ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Network18 appoints Sanchayan Paul as CHRO-designate

    Network18 appoints Sanchayan Paul as CHRO-designate

    Mumbai: Sanchayan Paul, a veteran HR professional with more than 25 years of experience, has joined Network18 as a CHRO-designate.

    Sanchayan has traversed many worlds spanning industries and roles and he joins from Modenik Lifestyle, a PE-backed enterprise that he landed into after journeying through companies as varied as Reliance Industries, Thomson Reuters, Eicher Consulting Services, Hutchison Essar Telecom and Vodafone. In between them, he also took an entrepreneurial journey and founded KaryaMitr, a tech-enabled platform for skill building and training aimed at the vernacular workspace.

    A post-graduate in management from XLRI Jamshedpur, Sanchayan graduated from Delhi University. He has also completed his Digital Business Leadership Programme from Cornell University.

    Sanchayan, who lives in Bangalore with his banker wife Lipika and their son, will shift base to Mumbai.

  • Hungama Digital Media & Bhamla Foundation launch star-studded Bhoomi Namaskar anthem

    Hungama Digital Media & Bhamla Foundation launch star-studded Bhoomi Namaskar anthem

    Mumbai: Hungama Digital Media and Bhamla Foundation announced the launch of the highly anticipated ‘Bhoomi Namaskar’ anthem at today’s exclusive press conference. The event was graced by a distinguished lineup of guests, including Asif Bhamla- president of the Bhamla Foundation, Neeraj Roy- founder and Hungama Digital Media. Other notable personalities joining in are- R Balki, Shaan, Prasoon Joshi, Bhumi Pednekar, Shankar Mahadevan, Sheykhar Ravjiani, Shiamak Davar and Neeti Mohan.

    The ‘Bhoomi Namaskar’ anthem is a heartfelt initiative to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the critical importance of sustainable living. This inspiring song unites some of the industry’s most talented and respected figures, each contributing their voices and creative energies to champion this noble cause. The song’s lyrics talk about living in harmony with nature, the need to protect the environment, and the benefits of sustainable living. Its music, influenced by different styles, shows that caring for the environment is important to everyone around the world. By bringing together famous people, the ‘Bhoomi Namaskar’ anthem not only shows how important it is to take care of the Earth but also encourages people to make positive changes in their own lives.

    Hungama Digital Media founder & MD Neeraj Roy said, “The Bhoomi Namaskar campaign underscores the critical role of ecosystem restoration in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. It aims to raise awareness and inspire both individual and collective efforts to preserve and restore natural habitats. Partnering with Bhamla Foundation aligns with our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living.”

    Speaking about the initiative, Bhamla Foundation president Asif Bhamla said, “The ‘Bhoomi Namaskar’ anthem is a powerful initiative that aligns with our mission to promote environmental sustainability and awareness. Witnessing such remarkable talent come together to inspire action through music is uplifting. We believe this anthem will have a substantial influence on play educating and motivating individuals to contribute positively to our planet’s well-being.  planet. We are happy to associate with Hungama once again.”

    Godrej Industries Group vice president & head of corporate brand & communications  Sujit Patil said, “At Godrej Industries, environmental responsibility isn’t just a slogan; it’s a core value that guides our actions. We implement various green initiatives across our businesses – from promoting sustainable product design to minimizing our carbon footprint across offices and manufacturing locations. Through our partnership with the Bhamla Foundation’s #BhoomiNamaskar campaign, we aim to raise awareness and inspire action towards environmental restoration. This anthem exemplifies the power of creative expression to address this important issue. More than just entertainment, it is a powerful call to action for all of us to rise and become the saviour our planet needs today. We need a generation of conscious citizens who understand the importance of protecting our land. We urge everyone to act towards a greener future – it starts with us.”

  • Colors Kannada brings back RAJA RANI with all new RELOADED avatar

    Colors Kannada brings back RAJA RANI with all new RELOADED avatar

    Mumbai: In line with the promise to entertain audiences round the clock, Colors Kannada is bringing back the highly anticipated celebrity dance show, Raja Rani, for its third season, titled “Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3.” Presented by White Gold and powered by Amrith Noni, alongside esteemed partners Swastiks Masala, Bhima Jewellers, Sadguru Ayurveda Gram Flour Soap, Sangeetha Mobiles, this season promises an unparalleled blend of talent and entertainment.

    Premiered on June 8th at 7:30 PM, Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3 will grace the screens of Colors Kannada every Saturday and Sunday, promising viewers an immersive experience filled with electrifying performances and star-studded moments. Adding another surprise, the show features a three-judge panel, a first for the show. Joining incumbents Thara Anuradha and Srujan Lokesh will be Kannada film industry superstar Aditi Prabhudeva.

    Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3 features 12 dynamic celebrity couples from diverse backgrounds, including social media influencers, television stars, and more. These couples will showcase their on-screen chemistry and compatibility through exhilarating dance performances and engaging games. The show saw the return of the charismatic Anupama Gowda, who is adding excitement with her captivating presence.

    Speaking about the launch of Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3, Viacom18 cluster head, regional entertainment Sushma Rajesh said, “Colors Kannada, as a brand has always been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of content and trying new formats. Our core promise to consumers is to deliver content that is entertaining and nuanced with the local flavor. The new season of Raja Rani is set to enthrall and entertain with compelling content driven by some amazing talents and meticulous execution.”

    Colors Kannada business head Prashanth Nayak expressed his excitement, “We are thrilled to launch the third season of the Raja Rani franchise, featuring all-new elements like a new judge and a dance-focused format. The show will also retain the entertainment elements from the previous seasons. We’re confident that audiences will embrace the fresh incarnation of Raja-Rani.”

    White Gold founder & CEO Rahul Joseph said, “We are delighted to associate with Colors Kannada for the third season of Raja Rani. It’s an honor to be a part of such an iconic show that brings joy and entertainment to millions of viewers. The dance show is set to have electrifying performances and we plan to bring that gold quality content through our association. “

    Narayan N (CEO) Amrith Noni Powered By: ‘’Amrith Noni is thrilled to power the third season of Raja Rani and are excited to be part of the thrilling performances and aim to support the health and recovery of the participants. We believe in the power of entertainment to bring people together and are excited to be involved in this journey.’’

    Dwarkanath (Managing Director) Swastiks Masala Special Partner: “As a brand deeply entrenched in tradition and culinary excellence, Swastiks takes immense delight in its partnership with Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3. Our collaboration transcends mere sponsorship; it is a celebration of heritage and festivity. We eagerly anticipate the unfolding of this enchanting journey, as each episode promises to bring our rich flavors and compelling narratives to life.”

    Mahesh (Marketing Head) Bhima Jewellers Special Partner: “Bhima Jewellers is honored to be a special partner of Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3. Being a sponsor on this show allows us to celebrate the artistry and elegance that resonate with our brand. We eagerly look forward to the brilliant performances of the celebrity couples and the glamour they will bring to the show.”

    Pradeep Shetty (Managing Director) Sadguru Ayurveda Gram Flour Soap Special Partner: “At Sadguru Ayurveda, we are thrilled to join Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3 as a special partner. This collaboration allows us to extend our commitment to promoting health and wellness to a wider audience. We are excited to support this entertaining and vibrant show and look forward to the joy and inspiration it will bring to viewers.”

    Subhash Chandra (Managing Director) Sangeetha Mobiles Special Partner: “Joining forces with Raja Rani Reloaded Season 3 fills Sangeetha Mobiles with delight. As we embark on this journey together, we eagerly anticipate the electrifying performances of the celebrity couples. Moreover, this partnership offers a thrilling avenue to connect with our customers in a dynamic and engaging manner.”

  • NDTV’s carnival truck brings flavour to election result

    NDTV’s carnival truck brings flavour to election result

    Mumbai: NDTV captivated viewers with its innovative and engaging special coverage of the General Elections 2024, featuring its election carnival truck. To mark the counting day on 4 June 2024, NDTV came up with a distinctive approach to election coverage by infusing culinary elements into their reporting, seamlessly blending the political discourse with gastronomical delights.

    The unique set-up held at the NDTV premises, featured a unique collaboration with an array of partners such as PVR, Biryani by Kilo, Urban Vada Pav, Sitaram Diwan Chand – Chole Bhature, and Chaat Masters, delivering an irresistible feast of mouth-watering foods from across the nation and offered a rich tapestry of India’s diverse culinary heritage. From the flavourful Chhole Bhature and Aloo Tikki of Delhi to the beloved Vada Pav and Pani Puri of Bombay, NDTV’s coverage brilliantly encapsulated the essence of India’s culinary diversity.

    Against this vibrant backdrop, NDTV anchors and analysts provided insightful discussions on the election results from various states. The channel presented a fusion of political analysis and rich cultural & culinary experience. This distinctive approach not only highlighted the regional cuisines but also made NDTV’s election coverage a unique and memorable event. This initiative garnered significant interest from NDTV’s viewers, as it offered them a fresh perspective on how media can creatively engage with their audience across states.

    This was the conclusion of NDTV’s election carnival, a vibrant celebration of democratic enthusiasm and civic engagement, that marked an extraordinary journey across India. It captivated hearts and minds as it travelled the carnival originally planned to cover 5,000 kilometers, but due to its overwhelming reception, the route was extended to over 11,000 kilometers, reaching more than 50 cities non-stop over the past 30 days.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by NDTV India (@ndtvindia)

     

  • Revenant Esports expands to Europe With new CS2 Roster

    Revenant Esports expands to Europe With new CS2 Roster

    Mumbai: Leading Indian esports organisation, Revenant Esports, has announced its expansion to Europe by signing a European Counter Strike 2 (CS2) roster. The new roster consists of noted CS2 athletes Nathan “NBK” Schmitt, Adelin “adeX-” Nica, Kamil “reiko” Cegiełko, Laurențiu “lauNX” Țârlea and Nabil “Nivera” Benrlitom.

    The team will currently be based out of the organisation’s boot camp in Belgrade, Serbia. The new roster will debut on LAN at the Skyesports Championship 2024. They would also be playing other prestigious online tournaments, with a focus on qualifying for the upcoming Shanghai Major. Guiding the team would be Patrik “pakesZ” Rozsos as coach and general manager, and Chris “Jeebs” DeSantis as assistant coach, both of whom have extensive experience in building competitive teams.

    Revenant Esports, founder and CEO, Rohit Jagasia, said “Our decision to enter the global CS2 arena was fueled by a passion for Counter-Strike and a strategic vision for global expansion. We have been keenly observing and exploring the European esports market for a while. CS2 has a very substantial viewership and a vibrant esports ecosystem in European territory and hence it also translates to more monetisation and partnership opportunities for us. This is another step for us in the direction to create a truly global esports organisation, from India.”

    Currently, Revenant Esports has ongoing partnerships with multiple brands like Puma, Kreo, AMD, Gigabyte, Aorus, Corsair, and Cybeart. With this expansion, Revenant Esports will be looking to forge new brand partnerships globally, with a special focus on brands and companies from the European territory.

    The athletes of the new CS2 roster have significant achievements and accolades to their names including, multiple CS:GO Majors, Blast Premier, La Coupe 4 Paris, IEM, ESL tournaments and more.

    Revenant Esports has been a noted name in the Indian esports ecosystem. Its achievements include clinching the #1 spot in Pokemon Unite in India for 2022-2023, finishing 7th at the Brawl Stars World Championship 2023-2024, securing the 2nd spot at  Skyesports Masters 2023: Regular Season, and more.

    Revenant Esports is also home to noted content creators including Antaryami Gaming, Alpha Clasher, PlayLikeIncognito, Punkk, Bitty Boi, Emperor Plays, Ayush Gaming, DevilDeez, BrownVoid, and Salty.

  • Sony SAB announces new show ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’

    Sony SAB announces new show ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’

    Mumbai: Sony SAB, renowned for its innovative and progressive narratives, especially those showcasing empowered female protagonists, is set to launch its much-anticipated new show, ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’. An inspiring story of dreams and determination, the show features Amandeep Sidhu as the protagonist Baani and the show is brought to life by the powerhouse producer duo, Sargun Mehta and Ravi Dubey.

    ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’ tells the story of Baani, a middle class, spirited girl with dreams as vast as the sky and a determination that knows no bounds. However, Baani’s ambition isn’t just for personal gain; her primary goal is to provide a better life for her family, pushing beyond the limitations life has imposed on them.

    As Baani’s aspirations grow, she ventures into the dynamic and often male-dominated world of stocks and trading. ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’ showcases Baani’s relentless pursuit of success, highlighting her sacrifices, struggles, and the sheer willpower to turn her dreams into reality, one bold step at a time.

    Sony SAB business head Neeraj Vyas said, “Sony SAB goes beyond entertainment. We curate stories that are unique, and mirror the hopes, challenges, and aspirations of our audience. By presenting genuine and relatable characters, we forge a connection that resonates deeply. Television’s power lies in its ability to inspire, and that’s the cornerstone of our content strategy. Our upcoming launch ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’ for example, is a testament to the unwavering pursuit of dreams, however unachievable they may appear. Through this show, we aim to inspire our viewers, urging them to believe in their infinite ability, embrace their dreams and persevere even when the path seems daunting.”

    Creator and producer of Badall Pe Paon Hai Sargun Mehta said, “Badall Pe Paon Hai stands apart from all the shows on television. It is a story that showcases an indomitable spirit. This is especially important for women who usually have odds stacked against them when it comes to achieving their ambitions. Shows like this play a vital role in dismantling those limitations. By amplifying powerful female narratives, we empower more women to dream fearlessly and believe in their own potential.  I believe these stories are essential on television and there couldn’t have been a better channel than Sony SAB to showcase this story of Badall Pe Paon Hai.”

    Tune in to Sony SAB to watch ‘Badall Pe Paon Hai’ from 10 June, airing every Monday to Saturday at 7:30 pm.

  • Dr Deepak Chopra explores happiness on Duologue with Barun Das Season 2 CTV premiere

    Dr Deepak Chopra explores happiness on Duologue with Barun Das Season 2 CTV premiere

    Mumbai: Barun Das and Dr Deepak Chopra embarked on a profound dialogue about the intersections of well-being, leadership, and modern challenges, in the CTV premiere of the third episode in Duologue with Barun Das Season 2.

    The eagerly anticipated third episode of ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ Season 2 premiered on India’s only 24×7 digital English news livestream, News9 Live, at 9 pm on the 1  June 2024. The episode featured Barun Das, MD & CEO of TV9 Network, and the internationally acclaimed author and wellness guru, Dr. Deepak Chopra engage in a profoundly cerebral conversation on the meaning of happiness, tradition, leadership and more.

    In a compelling back-and-forth, Das and Dr Chopra delved into the intricacies of modern life, discussing contemporary sources of stress and the transformative potential of well-being practices. Dr Chopra, known for his profound insights and holistic approach, shared his perspective on the current state of the world, describing unhappy people as “victim(s) of the hypnosis of social conditioning.”

    Dr Chopra’s insights offer a refreshing take on leadership and personal growth. “In my life, I’ve used only two formulas: pursue excellence and ignore success,” he revealed in a candid moment. The conversation explored the challenges of engaging people with transformative ideas and the significance of joy in personal and professional life.

    Both visionary thinkers, Dr Chopra and Das dived deeper into the ambiguous concept of happiness, with each sharing their understanding of what it was, the importance of measuring it, and the different formulas that could be used to calculate it.

    Touching on neuroplasticity, Dr Chopra advocated for traditional activities that foster creativity, such as listening to music, engaging with nature, and reading fiction. “Rote work doesn’t encourage neuroplasticity. It’s simply the recycling of collective consciousness,” he explained.

    The Duologue also touched on the evolving role of AI in creativity and well-being, with Das delineating the significance of left-brain and right-brain activities, while Dr Chopra emphasized the limitations of artificial intelligence and the importance of traditional activities that foster creativity. “AI will never be fundamentally creative but can solve routine problems,” he asserted.

    Duologue host Barun Das resonated with Dr Chopra’s views, expressing his non-conformist stance regarding traditions, which he said he considers vestiges of a bygone era that no longer align with contemporary realities.

    The episode offered a glimpse into the profound wisdom of Dr Chopra and his visionary approach to well-being and leadership. Following this episode, ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ continues to bring thought-provoking conversations to audiences on Saturday the 8th of June at 9 pm, this time with an episode featuring India’s most iconic golfing legend, Jeev Milkha Singh, exclusively on News9 Live.

  • News18 Network scales up CTV sales with 250 plus brands on counting day

    News18 Network scales up CTV sales with 250 plus brands on counting day

    Mumbai: News18 Network has set a new milestone on the election’s result day that is 4 June by executing 250 campaigns in a single day, the highest number ever in its history. This achievement is notable not only for the volume of campaigns but also for attracting a significant number of new clients, underlining the network’s growing strength on connected TV (CTV).

    All 250 campaigns were broadcast across News18 Network’s regional channels on CTV, drawing in a diverse range of new clients, particularly from the retail sector, as well as top regional and national businesses in fintech, edutech, and the automotive industry.

    News18 Network’s CEO – Indian languages Mitul Sangani commented on the network’s outstanding performance: “We at News18 Network are grateful to our loyal viewers for making us their preferred choice during this important election season, which has helped us maintain our position as the top news platform. We are thrilled with the campaign’s response and the large number of new clients it attracted from various industries. This success motivates us to continue developing innovative concepts for impactful campaigns.”

    In terms of TV and digital platform viewership, News18 Network leads the market. The network’s high viewership, wide reach, and consistently relevant content have made it the go-to source for news and an ideal platform for advertising, capturing viewers’ full attention in every segment.

  • STAR Sports’ fan-first initiatives boost digital engagement for IPL 2024

    STAR Sports’ fan-first initiatives boost digital engagement for IPL 2024

    Mumbai: Since the start of the 17th edition of the IPL, Star Sports’ social media platforms have experienced an extraordinary surge in engagement, witnessing 300 per cent growth compared to 2023 edition. Additionally, the broadcaster recorded over one billion views and reached out to more than 100 million unique users during the entire IPL 2024 season.

    The broadcaster celebrated the cricketing festival across the nation with its multifaceted approach, providing fans with various experiences through on-ground activations and social platforms. Anchored by the incredible star cast of experts, Star Sports Believe ambassadors and more than 2000 creators from Star Sports Creator Network, the broadcaster has woven together a myriad of engaging initiatives, embodying the essence of IPL fandom.

    “We are ecstatic by the overwhelming response from fans across the nation during this IPL season. The incredible growth in engagement on our social media platforms and the widespread reach we achieved is a testament to the passion and love of fans and viewers that unites us all. Our dedicated efforts to create a vibrant and immersive fan experience, have truly brought the spirit of IPL to life. We remain committed to enhancing digital engagement and delivering unparalleled experiences to our fans and viewers”, said Star Sports Network head – marketing  Vikram Passi.

    Starting with ‘Star Nahi Far’, the broadcaster provided a unique opportunity for fans across the lengths and breadths of the country to meet their favourite IPL players and legends up close and personal. Star Sports Believe ambassadors like Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson and cricket legends like Steve Smith and Stuart Broad among others were part of this unique initiative by Star Sports. Over 50 million unique cricket enthusiasts nationwide across 1450 cities actively participated in Star Sports’ ‘Star Nahi Far’ contest to meet more than 20 IPL stars, making it the biggest contest on Glance.

    Speaking on the ‘Star Nahi Far’ initiative, Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant said, “Meeting fans through Star Sports’ wonderful ‘Star Nahi Far’ initiative was an incredibly humbling experience for me. Their unwavering support and heartfelt wishes during the tough times touched me. I had a fantastic time interacting with everyone and playing gully cricket, which brought back so many cherished memories. The love and encouragement from the fans have fueled my determination, and I can’t wait to give my best for the country.”

    In another initiative, Star Sports’ “Dream Job” offered aspiring creators to be next face on Star Sports for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. This eight-week challenge during IPL 2024, around key narratives of the on-going season, garnered an overwhelming response, attracting 5,500 entries from a diverse array of participants spanning different demographics, geographies, and walks of life. Some entries gained significant attention on social media, with one reel amassing over 61 million views, highlighting the wide array of talent in the country. Overall, the Star Sports Dream Job activation was a unique initiative leveraging the digital ecosystem to discover talent that resulted in more than 310 million views. Soumi Dey Sarkar, a national-level athlete in powerlifting and a runner, has bagged the prestigious Star Sports ‘Dream Job’ following a robust selection drive during the TATA IPL 2024.

    Star Sports also collaborated with over 100 top influencers across India throughout the season. There was a special match organized between creators and former cricketers under the banner of “Ajab Gajab T20 Challenge”. The match features influencers like Dharna, Abhishek Malhan, Aakash Gupta, and Viraj Ghelani playing alongside Steve Smith, Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, and Ambati Rayudu. Partnerships with creators like CarryMinati and Madan Gowri added diverse content.

    Speaking about his association with Star Sports for the TATA IPL 2024, CarryMinati said, “Working with Star Sports on the TATA IPL 2024 was a special experience for me. It gave me the opportunity to showcase a different side of the tournament. Working alongside cricket legends and hearing their insights was truly memorable.”

    Moreover, ‘Incredible Premier League School Quiz’ ignited the passion of young cricket fans, nurturing their love for the sport and creating unique opportunities for brands targeting this enthusiastic consumer cohort. The second instalment of this quiz has attracted a record-breaking 2.1 lakh participants from over 17,000 schools.

    The broadcaster has also closely worked with multiple platforms such as Meta, YouTube, Glance and Josh among others to better serve the fan. With the fan approach and regular engagements, the broadcaster has built a robust fan community of 50.9 million* fans across YouTube, Instagram, X, Facebook and WhatsApp and largest sports community on WhatsApp in India with more than 15.50 million followers.

  • Zee News AI exit polls and actual results show remarkable accuracy

    Zee News AI exit polls and actual results show remarkable accuracy

    Mumbai: As the nation eagerly awaited the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha Election, Zee News introduced an unprecedented approach to election forecasting. Utilizing AI-powered sentiment analysis, Zee News embarked on a mission to capture the pulse of the nation by gathering opinions from an astounding 10 crore voters across India. As the most trusted voice in the country, Zee News has broken new ground with ZEENIA, delivering impeccably precise exit poll predictions driven by advanced AI technology.

    The results were nothing short of remarkable. Zee News’ AI-driven forecast accurately predicted that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would secure 305 seats, while the actual results showed the NDA winning 292 seats. This close alignment between the predicted and actual results highlights the unparalleled accuracy of Zee News’s methodology and their profound understanding of voters’ sentiments.

    In stark contrast, other channels and survey agencies predicted NDA seats to be around 400, further underscoring the evolving nature of Zee News’ approach. This monumental achievement not only solidifies Zee News’ position as a pioneer in the field of journalism but also reaffirms its commitment to delivering reliable and insightful coverage to a nation hungry for accurate information.

    Highlighting the accuracy and reliability element, Zee News managing editor Rahul Sinha said, “Zee News is known for unbiased and factual reporting. The close match between our AI exit poll predictions and the actual election results is a significant achievement for the channel. It illustrates the capability of artificial intelligence, particularly our AI anchor ZEENIA, to deliver precise and unbiased election forecasts. The adoption of cutting-edge technology allowed us to provide our viewers with the most accurate information. We are proud to set a new benchmark in election reporting, ensuring citizens are well-informed with reliable data that closely reflects the final vote counts.”

    Zee News’ AI-powered exit polls have undoubtedly set a new standard in election forecasting, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian journalism.