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  • India wins bronze at Asian Women’s Club League Handball Championship

    India wins bronze at Asian Women’s Club League Handball Championship

    Mumbai: Golden Eagles Bharat Club secured third place at the seventh Asian Women’s Club League Handball Championship, defeating Uzbekistan’s Uzbechka HC in a penalty shootout at the Dostyk Universal Sports Complex in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

    Captain Menica Thakur’s penalty sealed a three-two shootout win after a 22-22 draw. Priyanka’s last-second equalizer forced the game into penalties, marking the second consecutive year an Indian club finished on the podium.

    “This victory means a lot to us and reflects how far Indian handball has come. The sport is growing, and we’re starting to see what’s possible with the right effort and support. I’m proud to be part of this team and excited for what the future holds for Indian handball,” said Menica, whose performances earned her a spot in the tournament’s all-star team.

    As the Golden Eagles Bharat Women’s Team competed in Almaty, 1700 kilometers away in Aligarh, the next batch of hand-picked handball talents was hard at work at the Golden Eagles Centre of Excellence – Handball. Pavna Industries has recognised India’s untapped handball potential and is supporting its development through the Pavna Sports Venture and the Golden Eagles Centre of Excellence.

    So far, academy players have partaken in International Handball Federation events and the Youth World Championships, showing clear evidence of the program’s progress.

    “The Golden Eagles’ victory is a testament to the incredible potential of handball in India, a sport we are deeply committed to developing from the grassroots to the international stage. Our focus on women’s development is central to this mission, as we aim to create a balanced and thriving sporting culture that inspires generations to come. With every success, we’re showcasing the potential of Indian athletes on the global stage and paving the way for future champions.” explained Pavna Industries executive director and Pavna Sports Venture chairperson Priya Jain.

    The Golden Eagles Centre of Excellence – Handball trains 40 selected athletes to become elite handball players while supporting their overall development. The enrollees learn tactics, refine their skills, and develop core values on the field while continuing their education at the adjacent DPS School.

    Priyanka said: “It is an amazing place. The facilities here are top-notch, and we get everything we need to improve our game. The competition here is really tough, and that pushes us to get better every day. But it’s not just about handball—they make sure we’re taken care of in every way, from our training to our education. We’re taught to work hard on the court and in school, and that really helps us grow as players and as people.”

    The goal is to create a talent pipeline that begins at the Golden Eagles Centre of Excellence – Handball in Aligarh, progresses through domestic leagues, advances to international competitions, and ultimately produces Olympic-level athletes. With a strong focus on grassroots development, the Pavna-led handball initiative continues to grow quietly, with no limits on its potential.

  • Anil Jayaraj joins Jio Home Digital Services as president

    Anil Jayaraj joins Jio Home Digital Services as president

    Mumbai: Jio has appointed Anil Jayaraj as the president of its Jio Home Digital Services division. Jayaraj previously served as CEO of Viacom18 Sports and brings with him a wealth of experience, spanning over 30 years in marketing, sales, and business development.

    His career trajectory includes significant stints at industry-leading organisations like Star Sports, Castrol, Pidilite, and BP, where he honed his advertising sales and revenue generation skills.

    Jayaraj will report to managing director Pankaj Pawar and is expected to drive the growth of Jio Home Digital Services, a key segment in Reliance Jio’s overall business strategy. His expertise in the sports and entertainment domains, particularly his success in driving revenue for major sporting events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) during his time at Star Sports, will likely be invaluable as Jio continues to strengthen its presence in digital services and home entertainment.

  • Hockey India announces Power Finance Corp (PFC) as title sponsor

    Hockey India announces Power Finance Corp (PFC) as title sponsor

    Mumbai: Hockey India on Wednesday announced Power Finance Corp (PFC), a state-owned company that provides financial assistance to India’s power sector, as the Title Sponsor for the upcoming PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024, scheduled to take place on 23 and 24 October 2024 at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.

    This series marks the return of men’s international hockey to the national capital after a decade, made possible due to PFC’s generous support and commitment. The last international match played at the venue was the Hero Hockey World League Final – Men’s Round 4, back in January 2014.

    Under the administrative control of the ministry of power, PFC plays a crucial role in driving growth in the energy sector. Through strategic partnerships and investments, PFC is dedicated to contributing to India’s development through various avenues, with its association with Hockey India for PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024 being the most recent initiative.

    Additionally, entry to the PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024 will be free for spectators, as part of Hockey India’s effort to make it accessible to all. A free digital ticketing system will be introduced to allow fans to secure their tickets easily. Fans will simply need to visit the official ticketing link and register their details to receive a virtual ticket, which will guarantee them hassle-free access to the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

    Welcoming PFC onboard as the title sponsor, Hockey India president Dr Dilip Tirkey said, “We are delighted to welcome Power Finance Corporation (PFC) as the Title Sponsor for the highly anticipated PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024. This series, being played in New Delhi after a decade, is a significant milestone, not just for the city but for Hockey India as we promote the sport across the country. With the support of PFC, we look forward to creating a thrilling atmosphere at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.”

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “We are thrilled to have one of the leading state-owned companies, Power Finance Corporation (PFC), as the title sponsor for the PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024. Their support will strengthen Hockey India’s vision to grow hockey’s presence in India. With PFC, we look forward to providing a top-notch experience for all hockey fans.”

    Parminder Chopra, CMD, PFC, said, “We at PFC are delighted to be associated with Hockey India for the India vs. Germany Bilateral Hockey Series. This marks a significant milestone as international hockey returns to Delhi after a decade, and PFC is proud to play a vital role in this partnership with Hockey India. We believe that, just like our company, Hockey India is committed to contributing to India’s rise as a global player. We keenly look forward to the series, which will be an unforgettable experience for all fans.”

    India and Germany have a rich hockey history and share a fierce rivalry. In the 19 matches since 2013, India has won 8, while the reigning World Champions and Paris 2024 silver medalists have won 7. The two heavyweights in world hockey last faced each other at the Paris 2024 Olympics semi-final, where the current world champions emerged victorious, winning 3-2.

    The matches will be telecasted on DD Sports and streamed live on FanCode from 1500 hrs onwards on 23rd and 24th October 2024. Entry to the stadium for spectators will begin from 1300 hrs onwards.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Hockey India (@hockeyindia)

     

  • News18 Bangla to showcase over 5000 Durga pandals across West Bengal

    News18 Bangla to showcase over 5000 Durga pandals across West Bengal

    Mumbai: This year, News18 Bangla will showcase extensive Durga Puja coverage, featuring over 5000 Durga Pandals across Bengal, ensuring representation from every district, including remote areas.

    The channel will continue to highlight pandals in Kolkata’s housing societies, reflecting the community spirit and festive energy. Celebrations organised by Bengal’s royal families will also be featured. Additionally, the channel’s digital platform will live-stream rituals from a 300-year-old Durga Puja held by one of Kolkata’s royal households, offering viewers a close look at this historic tradition.

    The coverage includes live updates, special segments, and detailed reports on News18 Bangla and its digital platform, capturing the essence of Bengal’s Durga Puja, from idol immersion processions to cultural performances.

    Tune into News18 Bangla and its digital platforms from 9 October for exclusive coverage on Durga Puja 2024.
     

  • TV9 Bangla Sharadiya rolls out special program line-ups

    TV9 Bangla Sharadiya rolls out special program line-ups

    Mumbai: Consequent to the newly launched AI tech TV9 Bangla Pujor Gaan, the tagline of TV9 Bangla Sharadiya affirms ‘Shoke Drohe Utsab’. This year the news channel speaks of mourning, rebellion, and celebration which means celebrating victory over evils in society, showcasing empathy, and raising voices for protesting the horrific rape and murder of the young doctor of the RG Kar hospital in Kolkata that has shaken the globe.

    According to TV9 Bangla managing editor & business head Amritanshu Bhattacharya, “The mood in the state may be sombre, but that doesn’t seem to have dampened the festive spirit of Durga Puja. This vibrant festival is a celebration of good over evil, and its significance goes beyond its religious roots, embracing social and cultural aspects. Durga Puja is a time for family reunions, community gatherings, and public celebrations. So, keeping in tune with the present mood and emotion of people, puja festivities too will embrace the current mood and passion.”

    TV9 Bangla this year highlights a special programme under its puja banner, ‘TV9 Bangla Sharadiya’ taking the contemporary issues of the society.

    ‘Mayer Pujo Meyer Hatey’ is a special Durga Puja program showcasing selected pujas organized exclusively by women across the city. It will air on TV9 Bangla from 4 to 12 October at 3:30 pm.

    ‘TV9 Bangla Pujo Somman’ features the sera barowari and sera abason competition, recognizing 237 puja pandals throughout Bengal. This includes nine main categories: ‘sera theme’ (best theme), ‘sera protima’ (best idol), ‘sera poribesh’ (best environment), ‘sera mohila porichalito pujo’ (best women-organized puja), ‘sera barowari’ (best puja committee), ‘sera alonkar’ (best ornaments), ‘sera suraksha’ (best safety), ‘manusher pashe’ (beside common people), and ‘jelar sera puja’ (district pujas). This series will air from 10 to 12 October at 1 pm on TV9 Bangla.

    Additionally, TV9 Bangla’s ‘manusher pashe’ initiative supports underprivileged children through partnerships with NGOs to provide essential items. “For TV9 Bangla, puja means another occasion to stand beside and touch upon the lives of the people of Bengal in every possible spirit. The cross-section of people includes the privileged and underprivileged. To touch upon the lives of people TV9 Bangla has tied up with an NGO to put an additional colour and joy. To bring all and one in the warmth of the festive spirit, TV9 Bangla is plying from urban to rural corners of Bengal with the NGO. At the same time, TV9 Bangla remains committed to the present mood of people,” Bhattacharya added.

    The sponsors of TV9 Bangla include several partners, co-powered by Tata Ace, with Sriniketan as the wardrobe partner, special partners Sobisco Biscuits & Cakes, Cycle Pure Agarbathi, and Sunrise Pure, and Anjali Jewellers serving as the jewellery partner.

  • Warner Bros Discovery unveils fresh content slate for South Asia

    Warner Bros Discovery unveils fresh content slate for South Asia

    Mumbai: Warner Bros Discovery has revealed its content slate for India, expanding programming on discovery+ and its linear channels, including Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and TLC. By year-end, it aims to deliver over 3,000 hours of fresh content, with a focus on Indian originals and global titles. DTamil will also feature top global content like Hollywood films and series dubbed in Tamil.

    A Warner Bros Discovery study, conducted by Ormax Media, identified key trends in non-fiction, including national pride, cultural preservation, and vicarious experiences, with strong interest in sub-genres like history, survival, wildlife, and food. Credibility emerged as a crucial factor due to declining trust in digital media, presenting television as a reliable alternative.

    Key releases include Secrets of the Buddha Relics on discovery+ and Discovery Channel, hosted by Manoj Bajpayee and created by Neeraj Pandey. Another show, Reality Ranis of the Jungle, premiered on 23 September, hosted by Varun Sood, and features 12 reality stars in an off-grid jungle adventure.

    Upcoming shows include Mystery Hunter with Rannvijay Singha, Star vs Food Survival season two with Kartik Aaryan, Shikhar Dhawan, and others, and the sequel Legends of Shiva, set for early 2025. Cult will also return with its second season following My Daughter Joined A Cult.

    Expressing his excitement, Warner Bros Discovery, South Asia, head of factual & lifestyle cluster – Sai Abishek remarked, “As the category leaders in the non-fiction content genre, our focus on enhancing viewer engagement and expanding our content offering is paramount. The newly announced India originals and our strategic programming across both linear and streaming platforms are a testament to our commitment to creating cross-platform experiences. The recent revamp of DTamil underscores our focus on bringing the best of global content in regional languages to Tamil audiences. We will continue to bolster our content library and deliver strong and compelling stories that reflect the interests of the Indian viewer and create value across India and South Asia.”

    Warner Bros Discovery is rolling out a new content strategy with curated offerings for the festive season across its platforms. discovery+ will feature Chris Brown: A History of Violence (31 Oct) and Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking (Dec ’25), as well as BBC shows like Dynasties S2 (18 Nov) and Frozen Planet II (Jan ’25, TBC).

    Discovery Channel will introduce five new series, including Bear Grylls’ Jesus: Refugee and Expedition Unknown S9 with Josh Gates, plus new seasons of Naked & Afraid. Local originals like Star vs. Food Survival will also be featured.

    Animal Planet will offer 100-plus hours of new programming, including Deadly Strike, Snake Dynasty, and the year-end special 50 Days: 50 Tales. TLC will air over 100 hours of fresh content, including Halloween, Diwali, and Christmas specials, along with 100 Day Dream Home and Forbidden Love.

    Discovery Science will focus on medical science with shows like Dr Pimple Popper and Dinosaur with Stephen Fry. Discovery Turbo will release two new shows monthly, including Custom Carolina and Roadkill Garage. Investigation Discovery will spotlight relationship crimes with Mother, May I Murder? and Married to Evil.

    This content strategy aims to expand viewership, offering global content in India and original stories that reflect historical and cultural narratives.

  • Sony Pictures Networks celebrates 29th anniversary

    Sony Pictures Networks celebrates 29th anniversary

    MUMBAI: It’s celebration time at Sony Pictures Networks. The company is celebrating its twenty-ninth anniversary. The leading entertainment and sports network which turned up a healthy profit in the year ended March 2024 is pulling out all the stops to make it a memorable occasion for its employees.

    The company has come out with a hip hop song featuring its executives and creative talent (marching in its offices in north Mumbai’s Malad suburb) to celebrate the occasion titled “29 Years of going beyond the ordinary. Tell stories beyond the ordinary.”

    “We’re Sony. We steal the show. Sony, Where Legends Grow. We are Sony. We Go beyond. Extraordinary stories. We are always on,” go the lyrics.

    The video has been posted on its linkedin page with the message “From Script to Screen, 29 Years Strong! 
    Happy Anniversary to #SonyPicturesNetworksIndia! Cheers to sparking imaginations, setting trends, and bringing thrills to screens everywhere!” 

    It should prove extremely motivational at a time when leading broadcast networks have been issuing pink slips to their executives to cut costs courtesy the tough advertising climate. 

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/sony-pictures-networks-india/posts/

    In fact, for the first time, Sony has also given us a look see at its new managing director & CEO former Disney and Star executive Gaurav Banerjee stating “that the energy in the network is palpable ever since has joined, in another post.”

    It continues; “His interactive floor walks and insightful coffee chats are already igniting a wave of creativity and innovation across SPN. …. we’re thrilled to be on this journey together as we gear up to tell stories beyond the ordinary and shape an exciting future ahead!” 
     

  • Sun TV appoints three new independent directors

    Sun TV appoints three new independent directors

    MUMBAI: Leading south Indian TV network Sun TV  has made changes to its board of directors following the completion of terms by three previous members. As per an official release posted on the Bombay stock exchange, the company has announced the appointment of Mandalapu Harinarayanan Harshavardhan, Ravivenkatesh Pragadish Karthik, and Jagadeesan Gayathri as additional non-executive independent directors, effective 7 October 2024.

    Their engagements  are set for five-year terms, pending shareholder approval. Harshavardhan, a media entrepreneur, will contribute with his diverse background in the construction and hospitality sectors. Meanwhile, Karthik, with experience in mechanical engineering and stints at leading US companies like Tesla,  brings a technical edge to the board. Finally, Gayathri, an advocate by profession, completes the trio with her legal expertise.

    This restructuring also includes a reconstitution of several key committees, with these new directors playing pivotal roles across audit, remuneration, and stakeholder relations. 

    The new appointments are expected to enhance the company’s strategic vision as it builds on its continued financial success.
     

  • OML Entertainment announces Preranaa Khatri as chief business officer

    OML Entertainment announces Preranaa Khatri as chief business officer

    Mumbai: OML Entertainment, a full-service creative and entertainment business network has appointed Preranaa Khatri as chief business officer (CBO). With nearly two decades of experience in content strategy, creator management, and revenue optimisation, Preranaa is well-suited to drive OML’s continued growth. She previously worked at OML in 2016, leading initiatives that boosted the company’s market presence and revenue.

    In her new role, Preranaa will report to CEO Tusharr Kumar and focus on expanding OML’s advertising, branded content, and long-form production businesses, while growing its influencer marketing platform, Hypothesis, and strengthening its talent roster. This marks a key chapter in OML’s future-ready transformation.

    “I’m looking forward to driving growth at OML with Preranaa. Her extensive experience, strategic insight, and proven leadership skills will be invaluable as we expand our footprint in the media & entertainment industry. She’s one of the most empathetic leaders I’ve had the opportunity to work with, and I can’t think of anyone better to build our teams with,” said OML Entertainment CEO Tusharr Kumar.

    OML’s new CBO Preranaa Khatri expressed her excitement, saying, “I am thrilled to be back at OML, a company that has always been close to my heart. I look forward to working with the talented team here to explore new opportunities and drive growth in the content and creator space. Together, we will continue to create impactful and engaging experiences for all our stakeholders.”

    Preranaa’s passion and experience in media and entertainment make her a formidable addition to OML’s leadership team. Most recently, she was an independent consultant focusing on strategic partnerships, revenue growth and GTM strategies for brands and agencies. Of note has been her work for a Global Olympic Sponsor’s Athlete Partnership Program in the lead-up to the recently concluded Paris 2024 Summer Olympics and 2024 Summer Paralympics.

  • DD Sports, Fancode to broadcast two-match bilateral series between India and Germany

    DD Sports, Fancode to broadcast two-match bilateral series between India and Germany

    Mumbai: DD Sports, the key public sports broadcaster in the country, along with FanCode will broadcast the highly anticipated two-match bilateral hockey series between the Indian Men’s Hockey Team and the Germany Men’s Hockey Team, scheduled to take place on 23 and 24 October 2024 at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.

    FanCode and DD Sports’ combined reach will mean that hockey action will be accessible to fans in every corner of the country, with interest around the game at an all-time high after India’s successful Olympic campaign where the men’s team finished with a bronze medal. Germany ended their campaign with a silver medal.

    Hockey India president Dr Dilip Tirkey enthusiastically said, “We have had a fruitful partnership with FanCode through the Hockey India National Championships. They have played a vital role in making hockey more accessible to sports fans nationwide. With India vs. Germany Test Series set to be streamed on their platform alongside telecast on DD Sports, one of the largest sports channels in India, this partnership will provide a significant boost to our mission of reaching a wider audience.”

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “We are thrilled to associate with FanCode and DD Sports for the two-match bilateral series. We are confident that this will enhance the viewing experience for passionate hockey fans in India and contribute significantly to our larger vision of making the sport accessible and visible across India.”

    FanCode co-founder Yannick Colaco said, “We are proud to extend our partnership with Hockey India with the bilateral series between India and Germany. The series showcases the best of international hockey, and we’re excited to bring the action to hockey enthusiasts in India.”

    As part of Hockey India’s vision to promote the sport across the country, this series marks the return of men’s international hockey to the national capital after a decade, with the last match played in January 2014 during the Hero Hockey World League Final – Men’s Round 4.

    Having successfully hosted the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, and the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier in Ranchi, Hockey India has expanded its efforts beyond Odisha to grow hockey’s presence in India. The organization is also gearing up to host the upcoming Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in Rajgir, Bihar, in November 2024.