and return to the pitch? Magic, nostalgia, and a fair few aching knees! Picture this: 50,000 roaring fans, Sachin Tendulkar leading like it’s the ’90s, and Ambati Rayudu smashing balls like they’re mosquitoes at sunset. Sounds epic, doesn’t it?

    On March 18, India Masters proved age is just a number (unless you’re counting runs) as they clinched a spectacular six-wicket victory against West Indies Masters in the International Masters League (IML) 2025 final at Raipur’s Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium. Rayudu dazzled with a sizzling 74 off 50 balls, while Stuart Binny calmly finished things off, sending the ball to the boundary as casually as ordering a chai.

    BNW Developments, the tournament’s proud title sponsor, cheered from the stands, thrilled at watching their logo flashing on Sachin’s iconic jersey. BNW’s MD & co-founder Vivek Anand Oberoi was ecstatic, “The India Masters team has been exceptional in the International Masters League, and we at BNW are so proud to be their title sponsor. Both my younger brother and partner, Ankur Aggarwal, and I worship the God of cricket, Sachin Tendulkar. To have the God of cricket wear our company logo on his jersey while clinching this title is an incredibly special moment. This has been a great month, as India wins two titles, The Champions Trophy and The International Master’s League. This is such a great moment for BNW, and it was amazing to see our brand all around the stadium and on television.”

    Echoing these sentiments, BNW’s chairman & founder Ankur Aggarwal added, “Watching legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh command the field with such finesse and composure was nothing short of extraordinary. Their mastery, resilience, and sheer love for the game turned the final into a spectacle of cricketing brilliance. The India Masters delivered a performance that was both strategic and spirited, a testament to the depth of talent our country continues to produce. As proud supporters of this incredible journey, we celebrate not just their victory, but the ethos that drives them—one of perseverance, calculated precision, and an unyielding commitment to greatness. It is this very philosophy that fuels us at BNW Developments. Whether on the pitch or in the world of real estate, true excellence is achieved through vision, discipline, and an insatiable hunger to push the limits of what’s possible.”

    Post-match festivities featured cricket royalty rubbing shoulders, with Oberoi spotted chatting with legends Sunil Gavaskar, Yuvraj Singh, and the Pathan brothers. Clearly, cricket and business share the same rulebook—play smart, strategise smarter, and always know where the boundary lies.

    As the final match wrapped up, fans went home buzzing, having witnessed their favourite cricketers roll back the years. The IML 2025 was not just a tournament; it was cricket’s own blockbuster, showcasing the enduring charm and unbeatable passion of India’s cricketing heroes.

    Now, who says legends retire? They just return with bigger hits and better stories!

     

  • Confirmtkt jumps aboard RCB’s train again, ready to bowl over cricket fans

    Confirmtkt jumps aboard RCB’s train again, ready to bowl over cricket fans

    MUMBAI: Ever had that sinking feeling of missing your train and the first ball of a crucial T20 match? Fret not! Confirmtkt has decided to play superhero again, renewing its partnership with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to ensure cricket fans catch every delivery—whether it’s on the pitch or at the platform. Talk about keeping fans on the right track!

    Announced on 18 March 2025, Confirmtkt proudly continues its innings as RCB’s official Train Ticketing Partner. Fans will now spot the Confirmtkt logo prominently flaunted on the sleeves of RCB’s official and training jerseys. Now, that’s one heck of a sleeve statement!

    In this electrifying partnership, Confirmtkt rolls out an expansive 360-degree marketing campaign spanning television, outdoor, and digital platforms. Even better? Star players Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Krunal Pandya feature in these campaigns, making sure Confirmtkt and RCB remain a fan-favourite duo.

    But wait, there’s more! Confirmtkt’s fan-loved, interactive in-app game, Ticket to Cricket, returns with even more excitement this year. The game, combined with social media contests, gives die-hard RCB fans a chance to win coveted match tickets, signed merchandise, and travel vouchers. Fancy a trip, anyone?

    Expressing excitement, Ixigo Trains & Confirmtkt CEO Dinesh Kumar Kotha said, “We look forward to another exciting season with RCB as we continue to simplify travel for cricket fans. This collaboration goes beyond just the game – it’s about bringing the excitement of cricket into every journey. Whether fans are traveling to catch a live match or celebrating victories on the go, we want to be a part of their experience, ensuring they stay connected to the action both on and off the field.”

    RCB’s COO Rajesh Menon added, “We’re thrilled to renew our partnership with Confirmtkt. This collaboration will bring the excitement of cricket to every journey, ensuring our fans stay connected to the action and their favourite team.”

    As the T20 league storms into its 18 season—having pulled a massive viewership of over 54.6 crore last season—Confirmtkt gears up to keep the cricket fever sizzling long after the final match.

    So, cricket buffs, are you ready to board the Confirmtkt express? This cricketing season, miss nothing—especially not your train.