ITV

Category: GECs

  • 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.

  • Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya set to light up Sa Re Ga Ma Pa finale

    Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya set to light up Sa Re Ga Ma Pa finale

    MUMBAI: The grand finale of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa – The Next Singing Youth Icon is set to dazzle on 9 February at 6 pm on Zee Telugu. The night promises top-tier performances and star-studded appearances.

    Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya will take center stage, joined by producer Allu Aravind, actress Radha, actor Vishwak Sen, and singer Mangli. Fiction stars Nisarga Gowda, Preethi Sharma, Abhinav, Sangeetha, Prudhvi, and Sai Kiran will also be present.

    The six finalists — Satvik, Meghana, Vaishnavi, Mohan, Abhigna, and Manasa — will compete for the Rs 10 lakh cash prize. Mentored by Revanth, Ramya Behara, and Anudeep Dev, the contestants represent Village Vocals, City Classics, and Metro Melodies.

    Judging the competition are industry icons Koti, SP Shailaja, and Kasarla Shyam, evaluating talent on versatility and stage presence.

    Hosted by Sreemukhi, the finale promises intense competition and breathtaking musical moments. Will your favorite contestant win? 

  • Vinod Cookware joins Celebrity MasterChef as co-powered sponsor on Sony TV

    Vinod Cookware joins Celebrity MasterChef as co-powered sponsor on Sony TV

    MUMBAI: Cooking just got star-studded! Vinod Intelligent Cookware is gearing up to sizzle in kitchens nationwide as it partners with Celebrity MasterChef – Sabki Seeti Bajegi!, airing on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV starting 27 January 2025. As the co-powered sponsor, Vinod Intelligent Cookware will showcase its premium range in a show that blends culinary brilliance, entertainment, and a dash of star power.

    The show will bring together a stellar lineup of celebrities, including Usha Nadkarni, Tejasswi Prakash, Dipika Kakar Ibrahim, and Abhijeet Sawant, all swapping their usual roles for chef hats as they battle for the coveted title of ‘Celebrity MasterChef’. Hosted by the ever-entertaining Farah Khan and judged by celebrated chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar, this season promises to combine high-pressure cooking challenges with unforgettable moments of hilarity and heart.

    Vinod Intelligent Cookware’s innovative products will be front and centre, with seamless brand integrations across the show. From prominent displays on branded utensil racks to contestants using the cookware in their culinary adventures, the campaign will ensure maximum visibility and engagement across television and digital platforms.

    “This marks our second collaboration with MasterChef, and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” shared Vinod Cookware India Pvt Ltd MD Sunil Agarwal. “Celebrity MasterChef offers the perfect stage to highlight the reliability and performance of our cookware under challenging conditions. We’re proud to see our products in the hands of talented contestants, showing their mettle in the heat of the competition.”

    The show’s reach and popularity make it a strategic win for the brand. With Sony TV’s loyal primetime audience and SonyLIV expanding digital footprint, the collaboration aligns with Vinod Intelligent Cookware’s mission to elevate everyday cooking into an art form.

    Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) head of ad sales Sandeep Mehrotra added, “MasterChef’s star-studded format this season promises to delight viewers like never before. Vinod Cookware’s integration into the show ensures an elevated experience for our audience while highlighting the brand’s premium quality. We are excited for a fruitful partnership.”

    Beyond just entertainment, the show reflects the growing aspiration among home cooks for premium kitchen tools that stand up to the test of professional challenges. As Network Advertising Pvt Ltd president of media, Priya Jacob noted, “The use of Vinod Cookware by celebrity contestants creates organic brand moments that demonstrate reliability under high-pressure scenarios, enhancing credibility and consumer trust.”

    So, get ready to tune in to Celebrity MasterChef – Sabki Seeti Bajegi! every Monday to Friday at 8:00 pm on Sony TV and SonyLIV. Watch as celebrity contestants cook up a storm with Vinod Intelligent Cookware, proving that the right tools can truly transform a dish—and perhaps a career.

  • Jenica Kalra takes on a new role to promote Japanese content in India

    Jenica Kalra takes on a new role to promote Japanese content in India

    MUMBAI:  Jenica Kalra, an experienced professional at the Japan External Trade Organisation (Jetro), has transitioned from the intellectual property rights (IPR) department to the Japanese content development department. In her new role as assistant director, she is set to focus on fostering stronger cultural and creative exchanges between India and Japan.

    During her three-year tenure in the IPR Department, Kalra worked closely with colleagues and industry partners, gaining valuable insights into intellectual property laws and practices. Now, she steps into a dynamic role with a mission to enhance awareness of Japanese content in India while building bridges between Indian buyers and Japanese creators.

    “My aim is to promote Japanese titles in diverse fields such as anime, music, live-action films, movies, gaming, and artists. By connecting Indian buyers with Japanese title holders, we can deepen the cultural ties between our two nations,” said Kalra.

    The new position will allow her to play a pivotal role in integrating Japanese content into India’s creative industries, ensuring seamless collaborations and exchanges. “This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the India-Japan relationship in the creative sector. I’m eager to create impactful partnerships that highlight the best of Japanese culture in the Indian market,” she added.

    Kalra’s career reflects her passion for cultural exchange and education. Before joining 
    Jetro, she worked as a Japanese language teacher at the Tsubomi Japanese Institute. Her background in language and cross-cultural understanding makes her well-suited to bridge gaps between the two nations in the entertainment and creative domains.

    Her message to industry professionals is clear: “If you’re interested in collaborating or exploring opportunities in this space, feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to create meaningful exchanges in this vibrant industry.”

    Kalra’s transition underscores Jetro’s ongoing commitment to enhancing cultural and creative cooperation between India and Japan. With a growing appetite for Japanese content in India, her efforts are expected to open up exciting possibilities for collaboration in fields ranging from anime to gaming and beyond.
    As Kalra embarks on this new chapter, her work promises to further strengthen the India-Japan bond, fostering a shared appreciation for creativity and innovation across borders.

  • Sameer Gogate returns to Viacom18 as Colors business head

    Sameer Gogate returns to Viacom18 as Colors business head

    MUMBAI: When general manager Sameer Gogate put in his papers at BBC Studios, it was not clear why and where he was headed. Why would someone give up a plum secure job working with the Beeb which many an executive joins with a retirement plan in mind?

    That clarity came in mid-this week, when whispers started that he was actually heading back to his alma mater – Viacom18 – now called JioStar, followed the merger  with Disney Star India. 

    But what would he be doing there, was the question? Isn’t the company extremely top heavy with so many bosses that not even department executives know who is reporting to whom and who has the responsibility for a particular function?

    That clarity too came when Gogate’s responsibility was leaked. He would be in charge of the business of Colors, Viacom18’s star channel.  In his new role, Gogate will report to Alok Jain, head of cluster entertainment at JioStar.

    For the record, Gogate joining Viacom18 is like returning home for him  as he was once deeply embedded in its ecosystem. He was director of commercial and syndication, overseeing content syndication, film acquisitions, and co-productions for Viacom18 Motion Pictures and he also had a position at Colors, where  he managed music and format licensing, talent management, and group commercial strategy a few years ago.

    Gogate brings a wealth of experience from his time at BBC Studios, where he played a pivotal role since 2019 in producing local adaptations of popular BBC formats, including multiple seasons of Criminal Justice and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa (Dancing with the Stars). He also oversaw the creation of original series such as Highway Love, Ishq in the Air, School of Lies, and Tujhpe Main Fida. Among his recent successes was the IMDb top-ten hit, The Shekhar Suman Show.

    Prior to BBC Studios, Gogate worked at Vuclip as Head of Monetisation, Commercial, and Distribution, where he managed revenue operations and key content partnerships. He also held senior roles at Eros International Media, Endemol India, Viacom18, and EY. 

    Meanwhile, following Gogate’s departure, BBC Studios India has announced an interim leadership arrangement. Deepa Nair, head of business and legal affairs, and Sachin Mahajan, head of finance, will jointly oversee the production team in India. Stanley Fernandes will continue leading the channels & streaming and content sales divisions for India and South Asia. The company has yet to announce a permanent successor for Gogate.

  • Zeel shows smart bottom line, despite a slippage in its top line IN Q3 FY 25

    Zeel shows smart bottom line, despite a slippage in its top line IN Q3 FY 25

    MUMBAI: A sharp focus on its expenditure and tight cost controls have resulted in Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Zeel)  notching up a respectable showing in its latest quarter FY2025 results as well as for the nine months of FY2025.  The net result: there has been a growth in profitability despite revenues slipping because of a challenging advertising environment.

    The company’s operating revenue for Q3 2025 ended 31 December 2024 stood at Rs 19,788 million, reflecting a three per cent  decline year-over-year (YoY) due to a weak festive season and lower advertising revenues.

    In the investor call which followed, CEO Punit Goenka confessed  that “the green shoots we witnessed during the beginning of the quarter did not pick up the required pace to drive a positive growth momentum. This, coupled with muted spending by FMCG brands in a festive quarter, further slowed the pace of growth for the industry at large, although there was a marginal pickup in the rural recovery. The lacklustre sentiment in the urban market led to weaker demand November and December.  This, in turn, also impacted our advertising revenue during the quarter.” 

    Punit, however, expressed optimism of a recovery in the coming months. Said he: “Going forward, we are hopeful that the upcoming union budget will encompass pertinent steps by the honorable finance minister to revive the consumption cycle in order to spur growth. On the back of these factors, we remain optimistic about a gradual recovery in the new fiscal that will enable us to capitalise on the increased spending by advertisers.”

    Added deputy CEO &  CFO Mukund Galgali: “The TV industry landscape remains healthy, and the overall industry wide TV viewership has increased by 1.4 per cent further. We continue to be strong, number two entertainment network in India, and we have gained 40 BPS share to 16.9 per cent as  compared to the same period last year. And as Punit mentioned again, Zee  Marathi has shown a consistent progress four car intervention. And Zee  Tamil has also gained healthy share on a year on year basis compared to the same period last year. on the digital side, Zee5 has further narrowed its operating losses in this quarter. Its EBITDA loss is lower by Rs 22.6 crores in QoQ and Rs 107.8 crore YoY basis. A B2B deal which is still being discussed and was not renewed impacted our top line for Zee5.” 

    In contrast to ad revenues, subscription revenues grew by  seven per cent year on year to Rs 9,406 million driven by linear TV and digital platform Zee5. EBITDA for Q3 FY25 increased by 52 per cent YoY to Rs 3,184 million, with a margin of 16.1 per cent  (up from 10.2 per cent in Q3 FY24). Profit after tax (PAT) from continuing operations rose by 207 per cent YoY to Rs 1,636 million, underscoring effective cost management and operational efficiency. Total expenditure decreased by 10 per cent  YoY to Rs 16,604 million, driven by optimised programming and technology costs.

    For the nine month period ended 31 December for FY25, total revenue was at Rs 61,100 million a six per cent decline YoY, while expenditure decreased 10 per cent, reflecting disciplined cost control.  EBITDA for 9M FY25 rose by 31 per cent  YoY to Rs 9,110 million, with margins improving to 14.9 per cent  (up 410 basis points YoY). PAT from continuing operations increased by 167 per cent  YoY to Rs 4,988 million.

    Zee Network’s TV viewership share grew by 40 basis points YoY, driven by strong performances in Hindi movies and Marathi content. New show launches like Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile (Zee TV) and Lakshmi Nivas (Zee Marathi) contributed to the viewership growth. Zee5 recorded an eight per cent  YoY revenue growth in Q3 FY25, releasing 14 shows and movies, including seven originals. EBITDA losses for Zee5 reduced significantly YoY, reflecting better cost structures. Zee Music Company remained the second-largest music label with 160 million YouTube subscribers, adding 3.6 million during the quarter. The channel clocked 43 billion video views during Q3 FY 2025. Zee Studios released five films in Q3, including two Hindi and three regional movies.

    The company spent a lot more this quarter on promoting its shows as well as on building its brand following the collapse of the merger with Sony. Its advertisement and promotion expenses stood at Rs 2826 million  in Q3FY25 as against Rs 2275 million  in the previous quarter and Rs 2065 million Q3 FY 2024.  In the 9 months in FY2025, it has spent Rs 7725 million as against Rs 6963 million in 9m FY2024. 

    The company also announced the appointment of media veteran Divya Karani as an additional director in the category of independent director for three years with effect from 23 January 2025  based on the recommendation of the nomination & remuneration committee and subject to the approval of the ministry of information and broadcasting and shareholders of the Company.  Finally, Zeel’s sustainability efforts saw a 33 per cent  reduction in waste sent to landfills and an 11 per cent decrease in daily carbon emissions during FY24.

  • Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment returns on Colours TV and JioCinema

    Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment returns on Colours TV and JioCinema

    MUMBAI: Clear your schedules and grab your binge food because Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment is back to tickle your funny bone and tantalise your taste buds!

    After a wildly successful run last year, Colors TV’s fan-favourite comedy-cooking show returns on 25 January 2025 with a fresh lineup, uproarious humour, and, of course, sizzling culinary chaos.

    What makes this show so irresistible? It’s the perfect recipe: comedy that has audiences rolling, culinary challenges that inspire, and celebrities who turn up the heat. It’s not just a cooking show; it’s a full-course entertainment meal! But don’t just take our word for it—13 brands that rode the gravy train last season can vouch for its massive family-friendly appeal.

    What’s cooking this season? You loved it last year, and now it’s back with even more spice! Returning hosts Bharti Singh (comedy queen extraordinaire) and celebrity chef Harpal Singh Sokhi promise to make every moment in the kitchen hilariously chaotic. Bharti’s impeccable comic timing and Harpal’s culinary expertise are a match made in television heaven.

    This season also brings an exciting mix of returning contestants—Ankita Lokhande, Rahul Vaidya, and Sudesh Lehri—and new celebrity faces like Abdu Rozik, Elvish Yadav, Rubina Dilaik, and Mannara Chopra. Who will chop their way to the top, and who will crack under pressure? The knives (and jokes) are out!

    Let’s talk numbers: last season was a hit not just with audiences but also with advertisers. Brands cashed in on clever integrations like branded culinary challenges, on-screen product placements, and host mentions. This season, with its expanded digital reach on Colors TV and JioCinema, offers even more opportunities for creative sponsorships. Are you ready to whip up some brand magic in this flavour-packed kitchen?

    Still debating whether to add this show to your watchlist? Here’s why Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment is a must-watch:

    . Bite-Sized Comedy: Perfect for family viewing after a long day—short, hilarious segments packed with drama and flavour.

    .  Celebrity Showdowns: Want to see your favourite stars struggle to make an omelette? This is your chance!

    .  Wholesome Vibes: Comedy that even grandma will approve of—no cringe, just hearty laughs.

    .  Deliciously Relatable: Culinary fails, kitchen chaos, and dramatic meltdowns—sound like your last dinner prep?

    Bharti Singh! Enough said.

    The laughter begins on 25 January 2025, exclusively on Colors TV and JioCinema. Whether you’re a foodie, a comedy lover, or just here for Bharti’s zingers, this season promises to be the perfect blend of fun and food.

    Who’s ready to laugh until their stomach hurts—and not from hunger? 

  • Rising Ahmedabad kicks off Network18’s urban growth series in style!

    Rising Ahmedabad kicks off Network18’s urban growth series in style!

    MUMBAI: What happens when a city with a rich history meets cutting-edge innovation? Well, Ahmedabad transformed into a hub of progress, sustainability, and inspiration!

    Network18’s Rising Cities series debuted with Rising Ahmedabad on 10 January 2025 at the vibrant Binori Hotel, marking the start of an ambitious journey to spotlight India’s urban evolution.

    Presented by Maruti Suzuki and backed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, this inaugural event gathered government leaders, industry visionaries, and community champions to celebrate Ahmedabad’s transformation. From discussing Sadak Suraksha (road safety) to driving Swachh Bharat (cleanliness), the event showcased the city’s dynamic efforts in urban excellence. But this wasn’t just a corporate shindig—it was a celebration of how cities can rewrite the playbook on sustainable living and urban growth.

    The event featured an illustrious line-up of speakers who brought Ahmedabad’s inspiring journey to life:

    . Ahmedabad mayor Pratibhaben Jain hailed the city’s transformation into a model of sustainable urban living.

    .  Municipal commissioner M. Thannarsan shared insights on innovative urban planning.

    .  AMC’s Standing Committee chairman Devang Dani provided a peek into projects redefining cityscapes.

    .  Architects Hiren Patel and Ashish Trambdia envisioned a greener Ahmedabad.

    .  Historian Rizvan Kadri beautifully juxtaposed the city’s heritage with its modern aspirations.

    . Adding corporate wisdom were Deepa Builders MD Nilay Patel and CREDAI-India Youth Central Zone coordinator Parth Patel who explored the role of real estate in shaping sustainable cities.

    So, what was on the menu for discussions? A smorgasbord of themes that resonate with urban dwellers:

    1. Sadak Suraksha (Road Safety): Practical measures to make commuting safer for everyone.

    2.  Swachh Bharat: A cleaner Ahmedabad, one initiative at a time.

    3.  Sustainability: Designing an eco-friendly urban framework.

    4.  Skill Development: Empowering Ahmedabad’s youth for future challenges.

    The event wasn’t just talk. Real solutions and actionable insights emerged, providing a blueprint for other Indian cities to follow.

    The Rising Cities series has just begun its journey. After Ahmedabad’s grand start, the series plans to visit Gurugram, Pratapgarh, Mumbai, Lucknow, and beyond. Each city will get its moment to shine, as the series explores their unique challenges, celebrates their strengths, and sparks dialogues on their growth trajectories.

    Ahmedabad’s story is more than just a case study; it’s a blueprint for what’s possible when communities embrace innovation and collaboration. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to create cities that balance heritage with modernity, Rising Ahmedabad has the answers. Plus, who doesn’t love a good underdog story? From bustling streets to green city dreams, Ahmedabad is proving that the future of urban India is brighter than ever.

    Missed the event? Don’t worry—you can still be part of the dialogue! Share your thoughts and vision for India’s cities with #RisingAhmedabad and #UrbanInnovation.

    What’s your city doing to catch up? 

  • Zee TV’s Mini-Series: Binge-worthy stories in just a week!

    Zee TV’s Mini-Series: Binge-worthy stories in just a week!

    MUMBAI: Let’s be honest: who has the time for endless episodes anymore?

    Zee TV gets it and has launched the game-changing ‘Zee Mini Series’, a first in the Hindi general entertainment space. These seven episode gems pack the punch of long-format storytelling into a week, making them the perfect dose of entertainment for modern, time-crunched viewers.

    The mini-series blend the heart of traditional television with the snappy pace of today’s content trends. Think you can’t fall in love with characters in seven episodes? Zee TV begs to differ!

    Why did Zee TV bet big on snackable stories?

    “As audience preferences evolve, so must our storytelling,” said Zee TV chief channel officer, Mangesh Kulkarni. “This mini-series format is part of our endeavor to address the increasing demand for engaging yet snackable content that spans across diverse genres, bringing stories to Indian television touching upon a spectrum of subjects not explored on Hindi general entertainment channels so far. Each of these mini-series offers a unique mix of relevance, relatability, and excitement with a promise of finite story telling.”

    Meanwhile, Zee chief marketing officer Kartik Mahadev added, “The weekly finite-series format is a category-first in the Hindi GEC space, offering audiences a refreshing way to enjoy entertaining stories. The curated series enable us to delve into diverse worlds and explore unconventional themes, delivering the satisfaction of a finite yet fulfilling storytelling experience. While television continues to witness robust viewer engagement and increased time spent per viewers, this innovative short-story format aligns with evolving audience preferences and the growing demand for bite-sized content, reaffirming Zee’s position as a pioneer in building content repertoire that push boundaries within the entertainment landscape.”

    Ready to dive into some thrilling, heartwarming, and laugh-out-loud tales? Here’s the stellar line-up:

    . Paithani: A celebration of the rich heritage of the Paithani saree, intertwined with a touching mother-daughter story.

    . Virtomates: A poignant exploration of friendship and resilience among women facing fertility challenges.

    . Beintehan Chahtein: A gripping family drama about materialism and redemption.

    . Divorce Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega: An undercover rom-com that’s equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.

    . Pyaar Testing: Modern love takes the spotlight as a couple tests their compatibility in a live-in relationship.

    . Khoj: A psychological thriller that dives deep into identity and betrayal.

    . Maeri: A mother’s emotionally charged battle for justice against systemic oppression.

    Here’s why these mini-series are worth your precious screen time:

    1. Compact storytelling: Forget endless cliffhangers—these narratives wrap up in just seven episodes, giving you closure faster than your last binge-watch.

    2. Relatable themes: From age-old traditions to modern dilemmas, the stories mirror your life in ways that are both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

    3. Diverse genres: Drama, comedy, romance, thrillers—you name it, they’ve got it.

    Will snackable stories redefine TV?

    Zee TV’s Zee Mini Series are set to premiere with the goal of creating appointment viewing, encouraging audiences to tune in daily and savour a complete story in just a week. The narratives, developed with some of the industry’s most creative minds, promise to push the boundaries of what Hindi general entertainment can offer.

    What’s your pick? Are you a drama addict? A mystery junkie? Or maybe a rom-com enthusiast? With its diverse genres and relatable stories, Zee Mini Series has something for everyone. Which one will you dive into first?

  • Jiostar gives Vipul Nagar programming responsibility for Star Bharat as well

    Jiostar gives Vipul Nagar programming responsibility for Star Bharat as well

    MUMBAI:  JioStar network has expanded  Gujarati language business head  Vipul Nagar’s role to include Star Bharat programming, starting earlier this month. Earlier in November 2024, Vipul had transitioned from Viacom18 Media  where he was heading content for Colors Rishtey to Jiostar where he was given the responsibility of the Gujarati language business.

    Prior to Viacom18 Media, Vipul spent nearly 15 years at Radio Mirchi which he finally quit as senior vice-president & national creative director (brand solutions) in September 2021.

    Nagar’s career highlights include working as AVP & cluster programming head, Gujarat at Mirchi, where he handled programming of four Gujarat stations. He also served as AVP & station director in the Varanasi area, India, and cluster programming head at Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi.

    In his current role, Nagar will oversee programming for Star Bharat and business development for the Colors Gujarat Cluster at JioStar Network. His appointment is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills, creative vision, and industry expertise.

    Nagar holds a post graduate diploma in digital marketing from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, Jaunpur.