ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • BHOJPURI STARS CELEBRATE HOLI WITH B4U BHOJPURI AT VARANASI GHAT

    BHOJPURI STARS CELEBRATE HOLI WITH B4U BHOJPURI AT VARANASI GHAT

    Mumbai: B4U is one of Bharat’s oldest & leading entertainment networks with bouquet of 5 popular channels across 3 genres (B4U Music, B4U Movies, B4U Kadak, Dhamaka Movies & B4U Bhojpuri). Spanning across 3 Decades the network is dedicated to deliver quality & entertaining content to its viewers.

    The network recently organized a mega Holi event at the pious & famous Assi ghat of Varanasi, which saw the presence of almost all popular Bhojpuri stars. Eminent personalities like Hon’ble MP Shri Manoj Tiwari, Hon’ble MP Shri Dinesh Lal Yadav, Shri Khesari graced the event with their presence. The event was one of its kind wherein a beautiful set was created on the theme of Bhojpuri Holi at the ghats of revered river Ganga.

    All Bhojpuri stars performed and created magic through their singing & dancing performances. The event also saw some Impromptu singing performances by stalwart of Bhojpuri industry Shri Manoj Tiwari ji, which he is famous for.  

    On this occasion, Pawan Kumar Sharma (Business Head-B4U Network) said “B4U brand has always believed in providing quality & entertaining content to its audience. We strongly believe that as content provider, we owe a great responsibility towards our viewers and society at large and that’s visible through the type of content we’ve been producing for our leading channel-B4U Bhojpuri. We won’t shy away to admit that we’ve been the initiator & flag bearer of producing family content for Bhojpuri Market, which has worked really well and we are happy to see other players also adding great value by contributing to this trend. We carry a vison of not only setting new benchmarks for our product (B4U Bhojpuri), but contributing to the lives of each and every member of Bhojpuri cinema industry too.” He further added, “talking of about this mega event, I can proudly say that this event will definitely reverberate as one of the biggest ever Holi event done on Bhojpuri Landscape. We intentionally chose Varanasi as a Venue, being a strong Bhojpuri stronghold (being epicenter of Purvanchal) and most importantly the cultural and spiritual relevance attached with the place too.

    Sandeep Singh (Head Programming; B4U Bhojpuri) said that “ We at  B4U Bhojpuri are always eager to explore new possibilities in Bhojpuri genre. We ventured into home Production of Movies  and the same has done phenomenally well, breaking all records. Movies such as Badki didi, Saas Anadi Bahu Khiladi, Bahu Rani Saas Maharani, are ruling the TRP Charts. We followed the same excellence while designing Holi event also, which saw participation from all mega stars of Bhojpuri Industry and certainly a unique event in this genre. Look forward to create more magic

    Johnson Jain (CR0-B4U) said that our Holi extravaganza in Varanasi serves as a testament to our commitment to connecting with our audience at the grassroots level, while simultaneously diversifying revenue streams. Through this initiative, we leverage our expertise not only for our own benefit but also to offer innovative solutions to our partners in pursuit of growth

    We want to thank our partners @ITC @Coca Cola @P&G and @Adani for being part of this celebrations and showing trust in the brand. We stand committed together to cater to our consumers and provide best quality products.

    The said event will be telecasted on the day of Holi on 24th March 2024 at 6Pm and on 25th March 2024 at 10am on leading Bhojpuri channel-B4U Bhojpuri. 

  • The power of music in storytelling: Going beyond visuals in scripts

    The power of music in storytelling: Going beyond visuals in scripts

    Mumbai: In the realm of storytelling, where words sometimes fall short in capturing emotions, music emerges as a powerful language that bridges the gap. It not only complements the narrative but also enhances the viewer’s experience by filling the spaces between the lines with raw emotion. This article delves into the profound impact of music in storytelling, drawing insights from personal experiences and industry experts.

    Unlocking emotions:

    Giving an example of the recently released series Chamak on SonyLiv which is a crime drama set in the vibrant music industry of Punjab, where a son seeks revenge for his father’s untimely demise. In such narratives, where emotions run deep and words seem inadequate, music steps in as the silent yet eloquent narrator. It has the remarkable ability to evoke feelings that transcend language barriers, resonating with audiences worldwide.

    Creating Atmosphere :

    Beyond just accompanying scenes, music has the power to shape the entire atmosphere of a story. Whether it’s a haunting melody or an uplifting tune, the right composition can transport viewers into the heart of the narrative, immersing them in its world. From the poignant strains of a piano to the lively beats of a Punjabi folk song, each note adds depth and texture to the storytelling canvas.

    Enhancing performances:

    In the hands of skilled filmmakers, music becomes a transformative tool that can elevate performances and transcend the limitations of actors. Background scores not only underscore the emotions portrayed on screen but also have the ability to mask flaws and enhance the impact of both good and mediocre acting. Through strategic use of music, directors can breathe life into characters and evoke a spectrum of emotions in their audience.

    Time travel through music:

    One of the most remarkable aspects of music in storytelling is its ability to transcend time and space. Iconic themes like the haunting melody from “Karz” or the soul-stirring mouth organ theme from “Sholay” have become timeless classics, capable of transporting listeners back to a bygone era with just a few notes. Similarly, modern hits like the soundtrack of “Aashiqui 2” have the power to evoke feelings of love and nostalgia, tapping into universal emotions that resonate across generations.

    Storing emotions in melodies:

    What makes music truly powerful is its ability to encapsulate emotions within melodies, creating pockets of nostalgia that can be revisited time and again. Just like revisiting an old photograph brings back memories of a specific moment, hearing a familiar song can stir up emotions associated with past experiences. These emotional connections forged through music have the power to enrich storytelling, creating lasting impressions on audiences.

    In conclusion, the power of music in storytelling cannot be overstated. From evoking raw emotions to shaping entire atmospheres, music serves as a universal language that transcends the boundaries of culture and language. By harnessing the emotive power of music, storytellers can create immersive experiences that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. As we continue to explore the endless possibilities of storytelling, let us never underestimate the transformative impact of a well-composed melody.

    The article has been authored by filmmaker, director and producer Rohit Jugraj.

  • Star Sports sees a 24 per cent increase in overall build-up programming reach ahead of IPL 2024

    Star Sports sees a 24 per cent increase in overall build-up programming reach ahead of IPL 2024

    Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of Tata IPL 2024, has already set new viewership benchmarks for the upcoming season. Since the commencement of its IPL build-up programming, Star Sports has witnessed a remarkable 24 per cent increase in viewership compared to last year, reaching an astounding 245 million viewers as of 15 March 2024. The total consumption for build-up programming has soared to 21.3 billion minutes, an impressive 26 per cent higher compared to last year. This unprecedented engagement, even before a ball is bowled, highlights the overwhelming popularity, enhanced storytelling in multiple languages, and the network’s connection with fans across different cohorts.

    Star Sports has left no stone unturned in delivering an exciting opening. Viewers on TV will get to see exclusive interviews with 8 of the 10 IPL captains on their vision for the upcoming tournament. Outside of the opening ceremony, Star Sports will be airing exclusive content with some of the biggest celebrities including Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, Kareena Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, A R Rahman, Vijay Devarakonda, Prabhudeva and many more.

    With a Starcast of more 150 commentators and presenters, including former players with more than 40 IPL titles among them, 12 IPL team coaches, 18 World Cup Winners, 12 international captains and more, viewers can expect an engaging broadcast. There is already a lot of excitement for the comeback of Navjot Singh Sidhu in the Star Sports commentary box after almost a decade.

    This weekend, Star Sports will also be premiering some of their innovations. The biggest one being the AI technology that enables international commentators to speak Hindi in their original voice, connecting with a wider audience during the thrilling TATA IPL 2024 matches throughout the season. Additionally, the ‘Shor Meter,’ will capture real-time crowd noise decibel levels, quantifying the nation’s passion for their biggest heroes and best cricketing moments.

    The official IPL broadcaster has always believed in customising feeds. Along with the focus on languages, Star Sports is going to be launching a special feed for hearing-impaired and visually-impaired fans- Indian Sign Language feed. In addition, kids can enjoy a special Sunday feed to get closer to the game. Also, for the first time, the broadcaster is producing IPL in the unmatched combination of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.

    Star Sports is geared up for an electrifying season that promises fans unprecedented access, cutting-edge technology, and a star-studded lineup of cricketing legends and esteemed commentators.

    Watch the thrilling action of the TATA IPL 2024 on television live from 22 March only on the Star Sports Network.

  • NDTV Battleground: Decoding Maharashtra’s political landscape

    NDTV Battleground: Decoding Maharashtra’s political landscape

    Mumbai: NDTV’s legacy program Battleground is back with Sanjay Pugalia, editor-in-chief, NDTV Network at the helm. The platform delves deep into the intricacies of seat distribution in upcoming elections, challenges for the current government and the opposition, and much more with the foremost experts in the field. The first episode, brought together a panel of esteemed experts to dissect the dynamics shaping the electoral battleground in Maharashtra, just a month before the elections.

    The discussion, aired on 18 March 2024, offered invaluable insights into the current political scenario, policy perspectives, growth indicators, and challenges confronting both the ruling coalition and the opposition in Maharashtra. With two significant political realignments in the past three years, including the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, the state’s political landscape has witnessed considerable shifts, setting the stage for a fiercely contested electoral battle.

    The panelists engaged in a robust exchange of ideas and analyses, covering a wide array of topics crucial to understanding Maharashtra’s electoral dynamics. From the impact of electoral bonds on political funding to the intricacies of affordable housing projects and the imperative of cooperative federalism, the discussions provided a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted issues influencing voter sentiments and electoral outcomes.

    Notable highlights from the discussion include observations from political strategists like Amitabh Tiwari, who emphasized the complexity of voting behaviour and the significance of late deciders and floating voters in shaping election results. Chief economist of Axis Bank Neelkanth Mishra stressed on the importance of infrastructure development in driving growth and addressing key challenges such as unemployment, while political analyst Manisha Priyam shed light on the evolving perceptions of leadership and governance among voters. Understandings from panelists like Nilesh Shah, Managing Director of Kotak Mutual Fund, added depth to the discussion, highlighting the imperative of both cooperative federalism and competitive federalism in driving growth and development. His remarks emphasized the significance of fostering collaboration among states whilst promoting healthy competition to spur progress.

    Insights from senior journalists Rohit Chandavarkar and Sandeep Shastri further enriched the discussion, with Chandavarkar highlighting the pivotal role of Maharashtra as a deciding state due to its substantial electoral representation, and Shastri laid impetus on the standing of states like Maharashtra in reflecting the national mood.

    The panelists’ diverse perspectives and expert analyses underscored the nuanced nature of Maharashtra’s political landscape, characterized by a blend of regional dynamics, socio-economic factors, and ideological considerations. As Maharashtra braces for a pivotal electoral contest, the discussions on #BattlegroundOnNDTV provided stakeholders with valuable insights to navigate the complexities of the state’s political terrain.

    For further updates and in-depth analysis, viewers can tune in to NDTV for comprehensive coverage of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and stay informed about the latest developments shaping Maharashtra’s political landscape. Up next, NDTV heads towards Battleground Karnataka in the coming week.

  • Paramount Global get $11 billion buyout offer from Apollo Global

    Paramount Global get $11 billion buyout offer from Apollo Global

    MUMBAI: Even as the dust is settling on the $517 million Viacom18 television stake sale deal between Reliance and US media behemoth Paramount Global, comes the news that the latter itself is the target of a a buyout offer. The Wall Street Journal has reported that private equity firm Apollo Global Management, has made a $11 billion offer to the buy the film and television studio. 

    This is not the first acquisition offer that a reluctant controlling shareholder Shari Redstone has received. Earlier, the David Ellison-controlled production company Skydance Media had  proposed to buy Paramount parent National Amusements and fuse it with his firm as a whole. Skydance had bid in excess of $4 billion for a 70 per cent stake. Ellison’s offer – which plans to keep all the studio  assets but sell off the rest – is still on the table.

    Paramount Global’s assets include Paramount Pictures, broadcaster CBS, Viacom cable networks including MTV as well as PlutoTV. The media conglomerate has a current valuation in excess of $7.7 billion. 

    Earlier this month, Paramount’s chief financial officer Naveen Chopra had dismissed any move towards selling the company at a Morgan Stanley media conference. “From management’s perspective, we are focused on execution. And we believe the continued execution of our plan will unlock value. We’re very conscious of the fact that our job as management is to create value for all of our shareholders…To the extent that there are other alternatives, we’ll be diligent about exploring them,” he had said. 

    The company has been grappling with the changing dynamics of content consumption under CEO Bob Bakish. In its latest quarter overall revenue shaved six per cent year-on-year to $7.64 billion, worse than an expected $7.9 billion. TV media revenue and filmed entertainment revenues respectively fell 12 per cent to $5.17 billion and 31 per cent to $647 million. The saving grace was direct to consumer revenues which rose 34 per cent to $1.87 billion.

    “Our disciplined execution and strong content offering drove our results in 2023, as we continue to evolve our business for profitable growth in 2024 and beyond. In Q4, Paramount+ revenue increased 69 per cent,  direct to consumer adjusted Operating income before depreciation and amortization (OIBDA) improved for the third consecutive quarter, and we now expect to reach domestic Paramount+ profitability in 2025 – a significant milestone,” Bakish had told shareholders at the time of the earnings release. “Looking ahead, we continue to be focused on maximizing the return on our content investments and scaling streaming, while transforming the cost base of our business. And I couldn’t be more thrilled with the early momentum we’ve had across every platform in 2024, demonstrating the power of our strategy and assets.”

  • Five must-watch Hindi-dubbed series for max entertainment

    Five must-watch Hindi-dubbed series for max entertainment

    Mumbai: Embark on an exhilarating journey through the world of Hollywood’s finest series, now tailored to resonate with Hindi-speaking audiences worldwide. From gripping dramas to spine-chilling mysteries, these five must-watch series promise to transport you to realms of intrigue, suspense, and unbridled excitement. Whether you’re a fan of legal thrills, epic fantasy, or adrenaline-fueled heists, there is something here for everyone.

    Better Call Saul

    Set to premiere on Zee Cafe on 1 April at 10 pm, the series dubbed in Hindi has already become a much anticipated show, evident from fans’ reactions across the internet. The prequel to Breaking Bad follows Jimmy McGill’s transformation into the morally flexible lawyer ‘Saul Goodman’ played by Bob Odenkirk. Within the same universe as Breaking Bad, the series explores Saul’s backstory, his diverse clientele, and the intricate legal landscape. With stellar performances and captivating storytelling, Better Call Saul is essential viewing for fans craving intense drama and compelling character arcs.

    Breaking Bad

    Premiered as ‘Baap of all shows’ Breaking Bad in Hindi last year on Zee Cafe is a groundbreaking series that chronicles the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher, Walter White (Bryan Cranston), into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. Fueled by Bryan Cranston’s Emmy-winning performance as Walter White, this dark and gritty drama explores themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s choices. Dubbed in Hindi, the series retains its intensity and suspense, making it an unforgettable viewing experience.

    Game of Thrones

    Game of Thrones, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s renowned novels, takes viewers to the mythical realms of Westeros and Essos, where noble houses compete for the Iron Throne. The captivating fantasy series has entranced audiences across the globe with its intricate plotlines, well-developed characters, and stunning visuals. Watching Game of Thrones in Hindi offers an immersive experience, enhancing the enjoyment of its richly woven narrative and epic conflicts, making it a compelling choice for fans of fantasy and political drama.

    Stranger Things

    The series chronicles the adventures of a group of kids in Hawkins, a small town, as they confront supernatural entities and unravel government secrets. Drawing inspiration from iconic 80s cinema and television, this sci-fi horror masterpiece pays tribute to the pop culture of its era. With a blend of suspense, humour, and touching moments, Stranger Things has evolved into a cultural sensation, captivating audiences of every generation. Watching Stranger Things in Hindi offers a nostalgic journey infused with the essence of the era, making it an irresistible choice for viewers seeking immersive entertainment in their native language.

    Money Heist

    Money Heist follows the meticulous planning and execution of daring heists orchestrated by the enigmatic Professor and his team of skilled criminals. Set in Spain, this Spanish thriller is known for its adrenaline-pumping action, intricate plot twists, and complex characters. Dubbed in Hindi, the series has gained a massive international following and has become one of most popular offerings. With its high-stakes heists and gripping suspense, the series is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

    These series are not just dubbed, they are reimagined for Hindi audiences, ensuring a truly unforgettable viewing experience. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of Better Call Saul, Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, Stranger Things, and Money Heist. 

  • Star Sports and Tata Play roll out addressable ads to target affluent audiences this IPL season

    Star Sports and Tata Play roll out addressable ads to target affluent audiences this IPL season

    Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of Tata Indian Premier League (IPL), has announced an association with Tata Play, India’s leading DTH operator. Together, they are pioneering the introduction of targeted advertising on linear TV, during live sports broadcasts, beginning this IPL season, marking a significant first for the industry. This collaboration aims to provide advertisers with unprecedented access to the most premium audiences in the top eight metro cities, an important milestone in the realm of television advertising.

    For the first time ever, advertisers will have the opportunity to precisely target their ads to the most premium cohorts during live IPL matches on key Star Sports channels. Leveraging the targeting capabilities facilitated by Tata Play, brands can now connect with affluent viewers in metro markets like never before.

    “We are thrilled to join forces with Tata Play in revolutionizing the way advertisers engage with audiences during live sports broadcast, raising the bar for industry standards. The convergence of the largest DTH provider and the biggest TV network presents a significant advantage for advertisers. Tata Play’s affluent viewer-base in metropolitan areas, coupled with the precision in reaching these audiences, unlocks exciting advertising opportunity on the grand stage of IPL on Star Sports,” said Disney Star head – Network Advertising Sales Ajit Varghese.

    “Addressable Ads capability for unconnected boxes is a groundbreaking global first in Pay TV that will be introduced for the first time on live sports during Tata IPL. Our association with Disney Star has brought this to life and provided advertisers with opportunities never before. With this initiative, brands can now achieve even sharper targeting on live TV, setting a new standard for advertising effectiveness on linear TV,” said Tata Play CEO & managing director Harit Nagpal.

    The addressable advertising capability allows advertisers to reach their targeted audience at scale, making advertising more engaging, effective and cost-efficient. Tata Play has partnered with INVIDI and TAM for this initiative. While INVIDI will manage the tech aspect of addressable ads, TAM will facilitate audience measurement and monitoring.

  • My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay & CEAT join forces as official partners for TATA IPL

    My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay & CEAT join forces as official partners for TATA IPL

    Mumbai: In a development that adds significant value to the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL), BCCI announces the association of My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay & CEAT as official partners for the league.

    The collaboration with these esteemed brands marks a strategic move to enhance the overall experience for IPL fans and further elevate the premier cricketing extravaganza to new heights. Each partner brings a unique set of offerings and synergies that promise to contribute to the success and excitement of the tournament.

    My11Circle, a leading fantasy sports platform, is set to bring the thrill of fantasy cricket to fans. The brand will be associated with the league for the next five years. With innovative gameplay and exciting contests, My11Circle aims to engage cricket fans and offer them a unique and immersive fantasy gaming experience.

    Angel One, a prominent name in the financial services sector, joins hands with the TATA IPL to bring the worlds of sports and finance closer. A partnership that is set to last for the next five years, Angel One will provide valuable insights and engage cricket fans with interactive initiatives that combine the excitement of trading with the passion for cricket.

    RuPay, the indigenous card network of India, which has been an integral part of the TATA IPL in the previous seasons renews its partnership for the next three years. As an associate partner, RuPay will enhance the payment and transaction experience for fans attending the matches, offering exclusive benefits and promotions for RuPay cardholders.

    CEAT, that has been a pivotal partner over the years as the league’s Strategic Time-out partner has renewed its contract for five years. The collaboration between CEAT and TATA IPL is a testament to the shared values of performance, reliability, and resilience that both entities uphold.

    The partnerships promises a season filled with innovation, engagement, and unforgettable moments for cricket enthusiasts who are set to experience an IPL season like never before.

  • India has 678 million sports audiences: Ormax Sports Audience Report 2024

    India has 678 million sports audiences: Ormax Sports Audience Report 2024

    Mumbai: Media consulting firm Ormax Media has released its latest research report titled The Ormax Sports Audience Report: 2024. The report is based on India’s largest sports research, conducted between Nov 2023 and Jan 2024, among 12,000 audiences across urban and rural India. The report covers 21 sports, 53 sports tournaments, and 52 clubs & franchises, apart from several aspects related to sports viewing behaviour of Indian audiences.

    As per the report, India’s estimated sports audience base is a staggering 678 million (67.8 crore). Cricket, Football & Kabaddi are the top 3 sports, with audience base of 612, 305 & 208 million respectively.

    Speaking about the need for the report, Ormax Media founder & CEO Shailesh Kapoor said, “With an increase in digital consumption, TV viewership is no longer an accurate way of estimating sports consumption in a large and heterogenous country like India. This report is a part of our initiative to build industry data using primary audience research across various categories, and is a follow-up to reports like The Ormax OTT Audience Report, and Sizing The Cinema.”

    According to the report, Chennai Super Kings, Manchester United and Patna Pirates are the most-recalled franchises in each of the top 3 sports. For IPL, Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore take the second spot, after Chennai Super Kings.

    Virat Kohli is the most popular sportsperson in India, while MS Dhoni is ranked no. 2, despite having retired from professional cricket. The report has differences in popularity of various sports tournaments, franchises and players by various demographic and market segments, such as gender, age, NCCS, pop strata, and states.

    Speaking about the report, Keerat Grewal, Head – Business Development (TV, Streaming & Brands), Ormax Media, said: “The Ormax Sports Audience Report: 2024 looks at the Indian sports landscape from an audience-first perspective, and is a comprehensive reckoner for anyone looking at crafting a sports monetization, content or communication strategy for the Indian market, ranging from broadcasters, franchise owners, sports, associations, sports management firms, and advertisers”.