Category: TV Channels

ZEE & nasscom forge partnership to support generative AI startups

Mumbai: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEE), India’s leading entertainment powerhouse today announced its partnership with nasscom for its recently-launched Generative AI Foundry programme, that aims to foster innovation and growth in the start-up ecosystem. Through the strategic partnership, ZEE’s Technology and Innovation Centre will primarily focus on enabling and supporting co-piloted generative AI solutions for India’s media and entertainment ecosystem.

In a collaborative effort, nasscom and ZEE’s Technology and Innovation Centre organised a one-day workshop to identify areas of mutual interest and explore synergies for potential partnerships. As part of the workshop, ZEE hosted 14 startups from the nasscom Generative AI Foundry programme at the ZEE Technology & Innovation Hub in Bengaluru. With this one-of-its-kind initiative, the company aims to foster collaborative growth and empower the select start-ups to succeed in the dynamic AI landscape.

ZEE president – technology & data Nitin Mittal said “We are delighted to embark upon this exciting journey in collaboration with nasscom, aiming to shape the future of India’s AI community. The synergy between our endeavours, nasscom’s commitment to nurturing tech startups, and ZEE’s leadership in media innovation signifies more than just a convergence of minds—it represents a fusion of futuristic visions poised to define the industry’s next chapter. As a frontrunner in India’s M&E ecosystem, this partnership stands as a testament to our commitment towards elevating consumer experience by leveraging digital technologies. At ZEE, we believe that collaborations of this nature are instrumental in propelling the growth of startups and fostering innovation in the India’s AI landscape.”

nasscom ai head of Ankit Bose said “The partnership between both organisations is a significant one for the Generative AI startups. It is heartening to witness excellent initiatives from the industry to collaborate with these startups. The innovative solutions possess the potential to transform various sectors including M&E.”

Nasscom’s Generative AI Foundry programme is aimed at nurturing technology startups in the AI domain to elevate India’s standing in the global Generative AI startup landscape. In a significant stride towards this mission, the programme, in collaboration with over 30 industry organizations and investors, selected 26 promising startups last month. These startups will receive comprehensive support, including mentorship, access to resources, funding, and industry connections, to propel their products to the next level.

As ZEE joins forces with nasscom, the program is set to chart new frontiers and foster a collaborative environment that stimulates creativity and drives technological advancements. With a presence in over 190 countries offering quality content across multiple platforms and languages, reaching over 1.3 billion viewers, the benefits of the collaboration are set to have a significant influence on the M&E ecosystem in India and beyond.

Being an industry pioneer, ZEE has been consistently introducing an array of tech-centric initiatives in line with the vision and goals laid as part of its strategic vision. Following a tech-first approach, the company has been consistently enhancing its technological capabilities, leveraging AI to disrupt industry norms and provide an unparalleled experience to audiences globally.

November 22, 2023
Match tickets for DP World ILT20 Season 2 launched

Mumbai: The DP World International League T20 Season 2 tickets for all 34 matches – the biggest cricket league in the Gulf region – are now available online as well as on all 14 Virgin Megastore outlets across the UAE. The tickets start at an affordable 20 dirhams for all General spectator stands at the Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi, Dubai International Stadium and Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

The month-long tournament will be an incredible opportunity for cricket fans in the UAE and those from around the world to watch some of the biggest stars of the game represent the six DP World ILT20 franchises in the month-long cricketing extravaganza that begins at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium with a clash between defending champions Gulf Giants and Sharjah Warriors on Friday, 19 January.

The big hits, wickets and catches on field will be complimented by off field entertainment for fans of all age groups. The DP World ILT20 will be a memorable occasion for all, the tournament final will be staged at the iconic ‘Ring of Fire’ Dubai International Stadium on Saturday, 17 February.

Fans can choose their seating spots through a wide range of enclosures and boxes across the three venues. The tickets are available for Premium and various hospitality categories. Tickets for children aged six to 16 start at 10 dirhams while under five years of age will get free access. There are a wide variety of early bird discounts available for all three venues.

Season 2 will feature present-day household names like David Warner, Andre Russell, David Willey, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Alex Hales, Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan, Trent Boult, Nicholas Pooran, Chris Woakes and Maheesh Theekshana. More than 100 international and 24 UAE players will feature in the tournament.

DP World ILT20 CEO David White said, “We are delighted to launch the match tickets for DP World ILT20 Season 2. For the second year in the running, we are bringing a world-class cricket tournament at our three world-class venues. The cricket fans in the UAE and those travelling here in the tourist-friendly months of January and February have a real treat on offer as the world’s best cricketing talent showcase their skills in the action-packed T20 format.

“We have kept the tickets at an affordable price. The fans will get to watch their favourite cricket stars play for their favourite team while enjoying the festive offerings, carnivals and entertainment at all three venues. The DP World ILT20 Season 2 is all set to be bigger and better and we can’t wait for the action to begin on Friday, 19 January 2024.”

DP World ILT20 Season 2 Schedule:

Friday, 19 January – Sharjah Warriors vs Gulf Giants – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Saturday, 20 January – Dubai Capitals vs MI Emirates – Dubai International Stadium

Sunday, 21 January – Desert Vipers vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Dubai International Stadium

Sunday, 21 January – MI Emirates vs Gulf Giants – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Monday, 22 January – Dubai Capitals vs Sharjah Warriors – Dubai International Stadium

Tuesday, 23 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs MI Emirates – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Wednesday, 24 January – Gulf Giants vs Desert Vipers – Dubai International Stadium

Thursday, 25 January – Dubai Capitals vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Dubai International Stadium

Friday, 26 January – Sharjah Warriors vs MI Emirates – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Saturday, 27 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Desert Vipers – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Saturday, 27 January – Gulf Giants vs Dubai Capitals – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Sunday, 28 January – MI Emirates vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Sunday, 28 January – Desert Vipers vs Sharjah Warriors – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Monday, 29 January – Sharjah Warriors vs Dubai Capitals – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Tuesday, 30 January – Desert Vipers vs MI Emirates – Dubai International Stadium

Wednesday, 31 January – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Gulf Giants – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Thursday, 1 February – Dubai Capitals vs Desert Vipers – Dubai International Stadium

Friday, 2 February – MI Emirates vs Sharjah Warriors – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Saturday, 3 February – Desert Vipers vs Gulf Giants – Dubai International Stadium

Saturday, 3 February – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Dubai Capitals – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Sunday, 4 February – MI Emirates vs Desert Vipers – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Sunday, 4 February – Gulf Giants vs Sharjah Warriors – Dubai International Stadium

Monday, 5 February – Sharjah Warriors vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Tuesday, 6 February – Dubai Capitals vs Gulf Giants – Dubai International Stadium

Wednesday, 7 February – Abu Dhabi Knight Riders vs Sharjah Warriors – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Thursday, 8 February – Gulf Giants vs MI Emirates – Dubai International Stadium

Friday, 9 February – Desert Vipers vs Dubai Capitals – Dubai International Stadium

Saturday, 10 February – Gulf Giants vs Abu Dhabi Knight Riders – Dubai International Stadium

Saturday, 10 February – MI Emirates vs Dubai Capitals – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Sunday, 11 February – Sharjah Warriors vs Desert Vipers – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Tuesday, 13 February – Qualifier 1 – Dubai International Stadium

Wednesday, 14 February – Eliminator – Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi

Thursday, 15 February – Qualifier 2 – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

Saturday, 17 February – Final – Dubai International Stadium

*All single-headers (evening matches) begin at 6:30pm local time.

*Afternoon match on double-headers day begin at 2:3opm local time.

November 22, 2023
Vote for your favourite sportsperson at ‘CNN-News18 Indian of the Year 2023’

Mumbai: Celebrating the relentless spirit of India’s sports icons who have brought glory to the nation, ‘CNN-News18 Indian of the Year’ (IOTY), news television’s biggest awards platform, has unveiled the nominees in the sports category this year. The awards platform would honour exceptional sportspersons whose talent and commitment have elevated India’s standing on the global sports stage.

Currently in its 13th edition, the awards recognise and award individuals who have brought pride to the nation with remarkable contributions in their respective fields. Recognising excellence across seven categories – entertainment, business, sports, youth icon, rising sports star, social change, and climate warriors, IOTY 2023 promises to be a celebration of India’s finest achievers on the global stage.

The nominees in the sports category consist of extraordinary individuals who have exemplified grit, perseverance, and excellence, which include India’s biggest sports personalities such as Sunil Chhetri, Shubman Gill, Nikhat Zareen, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy – Chirag Shetty, and Neeraj Chopra.

Captain of the 2023 SAFF championship-winning Indian football team, Sunil Chhetri has scored over 90 international goals in his career. He is the third-highest goal scorer amongst active players behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Shubman Gill, the promising Indian cricketer, has emerged as one of the brightest prospects of the Indian cricket team. Gill had a stellar IPL season and became the youngest cricketer to score an ODI double century.

In the realm of boxing, Nikhat Zareen, the world champion Indian boxer, clinched a second successive World title and Commonwealth Games gold medal. Zareen’s triumph at the 2022 World Boxing Championships in the flyweight category is a testament to her dedication and skill.

Satwik and Chirag became the first Indian men’s duo to win the Asian Badminton Championship, a world championship medal, and a super series 1000 event. Their prowess on the court helped them scale new heights in 2023 and brought pride to the nation.

India’s first gold medallist at the World Athletics Championships, Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal at the Diamond League. His unwavering commitment and hunger for excellence puts him on course to be the ‘greatest of all time’ athletes India has produced.

The winner will be revealed at the star-studded grand finale celebrating luminaries in Indian entertainment at The Indian of the Year 2023 award ceremony.

‘CNN-News18 Indian of the Year’ has a rich legacy of honouring exceptional talent across various fields. Past winners in the sports category include legendary names like Viswanathan Anand, Sania Mirza, PV Sindhu, MS Dhoni, Saina Nehwal, and Abhinav Bindra, to name a few.

This year, the winner selection process will combine expert judgment and public voting, with 50 per cent of the decision-making power given to the audience and the remaining 50 per cent entrusted to the jury. Online voting will remain open throughout November. To cast your vote for your favourite Indian and for more details regarding the awards, visit www.indianoftheyear.com

November 22, 2023
Capri global launches Capri Sports

Mumbai: In what is a bold leap into the future of Indian sports, Capri global proudly introduces Capri Sports, a transformative venture that transcends boundaries and champions the ethos of accessibility, equality, and sustained growth within the dynamic realm of sports.

Capri global, a stalwart advocate for inclusivity, has elevated its commitment to shaping a sporting ecosystem that thrives on the principles of innovation and empowerment. The launch of Capri Sports marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, symbolising a resolute shift towards providing equitable opportunities for athletes and sports enthusiasts across India. Furthermore, through its core values of trust, ingenuity, collaboration and inclusion, Capri Sports is aiming to become the biggest game changers in the sporting ecosystem, such that the immense potential in the system can be unlocked.

The foundation of Capri Sports was laid with strategic investments in the Bengal Warriors franchise of the Pro Kabaddi League, followed by the creation of the Rajasthan Warriors in the Ultimate Kho Kho league, the UP Warriors in the Women’s Premier League, and the international venture with the Sharjah Warriors in the ILT20 in the UAE. Together, these entities build the platform for Capri Sports, which is united by a common Warriors identity and mentality that epitomises collective strength, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. Emphasising the warrior spirit across the teams is the newly launched identity and logo, which also helps strengthen the connect with local fans.

“Capri Sports embodies the warrior spirit-where effort is relentless, respecting every opponent, finding strength in unity, facing challenges head-on, and inspiring generations with unwavering courage. Our Warrior spirit will be the driving force, championing indigenous sports deeply rooted in Indian culture and advocating for women’s participation in sports. Through our venture, we aim to provide essential resources, open doors, and empower Indian athletes and sports to thrive,” said Capri Sports director Jinisha Sharma.

Beyond the traditional realms of sports, Capri Sports is poised to delve into unique areas, including exploring the impact of climate change on sports. Additionally, the company is set to conduct regular benchmarking studies and intelligence reports, contributing to the industry’s sustainable and systematic growth in India.

Capri Sports believes in the potential of sports to shape character, instill discipline, and cultivate leadership skills from a young age. Through Beyond the Scorecard, Capri Sports is set to launch targeted programs that go beyond the conventional metrics of success, focusing on the holistic development of the youth. Beyond the Scorecard’s initiative will include comprehensive sports programs, mentorship opportunities, and infrastructure development, creating an ecosystem where young athletes can thrive.

By engaging with sports at the grassroots, Capri Sports aspires to create a legacy of community engagement, empowerment, and inclusivity. The launch of Capri Sports and the Beyond the Scorecard initiative heralds a new era where sports isn’t just a game; it’s a journey of growth, a community-building force, and a pathway to unlock the full potential of every aspiring athlete, ensuring that no talent goes unnoticed or untapped.

November 22, 2023
Zee Media, Havas Play and Namami Gange launch ‘Ganga Kinare’

Mumbai: To celebrate the harmonious blend of music, culture, and environmental consciousness, Havas Play, Zee Media, and Namami Gange has come together to launch a unique music festival ‘Ganga Kinare’ on the ghats of Varanasi. The inaugural edition of the festival will take place on Saturday, 9 December 2023. The initiative aims to celebrate the cultural richness of Varanasi and raise awareness about the significance of the holy river Ganga.

Nestled against the timeless ghats of Varanasi, the Ganga Kinare Music Festival promises an unforgettable sojourn, a symphony that reverberates through the sacred waters of the Ganga. Beyond being a melodic extravaganza, this grand celebration is a poignant ode to the purity and essence of rivers. Beyond the enchanting performances, the Ganga Kinare Music Festival aspires to be a catalyst for change, calling upon its attendees to become stewards of river preservation, fostering a lasting bond between the festival-goers and the sacred waters that flow through the heart of Varanasi.

Aligned with the globally recognized ‘Namami Gange Programme’ championed by the United Nations, the festival transcends the realms of entertainment, aspiring to create a dynamic community of river champions. The Ganga Kinare Music Festival aligns with the national mission for a cleaner Ganga. It seeks to build a community dedicated to championing rivers and establishing a unique bond between the younger generation and the holy river. The journey begins in Varanasi in 2023 and will continue through Rishikesh (2024), Prayagraj (2025), Patna (2026), and Kolkata (2027).

Zee Media Corp Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha highlighted, “At Zee Media, we believe in the power of storytelling through diverse mediums. Our partnership with Havas Play and Namami Gange, stands at the forefront of a cultural and environmental movement. Through this festival, we invite our widespread viewers and readers to not just witness but actively participate in the call for river conservation and cultural preservation. Let the music be the bridge that connects us to the soul of Varanasi and the sacred Ganga.”

Zee Media Corp Ltd CRO Mona Jain further expressed, “Ganga Kinare Music Festival is a testament to the transformative power of music and its ability to unite people in celebration. We firmly believe in the profound impact of cultural initiatives and are thrilled to be part of this initiative that harmonizes the beats of our traditions with the melodies of the Ganges, fostering a deeper connection with our roots and a commitment to the conservation of our sacred rivers.”

Interestingly, Havas Play will ensure a seamless blend of cultural immersion and entertainment, leveraging digital and social media exposure to extend the festival’s reach. Collaborations with headline artists will include exclusive content creation and behind-the-scenes access. Speaking on the collaboration, Havas Play MD and Havas Media president investments R. Venkatasubramanian said, “India’s rich legacy continues to influence and enthral people from around the world. It is critical that we find newer ways to celebrate them and pass on the legacy to the newer generation. Music is the universal language that binds people across all age groups, and transcends geographies. Hence Ganga Kinare Music Festival blends in the power of music in the historic city of Varanasi on the banks of the holy Ganga. The Festival aspires not just to captivate audiences but to crescendo into a global festival deeply rooted in India’s history, evolving with the beats of our collective journey.”

At its core, the event seeks to forge a unique connection between the younger generation and the holy Ganga, weaving together the threads of music and cultural heritage to illuminate the path of river preservation. This initiative encourages an enduring dedication to the preservation of our revered waters and the safeguarding of our rich cultural heritage.

November 22, 2023
Inside NSG: Honours 26/11 heroes on National Geographic India

Mumbai: As India solemnly commemorates the 15 anniversary of the horrific 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, it stands as an unwavering symbol of strength and resilience. Remembering the great sacrifice of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and other martyrs of NSG, National Geographic India proudly unveils its upcoming documentary ‘Inside NSG,’ a testament to the gallant hard work, resilience, and professional commitment of the NSG commandos. Premiering on 26 November at 8 pm, Inside NSG a 44-minute documentary, is a never-seen-before glimpse into the elite anti-terror force of India. Filmed with multiple cameras on the ground and air, Inside NSG is a look behind the scenes at the NSG, as a world-class zero-error force.

Embed link: https://youtu.be/11bPlrEwwO8

The overarching story is of the efficiency of the many different competencies of the NSG. From the counter-terror, and counter-hijack operations; to the close protection force; and the state-of-the-art bomb detection and disposal squad and the National Bomb Data Center.

At another level, Inside NSG follows the story of a young officer who aspires to become a Black Cat Commando of the National Security Guard. The film follows his journey as he tries to clear the three-month commando conversion course followed by the six-week unit induction course. The filming is raw, visceral, and inspiring, leaving the viewer amazed at the strength and endurance required of an NSG commando.

At every level, Inside NSG shows the patriotism and bravery of a force like this one. A legacy forged with sacrifice and blood while protecting India. Besides the 26/11 attacks, the film provides a brief glimpse into previous operations such as the Pathankot and Akshardham Temple incidents, highlighting the crucial role played by the NSG in upholding national security.

“At NSG, we stand firm against terrorists who threaten the integrity of our nation. Through intense training, we forge ourselves to confront any adversity and execute counter-terrorism missions. We are glad to have a credible brand like National Geographic depict our efforts, as they capture the very essence and emotion of Sarvatra, Sarvottam, Suraksha which is NSG’s motto. Their bold, powerful, and thought-provoking style of storytelling unveils the true essence of being an NSG commando” said NSG director general.

“At National Geographic, we harness the transformative power of storytelling and exploration to tell stories that can change the way we see the world. ‘Inside NSG’ is a part of our commitment to bring forward the best stories about our elite forces and provide our audience with a deeper understanding of the remarkable journey of the ‘black cats.’ We are honored that the NSG selected our channel to present this inspiring film to our viewers. Their valour echoes in every frame, imprinting upon us the sheer spirit of sacrifice and unwavering dedication.” said a National Geographic spokesperson.

Inside NSG will premiere on National Geographic in India at 8 PM on 26 November 2023.

November 22, 2023
Shami explains pitch approach-avoidance in candid chat with PUMA

Mumbai: Team India’s dream run came to an end with a billion heartbreaks as Australia clinched their sixth title by securing a six-wicket victory in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The tournament’s leading wicket-taker, pacer Mohammed Shami, set the tone with a fiery start, claiming David Warner on his very first ball. But despite this promising beginning, India couldn’t seize the moment.

Emerging as the most impressive sportsperson in the tournament with 24 wickets from eight games, including three impressive fifers, Shami’s journey since 2015 has been nothing short of a movie script. Shami, who’s also the PUMA brand ambassador, spoke his heart out in an extensive interview during his visit to the sports brand’s headquarter in Bengaluru.

“Nobody knew the pain I was dealing with [during the 2015 edition],” Shami confessed during a candid chat with PUMA as he revealed his success mantra of not taking a close look at the wicket before the start of the match, just to keep himself relaxed.

In the exclusive interview, Shami also opened up about various facets of his difficult yet impressive cricketing journey, right from scoring a century as an opener in his first leather ball match, earning money through cricket for the first time at around 16 years of age, overcoming personal challenges bravely, creating an old-school training set-up at farmhouse, to maiden India call-up and many more as the compelling interview was uploaded by PUMA on its YouTube channel

“I had swelling in my knee before the 2015 tournament. Someone else could have said no but I have the ability to bear pain and I was told two options—either directly go for surgery or play the tournament and then go for the surgery. While the team would return to the hotel after every match, I would go to the hospital to take the injection. When you play for the country, you forget everything,“ Shami shared in the interview.

Shami underwent a knee operation. “I was unconscious for two hours. When I woke up, I asked the doctor when I could start playing. He replied, ‘It will be a big achievement if you walk without a limp, forget playing. It all depends on how you go about your rehab,” Shami said.

Shami has not looked back since. His comeback journey has been visibly inspirational. He not only surpassed the likes of bowling greats to become the highest wicket-taker for the country in the world’s biggest cricket tournament with 55 wickets from 18 matches, but also created history earlier in the semi-finals when he registered India’s best ODI bowling figures of 7-57.

The 33-year-old shared his secret that helps him perform better. “Generally, bowlers check the pitch after arriving at the ground. I never go close to the wicket because you will know how it behaves only when you bowl on it. Then why take the pressure? It’s best to keep it simple, keep yourself relaxed and only then you will perform better,” said Shami, as he also revealed that he doesn’t follow any pre-match ritual.

“Better hai aap subah utho, mast fresh hojao, chaay peeyo, gaane suno [it’s better you wake up, get fresh, have tea and listen to songs] ” he added.

Talking about PUMA’s revolutionary Let There Be Sport initiative and the importance of sports culture in the country, Shami commented, “If the child has the talent, he should be supported. It’s not necessary that every child will study and become an engineer or sit in top position. If your child is talented, he can reach greater heights in sports as well.”

Although Shami was in stellar form in the tournament, he had to sit out for the initial few matches. In the interview, he shared that it bothered him but the team’s performance made him happy. “When you sit out for four matches, you need to be mentally strong. Sometimes you are under pressure but when you see the team performing well and going in a good direction, it gives you satisfaction.”

He added that he doesn’t look at record books and only tries to take as many wickets as possible.

Fans can watch the full interview on PUMA’s YouTube channel and know many more interesting revelations made by the Indian speedster.

November 22, 2023
Over nine million fans participated in “We for Virat” contest

Mumbai: Over 9.3 million cricket enthusiasts nationwide actively participated in the “We For Virat” contest during the recently concluded Cricket World Cup. This contest which was organised by Glance, the world’s leading Smart Lock Screen, in partnership with Star Sports, South Asia’s largest sports broadcaster, was aimed to engage cricket fans in supporting the batting maestro Virat Kohli on his journey towards the 50th ODI centuries milestone.

The contest was simultaneously held on Glance Smart Lock Screen and during the live cricket broadcast on Star Sports. Cricket fans were presented with questions related to Kohli, enhancing their engagement with the game. The combined influence of television broadcast and the digital platform resulted in entries flooding in from 252 different cities and towns across India, turning it into a truly national moment.

Glance CMO Bikash Chowdhury said, “Glance Smart Lock Screen is changing how over 200 million Indians connect and engage with the world around them. With our expansive reach and Smart Lock Screen capabilities, we have united millions of Indian cricket fans through a partnership with Star Sports on television. Fuelled by immense passion for the Indian cricket team, the participation of over 9.3 million Indians made this World Cup truly exceptional. This collaboration showcases the synergy of digital and television, contributing to a distinctive and memorable experience as an Indian legend surpassed another on home turf.”

The contest involved people answering daily questions asked on Glance smart lock screens and the Cricket Live broadcast on Star Sports before and after every match in the period played between 1 to 11 November. Five lucky winners, who came from diverse towns and cities such as Kolad, Maharashtra and Kolkata, West Bengal, got a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel to the Star Sports studios.

On November 15, they became part of the live broadcast for the India-New Zealand semi-final from the Star Sports studio in Mumbai and had the opportunity to meet renowned ex-cricketers from Star Sports’ expert line up.

Throughout the tournament, Glance has been delivering World Cup highlights and related updates directly to millions of smart lock screens. With over 75 million Indians actively engaging with the content on their smart lock screens, and a total of 69,444 hours of content consumed daily during World Cup, this has become an extraordinary moment. The frictionless access provided by Glance smart lock screen has allowed users to stay informed about every moment in this record-breaking tournament.

Glance is an AI-driven platform that offers a wide range of experiences directly on the lock screens of android smartphones. These lock screen experiences include instant games, live game streaming, news, sports, lifestyle, fashion, entertainment, shopping, and live content. These premium and beautiful experiences are delivered through Glance’s partnership with reputed publishers, content partners, and developers. Glance’s AI personalises these experiences, ensuring that consumers find content that is most relevant and important to them, each time they glance or look at their lock screen. They do this without needing to unlock their phones or download multiple apps or spend time searching for content.

November 22, 2023
HSBC India presents ‘Masha and the Bear Live’, a theatrical adaptation by Viacom18 Live debuts in India!

Mumbai: Viacom18 Live, pioneers in experiential and immersive entertainment experiences, is all set to mesmerize kids and families with the live theatrical adaptation of the famed animated series on Nick Jr., ‘Masha and the Bear’. Building on the success of the ‘Peppa Pig’ musical that returned earlier this year, the one-of-its-kind entertainment experience with the young, spirited girl and the bear will be making its debut in India. Produced by Viacom18 Live and presented by HSBC India, the entertainment spectacle will go on an incredible journey across the country, commencing in Mumbai on 23 December 2023, followed by performances in Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad and thereafter concluding its tour in Mumbai in March 2024.

Packed with music, dance, and a strong narrative around “A Very Detective Story”, to make it suit and appeal to children of all ages, the show will provide the audience with an interactive experience where Masha and the Bear will need the audience’s help to solve this mystery together. Featuring various characters from the show, ‘Masha and the Bear Live’ is a musical story that will revolve around Masha, the Bear, professor Nonbelevious, Rosie, the Panda, Sly Fox and Silly Fox & more, who will join Masha to solve the mystery of missing items from her home! With stunning visuals, engaging storytelling, and delightful music, the extravaganza will transport children into the beloved animated world of Masha and her best friend, the Bear, leaving everyone satisfied with solving this mystery with their favorite characters. That’s not all!

With tickets available on www.kidsdayout.co, HSBC Card holders will have an exclusive 72-hour window to have first rights to the best seats & meet & greet opportunities across each show, along with discounted ticket rates.

Viacom18 Live (Integrated Network Solutions) business head Gaurav Mashruwala said, “Viacom18 LIVE takes pride in curating immersive entertainment experiences that have left an indelible mark across different age groups. Masha and the Bear, the beloved show on Nick Jr., have captured the hearts of many in India, and we are thrilled to bring their magical world to life on stage. We’re excited to have HSBC India as our partners and help us making this extraordinary experiential possible right in our home turf.”

HSBC India head of customers, digital & marketing Jaswinder Sodhi said, “We are super excited to be part of an extraordinary live theatrical adaptation of one of the kids’ favourite shows on television, Masha and the Bear. At HSBC, we strive to connect people to opportunities and possibilities, and we offer curated experiences to our customers. Viacom18 Live fosters a similar spirit of connecting through the power of storytelling. HSBC Starstruck is an initiative started by us wherein clients enjoy host of exclusive experiences such as best seats for a show, exclusive presales window, discounts and meet & greet with artists. The India tour of Masha and the Bear will be a part of HSBC Starstruck initiative, wherein our HSBC clients will have access to exclusive benefits.”

Masha and the Bear has gained immense popularity in India, captivating both children and parents with its delightful storytelling and endearing characters. Its widespread appeal on Nick Jr India has made it a household favorite across the country. With the great history of Viacom18 Live providing immersive live entertainment, including events like ‘Vh1 Supersonic,’ ‘Vh1 Lift Off,’ and ‘Peppa Pig Live musical, the Masha and the Bear Live is set to continue this tradition of bringing unforgettable experiences to the audience.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic of Masha and the Bear Live in India!

Get ready to embark on a journey of laughter, love, and adventure with your favourite animated friends.

November 22, 2023
Australia tour of India resumes with five-match T20I series on Viacom18

Mumbai: India and Australia will go up a gear, taking on each other in a five-match T20I series starting November 23 live on JioCinema and Sports18 network. The series is of great significance for both sides as they will look to find the right combination ahead of the T20 World Cup in June 2024.

Even as JioCinema continues to offer the series in 11 languages for free, on TV, the series will be aired live on Sports18 – 1 SD & HD and Colors Cineplex. JioCinema will continue to offer viewers the fast-paced format in English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

The expert panel for the series across languages will include Ashish Nehra making his debut for the network joining Aakash Chopra, Saba Karim, Abhinav Mukund, Sarandeep Singh, Kiran More, Abhishek Nayar, VRV Singh, Manoj Tiwary among others.

“The five-match T20I series will be a continuation of our efforts in elevating the consumer’s overall experience of sports consumption,” said a Viacom18 spokesperson. “It is our endeavour to continuously push the envelope on digital and reach far and wide with our TV channels.”

The series will continue to stream in 4K on JioCinema and fans will be offered the popular predict and win fan engagement contest Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan. Introduced first during the 2023 TATA IPL, Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan was a runaway success as tens of thousands won exciting prizes including over 60 contestants driving away a premium hatchback. The contest also brought out stirring stories of how winning the car changed fortunes for many from India’s heartlands.

Viewers can continue to watch their preferred sports by downloading JioCinema (iOS & Android). For the latest updates, news, scores, and videos, fans can follow Sports18 on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube and JioCinema on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Schedule

November 21, 2023