ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Shemaroo Entertainment launches ‘Jab We Met’ avatar digital collection

    Shemaroo Entertainment launches ‘Jab We Met’ avatar digital collection

    Mumbai: Shemaroo Entertainment has announced their partnership with Sandbox-BharatBox, to launch their first digital collectible of the character ‘Geet’ from the movie ‘Jab We Met’. The initiative will host renowned IPs, and multiple digital collectibles based on Shemaroo Entertainment’s movies and characters including immersive games on The Sandbox-BharatBox metaverse platform.

    This innovative offering of ’Geet’s‘ digital collectible, will bring the beloved Bollywood film ‘Jab We Met’ to life in a digital realm. Fans will now have the opportunity to interact with iconic characters through a range of digital collectibles and engaging games, along with the chance to win exclusive merchandise.

    As part of this initiative, Shemaroo Entertainment and BharatBox are launching an extensive campaign to educate fans about the metaverse and the numerous opportunities it offers. This campaign aims to open new revenue streams through digital collectibles and enhance fan engagement through interactive experiences, thereby building perpetual value for the IPs beyond just the movies.The ‘Jab We Met’ IP will feature an avatar collection of 3333 unique digital collectibles of ‘Geet,’ the iconic character portrayed by Kareena Kapoor in the movie. This collaboration will also showcase Shemaroo Entertainment’s extensive library of Bollywood content, including titles like 22 Yards, Great Gambler, and many more, creating a hub of multiple IPs moving forward. Fans on the metaverse platform will have the opportunity to perform activities, undertake quests, and earn rewards through gaming quests. Moreover, multiple social quests will allow users to participate and win exciting prizes. In addition to unique digital collectibles, fans will also be able to purchase exclusive merchandise related to characters from the movie.

    Jab We Met is one of the most popular films from Shemaroo Entertainment’s diverse IP library. Geet’s character from the movie has universal appeal and affinity, making this collection significant not just for Indian audiences but also for the global Indian diaspora.

    At the launch, Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd. COO Arghya Chakravarty said, “By embracing new technologies, we aim to be future ready, catering to evolving needs of the consumers. The launch of the ‘Jab We Met’ immersive game and digital collectibles represents a significant step in our strategy to leverage the metaverse and expand our digital footprint. The blend of traditional entertainment with cutting-edge digital experiences will provide fans with unique and interactive forms of entertainment.”

    “By creating these avatars, we are offering fans a novel way to interact with their favorite character,” said The Sandbox Co-founder and COO Sebastien Borget. He added, “The Jab We Met avatar collection not only honors a film that has touched many lives but also sets a precedent for how we can keep cinematic wonders relevant and alive for years to come.”

    “Jab We Met became more than a film; it became an emotion that stayed with us for years. Launching this avatar collection allows fans to own a piece of their beloved movie and engage with it in an innovative way,” said BharatBox CEO Karan Keswani. He added, “This launch is a significant step in merging the intent driven interactive engagement of blockchain and the timeless charm of Bollywood.”

    BharatBox and Shemaroo Entertainment will be enabling the creation of more games, IPs, and user experience on The Sandbox metaverse platform. BharatBox, part of the Sandbox ecosystem, will support the production of game design, gameplay, and creating immersive user experiences. This partnership will also enable Shemaroo Entertainment to engage with BharatBox and The Sandbox’s ecosystem of players and creators across 12+ countries.

  • Pro Kabaddi League on Star Sports ignites festive cheer for advertisers

    Pro Kabaddi League on Star Sports ignites festive cheer for advertisers

    Mumbai: With the festive season fast approaching, advertisers are busy finalizing media plans to acquire and retain customers. The upcoming eleventh season of the Pro Kabaddi League, launching mid-October, offers a prime platform for brands to strategically unveil new products, amplify festive promotions, enter new markets, and elevate their premium positioning. The last edition of Pro Kabaddi League reached a whopping 351 million viewers, achieving a 20 per cent growth from the preceding edition. A large part of this reach was driven by premium audiences with 65 per cent coming from NCCS AB households. What makes Pro Kabaddi League unique is the high-octane format and the collective viewing experience of the sport, commanding a watch-time of over 50 per cent – higher than most other sports on live broadcast.  

    Reasons that make Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 on Star Sports the biggest festive media plan for advertisers:

    1.    Reach the Young and Affluent at Scale: Through its 10 editions, Pro Kabaddi League has managed to capture the attention of the youth, reigniting passion for India’s homegrown sport. In the previous edition, 70 per cent of the league’s reach on TV came from viewers below 40 years of age. 65 per cent of TV viewership of Season 11 was from NCCS AB households while the league’s viewership in megacities witnessed a massive 57 per cent growth.

    2. Leader Across Genres during Festive: Year on year, Pro Kabaddi League has achieved leadership on television across genres, showcasing supremacy over leading impact shows. In HSM, PKL delivered a reach of 195 million, 1.75-2X of top programs including reality shows, quiz shows and talents. Similarly in South markets (TN, AP, Karnataka), PKL reached 155 million viewers, a massive 2-3X of other genres. During the festive season, active categories like FMCG, automobile and e-commerce can leverage this scale to garner incremental audiences for their brands.

    PKL

    3. Unlock Superior ROI: PKL on TV continues to deliver high return on investment for advertisers across categories with massive uplifts along the brand funnel during their association.

    i    A leading FMCG brand that associated with Pro Kabaddi League last season witnessed a 43 per cent increase in sales on a leading e-commerce platform during the season, followed by a 149 per cent increase in e-commerce enquiries and a 42 per cent increase in Google searches for the product advertised.

    ii    An adhesive brand that was a sponsor with the league last season witnessed a 14X return on investment through their association, with the TV association delivering a 36 per cent growth in search queries and a 56 per cent increase in website traffic. Key brand metrics witnessed massive uplifts with the brand’s consideration growing 192 per cent while purchase intent grew by a staggering 206 per cent.

    4. Truly Integrated Sponsorships: Pro Kabaddi League offers a differential opportunity for sponsors like no other sporting league in India, combining the might of on-air, on-ground, access to players across teams, and digital and social media to provide a high-impact integrated platform for brands. Sponsorships with Pro Kabaddi League continue to provide the highest return on investment for brands, with associate sponsorships delivering a media value of 14X the investment, as per a study by Intelensa.

    5. Immersive Brand Opportunities on Live Broadcast: The live broadcast of Pro Kabaddi League offers deep integration opportunities for advertisers. From ownership of high-impact moments during matches to Picture-In-Picture Ads that allow brands to seamlessly integrate their TVCs without going into commercial breaks and contextual augmented reality graphics as live game intervention – Star Sports delivers an immersive brand experience for viewers.

    Pro Kabaddi League is a celebration of India’s very own sport and the timing of the league merging with the festive season makes the 11th edition a powerful media solution for brands across categories looking to drive premiumization and achieve scale.

  • Vh1 announces two new shows ‘Vh1 Unleashed’ & ‘PopCurry Rice’

    Vh1 announces two new shows ‘Vh1 Unleashed’ & ‘PopCurry Rice’

    Mumbai: Vh1, Viacom18’s international music and English entertainment channel, has announced the launch of its newest original show, ‘Vh1 Unleashed’, premiering on Thursday, 22 August 2024, at 10:00 pm. This new addition joins ‘PopCurry Rice’, which premiered earlier this year along with the launch of its anime content segment ‘AniNation’ to its dynamic lineup. With these new additions, Vh1 is elevating its content offering providing even more diverse and engaging content, while opening fresh avenues for brands and sponsors.

    In collaboration with Alpha Zegus, ‘Vh1 Unleashed’ promises to revolutionise the gaming landscape on multi-platform. The show offers an immersive experience, delving into how gaming serves as a therapeutic outlet, enabling individuals to tackle personal challenges and find empowerment. The show’s core message, “Slay Your Demons” symbolises the power of gaming to help people confront and conquer personal struggles. With segments including gameplay walkthroughs, gear reviews, and in-depth interviews with top gamers like Harsh Khelraay, Jimmy Gaming, Game Strange, and Kushal Mahajan, Willy Gaming and Chirag Nangru. ‘Vh1 Unleashed’ not only caters to gaming enthusiasts but also opens doors for diverse brand collaborations and sponsorship opportunities.

    The first episode, airing on 22 August and will spotlight Toaster Roaster, followed by Psy Gaming, and Meow16k. Repeat telecasts will be available on Saturday and Tuesday at 10:00 pm.

    ‘PopCurry Rice,’ which premiered on 18 May 2024, continues to serve up the freshest in independent Indian pop music. This genre-fluid music block showcases both popular and emerging artists, including Armaan Malik, Kayan, Yashraj, Zephyrtone, Chirag Todi, and Perp. ‘PopCurry Rice’ is not just a music show; it represents Vh1’s foray into local pop culture, featuring indie artists and their unique sounds, and reinforcing the channel’s dedication to diverse and dynamic content. Alongside, Vh1 celebrates the vibrant world of Japanese anime with ‘Vh1 AniNation’, catering to its immense popularity in India and featuring compelling storylines, genres, and music that resonate with audiences.

    Viacom18 business head, youth, music, and English entertainment cluster Anshul Ailawadi said, “Vh1 is always at the forefront of innovative, audience-centric programming. With the launch of ‘Vh1 Unleashed’, and recent shows ‘Vh1 PopCurry Rice’ and ‘Vh1 AniNation’, we are bolstering our robust slate of original lifestyle content across multiplatform, tapping into the evolving micro- and macro-trends of our audience. This offers a dynamic playground for diverse brands and sponsors to reach a wide audience.”

    On the launch of Vh1 Unleashed, Alpha Zegus founder Rohit Agarwal said, “Collaborating with Vh1 on ‘Vh1 Unleashed’ is an exciting and transformative opportunity for us. Vh1, with its established reputation for innovation, is taking a bold leap into the gaming world, showcasing how gaming can inspire and connect people. This partnership not only reflects the growing influence of the gaming community but also allows us to bring our expertise to a platform that’s set to revolutionize how gaming is experienced and celebrated. We’re thrilled to work together and create something unique that will resonate deeply with gamers across the country, offering them an enriching and engaging experience.”

    With Vh1 ‘Unleashed’, ‘PopCurry Rice’, and ‘AniNation’, Vh1 is broadening its programming to cater to wider audience, from gaming enthusiasts and pop culture lovers to animation fans. This expansion paves the way for fresh brand partnerships and exciting new opportunities, solidifying Vh1’s position as a leader in delivering diverse and engaging content. As Vh1 continues to grow and innovate, it remains committed to providing exceptional entertainment while offering valuable opportunities for its partners.

    Explore the world of Indian independent pop music with PopCurry Rice, stunning animation via AniNation and the dynamic gaming ecosystem with Vh1 Unleashed, only on Vh1, JioCinema, and Kaanphod YouTube channel.

  • Indias path to Nation’s Future at Business Today’s India@100 Summit

    Indias path to Nation’s Future at Business Today’s India@100 Summit

    Mumbai: At the third edition of the Adani BT India@100 summit, held on August 20 at the Leaders’ Lounge, Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the discussions centered around strategies for India’s future as the country approaches the centenary of its Independence in 2047.

    Hosted by Business Today, the summit brought together over 300 delegates, including top government officials, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, for a series of 14 insightful sessions. The summit was supported by Title Partner Adani, New Energy Partner Becquer Solar, Associate Partners NABARD and SECI, and Skilling Partner Skill India.

    Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the Sixteenth Finance Commission, stated that India could become a $50 trillion economy by 2047 by focusing on sustainability, digital transformation, and public-private partnerships. He emphasized these areas as crucial for driving growth and establishing India as a global leader.

    Krishnamurthy Subramanian, Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund, took that number a notch up, saying with sustained investment in infrastructure, technology, and education, the country could potentially reach a $55 trillion economy by its centennial. He pointed out that this would require a 15-fold increase in the current economy, which stands at $3.3 trillion.

    Nivruti Rai, Managing Director and CEO of Invest India, outlined the country’s target of attracting $1 trillion in foreign direct investment (FDI) over the next decade. She identified sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, renewable energy, and technology as crucial to this effort and stressed the need for India to strengthen its supply chain, simplify regulations, and invest in a skilled workforce.

    Addressing public sector inefficiencies, N.K. Singh, former Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, called for regulatory reforms and modernisation, particularly in the telecommunications sector. He noted that issues like spectrum allocation and service disruptions during elections have hindered the sector’s growth and argued that reforms are essential for improving service delivery and ensuring public sector organisations contribute effectively to national growth.

    Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, presented a five-point strategy for the agriculture sector at the summit. He emphasized the government’s focus on increasing production, reducing costs, ensuring fair crop prices, addressing global farming threats, and diversifying crops beyond staples like wheat and rice. Chouhan highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to transforming India into a developed nation, particularly through advancements in agriculture.

    Ruchir Sharma, Chairman of Rockefeller International, provided a cautious perspective on India’s economic future, questioning whether the country could achieve developed nation status by 2047 without significant reforms and higher growth rates. He underscored the challenge of sustaining the necessary 10-12% annual GDP growth, noting that only a few countries, such as China and South Korea, have managed to do so over long periods.

    Employment and skill development were also key themes. Manish Sabharwal, Vice Chairman of TeamLease Services, highlighted the issues of low wages and skills mismatches, pointing out that nearly 85% of India’s workforce is in the informal sector. Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, announced new skilling initiatives aimed at aligning vocational training with market demands.

    Ola Founder Bhavish Aggarwal emphasized the importance of data sovereignty and robust management policies to leverage India’s vast digital ecosystem. He introduced his AI initiative, Krutrim, as part of efforts to build India’s capabilities in artificial intelligence, stressing that the country must retain control over its data resources.

    Sanjiv Puri, Chairman & MD of ITC, discussed challenges facing the MSME sector, which accounts for about 30% of India’s GDP and employs over 110 million people. He highlighted the need for inclusive growth, climate action, and support for MSMEs, stressing the importance of intellectual property and innovation in maintaining India’s competitive edge globally.

    The summit also saw Congress leader Karti Chidambaram express concerns over lateral entry into the Indian bureaucracy, advocating for the preservation of social justice and affirmative action. His views were challenged by BJP leaders, who defended the current administration’s policy, arguing that it infuses new energy and expertise into the bureaucracy.

    Vikram Gandhi, a professor at Harvard Business School, discussed the financial challenges of achieving India’s net-zero carbon emissions target by 2070, pointing out that substantial international financial assistance and investment in green technologies are crucial for meeting these climate goals.

    As India approaches its centenary of independence, the Adani BT India@100 summit underscored the opportunities and challenges the nation faces on its path to becoming a global economic powerhouse.
     

  • Bigg Boss Marathi’s new season claims record viewer engagement

    Bigg Boss Marathi’s new season claims record viewer engagement

    Mumbai: The new season of Bigg Boss Marathi has made a spectacular beginning, setting new records with the highest opening in the show’s history. With an impressive 2.4 TVR on its grand premiere, the excitement has only escalated as ratings peaked at 3.2 TVR in the second week for the weekend special ‘Bhaucha Dhakka’. Setting one record after another, the weekend special of Bigg Boss Marathi, ‘Bhaucha Dhakka’ has beaten competition non-fiction shows (Me Honaar Superstar – Chhote Ustaad on Star Pravah rating 3 TVR and Drama Juniors on Zee Marathi 1.7TVR) with its smashing rating of 3.2 TVR. This achievement marks the biggest-ever opening for the series, reaffirming its status as a dominant force in Marathi television.

    This season introduces a brand-new host, Riteish Deshmukh said, “The success of Bigg Boss Marathi is a testimonial to the love and passion of our audience for this show. Seeing the positive ratings and the upward graph week on week is incredibly motivating. The vibe at Bhaucha Dhakka, the weekend special episodes, reflects the spirit of Maharashtra; and the way audience is reciprocating this energy is truly heartening. I am extremely thrilled with this association and the promising results we’re witnessing.”

    Viacom18 president – general entertainment Alok Jain commented, “Our strategic approach this season, coupled with the careful selection of a new host and innovative themes, has been instrumental in achieving this record-breaking success. We are thrilled with the audience’s response and remain committed to pushing the boundaries of entertainment.”

    Viacom18 cluster head – Colors Marathi, Colors Kannada, and Colors Tamil, Sushma Rajesh added, “The impact of this season has been phenomenal so far and it’s only going to get bigger and better, that is our aim. Our creative strategies and unique content have significantly boosted our brand buzz, further solidifying Bigg Boss Marathi as a powerhouse in regional television.”

    Viacom18 head – network sales, Mahesh Shetty remarked, “The overwhelming confidence shown by our sponsors, reflected in their numbers and the diversity of categories, is a testament to the show’s unparalleled success. The innovative integrations we’ve got in store this season are a new standard for brand partnerships in reality TV.”

    This season of Bigg Boss Marathi is setting a new benchmark in reality television with its unique and engaging content. The combination of compelling talent and creatively designed tasks has captivated viewers, ensuring sustained interest and excitement throughout the season. Additionally, the show’s digital and social media platforms have witnessed unprecedented engagement, turning Bigg Boss Marathi into a viral sensation. Content from the show is being organically picked up by digital creators across platforms like YouTube, Meta, and Instagram, leading to unparalleled buzz across media.

    The overwhelming success of this season reaffirms the channel’s commitment to delivering top-quality entertainment and leading the regional television space. The show continues to push the boundaries of entertainment, setting new milestones in the industry.

  • “Colors has been pushing the envelop across languages and genres successfully” – Viacom18’s Alok Jain

    “Colors has been pushing the envelop across languages and genres successfully” – Viacom18’s Alok Jain

    When you run a marathon, you have to set the pace, knowing your own stamina. Some sprint ahead right from the firing of the starting gun and lead the pack all the way to the finish line. Others plod along, happy to be just completing the grueling run. And yet others gradually fall behind as the pace gets too difficult to handle.

    Viacom18 president – general entertainment Alok Jain belongs to the first category. An avid marathoner and tennis player, he has within his first year at the broadcasting major set a scorching pace reaching a milestone by coming up with a TRP topping non-fiction show Laughter Chefs. He’s hoping that fiction shows Megha Barsenge and Mishri will follow, though it’s early days yet. And he’s extremely sanguine about the network’s Marathi and Gujarati programming initiatives which he has been re-inventing along with the respective teams.

    Indiantelevision.com editorial head Mishaal Wanvari had a quick chat with Jain – who is also a fan of Nobel Prize winning psychologist and author Daniel Kahneman – on a range of subjects.

    Excerpts:

    On his first-year at Viacom18.

    It’s been amazing. It did not feel like one year at all. It has felt much longer than one year.I have worked in regionals quite a bit; last six years in Star. So Hindi was a new piece in terms of language and market and I felt that it was an extremely exciting market. The scale at times and the ecosystem is very different. A lot of exciting things have happened for us across markets and it has been a very satisfying experience.

    “I f you go full throttle without fear of failure, you can create shows like Laughter Chefs”

    On how he managed to crack the comedy code in Hindi with Laughter Chefs despite not having focused on Hindi entertainment. (Laughter Chefs achieved the No1 spot in nonfiction comedy and broke records with 13.6 crore viewers across TV and digital)

    Very frankly, we did not expect that the show will do so well. We feel,that comedy is a genre which always either works and, if it does, it works very well, otherwise, it falls flat. Comedy shows don’t fall in the middle.The genre has always been high risk, high reward and it is also difficult to crack. Not many content creators have been able to do so and there is not much competition so  there was a vacant wide space that the consumers really wanted. We took the risk and succeeded. If it hadn’t worked, we would have kept trying comedy in different formats. We are very gratified that it worked.

    What also worked for us is that the team is fantastic and are excited about non-fiction, They really liked the concept and really wanted to make it. Culminating from desire to vision – great team, great support system, great production house saw this show into a success. Sometimes in the creative space, if you are not afraid of failure, and go full throttle without taking the middle path,it works better and you can create shows like this.

    “O ur attempt is to keep looking for shows which are seamless from a consumer experience across screens – small screen, big screen.”

    On reality shows and specifically expectations from Khatron ke Khiladi this year.

    So I think Colors has always been a brand which has offered variety. We have fiction, we have reality, we have non-fiction and,even in fiction, we do a variety of stuff. We have attempted to do stories which are different. If you look at several years, non-fiction has been home for Colors. We have Bigg Boss which year on year does excellent,We have a calendar which works very well for Colors and now we have got this show Khatron ke Khiladi which we are very excited about. It has some great contestants and fans are already engaged with it.

    “C olors has the largest opportunity to create impact, shape society with shows like Megha Barsenge”

    One the two new fiction dramas  – Mishri and Megha Barsenge.

    Megha Barsenge is a very unique story. Colors has been very iconic in putting the light on stories which convey various social issues, issues from the ground, from the countryside. We have the largest opportunity to create impact, shape society and we should not miss this and with shows like Megha Barsenge we hope to achieve this and spread awareness across various states. Mishri is also a very exciting show with a lot of emotions of love and joy to display, it has done very well and audiences have loved it.

    “W e thought we need to really freshen up the channel.  We did it with Riteish Deshmukh in Bigg Boss and it worked. “

    On Bigg Boss Marathi on Colors Marathi.

    Certainly, see,for Colors Marathi, we started the journey seven to eight months back when we thought we need to really freshen up the channel. What has worked in the past doesn’t work in the future, So I think one of the big attempts has been to get Riteish on the show. He has been a big name in the Marathi industry especially with the kind of body of work he has done, and he’s all he’s been very excited about Bigg Boss. He’s been on the Hindi show once or twice as a guest, and he loves it. So we approached him, and he was very excited. There was a meeting of minds and hearts, and then we found a way to do it and to set it up very differently. We are glad that our attempt to set it up differently has worked. 

    “W e wanted to make sure that the Gujarati audiences get the same quality on Colors Gujarati that they would get on Colors Hindi.        

    On the Gujarati side where two new shows were announced in the past month.

    For Colors Gujarati, most of the content has been about trying to push the envelope. It’s about connecting with the Gujarati audience and culture. Hindi has always had a lens that it should be massier than any other states. For Colors Gujarati, we have taken topics very specific to Gujarat issues and Gujarati people. The big thing that we have done is that we made the production quality of the Colors Gujarati shows equal to Hindi. We wanted to make sure that the Gujarati audiences get the same quality on Colors Gujarati that they would get on Colors Hindi. This has been a great start for us.

    On how producers and creators should approach Colors with their offerings.

    Colors as a platform has tried all genres of shows from comedy to horror to romance. Any new fresh story which is for a world realistic of 2025 and not 2020 or 2015 is welcome.  Audiences are very smart and they know what they are consuming, They are very quick to decide whether to stay with a show or a movie.

    I think we are very excited that we have been able to push the envelope forward. We have been able to do and accomplish things which have not been seen in the past several years across the industry. We are very excited about shows which are going to come. Our attempt is to keep looking for shows which are different, new stories told in today’s time and which are seamless from a consumer experience across screens, small screen, big screen.                         
     

  • Satara Singhams emerge champions in Pro Govinda Season 2 finale

    Satara Singhams emerge champions in Pro Govinda Season 2 finale

    Mumbai: The much-anticipated Pro Govinda League Season 2 finale at the Dome, SVP Stadium in Mumbai set a new benchmark for culturally enriched sporting events. Esteemed leaders, including MLA Pratap Sarnaik, Purvesh Sarnaik, Mazhar Nadiadwala, Mohomed Morani, and Vihang Sarnaik, graced the occasion. Star Sports served as the official broadcaster, elevating the league’s profile and gracing more than millions of television screens across the country. The event showcased the incredible skills of the Govindas and fostered a sense of cultural pride.

    The event featured 16 dynamic teams competing across four groups. Each group stage match was a testament to the skill and strategy of the participating teams and delivered complete entertaining matches to the audience who cheered with their hearts for their teams. The quarter-finals of the Pro Govinda League Season 2 were a thrilling showcase of talent and determination delivering with high-octane matches. In the first quarter-final, the Thane Tigers (Aryans Govinda) faced the Kollhapur Kings (Balveer Govinda) in a fiercely contested battle, demonstrating exceptional skill and strategy. The second match featured the Latur Legends (Yash Govinda) taking on the Konkan Giants (Kokan Nagar Govinda), with both sides showcasing their commitment to winning the match. The excitement continued as the Satara Singhams (Jai Jawan Govinda) clashed with Central Mumbai (Om Brahmand Sai Govinda), while Western Mumbai (Hindmata Govinda) competed against the Alibaug Knights (Shree Aagreshwar Govinda), each match highlighting the teams’ dedication and commitment to the sport.

    Semi-finals delivered even more nail-biting encounters. The first semi-final saw the Kollhapur Kings (Balveer Govinda) face Latur Legends (Yash Govinda). With exceptional teamwork and strategy, the Kings secured their spot in the finals. In the second semi-final, the Satara Singhams (Jai Jawan Govinda) went head-to-head against the Alibaug Knights (Shree Aagreshwar Govinda). Known for their strong formations and strategic prowess, the Satara Singhams emerged victorious, setting the stage for an exciting final showdown.

    The Satara Singhams (Jai Jawan Govinda) and Kollhapur Kings (Balveer Govinda) battled it out in a thrilling finale of Season 2 of the Pro Govinda League. The two teams faced off one after the other in a race against time, showcasing not only their impressive athletic abilities but also their unwavering teamwork building excellent human pyramids. In the end, defending Champions Satara Singhams (Jai Jawan Govinda) emerged victorious and took home the grand prize of ₹25 lakh. The Kolhapur Kings (Balveer Govinda) finished as the first runners-up, receiving ₹15 lakh, while the Latur Legends (Yash Govinda) and Alibaug Knights (Shree Aagreshwar Govinda) secured the second and third runner-up positions, earning ₹10 lakh and ₹5 lakh respectively.

    The league finale was graced by a host of distinguished guests, including chief minister of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde, member of Lok Sabha Dr Shrikant Eknath Shinde, and Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora and many others. Their presence underlined the event’s significance and added to its grandeur and prestige. The event was also star-studded with celebrities, including singer and Alibaug Knights team owner Mika Singh, actor Jacky Bhagnani, renowned television actors Arjun Bijlani (Pune Panthers team owner) and Karanvir Bohra, and renowned music composer Harmeet Singh from the famous Meet Bros duo (Pune Panthers team owner), Bollywood actress and model Mahima Chaudhry, Bollwood singer and music composer Arvinder Singh among others were spotted at the Dome, SVP Stadium.

    Pro Govinda League founder and chairman MLA Pratap Sarnaik said, “The Pro Govinda Season 2 League finale has surpassed all our expectations. The extraordinary performances from all the teams have been spectacular. This season has set a new standard for our league, and we are thrilled to contribute to the success of the event. The league is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the teams and we look forward to shaping the future of the league.”

    Pro Govinda League president Purvesh Sarnaik said, “We are proud of the support displayed by the fans and the exceptional talent displayed by the teams. The event set a new benchmark for by the enthusiasm and incredible sportsmanship shown by the teams. We extend our heartful gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this success. We are committed to developing the league into a national-level sport in the future.”

    League director Mazhar Nadiadwala said, “The success of this season in the Pro Govinda League is truly a team effort, reflecting the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. From the thrilling matches to the enthusiastic crowd, we are grateful for the overwhelming response we have garnered in the weeks. This season has set a new benchmark for excellence, and we are committed to continuing this tradition.”

    League director Mohomed Morani said, “We are incredibly thankful for the fantastic turnout and the unwavering support from both the teams and the fans. The enthusiasm and passion shown by everyone involved have been truly inspiring. We are proud of what we have achieved this year and look forward to further enhancing the Pro Govinda League’s as a premier competition of the country.”

    This year’s tournament proved to be a thrilling showcase of athletic prowess, team spirit, and unity among the players. The fans were filled with excitement, huge cheers and energetic chants which echoed at the arena throughout the day. Pro Govinda Season 2’s success sets a new precedence for the upcoming season of the league, bringing in new teams, talented players and even more excitement for the fans of this unique tradition-based sporting event. The league’s vision is to inspire thousands of Govindas while preserving Maharashtra’s rich traditions.

  • Photography has always been a very key form of storytelling for National Geographic: Devika Prabhu

    Photography has always been a very key form of storytelling for National Geographic: Devika Prabhu

    Mumbai: For 136 years, National Geographic has stood at the forefront of photography, capturing the world through lenses that reveal the beauty and complexity of our planet. Its legacy of authentic visual storytelling has inspired millions, turning images into compelling narratives that change the way we perceive the world around us.

    The channel is back with the second season of #nofilter by IndiGo. Judged by visual storyteller & award-winning filmmaker, Imtiaz Ali and eminent photographer, Raghu Rai, #nofilter by IndiGo is a community of photographers who wear their passion with pride when it comes to showing the world through their lens. The success of season 1 set the stage for an even greater response in season 2, with over 107,000 entries pouring in. As the short-listing process nears its conclusion, the finalists will be announced today, coinciding with World Photography Day and promising another season of creativity, passion, and storytelling.

    In 2021, National Geographic India launched “Your Lens,” a platform designed for photography enthusiasts to showcase their passion and join the brand they admire. The response was overwhelming, with over 114,000 entries from 72,000 participants. This initiative, coupled with National Geographic India’s thriving Instagram community of nearly two million followers, has fostered a space where photographers and fans alike can engage in meaningful discussions, sharing their unique perspectives of the world. Through the National Geographic Creative Works, the production arm of the brand, the team crafts compelling narratives for partners, using incredible storytelling to bring visions to life.

    Indiantelevision.com in a video interview with Disney & Star India busines head- Infotainment and Kids, Devika Prabhu, where she explained more on their approach towards visual storytelling through photography, concept behind the creation of #nofilter and a lot more.

    Edited excerpts

    As we know National Geographic is known for its compelling photography, how do you see their communication approach contributing to the broader conversation about visual storytelling?

    Photography has always been a very key form of storytelling for National Geographic. Our journey began in 1889 with our first published photograph, marking the start of a 135-year legacy of using photography as a powerful storytelling medium. When we think of iconic photography, National Geographic often comes to mind first. Photography is integral to everything we do—across social media, our channels, and all communications. We showcase not only different photographs but also the stories of the photographers and their efforts.  

    What was the concept behind the #nofilter and how does it align with National Geographic’s vision for storytelling?

    At the core, we believe that understanding the world fosters a deeper emotional connection, which in turn inspires people to care for it more profoundly and take responsibility. This belief drives our storytelling efforts across various formats. For instance, our “Your Lens” initiative in 2021, featuring Karan Johar as our brand ambassador, aimed to inspire individuals over 18 to tell their own stories through photography and share them with us. The success of this initiative inspired similar narratives, leading to the creation of #nofilter. It also inspired some of our partners who want to engage with us on a similar narrative or a similar format. So thats how #nofilter also kind of developed.

    What makes #nofilter by IndiGo, a unique and one-of-a-kind reality TV show?

    What makes this initiative unique is its focus on photography as a foundational element, celebrating both the passion and skill of the photographer. It also highlights the story within each frame, capturing remarkable moments that define the essence of photography. Initiatives like “Your Lens” and #nofilter creates opportunities for photo enthusiasts to explore new approaches and inspire them to capture authentic, unfiltered images. In an era where numerous filters and editing tools often alter the original photograph, our goal is to provide a platform that emphasises genuine photographs and the true emotions behind them.

    How has National Geographic become the preferred platform for brands to communicate empowering stories, offering a unique blend of visual storytelling that resonates with the audience

    National Geographic’s storytelling prowess, honed over 136 years, is widely recognized. Over the years, our partners have sought our expertise to help tell their own stories, understanding that our unique narrative approach adds a distinctive lens to their messages. This led to the creation of “National Geographic Creative Works,” which enhances our storytelling beyond mere promotion. It enables brands to connect more deeply with their audiences, building meaningful relationships and fostering closer connections with their consumers. National Geographic Creative Works has become a sought-after resource for brands looking to leverage our storytelling expertise.

    How do initiatives like Your Lens and #nofilter by IndiGo support and nurture budding photographers?

    Let me highlight our collaboration with Indigo on #nofilter. This is actually the second season of the initiative. Last year, in Season 1, we received over 90,000 responses. This year, Season 2 has seen over 100,000 submissions, demonstrating a growing excitement and engagement within the community. Building on the success of last year’s short-form series, where we showcased the photographers and finalists in four episodes, this year we plan to expand to a longer 22-minute format. This extension will allow us to delve deeper into the photographers’ stories and passions. Our esteemed judges, Raghu Rai and Imtiaz Ali, renowned veterans in filmmaking and storytelling through photography, play a crucial role in bringing this initiative to life. Their expert curation enhances the collaboration between photographers and their images, keeping our viewers and community continually engaged.

    How do you view photography as tool for storytelling and why do you believe its such a powerful medium

    In my view, photography is a profoundly authentic form of storytelling because it revolves around capturing a moment and is inherently an art form. Often, we say that we “take” a photograph, but in reality, we “create” it. This creation involves selecting the medium through which you wish to tell the story, choosing the equipment—whether it’s a specialized lens or a phone—deciding on the subject, and shaping the story you want to portray. Composition, framing, and lighting all play critical roles in this storytelling process.

    A powerful photograph establishes a connection with its subject and encourages viewers to pause and reflect on the photographer’s message. Take, for example, the iconic image of the Afghan Girl on the National Geographic cover from the 1980s. This photograph has endured for decades because it resonates deeply with people. National Geographic boasts one of the largest non-celebrity Instagram followings worldwide, nearing two million in India alone. Our community grows continuously, with someone tagging or reposting our content every two minutes. This reflects the strong association between exceptional photography and our brand. Many see National Geographic as the pinnacle of photographic achievement, and being tagged by a National Geographic photographer is a coveted aspiration for many.

  • Stepathlon partners with Major League Rugby

    Stepathlon partners with Major League Rugby

    Mumbai: Stepathlon has announced its first major US partnership with Major League Rugby (MLR). Stepathlon is a fan acquisition and engagement platform, to promote fitness and well-being among rugby players and fans starting in the off-season and leading up to the 2025 season.

    MLR aims to foster a culture of fitness and community through this collaboration, encouraging fans across the United States to participate during the off-season with their favorite team and athletes across the league. This initiative will not only enhance physical fitness but also build camaraderie among fans, fostering a stronger connection with the sport.

    “We are thrilled to partner with Stepathlon to promote health and wellness within the rugby community,” said US Major League Rugby CEO Nic Benson. “Staying fit and active is crucial for our players, and we are excited to work with Stepathlon to inspire our fans to live a healthier lifestyle.”  

    The partnership between US Major League Rugby and Stepathlon represents a new era of collaboration between sports marketing and wellness companies, aiming to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of athletes and fans alike.

    The partnership between Major League Rugby, the premier professional rugby league in the U.S., and Stepathlon aims to engage athletes and fans year-round by blending the reach and influence of sports marketing with the positive impact health and wellness initiatives can have.

    Stepathlon founder and CEO, Ravi Krishnan, said, ” Having attended MLR matches this season, I was struck by the passion of the fans. We want to ensure that this passion continues to thrive during the off-season. We also know that healthier fans are happier fans, so we aim to give something back to those who support their teams so keenly throughout the season. Stepathlon’s goal is to help fans stay connected with their favorite teams and players, as well as with each other, whether or not games are being played.”

  • Sony BBC Earth announces Shaan Lalwani as the ‘Earth Champion’ for the month

    Sony BBC Earth announces Shaan Lalwani as the ‘Earth Champion’ for the month

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth, a pioneer in bringing forth thought-provoking content and inspiring initiatives for the Indian audiences, is proud to announce Shaan Lalwani as its ‘Earth Champion’ for the month. This recognition highlights Shaan’s contribution towards environmental conservation and sustainability for a cleaning detergent formula that is totally biodegradable.

    Shaan Lalwani’s journey towards sustainability began with a personal awakening. During her travels, Shaan witnessed the harmful effects of chemical pollution on marine life. The cleaning agents that form an integral part of our daily routine contain chemicals that pollute water bodies. Hence, Shaan came up with an eco-friendly alternative and founded Coco Custo, a company that makes non-toxic and biodegradable laundry detergents.

    Sony BBC Earth’s ‘Earth Champions’ initiative aims to celebrate individuals like Shaan who move the needle in bringing sustainability into the everyday lives of people, making a tangible difference to the environment. The monthly property showcases the work done by the Earth Champion as short-form content with a compelling score. The video is telecast on the channel and promoted on the online medium.

    Sony Pictures Networks India business operations head – Sony AATH and head – marketing & insights, English cluster, Rohan Jain, “As a brand, we have always strived to present to the viewers stories that exemplify passion, drive inspiration, and encourage sustainable practices. Our Earth Champions initiative is a perfect embodiment of this commitment. We are pleased to announce Shaan Lalwani as our latest Earth Champion. Her journey demonstrates that making small efforts can help one lead an eco-conscious life and inspire others to follow.”

    Earth Champion of Sony BBC Earth – Coco Custo founder Shaan Lalwani, “It is an honour to receive the title of Earth Champion by Sony BBC Earth. I am glad that the channel has given me a platform to help my story reach so many people, and I hope it inspires them to reflect upon every step they take. I believe every individual has the power to drive positive change towards environment conservation.”