ITV

Category: Television

  • Zee 24 Taas’ Udyog Sammelan ignites Maharashtra’s entrepreneurial spirit

    Zee 24 Taas’ Udyog Sammelan ignites Maharashtra’s entrepreneurial spirit

    MUMBAI: Maharashtra’s business landscape is evolving, and Zee 24 Taas is ensuring entrepreneurs don’t miss a beat. The channel will telecast the Udyog Sammelan, a premier entrepreneurial event, on 8 Feb at 2:30 pm, 9 Feb at 3:30 pm, 10 Feb at 3:30 pm, and 11 Feb at 3:30 pm. If you’re an entrepreneur—or just dream of being your own boss—this is one event you won’t want to miss!

    With the theme ‘Empowering Maharashtra’s Next-Gen Entrepreneurs’, the summit dissected key business challenges and solutions, covering everything from funding access and government policies to digital transformation and industrial innovation. The event placed a spotlight on agribusiness, technology, manufacturing, and services, showing how young visionaries are reshaping Maharashtra’s economic fabric.

    Udyog Sammelan wasn’t just talk—it was about action. Here’s what the state’s key decision-makers had to say:

    1    Industries minister Uday Samant announced that 20 acres out of every 100 acres acquired will be reserved for MSME startups, setting the stage for Navi Mumbai’s rise as a semiconductor and data centre hub.

    2    Minister of ports development Nitesh Narayan Rane revealed that Vadavan Port is set to become Asia’s largest, propelling Maharashtra into a new era of economic expansion. “Our vision is to make Konkan an industrial hub,” he declared.

    3    Minister of skill development & entrepreneurship, Mangal Prabhat Lodha stressed the importance of employee respect in building successful industries. He also announced the integration of 438 ITIs into industry operations and the launch of a Private Participation Policy.

    Zee 24 Taas editor Kamlesh Sutar underscored the importance of the initiative, stating, “The Udyog Sammelan was not just a conference—it was a catalyst for Maharashtra’s entrepreneurial growth. By bringing together industry leaders and innovators, we are ensuring that these powerful insights reach a larger audience, enabling entrepreneurs to unlock new opportunities.”

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO Karan Abhishek Singh echoed this sentiment, adding, “At Zee Media, we thrive on fostering meaningful partnerships that drive impact. This telecast is our commitment to supporting the business community, sparking new ideas, and creating a robust ecosystem for Maharashtra’s entrepreneurs.”

    The Udyog Sammelan telecast is more than just another business discussion—it’s a masterclass in navigating today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. Whether you’re an established entrepreneur, a startup enthusiast, or just someone curious about where Maharashtra’s industries are headed, this broadcast is packed with actionable insights, strategic guidance, and success stories that can inspire and inform your next big move.

  • Prime minister Modi chairs celeb laden Waves advisory panel meeting

    Prime minister Modi chairs celeb laden Waves advisory panel meeting

    MUMBAI: It’s happening. It’s not. It’s postponed. It’s not. With all the confusion going around prime minister Narendra Modi’s  pet project to promote India as a cultural and entertainment capital, Waves, he has decided to take the bull by the horns by himself.

    He had a meeting with the Waves advisory board on 7 February with minister Ashwni Vaishnaw in attendance. The meeting was conducted under the umbrella of Meity. Among those included in the video call figured: Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Anupam Kher, Ted Sarandos, Anil Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, Shekar Kapur, Anand Mahindra, Hema Malini, Chiranjeevi, Mithun Chakravarty, Ekta Kapoor and many other celebrities.

    Let’s hope, some consensus was arrived at this time to avoid the embarrassments that two date changes have brought to Waves, to the ministry of information and broadcasting and to the country as a whole. . 
     

  • ICC unveils Atif Aslam’s anthem for Men’s Champions Trophy 2025

    ICC unveils Atif Aslam’s anthem for Men’s Champions Trophy 2025

    MUMBAI : The International Cricket Council (ICC) has dropped the official anthem for the 2025 Men’s Champions Trophy Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke with Atif Aslam lending his powerful vocals to the track. A fusion of cricketing passion and Pakistani culture, the song sets the tone for the high-stakes tournament kicking off in less than two weeks.

    With just 12 days remaining until the highly anticipated tournament, the song’s release adds to the growing excitement ahead of the 15-match event, set to take place from 19 February to 9 March across Pakistan and the UAE.

    Produced by Abdullah Siddiqui, with lyrics by Adnan Dhool and Asfandyar Asad, the track is a vibrant celebration of Pakistan’s rich culture, showcasing its streets, markets, and stadiums. The accompanying music video highlights the nation’s deep-rooted passion for cricket. The song is now available on major streaming platforms worldwide.

    Fans can still secure tickets for the tournament online or through select physical outlets in Pakistan. Tickets for the Final, scheduled for Sunday, 9 March, will be available following the first semi-final in Dubai.

    The competition will feature the world’s top eight teams battling in 15 high-intensity matches over 19 days, with every encounter crucial in the quest for the coveted white jackets.

    Expressing his excitement, Aslam said: “I have always been passionate about cricket and once aspired to be a fast bowler. Understanding the emotions of the game, especially during an India-Pakistan clash, makes this opportunity particularly special for me.”

    ICC chief commercial officer Anurag Dahiya added: “With just days to go, the official song embodies the spirit of the Champions Trophy and Pakistan’s cricketing identity. We encourage fans to secure their tickets and be part of this celebration.”

    Tournament director and PCB chief operating officer Sumair Ahmad Syed hailed the song’s release as another milestone in the build-up to the global event. “Aslam, a powerhouse of Pakistani music, has delivered blockbuster anthems before, and we believe this song will set the stage alight. As excitement builds, we anticipate packed stadiums and an electric atmosphere.”

  • A47.in joins forces with Maddock Films for official ‘Chhaava’ merchandise

    A47.in joins forces with Maddock Films for official ‘Chhaava’ merchandise

    MUMBAI: Get ready to wear history like never before! The go-to destination for Indian pop culture and heritage-inspired merch, A47.in has teamed up with Maddock Films to launch an exclusive merchandise collection for the much-anticipated film Chhaava. Fans of history, cinema, and bold fashion can grab these must-have collectibles starting 7 February 2025, only on A47.in.

    Designed with A47’s signature craftsmanship, the Chhaava collection features sweatshirts, t-shirts, and hoodies adorned with striking designs inspired by the film’s epic narrative. Whether you’re a history buff, a Maratha warrior at heart, or just looking for a statement piece, this collection blends heritage with modern style. With prices starting at Rs 699, fans can now own a wearable tribute to one of India’s greatest warrior kings.

    Speaking about the collaboration, A47 founder & CEO Bhavik Vora said, “At A47, we love telling India’s iconic stories through high-quality, stylish merchandise. Collaborating with Maddock Films for Chhaava is an exciting way to bring history to everyday fashion. We’ve ensured every fan finds something to cherish, making Chhaava’s fearless spirit a part of their wardrobe.”

    A cinematic spectacle in the making, Chhaava is one of the year’s most awaited films, featuring Vicky Kaushal in a commanding lead role, alongside Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. The film brings to life the inspiring saga of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the fearless son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Backed by Maddock Films, known for delivering blockbuster hits, Chhaava promises a riveting mix of breathtaking visuals, stellar performances, and an emotionally charged narrative—a must-watch for history buffs and cinema lovers alike.

  • Rohit Dhawan transitions to JioStar India as head of brand solutions (sports)

    Rohit Dhawan transitions to JioStar India as head of brand solutions (sports)

    MUMBAI: Rohit Dhawan, a veteran marketing and media professional with over two decades of experience, has recently taken up the position of head of brand solutions (sports) at JioStarIndia.

    In this role, Dhawan will lead strategic advertising solutions for marquee sporting properties such as the IPL, ICC, and BCCI events. His focus will be on driving innovative brand partnerships at the intersection of sports, media, and technology to enhance engagement across both digital and television platforms.

    Reflecting on his career, Dhawan highlighted his passion for leveraging storytelling to create impactful campaigns. “The last nine years have been particularly fulfilling in building new business models and revenue streams through various forms of content,” he noted.

    Prior to this appointment, Dhawan served as vice president of customer marketing at Viacom18 Sports, where he played a pivotal role in managing customer marketing strategies for major sports events. He also held senior roles at Mindshare, including vice president of content plus, where he managed brand partnerships and solutions marketing.

    Dhawan’s extensive career portfolio includes leadership positions at Hindustan Times Media, ESPN Star Sports, and Mindshare, where he worked on prominent accounts like Pepsi, Pizza Hut, and KFC. His areas of expertise include sports marketing, digital strategy, brand partnerships, and media innovation.

  • India Today – Business Today Budget Round Table 2025: Big bets & bold claims

    India Today – Business Today Budget Round Table 2025: Big bets & bold claims

    MUMBAI: If Budget discussions were a high-stakes poker game, this year’s India Today – Business Today Budget Round Table saw ministers going all in with big bets and even bolder claims. From Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s tax relief assurances to Piyush Goyal’s firm rejection of a BRICS currency, and Nitin Gadkari’s ambitious Rs 15 lakh crore infrastructure monetisation vision—this was no ordinary policy talk.

    Sitharaman set the tone early, brushing aside concerns of a structural slowdown while underscoring the government’s commitment to taxpayers. “In every Budget, there is a clear sense that we respect taxpayers,” she declared, championing income tax rebates and relief measures under the new tax regime. She also expressed confidence that higher disposable incomes would fuel consumption and savings, giving sectors like FMCG and banking a much-needed boost.

    Meanwhile, Commerce minister Piyush Goyal wasted no time in dismissing the idea of a BRICS currency. “We don’t support any BRICS currency… It is impossible to think of a BRICS currency,” he said, leaving no room for ambiguity. He also addressed rupee depreciation, maintaining that India must work towards a stronger currency to reduce import dependence.

    Transport minister Nitin Gadkari, always one to bring numbers to the table, outlined his Rs 5 lakh crore plan for highway monetisation while acknowledging roadblocks like land acquisition and environmental clearances. His projections were ambitious—toll income hitting Rs 1.4 lakh crore in two years, scaling up to Rs 15 lakh crore with further monetisation—but execution remains the challenge.

    Beyond taxation and infrastructure, the event also dived into global economic headwinds. Finance and Revenue secretary Tuhin Kanta Pandey flagged rising trade disruptions and protectionist policies, reassuring attendees that India remains committed to open markets. Meanwhile, Electronics & IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had exciting news on the tech front—India’s foundational AI model will be ready by the end of the year, with 10,000 GPUs already deployed for research.

    For investors, the insights kept coming. Market veteran Vijay Kedia predicted continued market consolidation, advising investors to focus on government-driven themes like tourism. Value Research CEO Dhirendra Kumar urged a gradual investment strategy, while Mosaic Asset Management’s Maneesh Dangi remained bullish on IT and services.

    With 10 power-packed sessions, 15+ industry leaders, and over 200 corporate executives and experts in attendance, the India Today – Business Today Budget Round Table 2025 delivered high-impact discussions and valuable takeaways. With NSE as an exchange partner, the event ensured that the country’s economic pulse was taken with precision.

    As India steers through global uncertainties, the discussions reinforced the government’s commitment to taxpayers, economic stability, and infrastructure growth—while also highlighting challenges like trade tensions, currency fluctuations, and policy roadblocks that remain very much in play.

     

  • Sabu Jose appointed creative director at Identical Brains

    Sabu Jose appointed creative director at Identical Brains

    Mumbai: Post facility Identical Brains has announced the appointment of Sabu Jose as creative director, a strategic move aimed at strengthening the company’s post-production services for feature films, OTT, and advertising content. He will also play a key role in advancing its renowned visual effects division.

    With over two decades of experience in the film and advertising sectors, Jose has an extensive portfolio featuring collaborations with leading brands such as Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Samsung, Tata Motors, Airtel, Lakmé, and Garnier. His career includes leadership roles at prestigious studios, including Famous Studios, Prime Focus Ltd, Studio Mirage, and VC Studiioz.

    In his new role, Jose will oversee creative direction, digital content creation, and post-production consulting. Identical Brains is set to expand its DI colour grading services using advanced technologies like Baselight and Resolve, alongside bolstering audio post-production capabilities with Dolby Atmos and 5.1 mixing for immersive sound experiences.

    Previously, Jose served as COO and creative head at VC Studiioz, where he led post-production and brand services. He also founded ClearFX in 2024, offering visual design and filmmaking consultancy. His journey began as a 3D animator at Crest Communication, later progressing to roles as a senior editor and VFX artist at Famous Studios and Prime Focus.

  • Damyant Singh Khanoria resigns as CMO of sports at Viacom18

    Damyant Singh Khanoria resigns as CMO of sports at Viacom18

    Mumbai: He was a high-profile hire in 2024. And now he has quit. Damyant Singh Khanoria has stepped down as chief marketing officer (CMO) of sports at Viacom18, ending his tenure that began in January 2024.

    Khanoria, a seasoned marketing professional, brought over two decades of experience in leading global brands. Prior to his role at Viacom18, he served as CMO of Oppo India for over three years, overseeing the brand’s marketing strategies and campaigns. His career also includes a significant stint at Apple, where he led Marcom operations for nearly four years.

    Earlier, Khanoria held senior roles at adidas for over a decade, including senior marketing director and head of product marketing for sports performance. He also managed brand communications at Mudra Communications, handling key accounts such as McDonald’s.

    Known for his expertise in brand strategy, sports marketing, and product innovation, Khanoria’s departure marks a significant development in Viacom18’s leadership.

    The company is yet to announce his successor.

  • Disney reports substantially better results in Q1 FY 2025

    Disney reports substantially better results in Q1 FY 2025

    MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company reported robust Q1 FY25 financial results, driven by growth in its entertainment and experiences divisions and a return to profitability in streaming operations. The company posted a 44 per cent  jump in adjusted earnings per share to $1.76, exceeding market expectations of $1.45. Revenue rose by five per cent  to $24.69 billion, fuelled by strategic price hikes across streaming services.

    The direct-to-consumer (D2C) segment, encompassing Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, delivered a $293 million operating profit, recovering from a $138 million loss in the same quarter last year. However, Disney+ saw a marginal decline in subscribers, slipping to 124.6 million from 125.3 million in Q4 FY24. Hulu reported a three  per cent  growth in its subscriber base, offsetting some losses.

    Despite the dip in Disney+ subscribers, D2C revenue increased by nine per cent, reflecting the effectiveness of pricing strategies. The company announced plans to launch ESPN as a stand-alone streaming service by fall 2025, with a focus on delivering comprehensive sports content and digital features.

    Disney’s entertainment division recorded double-digit operating income growth, supported by the success of key franchises. Box office revenue saw a rebound, thanks to blockbuster releases and a strong international performance. Upcoming releases are expected to sustain this momentum in the next quarter.

    The sports division reported an impressive operating income of $250 million, reversing a $100 million loss from the same period last year. The absence of major cricket events in Q1 and improved operating efficiencies contributed to this turnaround.

    The experiences, parks, and products segment remained a key growth driver, bolstered by strong demand for domestic and international parks. Revenue from this segment surged by double digits as travel and leisure activities continued to normalise post-pandemic.

    Disney finalised a $220 million merger of its Hulu + Live TV business with FuboTV, taking a 70% ownership stake in the combined entity. CEO Bob Iger confirmed the company’s commitment to further growth in digital entertainment and immersive experiences.

    Looking ahead, Disney forecasts high single-digit earnings per share growth for FY25 and double-digit operating income growth in the entertainment division. However, the stock dipped 2.4 per cent  following the report, influenced by concerns over Disney+ subscriber declines.

    Meanwhile, moving on to its India operations. The mousehouse expects a $300 million equity loss from its Indian joint venture (JV), JioStar, in FY25 due to purchase accounting, according to CEO Bob Iger and CFO Hugh Johnston in the company’s Q1 FY25 earnings commentary. The JV, formed with Reliance Industries (RIL) and Bodhi Tree Systems, marked the merger of Star India, Disney+ Hotstar, and Reliance’s media assets.

    Disney, which holds a 37 per cent  stake in JioStar, deconsolidated Star India’s results from 14 November 2024. This quarter included just 1.5 months of Star India operations, compared to a full year in fiscal 2024. The company reported a $33 million equity loss from the JV in Q1, primarily linked to purchase accounting.

    The JV is projected to contribute $74 million to Disney’s entertainment operating income in FY25, down from $254 million last year, while the sports segment is expected to generate $9 million, recovering from a $636 million loss.

    Advertising revenue from Disney+ Hotstar in India fell sharply to $15 million in Q1 FY25, compared to $165 million the previous year. Despite this decline, direct-to-consumer (D2C) ad revenue outside India rose 16 per cent. Disney anticipates D2C operating income to increase by $875 million in FY25, partly due to an improved comparison against a $200 million adverse impact from Disney+ Hotstar in the previous year.

    Sports segment income improved to $250 million in Q1, recovering from a $100 million loss in Q1 FY24, which had aired the ICC Cricket World Cup.

    The company recognised a $143 million impairment charge and a $0.2 billion non-cash tax charge in Q1 FY25 as part of transaction-related restructuring. Cumulative foreign currency translation losses net of tax amounted to $0.8 billion.

    JioStar, valued at $8.5 billion, is 56 per cent  owned by RIL and seven per cent  by Bodhi Tree Systems. Disney’s move signals a strategic shift in its approach to the Indian market amid evolving media consumption patterns.

    The Walt Disney Company reported robust Q1 FY25 financial results, driven by growth in its entertainment and experiences divisions and a return to profitability in streaming operations. The company posted a 44 per cent  jump in adjusted earnings per share to $1.76, exceeding market expectations of $1.45. Revenue rose by five per cent  to $24.69 billion, fuelled by strategic price hikes across streaming services.

    The direct-to-consumer (D2C) segment, encompassing Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, delivered a $293 million operating profit, recovering from a $138 million loss in the same quarter last year. However, Disney+ saw a marginal decline in subscribers, slipping to 124.6 million from 125.3 million in Q4 FY24. Hulu reported a three  per cent  growth in its subscriber base, offsetting some losses.

    Despite the dip in Disney+ subscribers, D2C revenue increased by nine per cent, reflecting the effectiveness of pricing strategies. The company announced plans to launch ESPN as a stand-alone streaming service by fall 2025, with a focus on delivering comprehensive sports content and digital features.

    Disney’s entertainment division recorded double-digit operating income growth, supported by the success of key franchises. Box office revenue saw a rebound, thanks to blockbuster releases and a strong international performance. Upcoming releases are expected to sustain this momentum in the next quarter.

    The sports division reported an impressive operating income of $250 million, reversing a $100 million loss from the same period last year. The absence of major cricket events in Q1 and improved operating efficiencies contributed to this turnaround.

    The experiences, parks, and products segment remained a key growth driver, bolstered by strong demand for domestic and international parks. Revenue from this segment surged by double digits as travel and leisure activities continued to normalise post-pandemic.

    Disney finalised a $220 million merger of its Hulu + Live TV business with FuboTV, taking a 70% ownership stake in the combined entity. CEO Bob Iger confirmed the company’s commitment to further growth in digital entertainment and immersive experiences.

    Looking ahead, Disney forecasts high single-digit earnings per share growth for FY25 and double-digit operating income growth in the entertainment division. However, the stock dipped 2.4 per cent  following the report, influenced by concerns over Disney+ subscriber declines.

  • Neeraj Jha named honorary secretary general of ASIP

    Neeraj Jha named honorary secretary general of ASIP

    MUMBAI: The Association for Sports Industry Professionals (ASIP) has a new power player in its ranks. Neeraj Jha, a veteran with over 20 years of experience in the sports industry, has been appointed honorary secretary general, a role that positions him at the forefront of shaping the future of sports business in India.

    Jha’s appointment is no ordinary shuffle in leadership—it’s a strategic move to unify industry stakeholders, foster innovation, and accelerate professional growth in the sector. ASIP expressed full confidence in Jha’s ability to steer the ship toward greater collaboration and impact.

    ASIP founder Shaji Prabhakaran welcomed Jha, reinforcing the organisation’s vision to build a robust platform for sports professionals in India.

    “Neeraj brings a wealth of experience and passion for the industry. His leadership will be crucial in strengthening ASIP’s role as a catalyst for sports business development,” said Prabhakaran.

    Taking on the new role with enthusiasm, Jha shared his excitement about joining ASIP’s mission, “I’m excited to collaborate with ASIP’s dedicated professionals to drive impactful change and build a vibrant community. Thanks to Shaji Prabhakaran for creating this platform—together, we’ll take it to new heights.”

    Jha’s appointment is a big win for ASIP as the organisation intensifies its efforts to professionalise the sports industry, bridge knowledge gaps, and enhance opportunities for industry professionals.