Category: Kids

  • Sony Yay! serves up a sweet treat of toons and festive delights

    Sony Yay! serves up a sweet treat of toons and festive delights

    MUMBAI: Holi isn’t just about gulal and gujiyas, it’s about laughter, fun, and, of course, your favourite toons! Sony Yay! is bringing the ultimate festive mash-up, pairing its most iconic characters with classic Holi sweets for a celebration that’s as colourful as it is delicious.

    Shinchan – Gujiya

    Sweet, stuffed, and always full of surprises, gujiya is the perfect match for Shinchan’s cheeky antics! Just like you never know what’s inside this Holi treat until you take a bite, you never know what Shinchan is up to next. Watch out, leave a plate of gujiyas unattended, and Shinchan might just swipe a few when you’re not looking!

    Oggy and the Cockroaches – Thandai

    Oggy loves peace and quiet, but with the cockroaches stirring up trouble, life is always full of unexpected twists just like thandai! Cool and refreshing yet spiced with a hint of madness, this drink is the perfect Holi pick for Oggy’s never-ending chaos.

    Naruto Shippuden – Jalebi

    Energetic, unstoppable, and always ready for action, Naruto is the jalebi of the toon world! This crispy, swirly, sugar-loaded delight may seem simple, but its twists and turns are as unpredictable as Naruto’s ninja moves. Whether you’re chasing dreams or the last jalebi at the Holi party, channel your inner ninja and grab every sweet moment!

    So, which mithai matches your Holi vibe? Whether you’re a playful gujiya, a fiery jalebi, or a cool thandai, Sony Yay! is serving up the ultimate festive fun. Tune in, join the Holi masti, and celebrate with Shinchan, Naruto Shippuden, and Oggy & The Cockroaches. Happy Holi! 
     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

     

  • Karnataka sets sights on creative technology leadership following GAFX 2025

    Karnataka sets sights on creative technology leadership following GAFX 2025

    BENGALURU:  The Karnataka government has unveiled ambitious plans to position the state as a global creative technology hub, announcing upcoming Esports Summit and Game Developers Conference events following the conclusion of the highly successful Bengaluru GAFX 2025.

    The three-day conference, held at The Lalit Ashok and organised by the Department of Electronics, IT & Biotechnology and the Association of Bangalore Animation Industry (ABAI), attracted over 5,000 daily visitors and featured 100+ sessions with 200 speakers from ten countries.

    “Karnataka is not just the IT, biotech, and skill capital of India—we are on our way to becoming the global creative capital,” declared information technology minister Priyank Kharge at the valedictory function. “With the right policies, incentives, and vision, we will transform India into a hub for creative technology.”

    The minister outlined plans for significant investment in incubators, Centres of Excellence, and original intellectual property creation, inspired by the success of global entertainment giants like Disney and Marvel. 

    Karnataka’s AVGC-XR Finishing School has already trained over 842 students, while the state hosts 27 Digital Art Centres and represents 20 per cent of India’s Media & Entertainment market.

    Several major announcements marked the event, including the animated debut of beloved comic character Suppandi, unveiled by actor Rana Daggubati. The character will stream on PowerKids TV, with Tinkle’s young female superhero WingStar also set for animation. The prestigious Uncle Pai Promising New Creator Award was launched, with Mahati Santhanakrishnan named inaugural recipient for her comic Hunting Monsters.
     

    Mike, Ashish, Biren and CC

    A significant partnership between Green Gold Animation (India) and TG Entertainment (UK) was announced to expand The Brilliant World of Tom Gates franchise across South Asia, focusing on licensing, merchandising, and animation production.

    The conference proved particularly fruitful for business development, with the B2B Forum facilitating 395 letters of intent between companies. Fifteen top buyers engaged with 39 participating companies, with 40 intellectual properties showcased. The Investor Connect Program saw 29 investors from 22 companies meeting with 34 startups, offering crucial funding and mentorship opportunities.

    The Skyesports Souvenir 2025 National Esports Championship featured four elite teams competing for a Rs 5 lakh prize pool, with Gods Reign crowned champions and Aakash “PH1NNN” Bose earning MVP honours. The competition showcased Counterstrike 2, confirmed as a title in the upcoming Olympic Esports Games 2026.

    The AnimationXpress GEM Awards recognised industry excellence across gaming, esports, and metaverse categories. Notable winners included Bloom – A Puzzle Adventure (Best Casual Game), Indus Battle Royale (Best Mobile Game), and 1971: Indian Naval Front (Best Hardcore Game). SuperGaming claimed Game Studio of the Year, with Lucid Labs named Best Indie Studio.
     

    Mishaal Wanvari, Neha Singhal Mehta and Team Soul

    Several strategic agreements were formalised, including an MoU between Uzbekistan and ABAI that will see delegations exchanged between the countries. The ABAI AVGC Centre of Excellence and Media & Entertainment Skills Council also partnered to advance skilling, incubation, and policy development.

    A Digital Detox Center by the All India Gaming Federation was launched, while a special session on Bringing Moana 2 to Life offered behind-the-scenes insights into Disney’s advanced animation technologies, including Tonic for hair grooming and enhanced crowd simulation.

    “There are tangible outcomes that will be an accelerator for India’s creative technology industries,” said Bengaluru GAFX  chairman and ABAI president Biren Ghose. “GAFX 2025 has succeeded in highlighting the disruption that will enable studios, startups, and talent to make a lasting impact on the global stage.”

  • Yes, it’s for real: Technicolor suspends creative operations

    Yes, it’s for real: Technicolor suspends creative operations

    Technicolor’s four creative units – Mikros, The Mill, MPC, and Technicolor Games – have suspended operations, with over 2,000 Indian employees asked not to report to work until further notice.

    Despite last-minute talks with potential partners, rescue efforts failed, as signaled by WARN notices in the US. The sudden closure of these once-exemplary VFX and animation studios has been attributed to alleged financial mismanagement, excessive spending, and negative cash flows.

    Many a panic stricken VFX artist has been reaching out to the indiantelevision.com group seeking succour to get them jobs. 

    Updated on 24 February at 2:47 pm:

    Media reports state that in the United Kingdom, Technicolor Creative Studios UK Limited will be filing for administration, today 24 February.  According to procedures, when a company goes into administration in the UK an external liquidator comes aboard to manage the company, repay creditors, and determine its future. 

     

    Updated on 24 February at 3:28 pm:

    Altogether 10,000 or so employees the world over working under the Technicolor group have been impacted by the decision to shutter operations. 

     

    Updated on 24 February 2025 at 5:37 pm.

    An earlier letter sent out to company executives by CEO Caroline Parot had the following to say: “Today (21 February 2025), the company must face reality. Due to inability to find new investors for the full group, despite extensive efforts, Technicolor group has filed for Court “recovery procedure” before the French Court of Justice to give a chance to enable to find solutions.
    In each country, the appropriate framework for orderly protection and way forward is currently being put in place to allow, when possible, to remain in business continuity.
    This decision was not taken lightly; every possible path to preserve our legacy and secure the future of our teams will be thoroughly explored to offer a chance to each of its activity to be pursued with new investors.”
     

    Updated on 25 February at 1:49 pm

    On 24 February a bunch of Indian employees visited their office only to find no one. And they were told that there was no clarity on the way forward. All employees need to stay at home until informed otherwise, is what they were told.  Net outcome: Many have started looking for jobs elsewhere. Readers of this can post their CVs and work samples on AnimationXpress.com’s  Screenhub when they click on this link. 

    https://screenhub.in/register/ 

    We intend to push your CV to studios which have not been impacted by the troubling tale of Technicolor. 

  • Celebrate Republic Day with Sony YAY!’s toon parade of fun and laughter

    Celebrate Republic Day with Sony YAY!’s toon parade of fun and laughter

    MUMBAI: Who said parades were just for marching bands and floats? This Republic Day, Sony YAY! is rolling out a toon-tastic extravaganza that promises to unite generations in laughter and nostalgia. From the hilarious antics of Shin chan to the never-give-up spirit of Naruto, the channel is all set to bring fans a parade of animated legends that will make you laugh, cheer, and relive the magic of growing up.

    The toon parade lineup

    Shin chan

    First in line is the irrepressible Shin chan, with his cheeky moves and endless pranks. Waving mischievously to the crowd while dodging his mom’s wrath, he reminds us to embrace our inner goofball and find joy in the little things. Shin chan’s antics are sure to leave everyone in splits!

    Oggy

    Armed with his trusty frying pan, Oggy chases the notorious cockroaches down the parade path. His slapstick humour and never-quit attitude bring chaos and hilarity, proving that even in the midst of a mess, you can always laugh your way through life’s curveballs.

    Naruto

    Bursting into the parade with his signature ninja run and unstoppable determination, Naruto brings energy and inspiration to the festivities. His journey of grit and self-belief, from aspiring Hokage to saving the world, shows fans everywhere the power of perseverance. Believe it!

    Honey Bunny

    Bringing up the rear in a whirlwind of colour and chaos, Honey and Bunny roll in on a gadget-filled float, turning every moment into a laugh riot. Their wacky stunts, comedic timing, and unmatched teamwork ensure this parade ends on the perfect high note.

    Sony YAY!’s Republic Day celebration goes beyond nostalgia—it’s a tribute to the animated icons who shaped our childhoods and continue to spark joy today. With a lineup like this, the day promises to be bursting with laughter, fun, and heartwarming moments.

    Tune into Sony YAY! this Republic Day, and march alongside your favourite toons in this one-of-a-kind parade. Relive the magic, share the joy, and celebrate the characters that make growing up unforgettable.

    Don’t just watch the parade—be a part of it!

  • Kites, chaos, and comedy: Toons add hilarious twists to Makar Sankranti

    Kites, chaos, and comedy: Toons add hilarious twists to Makar Sankranti

    MUMBAI: This Makar Sankranti, Sony YAY! turns the skies into a canvas of laughter and cheer as it brings a YAY moment to kids across India!

    With the fan-favourite toons Shin chan, Oggy, Naruto, and Honey Bunny joining the kite-flying frenzy, the harvest festival gets a quirky animated twist.

    Imagine rooftop battles bursting with til laddoos, laughter, and unstoppable mischief as these beloved characters take kite-flying to hilarious new heights. Under the winter sun, it’s a celebration like never before—a perfect blend of tradition and toe-tapping fun, crafted specially for young hearts!

    In this unique twist, the characters bring their personalities to the forefront, transforming kite-flying into a hilarious adventure:

    . Shin chan: The Chaos King

    True to form, Shin chan thrives on creating mayhem rather than winning. He teases competitors, dances around to distract them, and throws in his trademark quips. Amid the chaos, his iconic line, “Don’t praise me so much,” draws the crowd’s laughter.

    . Oggy: The Unlucky Underdog

     Oggy simply wants a peaceful kite-flying day, but the cockroaches steal his kite and sabotage his efforts with fireworks. As sparks fly, Oggy’s frantic chase ends in hilarity when he cuts his own kite’s string.

    . Naruto: The Ninja Strategist

    Naruto brings his shinobi skills to the battle, controlling multiple ninja-themed kites with precision. Using his tactics to stay ahead, he confuses opponents while winning hearts as the crowd favourite.

    . Honey Bunny: The Dynamic Duo

     The mischievous duo enters with a giant carrot-shaped kite. Bunny handles the string while Honey takes to the skies, snipping rivals’ kites mid-air. Their antics leave everyone laughing and cheering, proving they aim to win with flair.

    This Makar Sankranti, Sony YAY! invites viewers to tune in and join the laughter-filled chaos as these beloved characters transform the festival into a spectacle of humour and competition. Whether it’s Shin chan’s pranks, Oggy’s misfortunes, Naruto’s ninja tactics, or Honey and Bunny’s outrageous stunts, every moment promises to entertain.

    Don’t miss out

    . Where to watch: Sony YAY!

    . When: This Makar Sankranti, 14 January 2025.

     

  • Kickstart 2025 with a bang! Warner Bros. brings a whirlwind of fun for kids

    Kickstart 2025 with a bang! Warner Bros. brings a whirlwind of fun for kids

    MUMBAI: The countdown is over, and 2025 has arrived!

    While the grown-ups toasted their way into the new year, it’s time for kids to celebrate in their style—fun, laughter, and edge-of-your-seat adventures.

    And guess what? Warner Bros. Discovery’s kids’ channels—Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids—are here to turn January into a rollercoaster of excitement!

    Kids be ready (Adults too! we don’t judge) for a month packed with action, humour, and stories that will make your imagination soar. Because 2025 isn’t just about starting a new year—it’s about starting it your way, with the coolest lineup of shows that make every day an adventure.

    So, grab the popcorn, turn up the volume, and let Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids set the stage for your best year yet!

    This January, it’s all about kids. It’s all about fun.

    Cartoon Network starts the year with the return of Lamput on 11-12 January at 10 am, featuring new episodes of the mischievous, shape-shifting troublemaker outwitting the persistent scientists.

    1    Bandbudh aur Budbak introduces fresh episodes every Monday to Friday at 7 pm, following the hilarious antics of Badrinath and Budhdeb.

    2    The thrilling Bionic Max premieres on 13 January, with daily episodes at 9:30 am, spotlighting Max, the bionic guinea pig, and Jean-Claude, his loyal fish friend, navigating urban challenges.

    3    Fans of high-seas adventures can join Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates in One Piece East Blue, airing every Sunday at 1 pm, as they chase the legendary One Piece treasure.

    Pogo takes viewers on mythical journeys, starting with the Chhota Bheem Big Picture: Mahashaitan – The Rise of Dark World trilogy. The three-part special airs every Sunday from 5-19 January, bringing action-packed episodes as Bheem battles to stop Mahashaitan’s dark forces.

    On 26 January, Little Singham: amrit ke Rakhwale premieres, featuring Little Singham and his team fighting to protect the sacred amrit of Garuda. Packed with suspense, the story follows Little Singham teaming up with Gari, an injured eagle warrior, to save the day.

    Discovery Kids kicks off the year with the Zamana Titoo Ka movie premiering on 26 January at 12:30 pm. Titoo, the brave protagonist, embarks on an electrifying journey to stop the sinister Tornado from turning humanity into machines.

    1    Fans can also enjoy daily episodes of Titoo at 12:30 pm and 8:30 pm, featuring more exciting adventures with Titoo and his futuristic robot companion.

    January promises an unmatched entertainment experience for kids as Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids deliver a mix of humour, action, and heartwarming moments. Whether it’s Lamput’s escapades, Chhota Bheem’s battles, or Titoo’s adventures, young viewers are in for an epic treat.

  • Sony Yay! to air Shin chan movies on Saturdays’ lunch time

    Sony Yay! to air Shin chan movies on Saturdays’ lunch time

    MUMBAI: Chaos and laughter are guaranteed when Shin chan is in the picture! 

    The most unpredictable five-year-old is all set to hijack fans’ Saturdays with his signature mischief and unforgettable antics. Starting 14 December, Sony Yay! is set to unveil a month-long movie block at 1 pm featuring four hilarious Shin chan adventures, promising endless entertainment for the whole family.

    The first of these, according to company release is The Singing Bomb, where Shin chan’s off-key melodies will leave  audiences in stitches. On 21 December, it’s time to groove with DanceAmigo, featuring Shin chan’s wild moves and unmissable charm. On 28 December, Buri Buri 3 Minutes Charge brings a whirlwind of hilarity as Shin chan’s quick thinking saves the day. Bringing up the rear  is The Adventures of Kasukabe Boys on 4 January, a comical journey with Shin chan and his gang.

    Whether inventing goofy excuses to skip a bath or creating chaos wherever he goes, Shin chan’s antics never fail to entertain. With his quirky parents, adorable baby sister Himawari, and ever-loyal dog Shiro, this movie block is a recipe for pure, unfiltered fun.

  • Warner Bros Discovery celebrates World Animation Day

    Warner Bros Discovery celebrates World Animation Day

    Mumbai: This World Animation Day, Warner Bros Discovery’s kids’ entertainment channels—Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids—are highlighting India’s animation industry and the popularity of homegrown animated series, including ‘Chhota Bheem,’ ‘Bandbudh Aur Budbak,’ ‘Little Singham,’ and ‘Fukrey Boyzz.’

    During his 115th Mann Ki Baat address, prime minister Narendra Modi spotlighted Pogo’s ‘Chhota Bheem,’ created by Green Gold Animation. The prime minister stated, “You would remember those days when ‘Chhota Bheem’ began to air on TV. Children can never forget it; there was so much excitement about ‘Chhota Bheem.’ You will be amazed to know that today ‘Dholakpur’s drum’ is not only limited to India but also attracts children from other countries.”

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Pogo TV (@pogotvin)

    In response to the Prime Minister’s message, Warner Bros. Discovery supports India’s animation industry with investments in new homegrown shows and collaborations with Indian animation artists and studios such as Green Gold Animation, Reliance Animation, Ele Animations, and Toonz Media. A testament to Warner Bros Discovery and Pogo’s fan-first strategy is the popularity of its recent animated series, ‘Jay Jagannath.’

  • Warner Bros Discovery unveils its festive kids show lineup

    Warner Bros Discovery unveils its festive kids show lineup

    Mumbai: Warner Bros Discovery’s kids’ channels – Cartoon Network, POGO, and Discovery Kids – are ready to enhance your celebrations with a lineup of festive fun. Expect new episodes, movie specials, and adventures featuring favorite characters like Little Singham, Chhota Bheem, Jay Jagannath, and the return of Bandbudh Aur Budbak with all-new episodes. Don’t miss the mischievous Titoo, whose pranks will fill your screens with laughter.

    This Diwali, Cartoon Network will air brand new episodes of ‘Bandbudh Aur Budbak’ starting 28 October, airing Monday to Friday at 7 pm, with repeats at 11 am. Join Budhdeb and Badrinath as they bring school-time chaos.

    POGO invites viewers to a week-long event from 28 October to 3 November at 9:30 am, featuring episodes of ‘Jay Jagannath,’ which follows Lord Jagannath, reincarnated as a child named Jagan. Fans can also catch part two of ‘Do Ka Dum,’ where Little Singham’s friendship with Chhota Bheem is tested by the villain Ahankaar. Additionally, the ‘Little Singham 2D Tele Feature: Samudra Kaal se Sangaram’ sees Little Singham confront the evil Samudra Kaal, while part three of ‘Chhota Bheem Andhakarmay Ka Chakravyuh’ takes viewers on a magical journey linked to a dark prophecy. Rounding out the lineup is ‘Little Singham Big Picture: Teen Kaal ka Dhamaal,’ a three-part special where Little Singham faces a mysterious figure erasing his past victories.

    Discovery Kids invites young audiences to enjoy new episodes of Titoo airing Monday to Friday at 12:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Join Warner Bros. Discovery’s channels for thrilling and heartwarming programming that adds joy to your Diwali festivities.