Category: TV Channels

  • News18 Bangla rolls out ‘Singhason er Mahasangram’

    News18 Bangla rolls out ‘Singhason er Mahasangram’

    Mumbai: News18 Bangla has announced its extensive and engaging programming lineup under the banner ‘Singhason er Mahasangram’ (The Great Battle for the Throne) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024. The channel is devoted to offering unrivaled coverage and insights into the elections, and it is fully prepared to keep viewers intrigued and informed throughout this crucial period.

    News18 Bangla’s election programming kicks off with a variety of interesting shows, each designed to provide unique perspectives on the election dynamics. Mentioned below is the lineup:

    Neta joy Janata: This program will take viewers on a journey to various constituencies across the state, giving voice to the concerns and perspectives of ordinary citizens. The show will be aired from Monday to Sunday from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM

    Tarakar Kendra: This program will focus on celebrity candidates in the election, providing insight into their campaign activities as they compete for political office. This program will air every Sunday from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM

    Janatar Darbar: This show will include notable politicians from various parties participating in discussions and responding to questions raised by the audience in a studio setting located in Kolkata. The show will be aired, Monday to Thursday from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM

    Hot Spot: This show will cover key constituencies in West Bengal, recording local issues, people’s opinions, and explosive remarks made by candidates and leaders. The program will air Monday to Friday from 10:00 PM to 10:30 PM

    Soja Sapta: This show will be a unique debate show that provides a platform where politicians, intellectuals, thinkers, and policymakers come together on a single stage to exchange their diverse perspectives. The nature of the show is bold, ensuring that the concerns and challenges of the average person are heard by politicians and policymakers. This show will be aired on Fridays from 8.00 PM to 9.00 PM

    Voter Bhabishyat: This travelogue show will be aired in primetime with Chief Editor, Biswa Majumdar visiting several small towns and cities in West Bengal. It will look at the history, traditions, and contemporary political scene of many districts in West Bengal, including contributions from political analysts and celebrities.  The show will be airing on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 PM to 10:30 PM.

    With extensive ground-zero coverage, interviews with key political players, and exciting special programming, News18 Bangla is poised to be the go-to channel for all things related to Lok Sabha Elections 2024. The channel will also conduct one-on-one interviews with heavyweight political personalities from both the ruling party and the opposition. A recent example of such an interview featured Abhishek Banerjee, a member of the ruling party in West Bengal. This particular interview has garnered over five million views across Facebook and YouTube, with the view count continuing to rise.

  • Times Network launches ‘Election Yatra’ on Times Now and Times Now Navbharat

    Times Network launches ‘Election Yatra’ on Times Now and Times Now Navbharat

    Mumbai: As the anticipation for the upcoming general elections in India intensifies, Times Network, India’s premium broadcast network announces Election Yatra, a first of its kind initiative in Indian news television. Led by the Network’s leading English and Hindi news channels, Times Now and Times Now Navbharat, Election Yatra is a state-of-the-art mobile studio that will traverse the length and breadth of the country, capturing the essence of democracy in action.

    Covering 8,000 kms over a period of 40 days until the end of May, Times Now’s Election Yatra will travel across 38 cities in 9 states, including Delhi-Noida, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Embarking on a 60-day journey until June 04, Times Now Navbharat’s Election Yatra will extensively cover the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and beyond.

    With an unwavering commitment to bringing comprehensive and in-depth election reportage, Election Yatra breaks away from the typical in-studio format and delves deep into the heart of the Indian electorate, presenting incisive and accurate analysis directly from the ground. Helmed by the prominent prime time anchors of Times Now and Times Now Navbharat, this unique initiative serves as the definitive platform for insightful analysis, dynamic debates, and unparalleled coverage of the Indian electoral landscape.

    Speaking about this pioneering initiative, Times Now and Times Now Navbharat group editor in chief Navika Kumar said, “Election Yatra is our endeavour to bring the political discourse closer to the people. By mobilizing our mobile studio and journeying into the heart of the nation, we are committed to capture the essence of democracy firsthand and provide our viewers with a deep understanding of the crucial issues in the upcoming elections, empowering them with informed perspectives to shape the future of our democracy”.

  • Punit Misra quits as ZEE’s president of content and international markets

    Punit Misra quits as ZEE’s president of content and international markets

    Mumbai: In yet another jolt, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd’s (ZEEL) president of content and international markets Punit Misra has handed over his resignation to the MD & CEO.

    In an official resignation letter addressed to Mr Punit Goenka, Misra wrote, “Please accept my resignation from the services of ZEEL. It has been an incredible seven years and six months of learning, contributing and growing the people and business along with the team, and I am proud of what has been achieved. Thank you for all your support and guidance over these years, without which achieving what has been achieved would not have been possible.”

    He added, “It’s the right time to now move on to the next phase of my professional journey, and I seek your best wishes for the same. I will work out the specifics of the next steps with Animesh, under guidance from you. Thanks once again for all your support through these years.”

    In his role as president, Punit was responsible for overseeing content across ZEE’s television network and its digital platform, ZEE5, on both domestic and global scales. Additionally, he was tasked with managing ZEEL’s international operations, which extended to 190 countries.

     

  • Pioneering Change: Zee Media’s evolution with strategic leadership

    Pioneering Change: Zee Media’s evolution with strategic leadership

    Mumbai: Zee Media Corporation Ltd is thrilled to announce its significant expansion within its leadership team, marking a decisive stride towards fortifying its position in both linear and digital media spheres. Welcoming aboard seasoned industry stalwarts heralds a meaningful stride and steps forward towards excellence and innovation, ensuring Zee Media remains at the forefront of the evolving media landscape.

    Tejas Soni, with over 19 years of sales and media management experience, has joined Zee Media as branch head of sales (North), while Moumita Ghosh returns as branch head – sales (South), bringing with her over 16 years of sales and marketing expertise. Additionally, Mr. Darius Maneckji joins as revenue management – branch head – sales (West), equipped with a wealth of strategic acumen and a successful track record in revenue management.

    Tejas’s diverse background in OTT, sports, entertainment, and English news sectors positions him as a key asset in expanding Zee Media’s influence in the Northern zone, emphasizing our strategic focus on broadening reach and revenue streams in this critical region. In the Southern zone, Moumita Ghosh’s proven track record in market presence establishment and her customer-centric approach perfectly align with our objectives of driving growth and fostering partnerships.

    Bringing over 22 years of experience in sales, marketing, and advertising, Darius is appointed as the branch head of sales (West) for Zee Media’s linear properties. In this role, he will oversee revenue management for ZMCL Linear Properties in the West region, spearheading growth through strategic decision-making and fostering collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders. Reporting directly to ZMCL’s Chief Revenue Officer, his leadership is poised to enhance Zee Media’s market presence and competitive advantage through the implementation of innovative revenue strategies.

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha underscored the significance of these strategic moves, stating, “As we embark on this journey with our new team members, it’s imperative to recognize that their integration into our organization signifies more than just the filling of positions. It represents the convergence of diverse experiences and talents, laying the groundwork for our collective future. Each individual brings a unique perspective, enriching our collaborative efforts as we navigate the evolving landscape ahead. Together, we’re not merely spectators; we’re active participants in shaping our destiny. Every decision made, every challenge overcome, and every milestone achieved is a testament to our unwavering dedication to realizing our shared vision of sustained growth and success. Through mutual respect, open communication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, we will forge ahead, united in purpose and driven by the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.”

    ZMCL chief revenue officer Mona Jain further added, “As we strengthen Zee Media’s sales team, we’re embarking on an exhilarating journey poised at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Our vision is to not only embrace the evolving landscape of media consumption but to lead the charge. With exciting plans unfolding in both the linear and digital spheres, we are primed to showcase the formidable proposition and enduring legacy of our network to the market. This is more than just a strategy; it’s a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering excellence and pushing boundaries. Together, we’re shaping the future of media and writing a new chapter of success for Zee Media.”

    These strategic appointments empower Zee Media Corporation Ltd to capitalise on emerging opportunities and maintain its momentum of success in the fiercely competitive media sector.

  • Disney Star delivers biggest IPL with 35 crore viewers for first 10 matches

    Disney Star delivers biggest IPL with 35 crore viewers for first 10 matches

    Mumbai: Disney Star, the official broadcaster of TATA IPL 2024, has shattered all viewership records for the first 10 matches of the marquee tournament. As per BARC, 35 crore viewers tuned in to watch the live broadcast of the first 10 IPL matches, higher than any previous edition of the tournament including seasons played during the pandemic. The overall watch-time for the tournament has sky-rocketed to 8028 crore minutes which is 20 per cent higher than last year. Powered by a wide array of fan-centric initiatives, enriched programming, and a compelling marketing campaign, match ratings for season 17 of the tournament have also galloped 22 per cent compared to the last edition. With the Rivalry Week between 8 and 14 April, the broadcaster is geared to take the tournament buzz even higher.  

    Disney Star head – sports Sanjog Gupta said, “We are overwhelmed with the record-breaking viewing figures for TATA IPL 2024. Disney Star has started season 17 from where it left off last year, doubling down on fan-centred initiatives that seek to drive passion and fandom for the tournament. The unwavering support and love received from fans and audiences alike is an affirmation of Star Sports’ belief in the aggregative capacity of IPL on TV as well as its potential for further growth. The figures also reflect the success of our endeavour to enhance the IPL viewing experience through broadcast and programming innovations, including HDR-enhanced 4K, interactive services, and multi-platform fan engagement. We continue to remain committed to our vision of serving sports fans and recruiting new audiences.”

    Disney Star is broadcasting TATA IPL 2024 across 14 feeds in 10 languages with a special feed in Indian sign language for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and visually impaired fans. The marketing campaign for the edition 17 of the tournament – “AJAB IPL KE GAJAB RANG” – was based on the tournament insight that a fan’s true colours are seen through the ebbs and flows of one’s team’s performance in the tournament and that the same moment in IPL is experienced very differently by different viewers.

    Disney Star also launched several new programming initiatives including custom highlights catering to different cohorts of fans, shows like Cheeky Singles (hosted by Asia’s largest YouTuber – Carry Minati), and activations to collaborate with the content creator ecosystem across platforms. It has also introduced a special broadcast for kids every Sunday afternoon – Super Funday – to better serve 8-12 year olds and continues to power activations like Star Nahi Far, which bring fans closer to the superstars.

    *ALL BARC DATA 2+U+R*
     

  • TAM Sports: IPL 17 ad volumes surge by four per cent in seven matches

    TAM Sports: IPL 17 ad volumes surge by four per cent in seven matches

    Mumbai: TAM Sports has released an IPL report based on the first seven matches of IPL 17 and for all the channels on which matches are telecasted.

    IPL 17 ad volumes surge by four per cent over the previous season’s seven match span.

    The count of categories in IPL 17 increased significantly by 65 per cent compared to IPL 16. Also, the count of advertisers increased by 28 per cent during IPL 17 over IPL 16.

    In categories, Ecom-Gaming, maintained its top position throughout all the seven matches of IPL 17. The top five categories in IPL 17 together had 52 per cent share of ad volumes. Ecom-Gaming & Pan Masala were the only common categories in IPL 17 and IPL 16. Out of the total five categories, two of them belonged to F&B sector in IPL 17. The top five advertisers of IPL 17 contributed 34 per cent share of ad volumes with Sporta Technologies leading the list. Sporta Technologies, Vishnu Packaging and Bharti Airtel were the common advertisers between IPL 17 & IPL 16. Among the top five advertisers in IPL 17, Sporta Technologies retained its 1st position during all the seven matches.

    30 new categories and 55 new brands advertised in seven matches of IPL 7 compared to the same number of matches in IPL 16. Among the 55 new brands, ‘Parle Food Products’ was the leading brand followed by ‘Airtel Xstream Fiber’.

  • Chennaiyin FC & Norwich City FC Collaborate for Football Development and Global Outreach

    Chennaiyin FC & Norwich City FC Collaborate for Football Development and Global Outreach

    Mumbai: Chennaiyin FC and English football club Norwich City FC are delighted to announce a strategic partnership aimed at fostering mutual growth, innovation, and collaboration in football. This partnership brings together two esteemed football clubs from different parts of the world, united in their commitment to excellence on and off the pitch.

    A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the clubs on Wednesday in Chennai during a press conference that was attended by Ekansh Gupta, Vice President of Chennaiyin FC, alongside Sam Jeffery, Commercial Director at Norwich City FC.

    Chennaiyin FC and Norwich City FC bring to the partnership a wealth of experience, expertise, and unique footballing philosophies. By joining forces, the clubs will create a platform for the exchange of knowledge, technical expertise, coaching methodologies, and player development strategies.

    “We are delighted to unveil our collaboration with Norwich City. Let me be clear: this is far from a mere marketing ploy. We anticipate significant advancements for our developmental teams through this partnership. I am confident that we can assist Norwich City in achieving their aim of establishing a presence within the Indian sports ecosystem,” commented Chennaiyin FC vice president Ekansh Gupta.

    Both Chennaiyin FC and Norwich City FC are led by women entrepreneurs, Vita Dani and Delia Smith, who are focused on harnessing the power of the sport and developing local talent.

    Commenting on the partnership Norwich City FC commercial director Sam Jeffery said: “This is an extremely exciting moment for Norwich City as we enter into our partnership with Chennaiyin FC, and with it the Indian football market.

    “India has the fastest growing sports economy in the world, and football is the fastest growing participation sport here too. We believe there’s significant commercial opportunity in this fantastic part of the world, and we’re really excited to build a mutually beneficial and culturally authentic collaboration with our friends at Chennaiyin FC.”

    Chennaiyin FC brings to the partnership a deep understanding of the Indian football landscape, offering valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities of operating in this market. Additionally, the club is eager to facilitate cultural exchange programs and collaborate on joint marketing initiatives to engage diverse audiences and promote the vision of both clubs.

    Norwich City FC’s technical expertise and involvement in workshops and seminars will play a crucial role in enhancing coaching standards and methodologies at Chennaiyin FC. Active participation in youth development programs, including talent identification processes and coaching clinics, will further strengthen the impact of the partnership.

    Periodic friendly matches and training camps organised by both clubs will provide valuable exposure to players and contribute to the growth of football in their respective regions.

    Norwich City have won the League Cup twice, in 1961-62 and 1984-85, and finished third in the 1992-93 season of the English Premier League. They also clinched the EFL Championship title in the 2018-19, and 2020-21 seasons. They are currently in sixth position in the ongoing season of the Championship, keeping themselves in the race for a Premier League promotion.

    Chennaiyin FC are currently competing in the ISL 2023-24 with their next match scheduled against Jamshedpur FC in Chennai on Thursday, their hopes for a top-six finish, are very much alive. 

  • Colors Kannada’s ‘Hosa Bannada Shubharambha’ aims to celebrate Ugadi with audiences

    Colors Kannada’s ‘Hosa Bannada Shubharambha’ aims to celebrate Ugadi with audiences

    Mumbai: Known for its successful execution of diverse creative shows, Colors Kannada has announced a feast of entertainment for the coming New Year, Ugadi. Upholding its commitment to round-the-clock entertainment, Colors Kannada has unveiled a lineup of new shows that will mark the celebration with daily episodes, starting from Ugadi itself.

    As the festival Ugadi signifies treating joy and sorrow equally with fresh mind space and approach, Colors Kannada will introduce a new culinary show, a star-studded festival celebration, and a new fiction show featuring the comeback of a popular television superstar from the Kannada GEC.

    As a treat to audiences throughout the year, Colors Kannada has already announced SaviRuchi Season 3, scheduled to air weekdays (Monday-Saturday) from 9 April at 12 noon. The show’s promos have become a hot topic on social media, generating much discussion among viewers.

    Embracing the new year with renewed energy and positivity, Colors Kannada is all set to present “Colorfull Ugadi,” a star-studded celebration featuring television superstars from all Colors Kannada fiction shows.

    “Colorfull Ugadi” will showcase the vibrant energy of Colors Kannada’s television superstars. Hosted by the effervescent Niranjan Deshapande and viewers’ favorite Sushma Rao, the show promises an entertainment extravaganza with dance, games, and performances by talents from Colors Kannada’s fiction and non-fiction shows.

    But that’s not all! The show will also be graced by the presence of renowned film actor Satish Ninasam and WPL-2024 champion Shreyanka Patil. “Colorfull Ugadi” will witness a reunion of the entire Colors Kannada family, much anticipated after the Anubandha Awards. The show premieres exclusively on Colors Kannada on April 7th at 6:30 PM.

    In an addition to the fervor of Ugadi, Colors Super will bring three superhit Nick toons Paw Patrol (9AM), Pakdam Pakdai (10AM) and Shiva (6PM), dubbed in Kannada on an exclusive kids’ band called Balavana to treat kids to their favorite Nick shows during their summer vacations starting 15 April. Simultaneously, Colors Kannada Cinema will also premiere blockbuster movies under the title of Cine Ugadi on the day of the festival.

    Colors Kannada business head Prashanth Nayak said, “This year, we celebrate this Ugadi with a theme Hosa Bannada Shubharambha (A new beginning of bonding) and we give this to our audiences. We feel very blessed that audiences of Colors Kannada across the state have always supported us with love and affection. As part of our continued bonding with our audiences, we are coming up with the launch of fresh contents. We take this pride to be part of bringing our audiences’ emotions on screen and we term this as the most perfect way to celebrate Ugadi with us.”

    Continuing the Ugadi spirit, Colors Kannada is set to launch a new fiction show marking the comeback of a famous television personality who garnered a massive fan following during their previous stint with Colors Kannada. The new show is expected to air just days after the new year begins.

    Speaking about Colors Kannada’s plans, Viacom18 cluster head Sushma Rajesh said, “As a brand, Colors Kannada has always been a pioneer in bringing shows that resonate with our audiences’ emotions. We consistently present unique storylines that celebrate family bonding and values of nativity. This is evident in the fact that shows launched on Colors Kannada’s unique stories have already travelled across the country. We are confident that the new year will bring a whole new level of connection with our audience. We wish everyone a very Happy Ugadi with our exciting new lineup of shows. 

  • Explore a summer of intrigue with Sony BBC Earth’s exclusive lineup

    Explore a summer of intrigue with Sony BBC Earth’s exclusive lineup

    Mumbai: This April, Sony BBC Earth brings in a mixed bag of content, poised to captivate hearts, invigorate minds, and spark the spirit of adventure. Showcasing the world through the lens of people with autism spectrum disorder, the channel premieres ‘Inside The Autistic Mind’, ‘Big Little Journeys’ which takes people through the real-life adventures of six tiny animals, whereas ‘Jack The Ripper: A Case Reopened’ investigates one of the biggest unsolved mysteries in criminal history.

    The diverse content line-up is all set to appeal to viewers of all ages. ‘Inside The Autistic Mind’ delves into the lives of two remarkable individuals, each navigating the complexities of autism with courage and resilience. Presented by the illustrious Chris Packham, the series aims at creating awareness about autism along with showcasing how empathy plays an important role in dissolving certain barriers. The show premiered on 2 April 2024, at 12:00 pm and 09:00 pm, with a repeat telecast on Saturday and Sunday i.e., 6 and 7 April respectively.

    Trailing six tiny animals as they travel to the unknown is Sony BBC Earth’s ‘Big Little Journeys’. The series aims to give viewers a glimpse into the lives of these tiny but mighty creatures such as the endangered golden-headed lion tamarins in Brazil, gymnastic bushbabies in South Africa, and the rare Taiwanese Formosan pangolin. Viewers can watch the survival strategies of these animals, as they overcome obstacles, fight predators, and hunt for their families on 14 April, Sunday at 12:00 pm and 09:00 pm.

    Taking viewers back in time to the fog-drenched streets of Victorian London, ‘Jack The Ripper: A Case Reopened’ is a perfect specimen of modern forensic science meeting historical enigma. Premiering 20 April 2024, on Sunday at 09:00 pm, the show introduces the team of forensic experts and senior police officers who utilized forensic psychology techniques for the identification of the serial killer.

    This April, mark your calendars to watch ‘Inside The Autistic Mind’, ‘Big Little Journeys’, and ‘Jack The Ripper: A Case Reopened’ only on Sony BBC Earth.
     

  • Vikram Sharma to lead consumer products for Warner Bros. Discovery in Asia-Pacific

    Vikram Sharma to lead consumer products for Warner Bros. Discovery in Asia-Pacific

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products head Robert Oberschelp announced that Vikram Sharma has been named group vice president, head of consumer products, APAC, effective 1 April.  Sharma will report to Oberschelp, Head of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), and part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s Revenue & Strategy division helmed by chief revenue & strategy officer Bruce Campbell.

    Sharma will lead the APAC region of WBDGCP following longtime global consumer product executive Julian Moon’s previously announced retirement after 33 years with the company. He will be based in Singapore and continue to work closely with WBD’s Head of APAC, James Gibbons, and with other regional and country leadership to drive and develop strategic, operational, and financial initiatives to maximize the potential of key brands and franchises, including DC, Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Tom and Jerry, Discovery and more, in support of WBD’s global multi-billion-dollar retail consumer products licensing organisation.  

    Sharma has been with WBD for five years, working and leading teams in consumer products and licensing, ad sales, and partnership roles across multiple territories in the region. Previously, he spent nearly nine years in similar roles with increasing responsibility in India and Southeast Asia with The Walt Disney Company.

    In announcing the appointment, Oberschelp said, “Vikram has been one of our go-to, results-oriented leaders in Asia-Pacific for some time.  His depth of knowledge of the vastly different markets and cultures of the region, along with his innovative and collaborative spirit, makes him the right choice for this time”.  Oberschelp also recognized the strong team Sharma will now lead, adding, “We have a terrific internal creative and products team, great country and regional partners, and very strong bench strength in management.  I’m grateful for everyone’s collaboration and support of this choice, and I will join you in congratulating Vikram on his leadership role”.