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  • Swastik Productions appoints Manish Agarvwal as head of digital, marcom & special projects

    Swastik Productions appoints Manish Agarvwal as head of digital, marcom & special projects

    Mumbai: Swastik Productions, India’s largest and most versatile production house which has created stellar television series and digital content over the last 17 years, announces the appointment of Manish Agarvwal as the head of digital, marcom and special projects. Manish’s appointment reflects Swastik’s focused strategy in expanding its revenue and audience engagement.

    Manish brings valuable experience from his previous roles with a strong focus on digital revenue generation. In his role as the head of digital, marcom and special projects, Manish will lead the team to establish and implement efforts to drive digital revenues. This includes forming partnerships and expanding business in digital and special projects. In addition, Manish will spearhead the MarCom role at Swastik, reporting to its founder Siddharth Kumar Tewary. This role aligns with the company’s vision to grow its leadership in the industry.

    With over 17 years of experience in the industry, Manish has held key positions at major digital platforms and media houses. Before joining Swastik Productions, Manish worked in various roles at Zee Entertainment Pvt Ltd initially as a part of the hindi movies cluster and then as the Vice President and Head of Marketing for Zee Zest where he showcased his strategic prowess in handling the Zest’s channel and website, contributing to a significant market share in the lifestyle category. His journey also includes impactful positions at Loktantra Mediatech Pvt Ltd, where, as chief marketing officer he orchestrated a team of marketing professionals for a successful product launch and brand campaign. Manish’s diverse career comprises noteworthy roles at Times Television Network, Star TV Network, Sony Pictures Networks Distribution India, Publicis India, and Percept H, each adding layers to his extensive experience in marketing, brand management and strategic leadership.

    Speaking on the appointment Swastik Productions founder  Siddharth Kumar Tewary said, “We are excited to have Manish fuel Swastik’s digital growth. His qualified experience in the digital domain brings valuable insights to Swastik Productions. As we embark on a journey of continued growth and innovation, we look forward to simultaneously thriving in the digital landscape, as we do in television.”

    “I am delighted to join Swastik Productions to drive its growing audience engagement agenda. With a significant presence in television, we look forward to growing the franchise of our content and music on digital platforms too”, said Swastik Productions head of digital, marcom & special projects Manish Agarvwal.

  • News18 Assam-North East presents the cultural splendor of Magh Bihu in Assam

    News18 Assam-North East presents the cultural splendor of Magh Bihu in Assam

    Mumbai:  News18 North East Assam is pleased to announce a 11-day special program around Magh Bihu demonstrating its commitment to showcasing the essence of Assamese culture. Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu is a festival celebrated by the entire state as it marks the culmination of the harvest season in January. The exclusive program aims to capture the cultural heritage of Assam by capturing the festival’s traditions, music, and dance starting January 6.

    Assam, known as a microcosm of diverse cultures, is home to numerous tribes such as Bodo, Kachari, Karbi, Miri, Mishing, Rabha, Deuri, and Tiwa. Despite their unique traditions, Magh Bihu serves as a unifying force, bringing these communities together, and creating a vibrant and united picture of Assam’s rich cultural tapestry.

    News18 Assam-North East will broadcast over 30 hours of engaging programming daily from 6 to 16 January, 7:50 PM to 11:00 PM. The special lineup includes exclusive coverage and shows from 11 different towns across Assam, providing viewers with a front-row seat to the diverse traditions, local cuisine, enchanting musical performances, and cultural events that characterize each region’s distinct identity.

  • FIH signs four year partnership with Indian broadcaster Viacom18

    FIH signs four year partnership with Indian broadcaster Viacom18

    Mumbai: The International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced that it has signed a major media rights agreement with Indian broadcaster Viacom18. This agreement runs for a four year cycle (2023-2027) and includes all FIH events, except the FIH Nations Cup.

    Thanks to this partnership, the numerous Indian hockey fans will be able to watch on Viacom18 channels the upcoming FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers, the first ever FIH Hockey5s World Cup, the FIH Hockey Pro League, the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup and many more events!

    With India being such a historic powerhouse of global hockey, this agreement is a great asset to boost the popularity of the game in the country even further.

    Matches will be available on OTT platform JioCinema and Viacom18’s linear channels network Sports18.

    Viacom18 Sports head of strategy, partnerships & acquisitions Hursh Shrivastava said, “Hockey has been one of the most loved, followed and storied sports in India. The recent success of the Indian Men’s and Women’s National Team bodes well for the continuous growth of Hockey, and we are excited to bring unbridled access to millions of sports fans in India. The addition of world-class Hockey coverage reiterates our commitment to provide fans all-inclusive offerings of globally-acclaimed sports events.”

    Commenting on the agreement, FIH president Tayyab Ikram said: “As we’re enhancing our commercial and broadcast approach, this agreement with Viacom18 is a major step forward. It’s great support to be partnering with such a strong broadcaster in a country where hockey is so fundamentally and historically anchored, and where we continuously want to develop the game. On behalf of FIH, I would like to thank Viacom18 for joining our efforts to promote hockey in India even further.”

    #HockeyEquals

    #HockeyInvites

  • Sportz Interactive gears up for global growth in 2024

    Sportz Interactive gears up for global growth in 2024

    Mumbai: Sportz Interactive (SI), along with its Singapore-based parent company, Sportz Solutions Global, is gearing up for international expansion in 2024 with an enhanced solution suite focused on maximising fan affinity and commercialisation for sports organisations. Embarking on this journey with SI is the lead investor in the Sportz Group, Marathon Edge, a leading Private Equity investor. The Sportz Group also aims to set up offices in Europe later this year.

    For its next phase of global growth, the organisation is scaling up its products and services that focus on driving fan acquisition, retention and commercialisation for its customers through data, technology, and marketing solutions. The Sportz Group has also launched ‘Fanalytics’ as an offering that will help sports organisations get a deeper understanding of their fan base and drive tangible business outcomes.

    The Sportz Group also announced a new organisational structure to align with this new expansion strategy. Arvind Iyengar will continue to serve as CEO, Sportz Solutions Global as well as chairman, Sportz Interactive. Iyengar also confirmed the appointment of Siddharth Raman as the CEO of Sportz Interactive.

    Prior to this, Raman was deputy CEO and had joined SI as chief business officer in 2017. Sanket Sawkar, who is part of the founding team, will continue in his role as Group CTO and COO for Sportz Interactive.

    Founded in 2002, the organisation’s journey from a humble garage space to its current sporty ‘arena’ is a reflection of how the business has successfully evolved over the years – even during the pandemic years. The Sportz Group’s products and services have impacted millions of fans around the world. The organisation’s customers cover multiple stakeholders in the sports ecosystem including international federations, broadcasters, franchises, media houses, technology companies, brands, and sponsors from around the world. Some of its marquee clients include UEFA, The Olympics, NBA, F1, Google, BCCI, FIH, Jio Cinema, Dream11 and multiple IPL franchises.

    Sportz Solutions Global CEO and Sportz Interactive chairman  Arvind Iyengar said: “We are all extremely excited about the new solution suite we have developed that focuses on driving fan acquisition, retention, and commercialisation for our customers. These solutions, coupled with our core data, technology and content offerings provide a one-stop shop to organisations looking to supercharge their sports fan experience.”

    Speaking on the development, Marathon Edge partner Nikhil Raghavan added:  “Sports organisations around the world are grappling with how to engage and monetise their fan base in the digital world. The Sportz Group has shown incredible thought leadership in envisioning a solution suite that opens new revenue streams while also increasing fans’ affinity to their team or sport.”

  • Renowned Manorama Newsmaker Awards will flash the winner’s name on 14 January

    Renowned Manorama Newsmaker Awards will flash the winner’s name on 14 January

    Mumbai: Manorama News Newsmaker, the esteemed award from Manorama News gets into the final week of voting, the competition is heating up with four notable figures – cine director Jude Antony Joseph, Kerala legislative assembly speaker M N Shamseer, Congress leader Mathew Kuzhalnadan MLA, and ISRO chairman S Somanath. Those interested in participating and supporting their preferred candidate, can cast their votes on the website www.manoramanews.com/newsmaker or through the ManoramaMax platform.

    Over the years, the Newsmaker has played a pivotal role in honouring individuals who have left an impactful mark on society through their exceptional contributions. The prestigious accolade has been bestowed upon luminaries such as G. Madhavan Nair, Resul Pookutty, Mohanlal, Shashi Tharoor, and many others, across domains. The event has garnered immense significance for its association with renowned personalities and for its commitment to recognising excellence in all forms.

    The annual event has been graced by eminent presenters, adding a touch of grandeur to the recognitions. From the charismatic Amitabh Bachchan and the veteran actress Shabana Azmi to dignitaries like Governor Mohammad Arif Khan and the iconic cine actor Mammooty, the stage of Newsmaker has been adorned by the presence of illustrious personalities who themselves represent excellence in their respective fields.

    One of the distinctive features of Manorama Newsmaker is its inclusivity, as the awards span across various categories, ensuring representation from all walks of life. A notable instance is the awarding of fishermen for their heroic rescue activities during the 2018 Kerala floods, showcasing the event’s commitment to acknowledging acts of courage and selflessness beyond conventional spheres.

    Yet another distinctive feature of Newsmaker is its democratic approach to recognition, as winners are determined through public voting. This ensures that accolades resonate with the sentiments of the masses, reflecting the pulse of the people.

    As the Newsmaker continues to uphold its legacy, it remains a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the enduring spirit of achievement. Beyond a mere awards ceremony, it is a celebration of human excellence, making it an annual affair that is eagerly awaited and widely celebrated.

    The Newsmaker 2023 will be announced on 14 January 2023 at 9.00 PM on Manorama News.

  • Sony Entertainment Television’s exclusive linear TV airing of Shrimad Ramayan

    Sony Entertainment Television’s exclusive linear TV airing of Shrimad Ramayan

    Mumbai: Sony Entertainment Television (SET) celebrated the New Year by connecting with Indian television viewers through its exclusive linear TV airing of Shrimad Ramayan. Recognising the enduring allure of linear TV, the channel chose to launch the divine epic exclusively on cable TV and DTH platforms.

    Shrimad Ramayan resonates deeply with millions, portraying essential relationships amid inherent conflicts. The narrative of Lord Ram, the ‘Ideal Man,’ embodies timeless values such as integrity, loyalty, courage, love, and resilience. In an endeavour to echo the relevancy of the value that this timeless epic is known for, SET has created compelling short videos promoting the essence of relationships and essential life lessons

    Beyond the familiar story, Shrimad Ramayan will also showcase multiple untold stories, offering a nuanced understanding of the saga’s depth and eternal beauty. By exclusively releasing it on cable TV and DTH, Sony Entertainment Television aims to play a vital role in revitalizing family viewing.

    SPNI’s distribution marketing and sales head Makarand Palekar emphasises, “In my experience, while streaming services have become increasingly popular, linear TV remains a resilient and relevant part of the media landscape. It is not only coexisting with on- demand platforms but also adapting to evolving viewer habits, ensuring its continued presence in the foreseeable future.”

    Sony Entertainment Networks was amongst the earliest movers to make the bold, industry-first step of discontinuing all its Live TV channels on Sony LIV. This move along with exclusive Linear TV only releases like Srimad Ramayan will help create differentiated content, both in the linear & the OTT offerings of the network, thus helping drive viewership and revenues for both the mediums.

    The network, known for its novel and popular shows, features progressive storylines in existing shows like ‘Kavya – Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon,’ ‘Sapnon Ki Chhalaang,’ ‘Mere Dad ki Dulhan,’ and ‘Aangan.’ Upcoming shows such as ‘Mehndi Wala Ghar,’ ‘Kuch Reet Jagat Ki Aisi Hai,’ and ‘Nivedita Maajhi Tai’ promise a rich and diverse content mix.

    Undoubtedly these shows are a huge draw for viewers and also provide advertisers with distinct opportunities for targeted engagement and strategic product placements. Company anticipates that exclusive content like Shrimad Ramayan marks the beginning of a pivotal moment in the continued vitality of television entertainment. The distinctive allure of such shows, with their unique narratives and exclusive platform specific airing, is poised to significantly elevate viewership and reaffirm the enduring appeal of linear television.

  • Zee denies report of cancellation of merger

    Zee denies report of cancellation of merger

    Mumbai: The much-anticipated merger of Zee and Sony has come in a different mode on Tuesday. Zee clarified to the stock listing department about news led by the Economic Times and dismissed all claims of termination of the merger agreement costing Rs 10 billion.

    The company also said the report is baseless and factually incorrect. The news was published in ‘Economic Times’ titled, ‘ The Insider story of what went wrong over two years’. While clarifying these aspects, ‘ We wish to reiterate that the company is committed to the merger with Sony and continuing to work towards a successful closure of the proposed merger.’ Zee said in its released notification.

    Zee also clarifies to abide by commitment for all compliances to SEBI (Security Exchange Board of India) as per Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations 2015 and will continue to make disclosures in accordance with the same. Zee company secretary Ashish Agrawal shared disclosure clarification.

    After the closing bell shares of Zee Entertainment were down by 8 per cent. ET reported on January 9 regarding potential calling off the deal between Sony and Zee.

  • If not Sony, then who for Zee?

    If not Sony, then who for Zee?

    Mumbai: It’s on. It’s off. It’s on again. It’s off again. The yes and no speculation about the Zee Entertainment merger with Culver Max Entertainment (Sony in India) has been crazy enough to  blow one’s brains in almost every direction.

    Yesterday, Zee-baiters and haters must have gone all gleeful when Bloomberg broke the news that Sony is dis-inclined to go ahead with the fusion courtesy all the brouhaha that has been created around allegations that father Subhash Chandra and son Punit Goenka personally pocketed company-borrowed money. This despite, Punit was loathe to agree to Sony’s demand that he accede his position as CEO of the merged entity to Sony India head NP Singh. Indian media bit the bait of the “failed merger” news and went to town and proclaimed the death of the merged entity. Both Zee and Sony kept their lips zipped officially.  

    Towards evening came a report that a partnership might yet be in discussion splitting the odds equally. The reason: a penalty of $100 million will have to be paid out to Zee TV by Sony should they pull out of the merger, said a few newspaper reports. Others suggested Zee had failed to live up to many conditions precedent in the merger agreement documents between the two and hence a tremendous trust deficit has been built up between the two.  (These reports have since been denied by Zee in a regulatory filing and it has claimed that it is continuing to pursue the merger agreement).

    Sony has to respond to  Zee’s last month’s merger proposal and new conditions by 20-22 January and agree or disagree to the terms; it still has a lot of time to decide. Then why be in a rush to have anonymous sources make the revelation that its interest was off the table? Did the Bloomberg journo misquote the source? Or was Sony just testing how Zee would react to its disgruntlement? Would the latter take advantage of the stringent exit clause and howl or would it just walk away quietly?

    Whatever be Sony’s rationale, it’s imperative that it gets clarity sooner than later. That’s because a megalith is being created with the signing of an agreement between Mukesh Ambani’s Jio (Viacom18) and Disney’s India operations under Disney + Star India. The agglomeration of the two will create a giant which will control a sizeable chunk of the market by viewership. That’s something which many are saying could  harm the development of the media & entertainment vertical in the long term, especially placing oodles of power in the hands of one giant.

    Sectors do better when there is an equally fit No 2 giving the No 1 a run for its dollars. And a No 3 and a No 4. Muscle is needed to fight muscle. Sony, Zee, Sun TV on their own will be dwarfed in front of the Jio-Disney combine. Yes, we have gorillas like Netflix, Amazon, Google, Microsoft operating in India.  But one is not clear about how they will play their hand going forward. A few smaller players will innovate and through their nimble-footedness score a few points. But the advantage of scale of capital, content creation, distribution, and advertising inventory will lie with one major – Jio-Disney.

    We have seen how Jio has changed the dynamics of the telecom as well as streaming business, thanks to its humongous 400 million plus telco subscribers. Making premium sports and entertainment content available for free to subscribers can be a good customer acquisition strategy. But for how long will that go on and that too unchallenged?

    Cable TV operators have been crying foul to the regulator TRAI as the same content on cable TV and DTH is being levied at a fee to subscribers. True, the government wants to make TV available to many more though its free to air service DD FreeDish. For obvious reasons. It wants to be able to address large swathes of the  population across the nation on one platform, rather than have to engage with many more outlets. And it wants it to say what the powers-that-be want to say.

    In such a scenario, it’s imperative that consolidation in the industry is encouraged. So that balance and sanity are maintained.

    Let’s suppose that Sony is willing to let go of a hundred mill in penalties for calling off the merger. Will a corporate raider swoop in jostling out the promoters? Doubtful, considering media is a specialized business which is transforming so rapidly that no non-strategic corporate will be willing to lose billions of dollars in trying to set things right at Zee. Especially considering that its margins have been under pressure and how much cleaning up it needs on several fronts.

    Then, what are the white knight options left for Zee to get scale and get out of its financial commitments to debtors as well as get infusion of cash for growth.

    Private equity? Hedge funds with mountains of resources? They might be cautious, considering how Sony has fled from getting into bed with it.

    Could Adani be interested? He is yet digesting his news venture NDTV and digital acquisitions, so interest from his side might be lukewarm.

    Or could it be Kalanithi Maran’s Sun TV?

    It seems like a good fit. Both Chandra and Maran -run entrepreneurial organisations. Both are pioneers and the latter has so much cash, he does not know what to do with it. Sun TV is strong in the south, Zee TV has strengths in Hindi and some regional languages. Sun TV is nurturing a Hindi language entertainment channel. A joint venture will see lots of benefits accruing to both. The two business groups will have to keep aside the personal and professional differences of the promoters and look at long term survival and growth.

    But that’s in the future. Now, if Goenka and Chandra can find ways to assuage the miffed mood amongst executives in Sony headquarters, the story might have a fairy tale ending like the two want.

    The author is a media analyst. The views expressed in the comment piece are his own and indiantelevision.com need not subscribe to them.

  • ZEE Entertainment unveils star-studded commentator panel for DP World ILT20 Season 2

    ZEE Entertainment unveils star-studded commentator panel for DP World ILT20 Season 2

    Mumbai: ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL), the official broadcaster of DP World ILT20, has announced a star-studded panel of commentators for the league’s upcoming second season. The world’s second most-watched league will be brought to life by a panel rounded-off with some of the leading cricketing experts in the world. The voices behind some of the most iconic moments in the sport in recent years — Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Rohan Gavaskar, Saba Karim, Nikhil Chopra, Vivek Razdan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar, who will be joined by Alan Wilkins, Simon Doull, Daren Ganga, Danny Morrison and Niall O’Brien.

    With an illustrious array of distinguished personalities and renowned voices gracing the commentary panel, ZEE Entertainment promises to deliver captivating action from the league’s second season in an engaging and dynamic fashion. Former India captain Anjum Chopra as well as high-profile sports broadcasters Reema Malhotra and Natalie Germanos will be three esteemed female commentators on the panel.

    These accomplished individuals bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a deep passion for the game, promising to deliver comprehensive coverage and expert insights throughout the league’s upcoming season, elevating the cricket-viewing experience. The commentary will be available in English and Hindi languages.

    Starting 19th January 2024, cricket fans can watch this only global T20 league on Zee’s most widely distributed and viewed 10 linear TV channels: &Pictures, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema, Zee Zest, Zee Ganga, Zee Cinemalu HD, &Flix, &Flix HD and Zee Zest HD and leading OTT platform ZEE5. All single header matches will be broadcast Live at 8 pm India prime time, starting with the pre-match presentation at 7:30 pm. The afternoon match on the double-header’s day will start at 4:00 pm.

    Speaking on this announcement, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) president – business Rahul Johri said, “We are delighted to unveil our distinguished commentator panel for the upcoming DP World ILT20 Season 2. The expertise and diverse perspectives of our esteemed commentators will undoubtedly enhance the excitement surrounding this premier cricketing event. As the upcoming season boasts presence of some of the biggest cricket stars worldwide, DP World ILT20 promises to be one of the most-competitive cricket leagues globally. With the league’s rising stature and global appeal, we are thrilled to bring this cricketing spectacle for the audience across the world.”

    Expressing his enthusiasm for commentating at the DP World ILT20, Virender Sehwag exclaimed, “UAE’s meteoric rise as a cricketing powerhouse in recent years is truly remarkable, and the DP World ILT20 is undoubtedly another jewel in its cricketing crown. As the highly anticipated Season 2 of the league is around the corner, I am anticipating electrifying performances from power-packed players. Following the phenomenal success garnered by the league’s inaugural season, I am confident in ZEE’s unwavering commitment to amplify the league and offer an exhilarating experience on display for global audiences.”

    Speaking about commentating in DP World ILT20, former legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram said, “I am truly thrilled to be part of the commentary team for the second season of DP World ILT20. The three iconic venues in the UAE will serve as the canvas for some of the most prominent T20 stars to showcase their talent.”

    Adding to this, former English cricketer and well-known commentator Alan Wilkins said, “I am honoured to be part of the esteemed commentary panel for the upcoming season of DP World ILT20. The recognised global league will be a celebration of the spirit of cricket as the sporting extravaganza unfolds across the UAE. As the second-most watched T20 cricket league globally, I believe that ZEE Entertainment is committed to making the league bigger and better, offering a fresh and exciting experience to a global audience.”

    Former Indian cricketer Rohan Gavaskar said, “As we step into the exciting journey of the DP World ILT20’s second season, I invite viewers to get ready for a captivating cricket experience on &Pictures and ZEE5. Featuring a global array of talent and strategic team plays, this season promises fans worldwide a thrilling and engaging spectacle.”

    Speaking about the magnitude of the league, former Pakistan cricketer and coach, Waqar Younis who will be part of the upcoming season’s commentator panel said, “DP World ILT20 is truly a cricketing rendezvous, featuring a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, making the league a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts globally. It is a celebration of cricketing diversity, with an array of player and team rivalries. I am very excited to be part of the commentators’ panel for the upcoming edition.”

    The truly international league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global). Some of the world’s most prominent cricket stars are slated to play in the Season 2, including David Warner, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Ambati Rayudu, Corey Anderson, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Trent Boult, Dasun Shanaka, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sam Billings, David Willey, Alex Hales, Tom Curran, Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, James Vince, Chris Woakes and Martin Guptill.

    The 34-match event will be played at the three iconic UAE venues – Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah – starting 19 January 2024 to 17 February 2024. DP World ILT20 defending champions – Gulf Giants will be facing Sharjah Warriors, followed by Dubai Capitals’ opening match against MI Emirates. Dubai Capitals are set to begin their Season 2 on 20 January 2024. Last year’s runner-up Desert Vipers will open their campaign against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders on 21 January at the Dubai International Stadium.

     

  • Rewind Networks’ HITS NOW to launch on Dialog Television in Sri Lanka

    Rewind Networks’ HITS NOW to launch on Dialog Television in Sri Lanka

    Mumbai: Starting 11 January 2024, the captivating HITS NOW channel will debut in Sri Lanka on Dialog Television, Sri Lanka’s television experience, bringing quality curated entertainment to viewers across the country. The channel will be made available on Channel 113 as part of Dialog Television’s comprehensive TV packs.

    HITS NOW will be available alongside sister channels HITS and HITS MOVIES. This newest addition to Dialog Television’s lineup, along with Rewind Networks’ longstanding partnership, reaffirms both parties’ shared commitment to providing high-quality entertainment and enhancing the value of offerings to viewers in Sri Lanka.

    As a special introductory offer, Dialog Television will provide the HITS NOW channel free of charge to all customers from January 11 to 31 January.

    “We are so proud to debut HITS NOW in Sri Lanka with Dialog Television,” said Rewind Networks CEO Avi Himatsinghani. “Dialog Television has been a great partner that has carried our HITS and HITS MOVIES channels since 2019. This collaboration is not only an expansion of our strong partnership, but also a strategic step towards enhancing our presence in the region–Sri Lanka marks the 5th territory in Asia where HITS NOW is available. Our goal is to make HITS NOW a go-to entertainment destination for households in Sri Lanka by continuing to bring in the best of entertainment on our channels.”

    “Bringing high quality and diverse content to our viewers has always been an utmost priority for us,” said Lasantha Theverapperuma, Group Chief Operating Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC. “Adding HITS NOW to our channel lineup means our viewers across the country can now enjoy an exciting array of content and beloved franchises coming to express from the U.S. The launch of HITS NOW on Dialog Television is testimony of our continued commitment to bring the very best of global content to our viewers.”

    The HITS NOW channel will feature well-known franchises and top-rated reality, variety, drama, game and entertainment news shows from the U.S. The 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, America’s Got Talent: Fantasy Team, and Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test are just some of the exciting titles airing on the channel from January 2024. HITS NOW will also be airing the prestigious 66t Annual GRAMMY Awards live, presented by The Recording Academy®, starting at 9 am (GMT+8) on 5th February with an encore performance at 8 pm (GMT+8) on the same night.

    The HITS NOW lineup will feature the ultimate in breathtaking entertainment with exhilarating, branded reality and talent shows like American Idol 2024, Survivor, America’s Got Talent: Fantasy Team, Shark Tank, Hell’s Kitchen, and Britain’s Got Talent, all express from the US. It will also debut brand new reality series like Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, The Traitor and Race To Survive: Alaska; stunning drama series like the successful Fire Country, Sullivan’s Crossing, So Help Me Todd as well as Alert: Missing Persons Unit. Game show junkies can play along with Password, Barmageddon, Supermarket Sweep, Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, and Celebrity Family Feud. Those craving light-hearted fare can kick back with heartwarming comedies Lopez vs Lopez, Young Rock, The Goldbergs and Ghosts. The network has got viewers covered for everything Hollywood with the long-running news show Entertainment Tonight, and true crime aficionados can follow real-life cases with Fear Thy Neighbor, Fear Thy Roommate, Snapped: Killer Couples and Murder for Hire.

    HITS NOW, celebrated for its award-winning and branded programmes, has garnered a strong following since its launch across multiple territories in Asia in February 2023. Together with HITS and HITS MOVIES, the three channels from Rewind Networks deliver quality curated content to over 13 countries and 24 million households across Asia.