Category: TV Channels

  • Zee 24 TAAS’ ‘Leaders’ telecast promises a visual feast this weekend

    Zee 24 TAAS’ ‘Leaders’ telecast promises a visual feast this weekend

    Mumbai: Get ready for an extraordinary television experience as Zee 24 TAAS prepares to enthral its diverse audience with a special edition of the ‘Leaders’ show. Mark your calendars for the broadcast on 30 December 2023, Saturday, at 9 pm, and on 31 December, Sunday, at 12:30 pm. This special episode shines a spotlight on individuals from various spheres who epitomize leadership through their profound connection to Indian art and culture.

    The ‘Leaders’ show promises a deep exploration into the lives of individuals dedicated to championing and safeguarding India’s rich and diverse art and culture. These multifaceted personalities stand as beacons, inspiring the upcoming generation and contributing to the kaleidoscope of diversity that defines India. The show unfolds the expansive panorama of India’s cultural legacy, spanning music, dance, theatre, folk traditions, performing arts, paintings, and literature.

    In an exclusive dialogue, the renowned actress Madhuri Dixit Nene provides profound insights into her upcoming movie, ‘Panchak,’ set for release on January 5. Madhuri’s interview on the ‘Leaders’ special program offers a rare glimpse into her perspectives on politics and unwavering commitment to the world of cinema. When asked about the possibility of entering politics, Madhuri Dixit Nene responded, “Categorically, politics is not my realm of interest. The question of entering politics often arises, particularly around election times, but it’s crucial to recognise that it doesn’t align with my persona. I identify as an actress; it’s my craft, my passion. I’ve devoted my career to the art of acting, and that’s where my unwavering commitment lies—continuing to explore, evolve, and contribute to the world of cinema.”

    Emphasizing the essence of the show’s programming, Zee24 TAAS editor-in-chief Nilesh Khare shared, “This episode of ‘Leaders’ epitomizes our commitment to showcasing the vibrant tapestry of India’s cultural heritage. It goes beyond the surface, delving deep into the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to preserving and promoting our rich artistic legacy.”

    Dr. Shriram Nene, Producer, also offered his insightful perspective, stating, “I chose to come to India because I believe there is a significant demand for healthcare in the country. In the next ten years, India has the potential to become a global economic leader, creating more opportunities here than in other countries. RnM Moving Pictures initially focused on producing Marathi films, but we plan to expand into producing content in Hindi and English as well.”

    This captivating episode has been meticulously curated not only to celebrate cultural luminaries but also to offer an intimate narrative of the personal and professional journeys of these esteemed custodians of culture.
    Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India’s media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 16 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than 528 million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

     

  • Ganga Kinare Music Festival to telecast on Zee News

    Ganga Kinare Music Festival to telecast on Zee News

    Mumbai: Gear up for a night of cultural euphoria on 30 December at 10 pm, when Zee News illuminates screens with the radiant Ganga Kinare Music Festival, promising a symphony of enchantment!

    Varanasi recently witnessed the grandeur of the Ganga Kinare Music Festival, a collaborative masterpiece orchestrated by Zee Media and Havas Play presented by Aditya Birla Hindalco. Led by Padma Shri Kailash Kher and Pratibha Singh Baghel, this dynamic duo transcended mere entertainment, creating a fusion of cultural magnificence. Aligned with the ‘Namami Gange Programme’ endorsed by the United Nations, the festival fostered a vibrant community of river enthusiasts and contributed to the broader mission of environmental conservation.

    Beyond mere entertainment, this cultural extravaganza is a heartfelt celebration of Varanasi’s spirit and a collective pledge to safeguard the sanctity of the holy river Ganga. The event honoured individuals, including classical singer Padma Vibhushan Pandit Channu Lal Mishra, Dr Kulpati Tiwari, mahant of Kashi Vishwanath temple, Vishambhar Nath Mishra, Mahant of Sankat Mochan Mandir, and Padma Shri awardee Rajeshwar Acharya. The celebration of the legacy of Indian classical music extended to the felicitation of Nasir Abbas Bismillah Khan, the grandson of the legendary Bismillah Khan to honouring excellence across diverse realms.

    The stellar line-up of attendees also featured luminaries such as Swatantra Dev Singh, Jal Shakti minister, UP govt., Anupriya Patel, minister of state for commerce and industry, GoI, Rajshree Birla, Sourabh Raaj Jain, and more, promising showcase.

    Zee Media Corporation Limited CEO Abhay Ojha expressed his enthusiasm, said, “The Ganga Kinare Music Festival is not merely a melody; it resonates as a testament to our commitment to cultural heritage and environmental guardianship. Zee News stands proudly as the telecast partner for this transformative event, bringing more than just a broadcast to your screens. The festival is a curated experience, an intricate portrayal of Varanasi’s essence, and a pledge to Ganga conservation.”

    Zee Media Corporation Limited CRO Mona Jain said, “As an esteemed telecast partner for the Ganga Kinare Music Festival, our enthusiasm is coupled with strategic commitment as we unfold a cultural spectacle intricately aligned with our dynamic revenue growth strategy. Through skillful utilization and programming of the festival’s cultural richness and broad audience appeal, our objective is to forge inventive pathways for advertisers, sponsors, and partners, creating a platform that not only entertains but also serves as a fertile ground for mutually beneficial collaborations.”

    Havas Media Network India CEO Mohit Joshi emphasised, “Havas Play takes pride in curating a unique experience with the Ganga Kinare Music Festival. This festival isn’t confined to a physical location; it’s a journey that brings cultural magnificence and environmental consciousness to screens worldwide. Through our collaboration, we aspire to create not just content but a meaningful narrative that reflects the festival’s essence—a seamless blend of tradition with technology and fostering constructive engagement towards our environment which creates a lasting impact on the audience.”

    The grand telecast of Ganga Kinare Music Festival promises to deliver an evening of visual and auditory delight, blending cultural richness, soul-stirring performances, and a profound commitment to the conservation of the Holy River Ganga.

    This festival received substantial support, with the Uttar Pradesh government as the state partner Himgange, V-Guard, Royale Touche and Sujata as special partners, PISM (partner) and co-powered by AU Small Finance Bank. Additional support was received in association with Namami Gange, Kailasa Entertainment Private Limited, Rungta Steel TMT Bar, Meghdoot Ayurvedic, PMCH Health Advisors, Radio City as the Radio partner and AMC Media as outdoor partner.

    Event will be broadcast on 30 December at 10 pm, exclusively on Zee News.

  • Navika Kumar to be group editor-in-chief, Times Now & Times Now Navbharat

    Navika Kumar to be group editor-in-chief, Times Now & Times Now Navbharat

    Mumbai –  Times Group restructured the management-led editorial team recently. As per media reports, Times Network announced a new appointment of Navika Kumar to be Editor in Chief, Times Now, Times Now Navabharat with immediate effect from 28 December.

    Apart from Navika Kumar, the network announced the promotion of Ranjit Kumar, and Padmaja Joshi in the Times Network. Ranjit Kumar appointed as Managing Editor whereas Padmaja Joshi as Senior Executive Editor.

    Senior journalist Nikunj Dalmia has been elevated to Editor in Chief, ET Now, ET Now Swadesh. Madhavdas G was appointed as Pan India Input head.

    Times Network promoted veterans with the restructuring of the editorial department.

  • This New Year’s eve, experience ‘Gadar’ on Zee TV!

    This New Year’s eve, experience ‘Gadar’ on Zee TV!

    Mumbai: Having hit the bull’s eye at the box office, Gadar 2 went beyond being just a film. Adored by the masses, this cinematic masterpiece not only outperformed all box office records, reigniting a passion for cinema, but also evolved into an emotion and a movement for its audience. After its blockbuster success in theatres, Gadar 2 is set to captivate audiences on Zee TV at 12 noon and 9 pm on 31 December 2023.

    Zee TV chief cluster officer Aparna Bhosle said, “Following its tremendous box office success, Gadar 2 is set to premiere on Zee TV as a New Year’s Eve delight for our viewers. The film’s enduring appeal lies in the strong emotions it stirs, making it more than just a movie but a testament to the power of impactful storytelling.”

    Starring Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel, Utkarsh Sharma, and Simrat Kaur, the movie is a continuation of the 2001 blockbuster film ‘Gadar,’ focusing on the romantic tale of Tara Singh’s son. The plot unfolds as Tara Singh (Sunny Deol) goes missing during a border clash between India and Pakistan, presumed to be captured by the Pakistani army. In a bid to rescue his father, Jeete (Utkarsh Sharma) ventures into prohibited territory. ‘Gadar 2’ achieved significant commercial success, earning a staggering ₹691.08 crore worldwide and securing its place as the second highest-grossing Bollywood film in history. Directed by Anil Sharma, and distributed by Zee Studios, Gadar 2 is an action thriller that will surely entertain the audience this New Year’s Eve.

    With intense drama and mind-blowing action up its sleeves, Gadar 2 is all set to add excitement to your New Year’s Eve plans as it airs at 12 noon and 9 pm on 31 December, only on Zee TV!

  • MyTeam11’s game-changing moves amidst taxation headwinds for real-money gaming: Vinit Godara

    MyTeam11’s game-changing moves amidst taxation headwinds for real-money gaming: Vinit Godara

    Mumbai: The Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry in India has brought about a revolutionary transformation in the world of sports. While allowing sports enthusiasts to engage with their favourite teams and athletes like never before, they have also brought in a wide variety of newer audiences, thereby generating huge additional revenue for both the sport and the sportsperson. India’s exhilarating performance at the recently concluded ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 led to a 40 per cent surge in user engagement on the MyTeam11 platform alone.

    A report by Delloite FIFS highlighted the RMG industry’s potential to create over 5,000 direct and 7,000 indirect jobs. Quite the contrary however, as the GST council notification which came into effect on October 01, 2023, imposing the highest 28 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the deposits, whether one of skill or chance, acted as a huge setback. We believe no industry has ever faced a situation where tax liabilities have headed north to the extent of 400-1000 per cent in one go.

    Be that as it may, MyTeam11 has always believed in thinking innovatively and out of the box to circumvent business challenges. Positive thinking often helps resolve the most difficult of problems.

    The company absorbed the entire tax liability, choosing not to pass it on to the users. This showcased the platform’s dedication to provide an enjoyable and uninterrupted experience to fantasy sports enthusiasts, as also towards contributing to the overall growth of the industry.

    Then from a long-term sustainability perspective, MyTeam11 came up with the real game-changer- the Fantasy Sports Network (FSN). As the industry navigated through challenges such as layoffs and closures, MyTeam11’s FSN emerged as a lifeline, particularly for the smaller players.

    Operating both B2C and B2B models, the FSN provided a robust technology backbone that empowered emerging players to overcome the complexities posed by the new tax regulations. As a result, as many as 10 FSN partners today have experienced a significant reduction in their operational costs and also a remarkable 300 per cent increase in user engagement.

    The true advantage of FSN lies in empowering partners and enabling them to focus extensively on marketing and promotion. This exposure extends to larger leagues, allowing them to operate efficiently with lean teams and effectively navigate challenges brought by the new GST Amendment.

    There is no doubt that the industry is facing huge uncertainties. However, given MyTeam11’s spirit of innovation, the platform remains committed to driving positive change to maintain its leadership position in the RMG industry.

  • “Ensuring user safety and privacy is paramount at Togeth૪ing”: Maadhav Bhide

    “Ensuring user safety and privacy is paramount at Togeth૪ing”: Maadhav Bhide

    Mumbai: Togethering are a bunch of enthusiastic people who believe in the power of togetherness and everything can achieve collectively. Founder and CEO Maadhav Bhide who came up with the idea of Togeth૪ing when he felt the need to have an app that could allow people to enjoy music together in real time irrespective of time or distance.

    Thus he began a journey that has now evolved into a complete ecosystem that brings together brands, communities, and individuals to help them connect communicate celebrate.

    The app empowers every smartphone user to become a successful influencer and build a high-revenue business instantly

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Bhide where he gives some more insights regarding this app.

    Edited excerpts

    On Togeth૪ing appealing or unique compared to other similar apps designed for co-listening and co-watching experiences

    At Togeth૪ing, we pride ourselves on providing a distinctive co-listening and co-watching experience that sets us apart from other apps in this space. Unlike many alternatives, our app eliminates the need for users to share screens or devices. What truly sets us apart is our Multiparty control feature, allowing all participants to jointly control play/pause/forward/reverse functions while co-listening or co-watching. Moreover, participants can engage in synchronous chat or video chat without disrupting the shared experience, creating an immersive environment that mimics everyone being in the same room and enjoying the media together.

    On the feature of earning rewards through co-actions enhances your experience when enjoying music and videos with friends and family

    At Togeth૪ing, our philosophy is clear and compelling: users should be rewarded for opting to share social moments, yet it remains a matter of personal choice. Participation in co-listening or co-watching isn’t bound by mandatory rewards; rather, it’s an optional enhancement for those inclined to partake. Moreover, this feature serves as a gateway for businesses to establish connections with users based on their individual preferences and choices. We aspire to extend gratitude to our users for designating Togeth૪ing as their favored social platform. This approach allows them to seamlessly receive rewards at their discretion—empowering them to enjoy incentives anytime, anywhere. It’s our way of acknowledging and appreciating the users who contribute to the vibrant community within Togeth૪ing.

    On ways do you envision using Togeth૪ing within your social circles or daily routines

    In alignment with contemporary lifestyle preferences, where mobile devices serve as the primary hub for various activities, Togeth૪ing stands as a unique platform poised to redefine real-time social interactions. In contrast to prevalent asynchronous platforms, which have inadvertently given rise to feelings of isolation and the escalating phenomenon of FOMO, Togeth૪ing takes pride in its inherent 1000000% synchronous nature. This deliberate design fosters meaningful connections among siblings, friends, and families, mitigating the pervasive sense of FOMO.

    Moreover, in an era where businesses globally seek visibility through diverse social media platforms, Togeth૪ing emerges as a distinct channel. Unlike asynchronous alternatives or conventional community buying platforms, our platform transcends mere communication, offering genuine real-time interactions and collaborations — a fundamental aspect that distinguishes Togeth૪ing.

    Use Case Scenarios:

    1.   Emotional Connections: Picture a scenario where family members scattered across cities or continents collectively watch videos or photos of their children. The discretion to every member in the family session, to control play /pause/forward etc in synchronous environment which also allows for simultaneous chatting and video interactions, replicating the feeling of being in the same room, complete with expressive elements like emojis and gifs.

    2.   Inter-generational Bonding: Grandparents engaging in virtual story sessions, sharing the magic of Tintin books with their grandchildren. Through video calls, they can point out specific pictures or lines, creating a shared reading experience.

    3.   Personalized Music Sessions: Envision the joy of listening to romantic music with a fiancé or curating a playlist of devotional songs for an elderly family member together. Togeth૪ing allows for shared music experiences with personalized controls on the entire group session.

    4.   Community Entertainment: For enthusiasts of series like Marvel or Game of Thrones, a simple click on a shared episode informs the entire group of ongoing viewing. Friends can instantly join the show, fostering a virtual daily gathering akin to meeting for a casual activity like having a cigarette, a drink, or tea/coffee.

    Accessibility and Business Use Cases:

    To enhance accessibility, Togeth૪ing ensures a user-friendly experience. Users registered on the app enjoy additional features at no extra cost, creating a seamless process akin to other social media platforms. Moreover, the platform extends its utility beyond personal connections to encompass business scenarios, particularly in the domains of food and entertainment.

    1.   OTT Channel Offers: Imagine an OTT channel or blockbuster movie releasing exclusive offers within your social circles, accompanied by rule-based rewards. This not only incentivizes participation but also instills a sense of pride among users for actively engaging with friends in deciding whether to partake in the offer or not, with rewards serving as a delightful bonus. In return, the OTT channel could secure guaranteed attention, followers, and additional opportunities to attract paying consumers.

    2.   Student Instant Budget Solutions: Consider the scenario of college students on a tight budget seeking cost-effective deals. Togeth૪ing emerges as a solution by allowing users to enjoy content with a friend anytime & anywhere globally. After a brief 45 seconds, both users receive options from listed partners such as restaurants, cafes, QSRs, and Fine dining establishments on the Togethring platform, facilitating a budget-friendly choice. Describing Togethring as an “Instant Coupon Generator platform” aptly captures its functionality in this context. This, in fact, represents a classic case for envisioning Togeth૪ing as a daily necessity for students or communities on a budget, and more.

    In summary, these use cases exemplify our confidence in Togethring’s potential to connect consumers and businesses deeply, presenting an unparalleled opportunity to grow together.

    On security measures or assurances would you look for in an app that allows synchronous and collaborative experiences without sharing screens or devices

    Ensuring user safety and privacy is paramount at Togeth૪ing. The foundational advantage of not mandating users to share screens or devices stands as our initial line of defense. Furthermore, all communications within our platform are fortified with end-to-end encryption, creating a secure and protected environment for our users. For those desiring individual enjoyment, a straightforward click enables them to isolate themselves from groups or other parties during live sessions, offering enhanced control and peace of mind in their Togeth૪ing experience.

    On improvements or additional features would you suggest to make the app even more engaging or user-friendly

    In the contemporary landscape of AI and ML, XR Togeth૪ing has an extensive lineup of features strategically curated to meet evolving user needs for the next decade. While specific details cannot be disclosed at this time, rest assured that our commitment to innovation and user satisfaction remains at the forefront of our development efforts. Stay tuned for exciting updates that will further enhance the engagement and user-friendliness of the Togeth૪ing app.

    On instant rewards or discounts would motivate you the most to participate actively in co-listening and co-watching sessions using this app

    At Togeth૪ing, we strongly emphasize providing enduring incentives, particularly in the realms of food and entertainment. Our target audience, spanning from kids and millennials to newly salaried individuals, can indulge in a plethora of rewards from well-established restaurant and cafe brands. Partnerships with esteemed names such as Rocomama, Cafe Peter, Rolls Mania, Crazy Cheesy, Agent Jacks, and Malaka Spice ensure a delightful variety of choices for Dine-in rewards. What sets us apart is our commitment to offering more than just incentives. In collaboration with industry leaders like Reliance Animation and MESC, Togeth૪ing extends exciting opportunities for content and education rewards. This strategic alliance adds a layer of diversity and engagement to our platform, ensuring that our users experience a rich and multifaceted journey every time they actively participate in co-listening and co-watching sessions.

  • Top five  fantasy gaming apps transforming digital entertainment in India

    Top five fantasy gaming apps transforming digital entertainment in India

    Mumbai: In the ever-evolving landscape of digital entertainment, these cutting-edge applications promise to redefine the fantasy gaming experience. From breathtaking graphics to innovative gameplay mechanics, these titles are set to transport players into realms where imagination knows no bounds. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a novice explorer, our carefully curated list ensures an unforgettable journey filled with mythical creatures, magical landscapes, and epic quests. As the gaming industry continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, these applications stand out as the vanguards of the fantastical, offering players a ticket to unparalleled virtual adventures. Brace yourself for a year of enchantment, as we dive into the immersive worlds crafted by the top fantasy gaming applications.

    Dream 11

    Dream 11

    In India, Dream 11 is the most widely used fantasy sports app and is currently trending the most. Users of this software can play a variety of fantasy sports, such as basketball, kabaddi, football, hockey, and cricket. Co-founded by Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth, Dream11 is the greatest fantasy sports app in India. With over 110 million daily users, the app has various brand ambassadors, including M. S. Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. The company pays out about ₹250 million in wins every day.

    Super4

    Super 4

    Super4 is one of the leading cricket fantasy gaming applications. It’s built with users’ convenience in mind. Its user-friendly interface allows them to effortlessly navigate through the app, discover new games, and engage in seamless gameplay. The company prioritizes users’ safety and privacy, implementing robust security measures to ensure a secure gaming experience. Users can join Super4 on an extraordinary journey as it revolutionizes the gaming landscape in India. Super4 is there to empower, inspire, and ignite the passion for gaming. Users are encouraged to embrace the spirit of India’s own gaming app.

    My11 Circle

    My11 Circle

    If you have a strong interest in cricket, you really should give My11Circle a try. Renowned athletes like Rashid Khan and Shane Watson serve as brand ambassadors for the organisation, along with Sourav Ganguly, President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. With over 13 million users, the platform is among the most reliable fantasy sports app producers in India. Additionally, the app has paid out more than ₹1 billion in prizes. There is no maximum withdrawal amount specified on My11Circle, in contrast to many other fantasy sports software platforms.

    My Team11

    My Team11

    MyTeam 11’s brand ambassador is Virender Sehwag. One can play games like cricket, soccer, football, rugby, hockey, and basketball, among others, on the platforms of the fantasy sports app development company, which offers nine different language possibilities. With over 15 million downloads, the MyTeam11 app gives over Rs five million in daily prizes through more than 100 events. In addition, MyTeam11 provides a Rs 100 welcome incentive.

    Fan2 Play

    Fan2 Play

    The fantasy sports software Fan2Play was just released in the Indian market. Established in 2020 by Fan2Play Games Pvt. Ltd., a fantasy app development business, the quickly expanding platform lacks a predetermined design. When engaging in one-on-one challenges, users can form teams of two, three, or four players on this flexible and adaptable platform. The app additionally provides the traditional 11-player competitions. In addition, players are permitted to play with their social circles and family members and create private competitions.  

  • Gulf Giants unveil power-packed squad for DP World ILT20 season 2

    Gulf Giants unveil power-packed squad for DP World ILT20 season 2

    Mumbai: Gulf Giants, the defending champions of DP World International League T20 (ILT20), have today announced their star-studded squad for the upcoming second season. With a perfect blend of experience and youth, the Gulf Giants are geared up to dominate the league and defend their DP World ILT20 championship. The Adani Sportsline owned-franchise has announced Andy Flower as the team’s Head Coach for the upcoming season, which will be led by England batter James Vince.

    After meticulous planning and scouting, Gulf Giants has announced the signing of new players such as Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb-ur-Rahman along with the likes of T20 sensation Dominic Drakes. The newly-signed players will be complemented by a power-packed squad combination featuring T20 maestros Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies), Chris Jordan (England), Chris Lynn (Australia), and Carlos Brathwaite (West Indies), to name a few.

    Flower, arguably Zimbabwe’s greatest cricketer, has forged a successful coaching career since his retirement in 2003, capped by the title run at the 2010 men’s T20 World Cup with England. He has since worked with the Afghanistan men’s national team as well as franchise teams at the IPL, the PSL, the CPL, and in the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament.

    Starting 19th January, 2024, the DP World ILT20 defending champions – Gulf Giants will be facing Sharjah Warriors. 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 on one of India’s leading OTT platforms – 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 the announcement, Gulf Giants’ head coach Andy Flower said, “As we gear up for the upcoming season of International League T20, the Gulf Giants are focused on defending our ILT20 title with a pragmatic approach. Undoubtedly, a pinnacle of T20 competitiveness on the global stage, this tournament features the participation of top-tier players, making it truly a standout event on the international cricket calendar. Taking forward the learnings from the inaugural season, we have strategically enhanced our squad with valuable additions, including Mujeeb-ur-Rahman and Dominic Drakes, while also retaining key players such as Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan, Chris Lynn, and Carlos Brathwaite, who played crucial roles in our previous success. Our goal is straightforward – to build on past achievements and skilfully navigate the challenges of the new season.”

    Australian cricketer, and hard-hitting right-hander Chris Lynn said, “It gives me immense pride to be part of Gulf Giants squad, together we are determined to replicate the successful run of the inaugural season. As defending champions of one of the world’s toughest T20 leagues, I am confident about the team’s ability to perform well in the upcoming season. It’s always a great experience sharing the dressing room with cricketing greats of the modern game, look forward to contributing to the team’s success.”

    Adani Sportsline spokesperson, chief business officer Sanjay Adesara said, “As we unveil our squad for the upcoming season of the International League T20, we are optimistic about the team’s ability to build upon the success achieved in the event’s inaugural season. With Andy Flower leading our coaching staff, we believe that the assembled squad is robust, and the players will have the opportunity to develop their skills under his guidance. We trust that Flower’s mentorship will also contribute to aligning our players with our vision of connecting and engaging with cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The International League T20 has solidified its standing as the world’s second-most-watched T20 extravaganza. Its widespread global viewership, facilitated by the extensive distribution network of ZEE, adds to its prominence and is set to become ‘bigger and better’ in years to come. We appreciate the unwavering support of our fans, whose consistent support has been a driving force for us, and look forward to hosting them once again.”

    For the full list of newly-signed an retained players refer to the list below:

    Retained Players Newly-Signed Players
    James Vince (England) Mujeeb-ur-Rahman (Afghanistan)
    Chris Jordan (England) Dominic Drakes (West Indies)
    Shimron Hetmyer (West Indies) Jamie Smith (England)
    Jamie Overton (England) Jordan Cox (England)
    Chris Lynn (Australia) Usman Khan (Pakistan)
    Aayan Afzal Khan (United Arab Emirates) Mohammad Zohaib Zubair (UAE)
    Richard Gleeson (England) Saurabh Netravalkar (United States of America)
    Carlos Brathwaite (West Indies) Karim Janat (Afghanistan)
    Rehan Ahmad (England)  
    Gerhard Erasmus (Namibia)  
    Sanchit Sharma (United Arab Emirates)  

    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. The truly international league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Dubai Capitals (Adani Sportsline), Dubai Capitals (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global).

  • Troo Good appoints Wunderman Thompson for their advertising and communications

    Mumbai: Troo Good millet snack enterprise announced the selection of Wunderman Thompson as its advertising agency, solidifying a multi-year, multi-crore collaboration. This transformative partnership positions Wunderman Thompson to spearhead comprehensive advertising campaigns and promotional initiatives for Troo Good, strategically conveying the brand’s ethos to its target audience while fortifying and perpetuating the brand’s market standing.

    Under the terms of this pivotal mandate, Wunderman Thompson assumes responsibility for crafting compelling advertising and digital communications strategies for Troo Good across various social media platforms too. The agency’s integral role encompasses the development of communication and creative frameworks, ensuring the brand’s messaging is articulate and resonant with consumers. Wunderman Thompson is set to orchestrate Troo Good’s inaugural mass media campaign, spotlighting the brand’s distinctive attributes, centered on taste, nutrition, and affordability.

    In the meticulous selection process for its advertising partner, Troo Good invited agencies nationwide to vie for the mandate. Following a rigorous shortlisting process, Wunderman Thompson emerged triumphant among 43 participating agencies, excelling in criteria such as national presence, business acumen, experience in managing comparably scaled high-growth enterprises, and a demonstrated prowess in creative communication strategies.

    Troo Good, a trailblazer in the millet snacking industry, has significantly expanded its footprint from 15,000 to 30,000 outlets within the past six months. Presently operating six state-of-the-art factories, the brand’s reach extends across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Notably, Troo Good has achieved a revenue of Rs 53 crores for the fiscal year 2022-23, projecting an ambitious revenue target of Rs 100 crores for the fiscal year 2023-24. This strategic collaboration with Wunderman Thompson underscores Troo Good’s commitment to elevating its brand presence and market share in the evolving landscape of millet-based snacks.

    Speaking on the announcement, Troo Good founder and CEO Raju Bhupathi said, “Troo Good has seen exponential growth since inception. We are making heavy investments in brand building and retail to further expand on that momentum and are exploring the utilization of all possible channels to highlight the benefits of millet-based snacks to consumers and make them aware of our affordable and healthy offerings. As a means of achieving this, we have assigned our advertising mandate to one of the top agencies in the country, Wunderman Thompson, after a detailed shortlisting process. We see a strategic fit and a professional alignment in this association that will help us accomplish our marketing goals.”

    Commenting on winning Troo Good’s advertising mandate, Vijay Jacob Parakkal, Managing Partner at Wunderman Thompson, said, “We are delighted to partner with the new exciting millet brand Troo Good. Our strategy weaves affordability and nutritional excellence into Troo Good’s brand story. By amplifying the brand’s unique selling proposition, we are poised to deliver a compelling narrative that not only captures attention but also reinforces Troo Good’s market distinction.”

    Headquartered in New York, Wunderman Thompson was founded in 2018 after Wunderman was merged with J. Walter Thompson Co., and is an industry leader with a rich legacy of expertise in advertising, branding, digital marketing, and data analytics.

  • Sony AATH wraps up a spectacular year!

    Sony AATH wraps up a spectacular year!

    Mumbai: Sony AATH, one of the most loved family entertainment channels, has been consistently enthralling viewers with a slew of interesting programming and engagements. As the channel closes on an outstanding 2023, here are the key highlights for the year.

    Key content launches

    Depicting the popular ‘adda’ culture of the villages, ‘Gultemama’ is the story of a Bengali hamlet Galadpur & its people. It connects viewers to the everyday life of Bengal. Gultemama spends his day gossiping with his friends. He is someone who would always find himself at the receiving end of his tricks.

    Set against the backdrop of Kolpopur, a small village in Bengal during the late 17th century, ‘Kolpopurer Golpo’ captures the culture, emotions, and everyday life of a common man. It revolves around the story of Kanai, a hardworking farmer and devout follower of Maa Kali, who, despite tough financial conditions, is content with his life. The show largely portrays the trials and tribulations faced by the peasant class due to the Zamindari system.

    Sony AATH introduced the famous Gopal Bhar in an entirely new avatar as he made his cinematic debut. Having completed more than 1000 episodes of the iconic show on the channel, Sony AATH went beyond to regale the audiences with some new and unique characteristics of Gopal in an advanced 3D animation format. The first movie, titled ‘Goyenda Gopal – Daaba’r Chal’ showcased Gopal Bhar wearing the hat of a detective, unravelling mysteries, and saving his kingdom while maintaining his nonchalant comic and witty style. An extensive promotional campaign was planned with the mascot of Gopal Bhar making appearances at popular historical places such as Victoria Memorial and New Market, much to the pleasant surprise of the onlookers. He also visited two popular malls in the city, allowing everyone to not just meet him but also get an instant photo clicked.

    The channel premiered another Gopal Bhar movie titled ‘Goyenda Gopal – Shesh Chakranto’. The saga of conspiracy with Gopal Bhar getting into the shoes of the detective to save the King and the Kingdom continued with more challenges and interesting turn of events.

    Following the phenomenal response received for the Gopal Bhar movies, the channel plans to come up with a couple of more Gopal Bhar movies in the coming months.

    Sony AATH launched ‘Aamar Sai Shradha and Dahirjia’ which revolved around the life and teachings of Sai Baba. It took viewers through the life journey of Sai Baba – right from his young days to his journey of becoming a revered spiritual leader who touched lives with compassion and wisdom.

    The much-anticipated biographical drama ‘Shakuntala Devi premiered on Sony AATH to captivate the Bengali audience. Shakuntala Devi, often referred to as the Human-Computer, was a mathematical prodigy whose phenomenal abilities left the world in awe. The Bengali version of the film brought Shakuntala Devi’s story to life in a language that resonated with the heart of Bengal.

    Key initiatives & IPs

    Gopal Bhar 1000 episode celebrations: Gopal Bhar is a show that has carved a special place for itself in the hearts of Sony AATH viewers. The show completed a significant milestone of running 1000 episodes on the channel, the maximum for any animation series in Bengal.

    Hollywood Hungama: Season three of Hollywood Hungama was launched with an exciting line-up of movies from creature Features to Action and adventure. A mass visibility outdoor plan across West Bengal was planned with advertising on Metro stations and cable networks.

    Mahalaya and Kolkata Durga Pujo: Sony AATH celebrated Mahalaya with a specially curated day-long programming line-up titled ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’ dedicated to the glory of the mighty Maa Durga. The channel celebrated Pujo by having the Gopal Bhar mascot make visits to select pujo pandals such as Thakurpukur S B Park, Dakshin 41 Pally, Hindusthan Park Sarbajanin and Dum Dum Park Tarun Sangha. The activity garnered an average footfall of over 200 people participating and interacting in various activities along with winning Sony AATH merchandises.