ITV

Category: Television

  • Zeel CEO Punit Goenka’s wife and son help increase promoter stake in the firm

    Zeel CEO Punit Goenka’s wife and son help increase promoter stake in the firm

    MUMBAI: He has been saying that the promoters are keen to increase their shareholding, so confident are they of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd’s (Zeel’s) prospects.  And the family of Zeel CEO Punit Goenka is backing him to the hilt, if one goes by a Reuters report which said that the family has acquired 0.29 per cent Zeel shares at a price of Rs 27 crore. The company disclosed this to the stock exchanges through a regulatory filing on Thursday.

    Goenka’s wife Shreyasi bought 13,83,500 securities worth around Rs 13.46 crore (0.14 per cent of shareholding), while Goenka’s son Udayan bought 14,15,450 securities also worth around Rs 13.46 crore (0.15 per cent of shareholding). Earlier, the promoter family held  3.99 per cent stake in Zeel. The promoter shareholding has now increased to 4.28 per cent following the share purchase, the Reuters report stated.

    (Picture courtesy: Shreyasi Jain Goenka’s  Facebook account)

  • India’s music takes over the world-Spotify reveals 2024’s top exports

    India’s music takes over the world-Spotify reveals 2024’s top exports

    MUMBAI: Indian music isn’t just making waves; it’s orchestrating a global takeover. Spotify’s latest data reveals that songs by Indian artists saw a staggering 2000 per cent growth in international consumption since 2019. With listeners across continents grooving to everything from Hindi bangers to indie hip-hop, India’s sonic footprint is bigger than ever.

    From chart-topping pop and hip-hop to timeless Hindi melodies, 2024 proved that music from India isn’t just for domestic ears—it’s a global phenomenon. Leading the export charge were artists like Arijit Singh, Pritam, Anirudh Ravichander, Karan Aujla, Shreya Ghoshal, and A.R. Rahman, among others. Their music didn’t just travel; it dominated playlists worldwide.

    Spotify’s report highlights that 65 per cent of the top 30 most-exported tracks came from outside the film industry, marking a shift toward artist-first music. The most-exported songs included:

    .  Big Dawgs – Hanumankind, Kalmi

    . Akhiyaan Gulaab (From Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya) – Mitraz

    . Naina (From Crew) – Badshah, Diljit Dosanjh, Raj Ranjodh

    . Sajni (From Laapataa Ladies) – Arijit Singh, Prashant Pandey, Ram Sampath

    . Tauba Tauba – Karan Aujla

    . Jagga Jatt – Badshah, Diljit Dosanjh, Ikka, Sez on the Beat

    . Millionaire – Yo Yo Honey Singh

    Not only are Indian artists reaching new audiences, but music in regional languages is thriving worldwide. Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Bengali, and Gujarati songs saw significant growth, with major consumption in the USA, UK, Canada, Pakistan, and Malaysia. Hindi pop, Punjabi hip-hop, and Tamil pop led the charge as the most-streamed genres outside India.

    And, of course, Hindi music nostalgia never fades. Classic hits continued to dominate streams, proving that good music never gets old. Timeless tracks like Chammak Challo (Akon, Hamsika Iyer), Tum Hi Ho (Arijit Singh, Mithoon), and Agar Tum Saath Ho (Arijit Singh, Alka Yagnik) remained favourites among global listeners.

    With India’s music scene evolving and digital platforms breaking down borders, 2024 was just another step in an unstoppable global journey. Spotify’s insights prove one thing—whether it’s film soundtracks or independent beats, India’s music isn’t just being played; it’s being celebrated worldwide.

     

  • India Today Conclave 2025 brings powerhouses together for thought-provoking dialogues

    India Today Conclave 2025 brings powerhouses together for thought-provoking dialogues

    MUMBAI: Brace yourselves, thought leaders and policy buffs! The India Today Conclave 2025 is all set to electrify the stage at the Taj Palace, Delhi, on 7-8 March. With an enviable lineup of political titans, business magnates, cultural icons, and global experts, this year’s theme—’Age of Acceleration’—promises to decode the rapid transformations shaping our world.

    Leading the charge is Delhi CM Rekha Gupta who will make her first significant public appearance since assuming office. She will unveil her vision for Delhi under the ‘Lotus Capital’ framework, touching upon governance, infrastructure, and policy shifts set to redefine the capital’s future.

    Adding firepower to the political discourse, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath will reflect on the grandeur of the Maha Kumbh, revealing how it transcends tradition to become a showcase of logistical and infrastructural prowess. Meanwhile, former U.S. State secretary and CIA director Mike Pompeo will provide an insider’s perspective on global security, shifting alliances, and the evolving India-U.S. relationship.

    The geopolitical conversations will extend further with Palestine Land Studies Centre director Zeina Jallad offering insights on Gaza’s legal and political landscape, while author and former Israeli parliamentarian Einat Wilf will present her perspective on the region’s future.

    The conclave isn’t all politics and diplomacy. Indian cinema’s perfectionist Aamir Khan will take a deep dive into storytelling, cinema, and the evolution of entertainment, while Shabana Azmi and Jyothika will share behind-the-scenes insights into their upcoming film, alongside producer Shibani Akhtar. In a rare public conversation, Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal will explore the ever-evolving nature of love and companionship.

    Women in business will take centre stage as Namita Thapar (Emcure Pharmaceuticals), Avarna Jain (Saregama), and Anu Ranjan (Indian Television Academy) discuss leadership, entrepreneurship, and breaking barriers in male-dominated industries.

    The conclave will also shine a spotlight on sports, music, and intellectual excellence. Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav will discuss how he’s redefining modern batting, chess prodigy D. Gukesh will recount his meteoric rise to becoming the world’s youngest champion, and musician Rishab Rikhiram Sharma will share his journey of taking Indian classical music to the world stage.

    With conversations spanning governance, business, technology, culture, and sports, India Today Conclave 2025 is poised to be a melting pot of ideas that shape India’s trajectory. As the world speeds up in the ‘Age of Acceleration’, this conclave promises to be the pulse of change, where the future is not just discussed—it’s defined.

    http://indiatodayconclave.com/

  • JioStar vice-chairman Uday Shankar slams ICC as “East India Company of Cricket”

    JioStar vice-chairman Uday Shankar slams ICC as “East India Company of Cricket”

    MUMBAI: In a candid conversation during Indian Express’ Idea Exchange earlier  week that laid bare the tensions between broadcasters and cricket administrators, JioStar vice-chairman Uday Shankar has described the International Cricket Council  (ICC) as “the East India Company of Cricket,” accusing the sport’s global governing body of exploiting India’s cricket economy.

    Uday pulled no punches when comparing cricket’s global and domestic governance structures. “Contrary to the general perception, I find BCCI to be a far more alive body to engage with its stakeholders compared to the ICC,” said Shankar. “The ICC is just here to take the wealth of this country.”

    Shankar’s critique cuts to the heart of cricket’s financial ecosystem, where India generates the overwhelming majority of global revenue. “After taking this money, the ICC decides that India must play a country that no Indian is interested in watching India play because they want to develop cricket globally. So it’s their agenda and my money,” he stated.

    The comments come at a pivotal moment for sports broadcasting, with astronomical sums being paid for rights packages. The IPL rights alone cost approximately Rs 48,000 crore, raising questions about sustainability.

    Shankar acknowledged the strategic value of major sporting properties while being realistic about their financial burden. “You don’t necessarily make money on these big acquisitions,” he admitted. “The size of the economy and what the advertising market is like, those things come into play.”

    He emphasised that cricket has become “one of the most expensive sporting assets in the world” on a unit value basis, with the eight-week IPL tournament costing “more than a billion dollars” – comparable to year-round properties like the NFL or NBA.

    This financial pressure has consequences beyond cricket, with Shankar acknowledging that investment in other sports often suffers. Indian fans miss out on events like Formula 1 “because nobody has the money left to buy those rights.”

    Despite his passion for cricket, Shankar was clear that commercial imperatives would ultimately guide JioStar’s bidding strategy. “At the end of the day, we are running a business and if the financials don’t make sense, we’ll have to walk away,” he said.

    He pointed out a fundamental challenge: “All the money that you put in is primarily for India and you have to recover it from India. Despite all the talk, it’s just the Indian media companies who do that.”

    In his most pointed comments, Shankar suggested radical reform of cricket’s global governance. “The best service that someone like the new chairman of the ICC can do is to ensure that he is its last chairman,” he said.
    “A disproportionate share of talent comes from India. An overwhelming share of revenue comes from India. And all of it is going everywhere else,” Shankar argued, citing the push to include cricket in the Olympics as another example of initiatives that “don’t help Indian cricket” but represent “leakage for the money that could have stayed in the Indian cricket ecosystem.”

    As head of the newly merged Viacom and Star entity valued at $8.5 billion, Shankar recognises the influence his company wields. “Given our reach and platform size, what we do will be followed by everybody else,” he said. “As a leader, it is our responsibility to make sure that we take charge of the industry and get it to a good place.”

    This responsibility extends to content regulation, where Shankar advocates for self-discipline rather than government control. “I don’t like the word censorship, but not being responsible towards the people you serve is not an option,” he stated, adding that government regulation “stifles creativity” while warning that irresponsible content creators risk external authorities stepping in.

    For the former journalist who witnessed the birth of India’s 24-hour news cycle and helped launch Aaj Tak, the responsibility of reaching 750 million viewers weighs heavily. “I’ll entertain,” he said, “but I shall never do anything that I will be embarrassed by myself.”

    (Picture courtesy: Indian Express. Article content courtesy: Indian Express)

  • Cakezone and Olio ride together with Nick India to serve up Motu Patlu magic

    Cakezone and Olio ride together with Nick India to serve up Motu Patlu magic

    MUMBAI: What happens when India’s favourite animated duo meets two of the country’s biggest F&B brands? A dessert and pizza-fuelled adventure that’s bound to thrill kids and nostalgic adults alike.

    Cakezone and Olio pizza, both flagship brands under Curefoods, have partnered with Nick India to launch an exclusive Motu Patlu themed culinary experience starting mid-February 2025.

    Parents, brace yourselves! From vibrant Motu Patlu-branded cakes and desserts to specially curated kids’ meals with collectible goodies, this collaboration is set to turn snack time into an animated celebration.

    Cakezone and Olio pizza brand, will feature Motu Patlu characters on product packaging, in-store branding, and themed merchandise. Fans can expect limited-edition giveaways, interactive activities, and even Motu Patlu-themed birthday party packs.

    “We are thrilled to collaborate with Nick India to bring their iconic characters, Motu Patlu, to life through this exciting partnership. As one of the most popular and enduring kids’ shows for over 13 years, Motu Patlu has captivated young audiences with its humour, heartwarming friendship, and light-hearted storytelling. This collaboration seamlessly blends nostalgia with the joy of indulging in our products, creating a truly special experience for families and children. We believe this initiative will strengthen our brand’s connection with young audiences while bringing fun and happiness into every household,” said Curefoods founder Ankit Nagori.

    JioStar Consumer Products head Sachin Puntambekar added, “Motu Patlu holds a special place in the hearts of our fans and this collaboration with Cakezone and Olio pizza allows us to bring their magic to life in a fun-filled culinary experience. By bringing our beloved characters into everyday moments, we are further strengthening their deep emotional connection with fans.”

    For six months, Cakezone will roll out a special lineup of cakes and single-serve desserts, while Olio pizza will introduce the Motu Patlu kids meal, complete with collectible add-ons. Fans can also grab themed merchandise such as activity booklets, party hats, lunch boxes, and stationery. In select offline locations across Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune, kids can enjoy Motu Patlu-themed colouring placemats and exclusive birthday party packs featuring character décor, customised cakes, and interactive fun.

    Since its television debut on Nick India in 2012, Motu Patlu has become a staple of Indian childhood, winning young hearts with its hilarious escapades and timeless friendship. Now, Cakezone and Olio are turning those beloved characters into a feast for the senses, making every meal an adventure.

    For families looking to add a little more fun to their dining experience, this collaboration promises to be the perfect recipe for joy one slice and one dessert at a time.

     

  • Cricket meets Aviation: APL T10 announces sponsors and teams

    Cricket meets Aviation: APL T10 announces sponsors and teams

    MUMBAI: The Aviation Premier League (APL) has revealed its roster of partners for the upcoming T10 season. Officially titled the Tennis Ball Cricket Premier League 10 (TBCPL10), the tournament is presented by Prithvi Group, powered by the Sports Spirit Federation, and supported by Cloud9 as the official beverage partner. These strategic alliances elevate the event beyond sport, positioning it as a premier platform for professional networking and industry collaboration.

    The tournament will feature a diverse mix of teams representing various sectors within the aviation industry. The Air India Aviators and AESC Warriors will unite professionals from national carriers and aviation sporting clubs, while the DFS Daredevils and Kolkata Strikers bring competitive depth from different industry segments. Adding to the excitement, the Ahmedabad Titans, Customs Challengers, MIAL Mavericks, and Target Thunderbolts will showcase the dynamic and multifaceted nature of aviation professionals.

    TBCPL10 promoter, Naresh Panwar stated, “We are proud to be the title sponsor of an event that seamlessly integrates sport with professional networking. TBCPL10 has always been committed to promoting cricket at all levels, and our association with APL aligns perfectly with our mission to bring competitive yet inclusive cricket to a wider audience. This tournament celebrates talent, teamwork, and industry unity.”

    APL and spokesperson for Prithvi Group promoter, Kunal Kothari stated, “APL is not merely a sporting event but a professional development opportunity that transcends traditional networking formats. This collaboration will foster meaningful engagements among key stakeholders, blending competition with corporate camaraderie.”

    Mohammad Saif, owner of Sports Spirit Federation events stated, “Our partnership with the Aviation Premier League reflects our commitment to using sport as a medium for professional growth. We aim to create opportunities that unite professionals through competition and teamwork.”

    With the Mumbai Cricket Association’s approval, the Aviation Premier League represents a pioneering fusion of sport, professional networking, and industry collaboration. Backed by TBCPL10 as the title sponsor, Prithvi Group’s presentation, the Sports Spirit Federation’s support, and Cloud9’s energy, the league sets a new benchmark for corporate sporting events, proving that cricket can unite professionals in an impactful and unprecedented manner.
     

  • Sakal Media Group Emerges as the No.1 Marathi News Platform in India – ComScore Jan 2025

    Sakal Media Group Emerges as the No.1 Marathi News Platform in India – ComScore Jan 2025

    MUMBAI: The Sakal Media Group has once again cemented its position as Maharashtra’s leading media powerhouse. According to the Comscore report for January 2025, esakal.com has emerged as the number one Marathi news platform, attracting 13.05 million monthly active users. This remarkable feat underscores Sakal’s ability to connect with its audience through compelling storytelling and cutting-edge digital strategies. With a significant lead over its competitors, Sakal’s dominance in the digital space is undeniable.

    esakal.com: The digital powerhouse

    At the heart of Sakal Media Group’s success is esakal.com, a platform that has redefined digital journalism in Maharashtra. Launched as the online extension of the iconic Sakal newspaper, esakal.com has grown into a standalone powerhouse, offering a seamless blend of traditional journalism and modern digital innovation. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive coverage, and commitment to quality have made it the go-to source for Marathi-speaking audiences.

    The January 2025 Comscore rankings highlight esakal.com’s unparalleled reach, with 13.05 million monthly active users – a figure that speaks volumes about its popularity and trustworthiness. This achievement is not just a win for Sakal Media Group but also a reflection of esakal.com’s ability to connect with readers on a deeper level.

    What sets esakal.com apart? Several key factors have contributed to esakal.com’s dominance in the digital news space:

    1. Credibility and trust: In an era of fake news and misinformation, esakal.com has remained a beacon of truth. Its rigorous fact-checking process and commitment to unbiased reporting have earned it the trust of millions.

     2.  Hyper-local focus: esakal.com understands the pulse of Maharashtra. From breaking news in Mumbai to cultural events in Pune and agricultural updates in rural areas, the platform covers it all. This hyper-local approach ensures that readers stay connected to the issues that matter most to them.

    3. Innovative storytelling: esakal.com has embraced multimedia storytelling, using videos, infographics, and interactive features to make news more engaging. This dynamic approach has resonated with younger audiences while retaining the loyalty of older readers.

     4. Real-time updates: In the fast-paced world of news, esakal.com stands out for its ability to deliver real-time updates. Whether it’s breaking news, live coverage of events, or instant analysis, esakal.com ensures its readers are always informed.

     5.  Community engagement: esakal.com goes beyond just reporting the news. Through initiatives like reader polls, feedback forums, and community-driven stories, the platform has fostered a strong sense of connection with its audience.

    Outperforming competitors

    The January 2025 Comscore rankings highlight esakal.com’s significant lead over other prominent Marathi news platforms. With 13.05 million monthly active users, esakal.com has not only secured the top spot but also demonstrated its ability to attract and retain a massive audience. This achievement is a reflection of esakal.com’s relentless focus on quality content and user satisfaction.

    esakal.com’s role in Sakal Media Group’s legacy

    Sakal Media Group has been a trusted name in Maharashtra since 1932, and esakal.com has played a pivotal role in carrying this legacy into the digital age. By seamlessly transitioning from print to digital, esakal.com has ensured that Sakal’s values of credibility, integrity, and community focus remain intact. The platform has become a bridge between the group’s rich history and its future, offering readers the best of both worlds.

    Sakal Media Group CEO Uday Jadhav stated, “This achievement is a testament to our team’s dedication to delivering credible and engaging content. We are honored by the trust Maharashtra has placed in esakal.com. With over two decades of experience in business strategy and operational management, I’ve seen the group grow, but this digital growth is truly exceptional.”

    Sakal Media Group editor-in-chief Nilesh Khare added, “This recognition from Comscore reaffirms our commitment to delivering news that resonates with the people of Maharashtra. At Sakal Media Group, we understand the power of credible journalism, and we strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity in our reporting.”

    Sakal Media Group director Janhavi Pawar emphasised, “At esakal.com, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of digital journalism. Our focus on innovation and community engagement has made us the preferred choice for Marathi-speaking audiences. We are always looking to bring a global perspective to our local operations.”

    Sakal Media Group business head – digital Swapnil Malpathak highlighted, “Our success is rooted in understanding the pulse of Maharashtra. By providing real-time updates and hyper-local content, we ensure our readers are always informed and connected. Our focus on digital product monetization and digital transformation has been a key driver in this achievement.”

    The future of esakal.com

    As esakal.com celebrates this milestone, it is also looking toward the future. The platform plans to invest further in cutting-edge technology, expand its digital offerings, and explore new ways to engage with its audience. From AI-driven personalisation to immersive storytelling techniques, esakal.com is committed to staying ahead of the curve.

    Maharashtra’s trusted digital voice

    esakal.com’s success is not just about numbers; it’s about the trust it has built with its readers. For millions of Maharashtrians, esakal.com is more than just a news platform – it’s a reliable companion that keeps them informed, engaged, and connected to their community. The January 2025 Comscore ranking is a validation of esakal.com’s efforts and a reminder of why it continues to be Maharashtra’s most trusted digital voice.

    Sakal Media Group’s achievement in topping the Comscore rankings for January 2025 is a testament to the excellence of esakal.com. With 13.05 million monthly active users, esakal.com has set a new benchmark for digital news platforms in Maharashtra. Its commitment to credibility, innovation, and community engagement has made it the preferred choice for readers across the state. As the media landscape continues to evolve, esakal.com remains dedicated to delivering high-quality, trustworthy, and engaging content.

    Key takeaways:

    .  esakal.com ranked number one in Comscore’s January 2025 rankings among Marathi news platforms.

    .   Attracted 13.05 million monthly active users, outperforming its competitors.

     .  Success driven by credibility, hyper-local focus, innovative storytelling, and real-time updates.

    .   Future plans include investments in technology and enhanced audience engagement.

     .  esakal.com is Maharashtra’s most trusted digital news platform, carrying forward Sakal Media Group’s legacy.

    esakal.com’s journey is a shining example of how a digital platform can thrive by staying true to its core values while embracing innovation. As Maharashtra’s leading digital news destination, esakal.com continues to set the standard for excellence in journalism.

  • Live Times: Journalism that sparks action

    Live Times: Journalism that sparks action

    MUMBAI:  In an era where news doesn’t just report events but shapes them, Live Times, India’s first global multicast news hub, is setting the standard for fearless, impact-driven journalism. By prioritising public interest and accountability, the platform has compelled policymakers to act on pressing issues, from inflated airline fares to systemic failures in healthcare and education.

    By exposing skyrocketing travel costs during peak seasons and highlighting the dire state of public hospitals, Live Times has prompted regulatory scrutiny and government action, including increased funding and policy interventions.    

    The Power of Responsible Journalism

    Founder Dilip Kumar Singh reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to uncompromising reporting: “We stand by our motto-Complete Truth, Whatever It Takes. This is not just a tagline; it’s the DNA of our newsroom. Our AI- and HI-driven verification system ensures 100% factual reporting, actively combating misinformation in an era of uncertainty.”    

    Innovation in News Delivery

    Live Times is pioneering a new era of journalism through multicast technology, integrating real-time coverage, data analytics, and audience-driven content. By harnessing digital innovation, the platform aims to inform, mobilise, and hold decision-makers accountable.  

    As the media landscape continues to evolve, Live Times remains dedicated to its mission—delivering journalism that doesn’t just inform but drives real change. The platform encourages citizens to share stories that matter, amplify unheard voices, and demand accountability from those in power.
     

  • Disney Entertainment co-chairman Dana Walden outlines corp strategic vision

    Disney Entertainment co-chairman Dana Walden outlines corp strategic vision

    MUMBAI: Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, delivered a comprehensive overview of the company’s operations and future direction at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference on 4 March 2025, addressing key areas of investor interest including streaming profitability, content strategy, and technological innovation.

    Walden explained how Disney’s restructuring under CEO Bob Iger has created a “clean structure” with three segments: Disney experiences under Josh D’Amaro, ESPN under Jimmy Pitaro, and Disney entertainment co-led by herself and Alan Bergman. Within their division, Bergman oversees film studios and branded series, whilst Walden manages global television, with joint responsibility for Disney+ and Hulu, including ad sales, technology, and platform distribution.

    She emphasised that this structure has “restored the authority to creative executives” who understand “how to create stories at scale” whilst connecting “the people who approved the spending to the revenue.” Disney Studios achieved market dominance with $5.5 billion at the box office, which Walden suggested was “more than all the other studios combined, or very close.” The company also claimed half of the top ten most streamed shows of the year.

    Walden highlighted a dramatic financial improvement in Disney’s streaming business, transitioning from “losing over $1 billion a quarter” to becoming “profitable, growing revenue and delivering with visibility towards double-digit margins.” She noted that Disney+ is still only five years old, emphasising the rapid pace of achievement.
    The integration of Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers was described as “an extraordinary value” that is “driving engagement” and “improving our churn dynamic.” 

    Upcoming content releases like Moana 2 (arriving on Disney+ on 12 March) will serve as “a huge event for subscribers, both in terms of acquisition and engagement,” followed by Mufasa in late March.

    Disney’s creative prowess was underscored by its 60 Emmy Awards, which Walden pointed out was “more than any of our competitors ever,” whilst “the rest of the industry split the other 69 awards.”

    Regarding international growth, Walden discussed the company’s investment in local content development over the past two years, citing the Korean series Moving which attracted “over 1.5 million subscribers.” She outlined a three-tiered approach: “local for local, local for regional, and global for the whole world.”

    On ESPN’s upcoming direct-to-consumer service, Walden confirmed the flagship product would launch later this year with “new features that will really blow people away.” She highlighted recent additions to Disney+, including an ESPN tile with over 3,000 hours of programming and the newly launched SC+, a daily SportsCenter show that provides “a daily touch point for sports” and a “reason every day to open the app.”

    In the competitive children’s entertainment space, Walden asserted Disney’s dominance in the preschool segment, with Bluey emerging as the most streamed show in the United States last year, driving “60 billion minutes of engagement on Disney+.” She acknowledged the fragmented viewing habits of older children across social media, gaming and YouTube, noting Disney’s “meaningful and great partnership with YouTube” where they produce “thousands of videos” with Disney Junior having “22 million subscribers.”

    Walden revealed that Disney is developing technology features that will “specifically address how kids are interacting with content right now in a very contemporary way,” whilst also highlighting the success of Disney Playtime, a linear-style channel that helps “introduce this young audience to multiple franchises.”

    On technology, Walden countered the notion that Disney needs to become a great technology company, asserting “Disney is a great technology company and a great storytelling company,” citing the Imagineers’ work in parks, Pixar’s production innovations, and the acquisition of BamTech. She highlighted key technology hires including Adam Smith from YouTube as Head of Technology and Andre Rohe from YouTube and Meta as Head of Engineering, who are focused on “algorithmic programming and personalization, deploying AI across all of our services.”

    Walden identified advertising as “absolutely a growth area,” leveraging Hulu’s position as “the original ad solutions partner on streaming video.” She touted Disney’s technological advantages in “automation, programmatic targeting, the ability to work with the biggest DSPs to share data in a clean room,” claiming Disney is “significantly ahead of our competitors in this space.”

    Concluding her remarks, Walden expressed confidence in Disney’s leadership team, describing the company as being in “incredibly good hands” under CEO Bob Iger, with “a small leadership team who deliver so much value” and “excellent” company culture.

  • Desi Trill names Ruth Mohinani as head of operations in India

    Desi Trill names Ruth Mohinani as head of operations in India

    MUMBAI: Desi Trill, the trailblazing global movement reshaping South Asian music and culture, has announced the appointment of Ruth Mohinani as its head of operations in India. With over 17 years of experience in television, music, and sports, spanning content strategy, IP development, A&R, sync, and licensing, Ruth is set to supercharge Desi Trill’s footprint in one of the world’s most electrifying music markets.

    As the driving force behind Desi Trill’s expansion in India, Mohinani will spearhead collaborations, curate groundbreaking events, and propel South Asian artists onto the global stage.

    Expressing her enthusiasm for this pivotal role, Mohinani shared, “Desi Trill is more than a movement—it’s a cultural shift. I’m honored to take on this role and work with a team that’s dedicated to showcasing south Asian artistry worldwide. Desi Trill’s vision aligns with my own—to empower artists, build meaningful IPs, and create content that resonates across cultures. The journey ahead is exciting, and we’re just getting started.”

    Echoing this excitement, Desi Trill co-founder Shabz Naqvi stated, “Ruth’s entry marks a pivotal moment for us in India. Her impressive track record and deep understanding of the industry make her ideal to drive our mission of creating a new genre and building south Asian talent globally under our Brown Is Everywhere community activations. We’re excited to have her on board in this journey.”

    Prior to joining Desi Trill, Mohinani served at Rolling Stone India as SVP – content strategy, where she played a key role in shaping content direction and artist engagement. Before that, she led Indian hip-hop’s meteoric rise as general manager (A&R) at Universal Music India, overseeing record-breaking streaming successes through Mass Appeal India and Def Jam India.

    Her illustrious career also includes pivotal leadership roles at NBA India, Viacom18 (Vh1 India & Comedy Central India), and Zee Trendz/Zee Café, where she pioneered IP development, content programming, acquisitions, talent management, and major events. Beyond corporate leadership, Mohinani remains a steadfast mentor, guiding emerging artists as they navigate the ever-evolving music industry.

    With this strategic appointment, Desi Trill is doubling down on its mission to connect South Asian sounds with global audiences, expanding its reach and influence across India and beyond.