ITV

Category: GECs

  • IIFA Awards prepped up for glamorous night; tickets available for IIFA Rocks

    IIFA Awards prepped up for glamorous night; tickets available for IIFA Rocks

    MUMBAI: The most spectacular celebration of Indian Cinema worldwide, the 17 Videocon d2h IIFA Weekend 2016, which is all set to be held in the capital city of Spain- Madrid from 23 to 26 June 2016 has received an unprecedented response from the fans of Bollywood across the globe. As the excitement is growing with each passing day, it is no surprise that the tickets for the NEXA IIFA Awards 2016 are already sold-out in less than 3 weeks!

    If you’ve missed the chance to grab a seat for the grand awards night, you can still book tickets for IIFA ROCKS which is certainly the greatest musical entertainment extravaganza! Hosted by Bollywood’s multitalented personality Karan Johar, along with heart-throbFawad Khan, the IIFA ROCKS stage will include a plethora of musical names such as noted Music Director-Composer-Singer Pritam, Singing duo Meet Brothers featuringKanika Kapoor with Benny Dayal and Neeti Mohan. National-award winner Monali Thakur and Papon too will be performing and Bollywood’s leading lady Parineeti Chopraand actor Sooraj Pancholi will also join the stellar-line up.

    Alongside the gamut of musical acts and dance performances, the distinguished Indian fashion designer Vikram Phadnis will showcase a breathtaking fashion show marking his 25 years in the fashion industry. IIFA Rocks will also be attended and enjoyed by a number of stars, including Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Bipasha Basu, Anil Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha, Dia Mirza, Shilpa Shetty and many more.

    Over the years, the highly-anticipated Bollywood extravaganza, IIFA Weekend & Awards, has been known to be a truly engaging experience for all. As this year, the show will be hosted in Madrid for the first time, the event will surely be a unique experience for the city as Bollywood fans will get to see some of their favorite celebrities descend to the city and get a chance to witness a glamorous night to get the chance to experience firsthand the magic of Indian cinema.

    For those who want the ultimate experience to live like a star at the VideonD2h IIFA Weekend, the organizers have also announced special sales of 100 exclusive VIP hospitality packages. For more details on VIP hospitality packages log onto www.iifa.com or email viphospitality@iifa.com.

  • Zindagi presents ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ by Humsafar director Sarmad Sultan Khoosat

    Zindagi presents ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ by Humsafar director Sarmad Sultan Khoosat

    MUMBAI: Known for its good storytelling, Zindagi will present a new fiction series, ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’. It is yet another masterpiece by the ‘Humsafar’ and ‘Shehr-E-Zaat’ director, Sarmad Sultan Khoosat. With a versatile ensemble cast featuring Saba Qamar, Mikaal Zulfiqar and Juggan Kazim in the lead roles along with established actors like Ahsan Khan, Samina Peerzada, Babrik Shah, Rizwan Ali and Nausheen Shah, ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ will premiere on 9 June, 2016 at 8:00 PM, every Monday to Saturday.

    The compelling story of a strong headed girl, ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ is about Sana’s journey and her tryst with life and destiny. An entangled love story, the show revolves around Sana (Saba Qamar), a 25-year-old girl from Faisalabad with two older siblings, Hassan and Dua. Sana has been engaged to Adarsh (Mikaal Zulfiqar), the son of her mother’s best friend Arfa ever since she was a child. Adarsh, however, unaware of this engagement, is in love with Sasha (Juggan Kazim), a childhood friend of his and wishes to marry her. The story takes an interesting turn when Adarsh tells his parents of his intentions and is informed by them that he is already engaged to Sana and he will have to leave their home if he doesn’t marry her.

  • Zindagi presents ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ by Humsafar director Sarmad Sultan Khoosat

    Zindagi presents ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ by Humsafar director Sarmad Sultan Khoosat

    MUMBAI: Known for its good storytelling, Zindagi will present a new fiction series, ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’. It is yet another masterpiece by the ‘Humsafar’ and ‘Shehr-E-Zaat’ director, Sarmad Sultan Khoosat. With a versatile ensemble cast featuring Saba Qamar, Mikaal Zulfiqar and Juggan Kazim in the lead roles along with established actors like Ahsan Khan, Samina Peerzada, Babrik Shah, Rizwan Ali and Nausheen Shah, ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ will premiere on 9 June, 2016 at 8:00 PM, every Monday to Saturday.

    The compelling story of a strong headed girl, ‘Paani Jaisa Pyaar’ is about Sana’s journey and her tryst with life and destiny. An entangled love story, the show revolves around Sana (Saba Qamar), a 25-year-old girl from Faisalabad with two older siblings, Hassan and Dua. Sana has been engaged to Adarsh (Mikaal Zulfiqar), the son of her mother’s best friend Arfa ever since she was a child. Adarsh, however, unaware of this engagement, is in love with Sasha (Juggan Kazim), a childhood friend of his and wishes to marry her. The story takes an interesting turn when Adarsh tells his parents of his intentions and is informed by them that he is already engaged to Sana and he will have to leave their home if he doesn’t marry her.

  • Colors to air ‘Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon’ se from 11 June

    Colors to air ‘Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon’ se from 11 June

    MUMBAI: Uneasy rests the soul that loves and loses. Its obsession with love challenges the realms of life and death. But, what happens when the soul turns rogue? Colors’ upcoming drama, a finite paranormal thriller series titled Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon Se is a story of love, passion and obsession. Drawing evil from its grave to possess a pure soul in an epic battle against good, the show delves into the lives of a loving couple Paridhi and Rajbir, and his fanatical lover Manjulika’s unfulfilled soul. Supported by a dramatic narrative and backed by Balaji Telefilms’ prowess in celebrating Indian folklore and myths, the show dwells deep into the elements of supernatural occurrences and exorcism.

    Set to take over the baton from Naagin, the show will go on-air starting 11 June 2016, and will air every Saturday and Sunday at 8:00 pm.

    Commenting on the launch of the show, Colors CEO Raj Nayak said, “The numero uno show of Indian television is going to be replaced by a new entrant which has the potential to become another trendsetter in the industry. The success of Naagin has led us to believe that the Indian viewers have a huge appetite for stories which dangle on the realms of the unknown. Going by the efficacy of this research, we bring to the viewers, Kawach – a show that talks about love, demonic possession and exorcism. Colors has set a benchmark of sorts in the finite fiction series space and we hope to continue the same trend now with Kawach. The show will definitely create ripples, is our belief.”

    Adding further, Colors programming head Manisha Sharma said, “Rooted in possession and exorcism driven by fanatical love, the show will create supernatural experiences that will engage viewers across the country. The show is essentially a love story; on one side is a devoted wife who vows to protect her husband against all evils and on the other side is an insatiated spirit whose unrequited love for the same man makes her wreak havoc in his blissfully married life. Everyone who has struggled to secure his/her love or has loved and lost will identify with the emotions displayed in this drama. As Kawach charts its own course, we are confident in its ability to grip audience attention.”

    Speaking about the show, the reigning Czarina of Indian television, producer Ekta Kapoor of Balaji Telefilms said, “Supernatural themes in recent times have tasted much success across the entertainment industry. Be it in films or on television, audiences enjoy watching stories based on myths and folklore. Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon Se will witness evil energies taking center stage as the goodness of love will be tested in all its glory. The show will evoke a multitude of emotions amongst viewers – be it empathy for Rajbir, hatred for Manjulika or reverence for Paridhi. With a strong VFX team in place, Kawach will be our next visually spectacular proposition on Colors and we look forward to strengthening our association with the channel further.”

    When love turns into an evil obsession, it holds the power and ability to completely take over a person’s existence. The show will see two types of love – an all-consuming obsessive love that draws Manjulika (Maheck Chahal) to Rajbir (Vivek Dahiya) even after her death, and a selfless strong-willed love that empowers Paridhi (Mona Singh) to protect Rajbir from dark elements. Paridhi’s determination and devotion, Rajbir’s conundrum and inability to ward off harm from his wife’s life, and Manjulika’s malevolence as she recuperates from having failed at being a temptress while she was still alive, will play a major role in shaping their personalities. As a fierce tussle juxtaposes good and evil, Manjulika’s soul possesses Paridhi’s body, and uses her dreams and ambitions to manipulate her presence in Rajbir’s life and future. And with Manjulika’s evil ploys and hell-fire for her fixation with Rajbir in the offing, it will be Paridhi’s efforts that will battle the realms of bone-chilling incidents.

    Speaking about her character, Mona Singh, who essays the role of Paridhi said, “Paridhi is a modern women who is well educated, is an archaeologist by profession and doesn’t believe in supernatural occurrences. But, she is willing to go to any length to protect her husband from the clutches of evil. She will get possessed by Manjulika’s spirit, but even this will not deter her from her goals. Paridhi considers love supreme and will chart her course to her destiny with that one goal in mind.” Commenting on Rajbir’s character, actor Vivek Dahiya said, “As a story of love and obsession, Kawach will take viewers on a spine-tingling ride. Rajbir doesn’t believe in supernatural powers, but is a strong believer in the power of love and uses it to fight evil spirits when his wife Paridhi is possessed by Manjulika’s soul. His misfortune and failure at protecting his wife causes him to take many decisions that shape their future and existence. But how Rajbir and Paridhi’s love fights through all odds forms the crux of this story.”

    Upon being casted in her first ever fiction role as Manjulika,Maheck Chahal said, “Manjulika is a dark and sexy seductress. She tries to win Rajbir’s heart but fails. Her return from the dead is a mark of power and passion, and she will do all it takes – including inhabiting Paridhi’s untainted and loving soul – to own the man who she believes is rightfully hers.”

    Along with the above cast, the show brings together a power-packed cast comprising of Ashwini Kalsekar as Indrani, Aham Mehta as Jagat Singh, Shiva Rindani as Bharat Singh, and Ritu Vij as Janki Devi amongst others.

    To engage with viewers at a grass-root level, Colors has devised a robust marketing and digital strategy including different touch points including outdoor and radio. Further, the channel has planned a series of on-ground activations at more than 130 Hanuman temples across HSMs (Hindi Speaking Markets) wherein a Kawach kit comprising of a Hunaman Chalisa and a Hanuman Kawach will be distributed amongst devotees. On the digital front, an extensive outreach has been planned utilizing multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram amongst others.

  • Colors to air ‘Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon’ se from 11 June

    Colors to air ‘Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon’ se from 11 June

    MUMBAI: Uneasy rests the soul that loves and loses. Its obsession with love challenges the realms of life and death. But, what happens when the soul turns rogue? Colors’ upcoming drama, a finite paranormal thriller series titled Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon Se is a story of love, passion and obsession. Drawing evil from its grave to possess a pure soul in an epic battle against good, the show delves into the lives of a loving couple Paridhi and Rajbir, and his fanatical lover Manjulika’s unfulfilled soul. Supported by a dramatic narrative and backed by Balaji Telefilms’ prowess in celebrating Indian folklore and myths, the show dwells deep into the elements of supernatural occurrences and exorcism.

    Set to take over the baton from Naagin, the show will go on-air starting 11 June 2016, and will air every Saturday and Sunday at 8:00 pm.

    Commenting on the launch of the show, Colors CEO Raj Nayak said, “The numero uno show of Indian television is going to be replaced by a new entrant which has the potential to become another trendsetter in the industry. The success of Naagin has led us to believe that the Indian viewers have a huge appetite for stories which dangle on the realms of the unknown. Going by the efficacy of this research, we bring to the viewers, Kawach – a show that talks about love, demonic possession and exorcism. Colors has set a benchmark of sorts in the finite fiction series space and we hope to continue the same trend now with Kawach. The show will definitely create ripples, is our belief.”

    Adding further, Colors programming head Manisha Sharma said, “Rooted in possession and exorcism driven by fanatical love, the show will create supernatural experiences that will engage viewers across the country. The show is essentially a love story; on one side is a devoted wife who vows to protect her husband against all evils and on the other side is an insatiated spirit whose unrequited love for the same man makes her wreak havoc in his blissfully married life. Everyone who has struggled to secure his/her love or has loved and lost will identify with the emotions displayed in this drama. As Kawach charts its own course, we are confident in its ability to grip audience attention.”

    Speaking about the show, the reigning Czarina of Indian television, producer Ekta Kapoor of Balaji Telefilms said, “Supernatural themes in recent times have tasted much success across the entertainment industry. Be it in films or on television, audiences enjoy watching stories based on myths and folklore. Kawach…Kaali Shaktiyon Se will witness evil energies taking center stage as the goodness of love will be tested in all its glory. The show will evoke a multitude of emotions amongst viewers – be it empathy for Rajbir, hatred for Manjulika or reverence for Paridhi. With a strong VFX team in place, Kawach will be our next visually spectacular proposition on Colors and we look forward to strengthening our association with the channel further.”

    When love turns into an evil obsession, it holds the power and ability to completely take over a person’s existence. The show will see two types of love – an all-consuming obsessive love that draws Manjulika (Maheck Chahal) to Rajbir (Vivek Dahiya) even after her death, and a selfless strong-willed love that empowers Paridhi (Mona Singh) to protect Rajbir from dark elements. Paridhi’s determination and devotion, Rajbir’s conundrum and inability to ward off harm from his wife’s life, and Manjulika’s malevolence as she recuperates from having failed at being a temptress while she was still alive, will play a major role in shaping their personalities. As a fierce tussle juxtaposes good and evil, Manjulika’s soul possesses Paridhi’s body, and uses her dreams and ambitions to manipulate her presence in Rajbir’s life and future. And with Manjulika’s evil ploys and hell-fire for her fixation with Rajbir in the offing, it will be Paridhi’s efforts that will battle the realms of bone-chilling incidents.

    Speaking about her character, Mona Singh, who essays the role of Paridhi said, “Paridhi is a modern women who is well educated, is an archaeologist by profession and doesn’t believe in supernatural occurrences. But, she is willing to go to any length to protect her husband from the clutches of evil. She will get possessed by Manjulika’s spirit, but even this will not deter her from her goals. Paridhi considers love supreme and will chart her course to her destiny with that one goal in mind.” Commenting on Rajbir’s character, actor Vivek Dahiya said, “As a story of love and obsession, Kawach will take viewers on a spine-tingling ride. Rajbir doesn’t believe in supernatural powers, but is a strong believer in the power of love and uses it to fight evil spirits when his wife Paridhi is possessed by Manjulika’s soul. His misfortune and failure at protecting his wife causes him to take many decisions that shape their future and existence. But how Rajbir and Paridhi’s love fights through all odds forms the crux of this story.”

    Upon being casted in her first ever fiction role as Manjulika,Maheck Chahal said, “Manjulika is a dark and sexy seductress. She tries to win Rajbir’s heart but fails. Her return from the dead is a mark of power and passion, and she will do all it takes – including inhabiting Paridhi’s untainted and loving soul – to own the man who she believes is rightfully hers.”

    Along with the above cast, the show brings together a power-packed cast comprising of Ashwini Kalsekar as Indrani, Aham Mehta as Jagat Singh, Shiva Rindani as Bharat Singh, and Ritu Vij as Janki Devi amongst others.

    To engage with viewers at a grass-root level, Colors has devised a robust marketing and digital strategy including different touch points including outdoor and radio. Further, the channel has planned a series of on-ground activations at more than 130 Hanuman temples across HSMs (Hindi Speaking Markets) wherein a Kawach kit comprising of a Hunaman Chalisa and a Hanuman Kawach will be distributed amongst devotees. On the digital front, an extensive outreach has been planned utilizing multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram amongst others.

  • Is supernatural a winning formula for Colors?

    Is supernatural a winning formula for Colors?

    MUMBAI: Remember shows like Aahat aired on Sony Entertainment Television, Woh and The Zee Horror Show on Zee TV? Recall those scary faces, the revolting dead bodies, flying furniture and conjured up fires from nowhere with special effects, because that was what was usually ‘patent’ for a horror show? Well, decades after such ‘horror’ shows almost vanished from prime time, supernatural is making a big time comeback on Indian television.

    The 90s of the previous century saw a few broadcasters and production houses going gaga over supernatural or horror fiction series, but after a certain period of time the genre was almost wiped off. Now, from Daayans to a shape shifting wolf to Naaginsto Makhi, Hindi GEC has recently witnessed number of aspects of the supernatural element. But only Colors seems to have cracked the supernatural code. It started with Naagin and the trend of supernatural characters after that has become unstoppable.

    In the first week of its launch, the weekend fiction show Naagin overtook the top five programmes on Hindi GECs. After breaking records with Naagin, its production house Balaji Telefilm’s is all set to launch a new show Kawach… Kaali Shaktiyon Se also on Colors, yet another supernatural show based on exorcism.

    An industry source close to the people involved with Naagin revealed to Indiantelevision.com that the show cost is between Rs 20 – 25 lakh per episode. On the ad rates front, Naagin commands about Rs 1.5 lakh for a 10 second slot. A sources close to the channel informed that the production cost of Balaji’s Kawach has been estimated at between Rs 15-20 lakhs per episode.

    Speaking on the success of Naagin Colors programming head Manisha Sharma said, “Series like Naagin are edgy, they move faster and you can experiment with them. They don’t follow the grammar of soaps. We had this 8pm slot vacant and luckily we were the first one to encash it.”

    “We are truly a variety entertainment channel. We give audiences soaps like Naagin, comedy shows, reality such as India’s Got Talent and Fear Factor. Our strategy is ‘Let’s put up the variety and be ahead of the game’. We were first ones to do Naagin and we will be first ones to do Kawach. There is a huge bunch of people that watch such shows and we are just trying to open up that market in India,” explained Sharma.

    Speaking about the trend, a senior creative director said, “The Makhi element was used in Sasural Simar Ka to increase TRPs’ that eventually didn’t happen. If we talk about Naagin, it is just a revenge story, but it is packed with good content and strong casting. Naagin undoubtedly is a well-crafted story. “

    “Supernatural characters have been used by many in their shows, but for some they didn’t work out well. Shows like Vishkanyaand Adhuri Kahani Humari failed to generate positive ratings even after using power packed VFX. Ideas can be supernatural but they need to be well crafted,” said another creative head.

    From the ratings it’s clear the Vishkanya launched by Zee TV on 28 March at 6.30 pm time band from Monday- Friday failed to garner positive ratings for the channel. According to the BARC data, in week 18 the show garnered 2029 Impressions ‘000s while in week 19 the channel witnessed a slight hike in ratings with 2107 Impressions ‘000s but in week 20 and week 21 ratings just nosedived with 1648 Impressions ‘000s and 1347 Impressions ‘000s respectively.

    On the other hand, another Balaji show on &TV, Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum launched on 26 October at the 9.30 time slot fromMonday- Friday had to include the track of a cursed tiger with supernatural elements to pep up its ratings. In week 18, the show recorded, 1142 Impressions ‘000s while in week 19 and 20 ratings were slightly increased from 1255 Impressions ’000s and 1298 Impressions ‘000s. But again in week 21, the show saw a dip in ratings and recorded 1297 Impressions ‘000s.

    Adhuri Kahani Hamari on &TV was about reincarnation also revolved around a snake went off air on 13 May. The show failed to garner positive ratings for the channel. In week 18, the show recorded 726 Impressions ‘000s, while in week 19, the show closed at 1025 Impressions ‘000s.

    While speaking with Indiantelevision in an earlier interview, RBNL CEO Tarun Katial had said, “One horror show starts many starts, one crime show starts many others to make them, it’s a trend. People do enough of the genre and then they move to the next one.”

    Katial further added, “I think that content is getting more innovative and more lateral. People are thinking of different ways of storytelling. We have to put imagination around this. You know if we were to call Naagin regressive then we should also callVampire Diaries regressive but we watch Vampire Diaries and we don’t call it regressive. All the sci-fi or supernatural that goes around on American television, we don’t call it regressive because it comes from Hollywood.”

    “These all are disruptive trends In fact as far as regular story telling goes, every show needs to outshout others so either there is a high point or there is some action or outdoor that happened because when you do something like horror fiction or supernatural you draw lot of attention and if your story telling is strong you retain that attention which then converts into ratings. I think from time to time makers keep doing this to get that spike. But this can be a trap if you are doing things, those things should not damage the credibility of the show,” opined a senior producer.

    Whether it is the broadcaster and production house that are producing such creative content just to create the buzz and for high ratings, it has definitely managed to engross audiences. Balaji Telefilms which is famous for all the typical Saas – Bahu dramas and reincarnation love stories is slowly moving ahead with the supernatural mantra.

    Colors has already announced that it will come back with Naagin season 2 soon and now it’s Kawach that is all set to scare small screens viewers. These are interesting times and it will be interesting to see that how Colors and Balaji encash their new offerings.

  • Is supernatural a winning formula for Colors?

    Is supernatural a winning formula for Colors?

    MUMBAI: Remember shows like Aahat aired on Sony Entertainment Television, Woh and The Zee Horror Show on Zee TV? Recall those scary faces, the revolting dead bodies, flying furniture and conjured up fires from nowhere with special effects, because that was what was usually ‘patent’ for a horror show? Well, decades after such ‘horror’ shows almost vanished from prime time, supernatural is making a big time comeback on Indian television.

    The 90s of the previous century saw a few broadcasters and production houses going gaga over supernatural or horror fiction series, but after a certain period of time the genre was almost wiped off. Now, from Daayans to a shape shifting wolf to Naaginsto Makhi, Hindi GEC has recently witnessed number of aspects of the supernatural element. But only Colors seems to have cracked the supernatural code. It started with Naagin and the trend of supernatural characters after that has become unstoppable.

    In the first week of its launch, the weekend fiction show Naagin overtook the top five programmes on Hindi GECs. After breaking records with Naagin, its production house Balaji Telefilm’s is all set to launch a new show Kawach… Kaali Shaktiyon Se also on Colors, yet another supernatural show based on exorcism.

    An industry source close to the people involved with Naagin revealed to Indiantelevision.com that the show cost is between Rs 20 – 25 lakh per episode. On the ad rates front, Naagin commands about Rs 1.5 lakh for a 10 second slot. A sources close to the channel informed that the production cost of Balaji’s Kawach has been estimated at between Rs 15-20 lakhs per episode.

    Speaking on the success of Naagin Colors programming head Manisha Sharma said, “Series like Naagin are edgy, they move faster and you can experiment with them. They don’t follow the grammar of soaps. We had this 8pm slot vacant and luckily we were the first one to encash it.”

    “We are truly a variety entertainment channel. We give audiences soaps like Naagin, comedy shows, reality such as India’s Got Talent and Fear Factor. Our strategy is ‘Let’s put up the variety and be ahead of the game’. We were first ones to do Naagin and we will be first ones to do Kawach. There is a huge bunch of people that watch such shows and we are just trying to open up that market in India,” explained Sharma.

    Speaking about the trend, a senior creative director said, “The Makhi element was used in Sasural Simar Ka to increase TRPs’ that eventually didn’t happen. If we talk about Naagin, it is just a revenge story, but it is packed with good content and strong casting. Naagin undoubtedly is a well-crafted story. “

    “Supernatural characters have been used by many in their shows, but for some they didn’t work out well. Shows like Vishkanyaand Adhuri Kahani Humari failed to generate positive ratings even after using power packed VFX. Ideas can be supernatural but they need to be well crafted,” said another creative head.

    From the ratings it’s clear the Vishkanya launched by Zee TV on 28 March at 6.30 pm time band from Monday- Friday failed to garner positive ratings for the channel. According to the BARC data, in week 18 the show garnered 2029 Impressions ‘000s while in week 19 the channel witnessed a slight hike in ratings with 2107 Impressions ‘000s but in week 20 and week 21 ratings just nosedived with 1648 Impressions ‘000s and 1347 Impressions ‘000s respectively.

    On the other hand, another Balaji show on &TV, Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum launched on 26 October at the 9.30 time slot fromMonday- Friday had to include the track of a cursed tiger with supernatural elements to pep up its ratings. In week 18, the show recorded, 1142 Impressions ‘000s while in week 19 and 20 ratings were slightly increased from 1255 Impressions ’000s and 1298 Impressions ‘000s. But again in week 21, the show saw a dip in ratings and recorded 1297 Impressions ‘000s.

    Adhuri Kahani Hamari on &TV was about reincarnation also revolved around a snake went off air on 13 May. The show failed to garner positive ratings for the channel. In week 18, the show recorded 726 Impressions ‘000s, while in week 19, the show closed at 1025 Impressions ‘000s.

    While speaking with Indiantelevision in an earlier interview, RBNL CEO Tarun Katial had said, “One horror show starts many starts, one crime show starts many others to make them, it’s a trend. People do enough of the genre and then they move to the next one.”

    Katial further added, “I think that content is getting more innovative and more lateral. People are thinking of different ways of storytelling. We have to put imagination around this. You know if we were to call Naagin regressive then we should also callVampire Diaries regressive but we watch Vampire Diaries and we don’t call it regressive. All the sci-fi or supernatural that goes around on American television, we don’t call it regressive because it comes from Hollywood.”

    “These all are disruptive trends In fact as far as regular story telling goes, every show needs to outshout others so either there is a high point or there is some action or outdoor that happened because when you do something like horror fiction or supernatural you draw lot of attention and if your story telling is strong you retain that attention which then converts into ratings. I think from time to time makers keep doing this to get that spike. But this can be a trap if you are doing things, those things should not damage the credibility of the show,” opined a senior producer.

    Whether it is the broadcaster and production house that are producing such creative content just to create the buzz and for high ratings, it has definitely managed to engross audiences. Balaji Telefilms which is famous for all the typical Saas – Bahu dramas and reincarnation love stories is slowly moving ahead with the supernatural mantra.

    Colors has already announced that it will come back with Naagin season 2 soon and now it’s Kawach that is all set to scare small screens viewers. These are interesting times and it will be interesting to see that how Colors and Balaji encash their new offerings.

  • The Epic channel launches its new show – ‘Drishti-Documentaries on Epic’

    The Epic channel launches its new show – ‘Drishti-Documentaries on Epic’

    MUMBAI: The EPIC Channel is all set to launch its new show titled, ‘Drishti – Documentaries on EPIC’. The series will be hosted by the renowned actress Tilottama Shome. Starting from 6th June the show will air every Monday to Friday at 9 pm.

    Drishti, the series is a collection of the finest documentaries produced in India. Each episode showcases one or more documentaries, each with its own distinctive topic. The documentaries bring out the reality that is in each of the themes explored, some path- breaking while others with a social message. Watch the acclaimed work of directors like Jimmy Goldblum, Adam Weber, Roopa Barua, Ishani K Dutta to name a few.

    The list of documentaries include some of the renowned films such as My Name is Salt, Tomorrow we Disappear, Riders of the Mist, Quissa Eh Parsi and many more interesting films. These films will range from art and culture to ecology and ethnicity. The show will take the audience through the curated collection of films which explores the diversity of India.
    The show will also highlight traditions and examine changing social and cultural traditions as well as traverse unique landscapes. The show also features unsung heroes and provide a fresh insight into Indian culture.

    Shome will be seen introducing each film by setting the tone, presenting the context for the audience as well as highlighting the nuances of the filmmaker’s distinctive vision through the series.

    Preparing for the show, Tilottama Shome adds, “I am happy to be associated with The EPIC Channel. The content of the show is widespread and significant and unlike what other channels are currently offering in the country. I am glad that the channel chose me to be the voice of this show. I believe that the audience will enjoy watching the show.”

  • The Epic channel launches its new show – ‘Drishti-Documentaries on Epic’

    The Epic channel launches its new show – ‘Drishti-Documentaries on Epic’

    MUMBAI: The EPIC Channel is all set to launch its new show titled, ‘Drishti – Documentaries on EPIC’. The series will be hosted by the renowned actress Tilottama Shome. Starting from 6th June the show will air every Monday to Friday at 9 pm.

    Drishti, the series is a collection of the finest documentaries produced in India. Each episode showcases one or more documentaries, each with its own distinctive topic. The documentaries bring out the reality that is in each of the themes explored, some path- breaking while others with a social message. Watch the acclaimed work of directors like Jimmy Goldblum, Adam Weber, Roopa Barua, Ishani K Dutta to name a few.

    The list of documentaries include some of the renowned films such as My Name is Salt, Tomorrow we Disappear, Riders of the Mist, Quissa Eh Parsi and many more interesting films. These films will range from art and culture to ecology and ethnicity. The show will take the audience through the curated collection of films which explores the diversity of India.
    The show will also highlight traditions and examine changing social and cultural traditions as well as traverse unique landscapes. The show also features unsung heroes and provide a fresh insight into Indian culture.

    Shome will be seen introducing each film by setting the tone, presenting the context for the audience as well as highlighting the nuances of the filmmaker’s distinctive vision through the series.

    Preparing for the show, Tilottama Shome adds, “I am happy to be associated with The EPIC Channel. The content of the show is widespread and significant and unlike what other channels are currently offering in the country. I am glad that the channel chose me to be the voice of this show. I believe that the audience will enjoy watching the show.”

  • Star India files 100 plus FIRs against pay channels piracy in Karnataka, AP, MP

    Star India files 100 plus FIRs against pay channels piracy in Karnataka, AP, MP

    MUMBAI:  Continuing its no-tolerance stand against illegal transmission/re-transmission of Pay TV Channels by cable operators indulging in piracy of STAR TV Signals, officials of Star TV filed complaints against cable operators in Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, which led to police raids on their premises, arrests and seizures of equipment.  The raids were conducted at the control rooms of RST Digital (Karnataka), Ganesh Communication (AP) and Tanishq Communications (MP), who were found indulging in illegal transmission/re-transmission of the Star Pay Channels. (Details of initial investigations and action taken, below)

    Over the last 12 months, Star India’s anti-piracy campaign has resulted in 100+ FIRs against pirating networks across the country.

    The rampant issue of piracy in India has deprived the broadcast industry of reach as well as revenue worth thousands of crores. It is widely believed that the Piracy menace impacts the Television medium the most with cable operators under-reporting their subscribers as well as indulging in illegal transmission/re-transmission of the Pay Channels, resulting in significant losses to the broadcasters as well as the government exchequer. 

    While the implementation of Digitally Addressable Systems (DAS) in the country will be a big corrective and preventive step, the implementation of DAS all over the country is yet to be done. In the interim, Star India, since the last few years, has adopted a policy of “zero tolerance” against operators indulging in illegal transmission/re-transmission of the Star Pay Channels.

    STAR TV’s proactive steps are expected to reap significant benefits for the entire broadcast industry. 

    Here are the details on the raids conducted by Star India – 

    Karnataka

    Initial investigations

    Star India conducted discreet investigations at Kakarla town and identified that RST digital (located at No.64/8, Simaz Complex, Taluk Office, Karkala, Udupi District, Karnataka, India- 574104), which has a subscriber base of over 2500 households, was indulging in piracy through DTH. The operator was carrying illegal signals of Star India channels Star Plus, Star Sports 1, Life Ok, Suvarna & Asianet, along with Sony, Zee and Colors channels.

    RST Digital has monopoly in the Karkala region and so far not allowed any new network to set up a control room in this region. It is rumored to have high connections with the ruling political party in chair.

    Action taken

    Post the initial investigations, Star India officials filed a First Information Report (FIR no. 135/2016 dated 25.05.2016) against RST Digital at Karkala Police Station, under section 379 of IPC r/w Sections 37,51,63,65,69 of the Copyright Act, which resulted in a raid at the premises of the operator. During the raid, the operator resisted police entry into the control room and arguments were exchanged. Piracy equipment including DTH Set Top Boxes (of Sun Direct), Umbrellas, Amplifier, Modulator, Star Boxes etc. were seized.  RST Digital’s owner Vijay Shetty is in remand since 25th May 2016 and his bail application has been rejected.

    Andhra Pradesh

    Initial investigations

    Star India’s investigations at Rayadurg town in Ananthapur District, AP (on the border of Bellary district, Karnataka) revealed that local cable operator Ganesh Communication, which has a subscriber base of over 10,000 households, was indulging in piracy through DTH. The operator was transmitting illegal signals carrying a total of 15 channels including Star India channels Star Plus, Suvarna and MAA TV along with Sony, Zee and Gemini. 

    Action taken

    Post the initial investigations, Star India officials filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Ganesh Communication at the Rayadurg police station, under section 420 IPC and 63, 69 of the Copyright Act, which resulted in a raid at the premises of the operator. Piracy equipment including DTH Set Top Boxes (of Sun Direct & Videocon), Umbrellas, Amplifier, Modulator etc. were seized. During the raid, the operator resisted the entry of the Police in the control room and arguments were exchanged. The SHO (Mahanandi) then reported the matter to the Deputy Superintendent of Police and entered the control room forcefully, seized the equipment and arrested a Technician. The new owners of the network are well connected and have direct connection through MSO associations as well as ministers in AP government  

    Before Star India’s action, Sun Network’s Anti-Piracy team tried to conduct a raid on Ganesh Communication but failed. 

    Madhya Pradesh

    Initial investigations

    Star India discovered that Tanishq Communications (located at Itarsi town in Hoshangabad District, Madhya Pradesh) was indulging in the illegal transmission of channels such as Star Sports 3, Star Plus and Life Ok, through Area transgression by SV Enterprises, Hoshangabad. Tanishq Communications has a strong subscriber base of over 15,000 households in the state.  The proprietor of Tanishq Communication, Mahesh Chouksey is highly influential in the area and also well-connected with the ruling Political party.  

    Action taken

    Star India officials have been pursuing the matter with local police since August 2015 on 25 May 2016 filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Tanishq Communication under section Sec 63 & 65 of Copy right Act, 1957. The officials also met with the Superintendent of Police (SP), Inspector General of Police (IGP) & Director General of Police (DGP), which resulted in a raid at the premises of the operator. Piracy equipment including one Node, one Transmitter, one Channel Mixer were seized, and a Technician was arrested.