Category: Television

Moneycontrol banks on Zarrar Don, plays ace to boost revenue and market grip

MUMBAI: Ever heard of putting your money where your mouth is? Moneycontrol clearly has, as they’ve handed the revenue steering wheel over to none other than Zarrar Don—a man who doesn’t just chase opportunities, he tackles them to the ground. Is Moneycontrol placing all its eggs in one basket? Possibly, but when that basket is as sturdy as Don, who’s complaining?

On 18 March 2025, Moneycontrol officially announced Don as its new chief revenue & business growth officer, entrusting him to drive sales and revenue growth across all its formats. If you’ve ever wondered how Moneycontrol plans to stay ahead in India’s competitive financial news arena—well, now you know.

Don isn’t new to the big league. With over 20 years in media, financial services, and retail, he’s a seasoned pro at turning strategies into solid cash. His recent tenure as CRO for business news at News18 Studios showed he’s got the knack for revenue strategy, leadership, and brand building. Translation: he’s the guy you want in your corner during tough business brawls.

His role at Moneycontrol? Simple—grow, grow, and keep growing. His mission is to amplify Moneycontrol’s position as India’s go-to financial platform. A task he’s uniquely suited for, given his track record of turning big ideas into big results.

Moneycontrol, already India’s leading financial platform, pulls in impressive numbers—38.35 million unique visitors in January alone, according to Comscore MMX data. That’s 3.35 million more than The Economic Times, if anyone’s keeping score (which clearly, we are). Plus, Moneycontrol Pro, the platform’s subscription service, already crossed the one million subscriber milestone last October, catapulting it into the global top 15 news subscription platforms.

Clearly, Don’s job isn’t just about maintaining a lead; it’s about widening it enough to comfortably sip chai without spilling.

Will Don turn Moneycontrol’s promising growth into a money-spinning saga? Time will tell, but judging by his CV, we’re betting this Don’s rule will be one for the books.

March 18, 2025
Forensic foodie drama to simmer on Indonesian screens courtesy Deepak Dhar’s & Banijay’s CreAsia

MUMBAI: An unlikely pairing of forensic science and gastronomy is set to tantalize Indonesian viewers as CreAsia Studio cooks up My Chef in Crime, an eight-part drama commissioned by local streaming platform Vision+.

The series—equal parts CSI and MasterChef—follows a disgraced forensic investigator turned chef who must clear his name after being fingered for his rival’s murder. His unorthodox application of forensic techniques to food science catches the eye of a female detective who happens to be his old school crush, setting the stage for a sizzling mix of crime-solving and culinary chemistry.

CreAsia Studio, the brainchild of television veteran Deepak Dhar and television giant Banijay Entertainment, has assembled a pan-Asian creative team that boasts Thai producer Pornmanus Rattanavich and scriptwriter Nitikarn Pinmuangngarm, with Indonesian director Sondang Pratama stirring the pot.

“This show is a testament to our commitment to championing innovative narratives from South East Asia,” gushes CreAsia Studio executive vice-president Jessica Kam clearly delighted with her menu of talent. “We couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with the talented Thai and Indonesian creators as well as Vision+ to bring this groundbreaking concept to life.”

The production appears designed to blend local flavours with global appeal—a recipe becoming increasingly fashionable in streaming circles.

Vision+ managing director Clarissa Tanoesoedibjo seems equally gung-ho about the offering: “My Chef in Crime is exactly the kind of high-quality, engaging content that excites us,. We believe this show will set new benchmarks in the crime genre, and we are delighted to be partnered with CreAsia Studio to make it a reality ” she declares, perhaps hoping the show will help her platform gobble up market share in Indonesia’s competitive streaming landscape.

Banijay Asia & Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar added: “At Banijay Entertainment, we are always looking to push creative boundaries and redefine storytelling. My Chef in Crime is a bold, original concept that reflects our commitment to delivering premium entertainment across the region. We are confident that this unique mix of crime, food, and romance will resonate with audiences and reinforce CreAsia Studios position as a powerhouse of compelling storytelling.”

Production is set to begin this summer, with the series expected to land on screens early next year. Whether audiences will develop an appetite for this unusual concoction remains to be seen, but CreAsia Studio is betting that viewers are hungry for something that breaks free from formulaic crime dramas.

For Banijay Entertainment, which has been steadily expanding its Asian footprint, the stakes are high. Dhar calls the concept “bold” and “original”—adjectives that rarely describe television these days. But in a region where food and entertainment are cultural obsessions, combining forensic investigation with culinary artistry might just prove a recipe for success.

March 18, 2025
Indian tech-caster SportVot goes Down Under

MUMBAI: SportVot, the cloud-powered production outfit that has quietly revolutionised how the world watches second-tier sports, is making a play for Australia’s local leagues and community competitions. After sizing up the market down under, the Indian tech firm has appointed Tim Anderson to captain its Australian innings as managing director.

With over 300,000 matches already under its belt across 30 sports in more than 20 countries, SportVot’s proposition is deceptively straightforward: professional-quality broadcasts without the eye-watering price tag that typically keeps smaller competitions in the shadows.
“Australian sport is deeply rooted in community engagement,” says Anderson, fresh in the hot seat at SportVot Australia. “We’re here to ensure every sport, every tournament and every athlete gets the attention they deserve.”

The firm’s toolkit extends beyond mere live streaming. Its platform churns out quick-fire clips and highlights packages—social media catnip that sports administrators increasingly see as crucial for fan engagement and commercial pull.

SportVot co-founder & CEO Siddhant Agarwal is bullish about the Australian market: “Australia is one of the most passionate sporting nations in the world,” he notes, playing a straight bat. “Our technology is built for scale, and we are excited to see it empower Australian sports like never before.”

The move follows months of quiet courtship with national and state sporting bodies across Australia. For community leagues accustomed to shaky smartphone footage or no coverage at all, SportVot’s arrival could mean the difference between playing to empty stands and building genuine digital followings.

Whether Australia’s sporting landscape is ready for this democratisation remains to be seen. But with SportVot now padded up and taking guard, the country’s grassroots competitions may soon find themselves enjoying exposure previously reserved for the big leagues.

March 18, 2025
Song vs Dance: Japan’s TV Asahi to debut new talent show format on 28 March

MUMBAI: Get ready for the ultimate showdown as TV Asahi drops its high-octane new talent battle, Song vs Dance. Premiering on Friday, 28 March at 11:15pm on TV Asahi, Channel 5, this turbo-charged one-hour variety special pits top-tier singers against elite dancers in an electrifying head-to-head clash.

The mission?

Settle the age-old debate once and for all – which rules the stage, song or dance?

Co-produced by TV Asahi and US-based Smart Dog Media, Song vs Dance rewrites the rulebook on competition TV. A video game-inspired battle arena, top-class performers, and high-stakes rivalries set the scene for an unmissable showdown.

Fronting the spectacle is comedy maestro Takashi Yoshimura, ensuring laughs between the lung-busting notes and gravity-defying moves. Keeping score are an all-star panel: Exile frontman Takahiro, breakdancing Olympian Shigekix, and comedian-turned-Instagram-sensation Naomi Watanabe, who boasts over 10 million followers.

Backing the talent are powerhouse coaches: world-class pianist Shinya Kiyozuka leading Team Song, while ace choreographer Takahiro (yes, same name, different gig) steers Team Dance.

Eight performers are ready to throw down their best during the faceoff. Team Song brings vocal firepower, led by acclaimed tenor John Ken Nuzzo, beatbox wizards Sarukani (Grand Beatbox Battle world champs), singer-songwriter Emoh Les (X-Factor Okinawa Japan 2013 winner) and gospel queen TiA, fresh off a victory at McDonald’s Gospelfest.

Team Dance is stacked with champions. America’s Got Talent golden buzzer act Chibi Unity, four-time Vibe Dance Competition winners, is in the mix alongside Issei, the world’s youngest Red Bull BC One champ. Joining them are Utamaru, 2023 Udo Street Dance World Championship winner, and tap-dancing sisters Rino and Noa Shirakawa, who repped Japan at Ido 2024.

The brains behind the show? Craig and Clara Plestis of Smart Dog Media, whose TV smashes include The Masked Singer and The Masked Dancer. Teaming up with TV Asahi’s Takaaki Kitano, Song vs Dance marks the Japanese broadcaster’s first hook-up with the US production powerhouse.

With its explosive performances, top-tier talent and an innovative format, Song vs Dance has all the moves to become an international variety sensation. Get ready – this one’s set to hit all the right notes.

March 18, 2025
Indian Idol 15 partners with Yas Island for music video and fan contest

MUMBAI: Indian Idol 15 has teamed up with Yas Island Abu Dhabi in a unique collaboration that blends music and travel. The partnership features a special music video, It’s Time to Say Yas, showcasing the island’s top attractions while celebrating the vocal talents of the show’s contestants.

The video, released on 16 March 2025, features Mayuri Saha, Sneha Shankar, Chaitanya Devadhe, Biswarup Banerjee, Myscmme Bosu, Manasi Ghosh, Ritika Raj, Susvaram Anirudh, and Ragini Shinde. Teased on the show by host Aditya Narayan, the video captures the contestants exploring Yas Island’s vibrant destinations, highlighting its world-class entertainment offerings.

Sony Entertainment Television has launched an exclusive social media contest. Fans must identify four theme parks featured in the video and re-post it on their social media accounts, tagging the parks for a chance to win an all-expense-paid trip to Yas Island. The contest will run for two weeks across Sony’s social media platforms.

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) head of ad sales Sandeep Mehrotra said, “Yas Island is an exceptional entertainment destination, making it a perfect fit for Indian Idol 15. This partnership not only enhances audience engagement but also delivers an unforgettable experience for both the contestants and viewers.”

March 17, 2025
Zee Media announces winners of Unveiling India Quiz

MUMBAI: The grand finale of the Unveiling India Quiz, a landmark initiative by Zee Media in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), captivated audiences nationwide as it aired on Zee Media’s network, gaining its status as one of India’s most impactful knowledge-driven initiatives. The overwhelming response to the telecast highlighted the scale, excitement, and cultural significance of the event.

The telecast provided a riveting recap of the months-long journey—starting from an online Olympiad, advancing through intense state-level rounds, and culminating in a fiercely contested national finale. Viewers watched as the top eight teams battled for glory, with Army Public School, Jammu Cantt, emerging as the ultimate champion, securing the first prize. Rajagiri Public School, Kerala, claimed the second position, while Little Flower English Medium School, Kerala, took third place. Their stellar performances resonated with audiences, reinforcing the power of education in shaping future leaders.

The telecast also shed light on the quiz’s unique focus on geographical indication (GI) tags, a defining element that introduced young minds to India’s indigenous craftsmanship and region-specific products. This emphasis on cultural and economic awareness transformed the competition into an immersive educational experience beyond traditional learning.

Reflecting on the immense success of the initiative, Zee Media CEO Karan Abhishek Singh, said, “At Zee Media, we believe that news is not just about delivering information; it is about shaping a better, more informed society. Our commitment goes beyond headlines—we actively create platforms that empower different sections of society, be it through financial literacy initiatives, business summits, or programs that inspire and educate young minds. Unveiling India Quiz is one such initiative, designed to encourage school children to learn about India’s glorious past and promising future.”

Adding to this, DPIIT secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia stated, “The Unveiling India Quiz has successfully instilled a deep sense of national pride and awareness about India’s economic and cultural diversity. This initiative is not just a competition—it is a long-term movement to nurture curiosity and appreciation for India’s vast legacy.”

As the winners celebrate their well-earned triumph, the Unveiling India Quiz leaves behind a profound impact, encouraging millions of students across the country to embrace our unique culture, explore their heritage, and take pride in India’s incredible journey. Zee Media and DPIIT remain steadfast in their commitment to expanding such educational initiatives, ensuring that young minds continue to be inspired, empowered, and prepared for a global future.

The resounding success of Unveiling India Quiz reaffirms the importance of knowledge-driven infotainment, setting a new benchmark in nationwide student engagement.

March 17, 2025
Nimar Sarkaria joins Network18 as VP-content solutions

MUMBAI: Veteran media professional Nimar Sarkaria has stepped into a new role as vice president – content solutions & network campaigns at Network18 Media & Investments Ltd, bringing over two decades of industry experience to one of India’s leading media conglomerates.

Sarkaria joins Network18 after a brief but impactful nine-month stint as national sales head – branded content at India Today. Her appointment signals Network18’s aggressive push to bolster its content monetisation strategies across its vast portfolio of television and digital assets.

Before her India Today chapter, Sarkaria spent over a decade in two separate stints at NDTV, most recently serving as senior vice president – brand solutions (sales) for more than four years. During her tenure, she led a 12-member team and developed monetisation strategies that significantly boosted the network’s revenue streams.

Sarkaria’s CV reads like a who’s who of Indian media houses, with previous roles at Bennett Coleman and Co. Ltd. (Times Group), Hindustan Times, CNBC TV18, Buena Vista Television, and Sony Pictures Networks India. At Hindustan Times, she handled an impressive portfolio as general manager of ad For equity.

Throughout her career, Sarkaria has earned a reputation for exceeding sales targets. Her trophy cabinet includes accolades such as “CNBC TV18 Awaaz Super Achiever,” “Quarter Cracker For Highest Revenue Generation,” and “The Most Promising Team Leader,” underscoring her exceptional performance in the cut-throat world of media sales.

Based in New Delhi, Sarkaria will be tasked with spearheading Network18’s content solutions initiatives and orchestrating network-wide campaigns in an increasingly challenging and competitive media landscape.

March 17, 2025
Navi UPI becomes official UPI partner of RCB for T20 2025

MUMBAI: Navi UPI has been announced as the official UPI partner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the T20 2025 season. This collaboration grants Navi UPI users a 24-hour exclusive early access window to book tickets for RCB’s home matches before general sales open.

RCB, enters the 2025 season with a restructured squad led by Rajat Patidar. With players including Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the team is set to make an impact in the highly anticipated 18 edition of the tournament, which will see 10 teams competing across 74 matches from 22 March to 25 May in 13 cities across India.

Navi Technologies CEO Rajiv Naresh said, “Navi UPI is growing rapidly, and teaming up with RCB was a natural choice given the immense passion for cricket. This partnership allows us to bring fans closer to the game while delivering a seamless digital payment experience.”

As part of the tie-up, Navi UPI users will receive early access to RCB home match tickets,

– For the first four matches, early booking opens at 11 am on 18 March, while general sales begin at 11 am on 19 March.

– For the remaining three matches, early access will be available later in the season, again giving Navi UPI users a 24-hour priority window.

A dedicated banner on the Navi app will provide direct access to these exclusive tickets. Fans can book by downloading the Navi app, selecting the RCB ticket booking option, choosing their preferred match and ticket category, and completing payment via Navi UPI.

RCB chief operating officer Rajesh Menon said, “We are excited to collaborate with Navi as our official UPI partner. This aligns perfectly with our vision to enhance fan engagement through seamless and innovative experiences.”

March 17, 2025
OneNative Studio ropes in Saregama exec Neha Malhotra to spearhead growth strategy

MUMBAI: Mumbai-based content marketing solutions agency OneNative Studio has appointed industry veteran Neha Malhotra as partner and business head in a move set to supercharge the content and media solutions company’s ambitious expansion plans.

With an impressive 15-year track record of turning digital content into gold, Malhotra will be based at the company’s Mumbai headquarters while orchestrating operations across Bangalore and Delhi offices. Her remit includes driving business growth, crafting strategic marketing initiatives, and leading revenue expansion—essentially becoming the money magnet the studio needs.

Before jumping ship to OneNative, Malhotra flexed her media muscles as assistant general manager of national music marketing & audio monetisation at music giant Saregama India, where she dramatically boosted streaming numbers and enhanced artist branding. Her CV also boasts stints at EpicTelevision Networks, Dishum Broadcasting and Tata Sky, giving her a 360-degree view of the media landscape.

Operating for five years, OneNative Studio has carved out a reputation for turning creative concepts into compelling campaigns. The studio’s portfolio includes The Simple Hai! Show, a knowledge-driven podcast hosted by veteran journalist Vivek Law, alongside several high-impact IPs commissioned by leading BFSI brands.

The studio has recently expanded into premium TVC production for both Indian and global brands and launched The Reelstars, a digital platform celebrating India’s booming creator economy.

“I am thrilled to be joining OneNative Studio at such an exciting time in the industry,” Malhotra exclaimed. “With the evolving landscape of digital content and media, I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive impactful strategies and expand our reach.”

Co-founder & chief editor Aparna Joshi offered a glowing endorsement: “Neha’s deep understanding of the media universe and her expertise in driving revenue growth makes her the perfect addition to OneNative Studio. With her strategic mindset and industry experience, she will play a pivotal role in shaping the studio’s growth and expanding its impact in the media landscape.”

March 17, 2025
Aakash secures direct entry in Hip Hop India season two on Amazon MX

MUMBAI: Aakash, a Swiggy delivery partner, has swapped delivery routes for dance floors, earning a direct spot in Hip Hop India season two on Amazon MX Player. The show, known for showcasing hip-hop talent, returned with Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora as judges, promising a bigger and better season.

Aakash’s dance skills first gained attention when he finished as a runner-up in Swiggy Wiggy Talent Hunt season two. Now, his passion has propelled him onto one of India’s most prestigious hip-hop platforms. Skipping the regional auditions, he advanced straight to the final selection, where his high-energy performance to Dance Ka Bhoot wowed the judges.

Balancing work and responsibilities as the sole breadwinner of his family, Aakash’s journey reflects perseverance and dedication. Swiggy, committed to supporting its delivery partners beyond work, has extended financial aid to help him pursue professional dancing. Proudly wearing his Swiggy T-shirt, he stepped onto the stage, proving that ambition knows no boundaries.

With Hip Hop India season two now streaming on Amazon MX Player, Aakash’s story is an inspiring testament to how dreams can take flight, no matter where they begin.

March 17, 2025