Category: TV Channels

Muthoot Finance announces collaboration with FICCI

Mumbai: Muthoot Finance Ltd., India’s leading gold loan provider announced the inaugural Corporate Sports Championship Kochi 2023, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). This exciting event aims to bring together over 20 leading corporate firms from Kochi and its surrounding areas.

While sports have a blend of values that reflects on our day-to-day life, it also enables an individual to build strong relationships in a workplace among colleagues. Participating in sports cultivates discipline, enhances workplace bonds, and sharpens essential skills. On similar lines, the Corporate Sports Championship Kochi 2023 targets to foster sportsmanship and camaraderie among participants, promoting a vibrant corporate sporting culture. The opening, held on 13 October 2023, at Abad Plaza, MG Road, Cochin, featured the logo unveiling. The event was graced by chief guest Shri. Hibi Eden, MP Ernakulam, Key note address Adv M. AnilKumar, Mayor, Kochi Municipal Corporation and Shri. George M. Jacob, Deputy Managing Director, Muthoot Finance and Shri. Savio Mathew, Head FICCI Kerala State Council.

Some of the key corporates like EY, FCI OEN Connectors Ltd., Geojit Financial Services Ltd., KIMSHEALTH Trivandrum, Lulu Group, Muthoot Finance, Muthoot Microfin Ltd, Olam Food Ingredients India Private Limited, Pothys Retail PVT LTD, SFO TECHNOLOGIES PRIVATE LIMITED (NEST GROUP), TCS, V-Guard Industries Ltd, Baker Hughes, Bhima Jewels Pvt Ltd, UST GLOBALS, and DP World will engage in spirited competitions like Cricket, Football and Badminton.

During the inauguration ceremony, lot draws where conducted to determine the match fixtures for the sports events. Subsequent matches will be held on Saturdays and Sundays over the following weekends, promising thrilling action and intense competition. The prize money for winners under Football and Cricket is Rs. 50,000. The runner up will get Rs.20,000. The winners and runner ups for Badminton will receive Rs.5000 and Rs.2500 respectively. The total prize money offered for the championship will be Rs. 1,77,500.

As part of this inauguration ceremony, Muthoot Finance deputy managing director George M. Jacob said, “We are thrilled to join hands with FICCI to bring the Corporate Sports Championship to Kochi. This event underlines the significance of physical fitness, teamwork, and the valuable lessons sports offer about training, goal-setting, overcoming setbacks, and achieving success. It also provides an excellent platform for networking and fostering corporate relationships in a sporting environment. We look forward to an exciting and successful championship. May the best sportsperson win”.

Speaking at the event, Ernakulam MP chief guest Hibi Eden said, “It gives me immense pleasure to witness industry players like Muthoot Finance and FICCI uniting to bring the Corporate Sports Championship to Kochi. Sports have the power to unite, inspire, and build bonds. It’s a pleasure to be a part of an event that promotes sportsmanship and unity in the corporate world.”

“As we come together for the Corporate Sports Championship 2023, I’m honored to be a part of Muthoot Finance and FICCI in our mission to build unity and sportsmanship within the corporate fabric of Kochi. Let us not only compete but also collaborate to foster a vibrant sporting culture in our city,” said Kochi Municipal Corporation adv M. AnilKumar.

FICCI Kerala State Corporate head Savio Mathew stated, “The collaboration between Muthoot Finance and FICCI reflects our commitment to cultivate a flourishing and well-balanced corporate community, prioritizing the physical and emotional well-being of India Inc. We’re excited to be a part of this transformative journey, enriching the corporate landscape in Kochi and emphasizing the pivotal role of sports in our corporate culture.”

October 14, 2023
PVR INOX brings ICC Cricket World Cup live on big screens

Mumbai: With the much-awaited quadrennial event, ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023 underway, India’s largest cinema chain, PVR INOX, has announced that it will offer an unparalleled stadium-like experience for the cricket fans of India with the screening of LIVE matches of the on its giant cinema screens. The 13 editions of the Cricket World Cup, hosted solely by India, got underway on the 5th of October 2023, with the Finals scheduled on the 19 November 2023.

PVR INOX is the sole multiplex operator in the country that will be screening the live matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup. All nine of India’s league matches, and the knock-out games, semi-finals, and finals, will be showcased in select theatres of PVR INOX across more than 40 cities, including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, Jaipur, Indore, Vadodara, Surat, Guwahati, Goa, Nagpur, Lucknow, Chandigarh and Trivandrum.

PVR-INOX Ltd co-CEO Gautam Dutta said, ” For Indians, cricket is a religion, and the World Cup is a grand festival where everyone comes together to celebrate. The excitement of the World Cup, the feeling of cheering your favourite team with hundreds of like-minded fans, and the state-of-the-art out-of-home stadium-like cinematic settings; this exciting combination is all set to take the thrill of the World Cup to newer heights, and we are proud to curate this for our fans. We look forward to hosting thousands of cricket enthusiasts across 40 cities of India who will share their feelings and support Team India. Our large screens across the country will capture the excitement surrounding Team India’s matches and the hysteria of the Cricket World Cup returning to India after 12 years. We have been innovating with our content offerings, and the screening of World Cup matches is a significant milestone in this endeavour. This initiative is dedicated to our beloved patrons, and we are confident they will come to our multiplexes to experience the thrill of the sport.”

PVR INOX’s latest initiative to showcase live matches is an excellent opportunity for cricket enthusiasts to relish the electrifying stadium vibes in a lively and entertaining ambience. The multiplex’s plush, comfortable settings will elevate the cricket-watching experience to the next level, with like-minded fans cheering for their favourite teams together, amidst much fanfare. Fans can also indulge in PVR INOX’s delectable food combos and gourmet options while enjoying their favourite matches in the comfort of the cinema hall.

October 14, 2023
Suhasini Maniratnam and Kushboo Sundar illuminate ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit

Mumbai: “There are people who don’t think about Box Office. In our generation we used to work for success and not for money. I want the smaller, meaningful films to reach the masses,” renowned actress Suhasini Maniratnam, said sharing her observation around changing trends in film industry at the ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit.

On being asked if things have changed for women in the industry, Suhasini remarked, “The world of cinema is the same. Women have changed. They have begun standing-up for themselves.”

Speaking at the session, “Making New Myths – Recreating the Old”, Suhasini recalled how Maniratnam made the historic epic Ponniyin Selvan. “I asked him not to make this film. After the failure of some of the politic-historic films we make, I was uncertain, if this idea would work,” she revealed and further added, “The thing that worked for the success of PS, was the fact that the story of Ponniyin Selvan has been there in our culture. People loved it even before we made it.”

Speaking at the session, ‘Reinvention and Resurgence – Staying Alive in the Movies’, celebrated actress turned politician, Kushboo Sundar, shared a reflection from her personal life, “I slept like a log after coming out in open of being a victim of child sexual abuse. There’s nothing for me to be ashamed off.”

“We are yet to arrive in the South and it will rule and provide when it arrives.” Khusboo said, sharing her perspective on BJP’s role in the south. She further remarked, “Change takes time. Economy is booming. You cannot blame a party which is ruling for 9 years for unemployment.”

The ‘Southern Rising’ Summit is a convergence of the old and the new, a space where cinematic legends share their wisdom, and emerging talents find inspiration. Conceptualized and instituted by ABP Network, ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit is a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural opulence, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. It aims to celebrate the spirit and richness of southern states, united on a singular mission of driving a transformative journey for India. The summit thus witnesses profound deliberations and sharing of insights by the movers and shakers of South Indian states and Union Territories.

October 13, 2023
“Women should be given importance in party responsibilities”: Jothimani Sennimalai

Mumbai: In an empowering address at ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit, Jothimani Sennimalai, a member of parliament in the Lok Sabha (Congress), placed a spotlight on the importance of prioritising women in pivotal party roles. During the enlightening session, “Women in Politics: A Different Kind of Leader,” Sennimalai’s insights not only ignited inspiration but also catalyzed transformative change.

Highlighting her personal journey, Sennimalai said, “From the time I contested panchayat elections 25 years ago till now, Politics has always been considered as a male-dominated arena. It’s been a continuous learning experience in the political realm. However, progressive parties are beginning to see more women in parliamentary roles.”

The challenges she faced and the triumphs she celebrated as a woman in Indian politics. She highlighted the importance of reservation for women. Adding to this she said – “For the last 70 years’ men have been going to parliament and legislatures. No one questioned them. But if only women contest the elections, they ask, what are you going to do? This is why reservation for women is necessary”.

Sennimalai further emphasised that– “To empower women in politics, there’s a need for fundamental changes in the party structure. At the party level, men are present in various positions starting from the local government to the district level. If such opportunities are given opportunities especially to women through that experience they can perform better even when they come to power”.

The session left an indelible mark, not only celebrating Sennimalai’s journey but also serving as a source of motivation for aspiring women leaders in politics. “In politics, women have to first fight for their gender, and then the issues follow so be brave and follow your instincts.” She concluded.

‘The Southern Rising’ Summit was conceptualised and instituted by ABP Network as a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural opulence, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. It aims to celebrate the spirit and richness of southern states, united on a singular mission of driving a transformative journey for India. The summit thus witnesses profound deliberations and sharing of insights by the movers and shakers of South Indian states and Union Territories.

October 13, 2023
Blackberrys partners with the Paralympic Committee of India as the “Official Ceremonial Partner”

Mumbai: Blackberrys, an aspirational Indian menswear brand that caters to the fashion needs of the global Indian, has joined hands with the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) as the “Official Ceremonial Partner” for the upcoming fourth Asian Para Games to be held in Hangzhou, China later this month.

As part of this collaboration, the iconic Indian clothing brand known for the impeccable quality of its innovative, stylish, and sharp-fitting range, will dress Paralympic athletes and representatives of India travelling to China for the championship scheduled between 22 and 28 Oct 2023.

In a glorious press meet on the sendoff ceremony held in the capital city, Blackberrys unveiled and handed over the official ceremonial suit to the attending athletes Parul D Parmar (Para Badminton) and Amit Saroha (Para Discus and Club throw) and PCI delegates. Among the dignitaries who graced the event were Chef de Mission Gursharan Singh, Para Athletics chairperson Satyanarayana, Blackberrys co-founder and director Nikhil Mohan; Blackberrys VP- brand experience Rajesh Sethuraman; Blackberrys general manager – supply chain Praveen Gupta and para-athletes Parul D Parmar (Para Badminton) and Amit Saroha (Para Discus and Club throw).

“Embracing the inspirational ethos of ‘Keep Rising,’ Blackberrys takes immense pride in its partnership with the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) as the ‘Official Ceremonial Partner’ for the 4th Asian Para Games. Our brand’s essence mirrors the unwavering spirit of para-athletes who consistently shatter boundaries and overcome the odds. Crafting the ceremonial suit for the Indian contingent is a moment of profound aspiration. We are fervently committed to celebrating the extraordinary journey of these athletes, who epitomize the triumph of determination and resilience. With every stitch, we weave a symbol of strength, style, and achievement, inspiring Team India’s path to glory”, said Blackberrys co-founder & director Nikhil Mohan.

The ceremonial suit designed and meticulously constructed by Blackberrys showcases India’s monogram blending fashion and functionality.

Paralympic Committee of India secretary-general Gursharan Singh stated, ”Our primary mission at the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) is to foster inclusivity and excellence in para-sports. Aligned with Blackberrys’ ethos of ‘Keep Rising,’ this partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. It encapsulates our unwavering belief in the potential of our para-athletes and mirrors Blackberrys’ inspiration for individuals to ‘Keep Rising’ through their product innovation and fit. This successful collaboration symbolizes our collective dedication to the spirit of sportsmanship and achievement, inspiring Team India to triumph at the Asian Para Games”.

Team India will be participating in 17 sports of the 4th Asian Para Games. The Indian contingent will compete in a range of categories, including archery, athletics, badminton, blind football, boccia, canoe, chess, cycling, judo, lawn ball, powerlifting, rowing, shooting, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo and wheelchair fencing.

October 13, 2023
Colors Bangla Cinema presents the television premiere of ‘Ekannoborti’

Mumbai: In a world where life’s hustle and bustle often keeps us apart, there’s something truly magical about the bond of family that brings us back together, much like the joyous reunion during the vibrant celebration of Durga Puja. This Mahalaya, 14 October at 10:00pm, Colors Bangla Cinema extends an invitation to experience the television premiere of ‘Ekannoborti,’ a heartwarming story that celebrates the enduring spirit of familial love, tradition, and the beauty of second chances.

Starring Aparajita Auddy, Sauraseni Maitra, Ananya Sen, and Alokananda Roy, ‘Ekannoborti’ is a family drama that will tug at your heartstrings. Directed by Mainak Bhaumik, this cinematic masterpiece is a poignant reminder of the bonds that unite us. This movie explores a family’s journey from unity to fragmentation and back together during a lively household Durga Puja, rekindling their joy amidst the festive chaos, transforming their home from silence to celebration.

What sets ‘Ekannoborti’ apart is the depth of emotion it carries. The soul-stirring song, ‘Behaya,’ composed by Mainak Mazoomdar and penned by Nilanjan Chakraborty, captures the essence of the Bengali family. Sung by the mellifluous Lagnajita Chakraborty, this track is bound to touch your soul.

The movie also boasts stellar performances by Kaushik Sen and Sudip Mukherjee, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

Colors Bangla and Colors Bangla Cinema business head Sagnik Ghosh shared, ‘At Colors Bangla Cinema, we are unwavering in our commitment to uniting individuals through the power of emotions and ‘Ekannoborti’ resonates with that sentiment. Our brand byline “Saat Ronge Bandha” which means unified by the seven colours stands for this value of unification. We are happy to present the television premiere of a film that stands for the importance of family and its relevance in today’s rapidly disintegrating world.’

Mark your calendars for a date with emotions, tradition, and the magic of familial bonds. Presented by Vivel Soaps (ITC) and special partner Dear Government Lotteries, witness the television premiere of ‘Ekannoborti’ only on Colors Bangla Cinema, Saturday, 14 October 2023, at 10:00 pm.

October 13, 2023
Nickelodeon bolsters programming with the launch of global hit ‘The Twisted Timeline of Sammy & Raj’ in India

Mumbai: Nickelodeon, India’s No. 1 destination for kids’ entertainment, continues to push the envelope and set new benchmarks in the dynamic kids’ category through immersive and relatable storytelling. In line with the network’s commitment to successfully identifying white spaces and filling them, Nickelodeon has yet again filled another need gap in the kids’ category. With a robust content library of genre-defining IPs like Motu Patlu, Shiva, Rudra, Pinaki & Happy – The Bhoot Bandhus, Chikoo Aur Bunty, Abhimanyu Ki Alien Family and many more, Nickelodeon is all set to debut its maiden co-production with Nickelodeon International – The Twisted Timeline of Sammy & Raj – in India. Starting October 15th, the new-age comedy will air every Saturday-Sunday at 1pm.

A first-of-its-kind animated series, ‘The Twisted Timeline of Sammy & Raj’ revolves around the escapades of two cousins, Sammy and Raj who possess a unique and mysterious time-altering app. With the extraordinary ability to pause, rewind and fast-forward time itself, Sammy and Raj embark on a series of amusing adventures as they attempt to tackle various issues. However, their well-intentioned efforts often end up causing a delightful blend of uproarious chaos and comedic situations. In each episode, Sammy and Raj encounter fresh and entertaining challenges, all while utilising their time-altering app to cleverly manoeuvre through the hurdles that come their way.

Speaking on the partnership with Nickelodeon International, Viacom18 head – creative, content, and research, Kids TV Network, Anu Sikka said, “The Twisted Timeline of Sammy & Raj is a collaborative testament between Nickelodeon International and us to deliver diverse, inclusive top-quality content for our young audiences. Filled with humour, this story of time travel is a fresh and unparalleled addition to our slate. We are confident that this show will grow to become an instant favourite, reaffirming our commitment to kids and the category.”

Paramount’s global kids & family group VP – International production and development Chris Rose said, “The Twisted Timeline of Sammy & Raj is the successful result of our partnership with Viacom18. Thanks to an extensive collaboration and strong teamwork, we managed to create a powerful story that explore differences between Eastern and Western sensibilities. The team in India was key to creating the story line and defining the characters for a kids’ show which gives audiences a taste of Indian culture, while capturing universal storylines that appeal to all audiences.”

Supporting the launch of The Twisted Timeline of Sammy & Raj is a robust multi-screen marketing plan across the Nickelodeon franchise, with a strong push on social media and various other digital platforms, games, connected tv, and influencer collaborations. Taking the plan a step forward, is an innovative AR filter which will transport kids in time by altering their appearance and is sure to draw equal attention from kids as well as brands.

October 13, 2023
Women are worst sufferers in caste discrimination. Do they feel safe? – Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi’s at ABP Network’s “The Southern Rising” Summit

Mumbai: “It is good to see political parties being active and speaking fearlessly, but that’s not enough. There’s something more to be done to make our democracy real,” observed the illustrious Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, former Governor of West Bengal, as he embarked on a thought-provoking journey to underline the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi at ABP Network’s “The Southern Rising” Summit.

In his compelling session, “Mahatma Forever: Why We Need Him Now,” he clarified that Gandhi did not seek immortality or was not keen on being relevant.

“Gandhiji learned Tamil when he was in South Africa because many of his counterparts were of Tamil origin. It was the people from the South India who propelled Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi in South Africa towards’ struggle for India’s dignity in South Africa.” Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, said speaking about the South Indian connect with Gandhi.

He outlined, “No South India in South Africa, no freedom struggle led by Gandhi in India”

Reflecting on the current issues in Indian society, he remarked, ”Untouchability may have been abolished, but has caste discrimination gone? Women are worst sufferers in caste discrimination. Do they feel safe?”

Speaking on the ongoing national and international conflicts, Gopalkrishna Gandhi remarked, “The deep suspicions between communities in our country. Internationally, the dance of destruction caused by the code of revenge and retaliation is what we are witnessing.”
As the audience leaned in, Prof. Gandhi further enriched the discussion by delving into the practical applications of Gandhian principles in the modern world. His address served as a reminder that the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi continue to resonate, offering invaluable lessons for our time.

‘The Southern Rising’ Summit was conceptualised and instituted by ABP Network as a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural opulence, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. It aims to celebrate the spirit and richness of southern states, united on a singular mission of driving a transformative journey for India. The summit thus witnesses profound deliberations and sharing of insights by the movers and shakers of South Indian states and Union Territories.

October 12, 2023
Political heavyweights clash in spirited debate on New India

Mumbai: Political heavyweights engaged in a spirited debate at ABP Network’s “The Southern Rising” Summit. The debate took place during a session titled “Whose New India? Past, Imperfect, or Fast Forward.” The panel, which included John Brittas, Narayanan Thirupathy, and M V Rajeev Gowda, presented a mosaic of contrasting viewpoints.

Observing the freedom of media in the nation BJP vice president Narayanan Thirupathy said, “Everyone in India now has the freedom to speak on any issue”. He further adds, “Many say BJP can’t have a foothold in Tamil Nadu. In the last 60 years, it is the BJP that has been growing in the state more than other parties. We have done very well, our booth committee is very strong. There is a big vacuum in the absence of Jayalalitha and Karunanidhi, and BJP will definitely fill the vacuum. Definitely, the BJP is going to form the government in 2026.”

Member of Parliament (CPIM) John Brittas said, “India is a multi-religious country and you can only have democracy when you have free and independent media. ” He further adds, “India has a rich history of welcoming all cultures and boasts a diverse heritage. South India is the home of reformists. With 18% of the population, we contribute 35% to the GDP.

Contributing to the discussion and presenting a unique angle M V Rajeev Gowda, vice chairperson, State Institute for Transformation of Karnataka and ex-member of parliament, Rajya Sabha (INC) said “We are experiencing a BJP-free South India. In Karnataka, we saw corruption. The contractors wrote letters to the PM complaining about corruption. We need to provide people with fair prices and a safety net. This is something Congress will continue in the country. The Nyay scheme is also a safety net for people. We are expected to win Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh in a spectacular way.”

Countering to that John added, “The BJP can maintain its optimism, as everyone has the right to dream of coming to power in Tamil Nadu in 2026.”

The compelling dialogue in the session left the audience with a sense of urgency, underscoring the vital need to strike a delicate balance between history, the present, and the future in order to shape a prosperous and harmonious India.

‘The Southern Rising’ Summit was conceptualised and instituted by ABP Network as a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural opulence, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. It aims to celebrate the spirit and richness of southern states, united on a singular mission of driving a transformative journey for India. The summit thus witnesses profound deliberations and sharing of insights by the movers and shakers of South Indian states and Union Territories.

October 12, 2023
ICC and Mphasis announce digital partnership at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023

Mumbai: Mphasis, (BSE: 526299; NSE: MPHASIS), an Information Technology (IT) solutions provider specializing in cloud and cognitive services, has today been named as the digital consulting partner of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Through the collaboration, ICC will be leveraging Mphasis’ global expertise to deliver enhanced and innovative digital experiences for cricket fans around the world.

The ICC reaches hundreds of millions of cricket fans through its digital platforms and has a relentless focus on being a fan first. The Men’s Cricket World Cup will place those fans at the center of the action bringing them closer to the game than ever before through experiences on the ICC website and app, adopting technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and web3 to reach new audiences. At the heart of the ICC’s digital eco-system is the ICC Family which gives tens of millions of fans direct access to exclusive content and experiences.

ICC Head of Digital Finn Bradshaw added, “We are delighted to welcome Mphasis to our portfolio of partners at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. Together, we are focused on fans and their digital journey through this World Cup. It’s set to be one of the most followed sporting events with a truly global audience and we look forward to leveraging Mphasis’ experience as we strive to elevate the digital experience for cricket lovers all over.”

Mphasis chief executive officer, and managing director Nitin Rakesh said: ‘We are incredibly excited to become the Official Digital Consulting Partner of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. This partnership underscores our commitment to the sport but it’s also a statement about our longer-term intent to drive the future of cricket technology. By working closely with the ICC, we will explore what’s possible in the world of sports and technology and look to shape lasting, valuable experiences for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.”

October 12, 2023