ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Warner Music acquires the Indian management company E-Positive

    Warner Music acquires the Indian management company E-Positive

    Mumbai: Warner Music has announced the acquisition of the Indian artist management company, E-Positive. The deal further strengthens Warner Music India’s position in independent music and will allow its artists to tap into new expertise in brand partnerships and live events. The company will also continue to maintain the prestigious Indie Music Label as part of its holdings.

    E-Positive is home to Darshan Raval, one of the top five most streamed artists in India and the fastest-growing artist in the region, having quadrupled his daily streams in the last 12 months. Raval is renowned for his crossover ability and has released songs in languages including Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi and Bengali. His tracks have been streamed more than nine billion times while he has grown his monthly listeners across the DSPs to more than 43 million and garnered 17 million followers on Instagram.  

    E-Positive will continue to act as a stand-alone company and will be led by founder and CEO, Naushad Khan.  Khan is a prominent figure in the live entertainment industry, having built an unrivalled network of contacts while promoting more than 15,000 shows. Since launching E-Positive, he has also been instrumental in managing the careers of many artists including Darshan Raval, who he discovered and developed into a star.  

    Naushad Khan said: “This is an exciting day in the journey of E-Positive. I’ve worked towards developing a legacy for over 10 years and carved the journey of each one of my artists. I’m delighted that we’ve found a new home at Warner Music India. The team at Warner Music India will help us grow in the international market and will help our artists connect with more fans from around the world. We’re looking forward to the next chapter of E-Positive.”

    Warner Music India managing director Jay Mehta added: “Naushad Khan has done an incredible job of positioning E-Positive as a leading management company and his knowledge in brand partnerships and the live sector will be a great asset for us at Warner Music India. And it’s a privilege to welcome such a phenomenal artist like Darshan Raval into the global Warner Music family. Darshan is a true star, and we believe he can become a staple on the global stage.”

    Warner Music president of emerging markets Alfonso Perez Soto concluded: “This deal once again reinforces our desire to become the number one destination for artists in India, and welcoming an artist like Darshan onto our roster is a real statement of intent. Darshan, as well as the whole of the E-Positive roster, will be able to collaborate with Warner Music’s global network and start to connect with a wider international audience. This deal helps us to level up and enhance our 360 offering to artists by bringing in the knowledge and expertise of Naushad Khan to the Warner Music family. Our improved suite of services will enable our artists to transcend the whole of India and help bring Indian culture to the rest of the world.”

  • Skyesports Championship 5.0 partners with Loco

    Skyesports Championship 5.0 partners with Loco

    Mumbai: The Skyesports Championship, India’s longest-running esports IP, is set to make a triumphant return with its fifth annual edition, Skyesports Championship 5.0. This year’s championship promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring a staggering Rs 2.12 crore Prize Pool, grassroots-level qualifiers, and adrenaline-pumping esports action. Notably, the BGMI Finals will unfold at the prestigious Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bangalore, offering a live spectacle to esports fans for free from 1 to 5 November.

    Loco, the world’s leading independent esports and live-streaming platform has partnered with Skyesports Championship, India’s most esteemed esports intellectual property for their fifth edition. With an aim to offer the best viewing experience to fans across India, the tournament will be broadcast live on Loco in English, Hindi, and Tamil, ensuring that fans everywhere can immerse themselves in the action.

    Additionally, the Skyesports Championship 5.0 is powered by AMD, an innovator in high-performance graphics, computing, and visualization technologies. The event, split across PC and mobile games, and spanning gamers from India, South Asia, and the Middle East provides the perfect opportunity to showcase the power of AMD’s graphical prowess.

    So far, four teams have qualified for the BGMI LAN Finale. These are as follows:

    GodLike Esports: Defending Skyesports Championship BGMI Winners

    Big Brothers Esports: Champions of the Skyesports Skirmish Series 2023

    Soul Esports and Blind Esports: Top 2 teams of the Skyesports Champions Series (SCS) 2023

    Commenting on the return of the Skyesports Championship for a historic fifth edition, Skyesports founder and CEO Shiva Nandy said, “From a mere Rs. 3 Lakhs prize pool at the Skyesports Championship 1.0 in 2019, we now proudly present an astounding Rs. 2.12 Crore prize pool, a 70x growth since our first edition and one of the biggest in the history of Indian esports. This tournament is designed to provide aspiring gamers with grassroots-level qualifiers, serving as a #PathtoPro for those who dream of achieving greatness in the esports arena. We are absolutely delighted to welcome Loco and AMD as our partners, as they play an integral role in showcasing the immense potential of India’s longest-running homegrown esports intellectual property. Lastly, with our LAN Finals for BGMI at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium, we look forward to putting on a thrilling show for esports audiences.

    Speaking on the announcement  LOCO co-founder and vice president of business operations Firasat Durrani said, “We are thrilled to take the stage as the exclusive streaming partner for Skyesports Championship 5.0. This partnership is a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering a diverse range of content to our viewers, especially in the realm of esteemed esports like BGMI. Our mission has always been to bring the pulse-pounding world of esports to fans far 2

    and wide, and this collaboration marks a significant milestone in our journey. Through the Skyesports Championship 5.0, we’re also presenting an excellent opportunity for advertising brands to connect with the gaming community through our comprehensive media solutions. Loco is thrilled to be a part of this journey, raising the bar for esports entertainment in India.” ‘

    Registrations are open now for the Skyesports Championship 5.0. Aspiring professional players can head over to the Skyesports Discord channel to sign up. Tickets for the LAN Finale in Bangalore will be available for free, the details of which will be announced soon. Stay tuned to Skyesports’ Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter handles for more information. 

  • Sony AATH celebrates Mahalaya with ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’

    Sony AATH celebrates Mahalaya with ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’

    Mumbai: Sony AATH, one of the most loved Bengali general entertainment channels, is all set to celebrate Mahalaya by bringing in a special surprise for its viewers. The channel aims to keep the festive fervour alive with a day-long programming line-up curated with content dedicated to the glory of the mighty Maa Durga. Titled ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’, the property will air on Sony AATH on 14 October 2023.

    Mahalaya, a significant day in the Bengali calendar, marks the beginning of Devi Paksha and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Recognising the cultural importance of this occasion, Sony AATH has curated a day-long special segment ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’ from 05:00 am till 05:00 pm.

    It starts with Debir Dashrup at 05:00 am sharing details about Adishakiti’s 10 forms and the story associated with each roop. The episode portrays that when evil forces oppress the good, the Goddess appears in various forms to destroy them. It is followed by Atho Sati Parbati Katha starting 09:00 AM depicting the story of Sati’s marriage with Lord Shiva and her birth as Goddess Parvati. The viewers will see how Goddess Parvati, like Sati, won Lord Shiva over by her penance and got married to him.

    At 10:00 AM, Gopaler Mahalaya will screen a special episode around the Durga Puja festival and Mahalaya. Shaktirupini Durga at 01:00 PM will take viewers through the legend that showcases Goddess Durga combating demonic forces that threaten peace, prosperity, and dharma to reinstate the power of good over evil. The line-up ends with Asurnashini Maa at 02:00 pm, depicting the story of Goddess Parvati becoming Goddess Katyayani and killing Mahishasura to become Mahishasuramardini, the destroyer mother of demons.

    Don’t miss out on Sony AATH’s Mahalaya special programming ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’ on 14 October 2023, from 05:00 am – 05:00 pm.

  • ABP Network announces ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit

    ABP Network announces ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit

    Mumbai: ABP Network, the leading media and content creation powerhouse, is excited to unveil ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit, a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating the exceptional economic progress, cultural richness, and social harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. The summit is scheduled to take place on 12 October 2023, at The Taj Coromandel, Chennai.

    This extraordinary gathering unites five Southern states under a single banner, driven by a shared ambition: to spearhead India’s transformative journey. ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit shines a spotlight on the region’s unparalleled role in shaping today’s India and tomorrow’s global India.

    ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit will feature a day-long exploration of insightful discussions and distinguished speakers, including prominent figures such as:

    ●    Hon’ble Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry

    ●    Dr. P. Thiaga Rajan, Minister of Information Technology & Digital Services, Tamil Nadu

    ●    Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, Govt of Tamil Nadu

    ●    Rana Daggubati, Actor

    ●    Kushboo Sundar, Actor, Producer, and Politician

    ●    Kavitha Kalvakuntla, Member of Legislative Council and Worker of BRS Party

    ●    K. Annamalai, State President of BJP Tamil Nadu

    ●    Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, Former Governor of West Bengal and Author

    ●    Jothimani Sennimalai, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha (Congress)

    ●    Ricky Kej, Music Composer and Environmentalist, 3X Grammy Award Winner

    ●    Revathy, Actor and Director

    ●    Gurcharan Das, Author & Commentator

    ●    Musicians Mahesh Raghvan and Nandini Shankar

    ●    Suhasini Maniratnam, Actor, Director, and Producer

    ●    John Brittas, Member of Parliament (CPIM)

    ●    M V Rajeev Gowda, Vice-Chairperson of State Institute for Transformation of Karnataka and Ex-Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha

    ●    Digital Content Creators Chaithania Prakash, Ardhra Sajan, and Deepika Venkatachalam amongst other luminaries.

    This convergence of sharp intellects, creative minds, and thought leaders promises a day filled with insight, ideas, and inspiration. ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit aims to foster a deep understanding of the remarkable achievements, cultural diversity, and social cohesion that characterize the southern states of India.

    It will provide a platform for meaningful conversations about challenges faced by southern India as well as potential solutions for sustainable development. In attendance will be an esteemed assembly, including government officials, renowned industry leaders, influential policymakers, thought leaders of distinction, and eminent personalities who have played pivotal roles in crafting the region’s remarkable growth journey.

    ABP Network is excited to host ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit as part of its commitment to promoting regional pride and fostering a sense of unity among Indians from all corners of the country. 

  • “Adapting to evolving consumer trends: Key to media and entertainment industry success”: Asit Kumarr Modi

    “Adapting to evolving consumer trends: Key to media and entertainment industry success”: Asit Kumarr Modi

    Mumbai: In 1995, Asit Kumarr Modi’s ground-breaking vision led to the establishment of Neela Tele Films Private Limited, a television production company that would later evolve into the renowned Neela Film Productions. Through this venture, Modi embarked on a path to redefine television entertainment, giving birth to iconic shows that have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of viewers. Among his illustrious productions is the timeless serial “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah,” a beloved household name that continues to captivate audiences with its humour and relatable narratives. Modi’s creative prowess also extended to other remarkable shows such as “SAB Khelo SAB Jeeto!,” “Wah! Wah! Kya Baat Hai!,” “Krishnaben Khakhrawala,” “Meri Biwi Wonderful,” and “Yeh Duniya Hai Rangeen,” each a testament to his boundless imagination and dedication. Asit Kumarr Modi’s legacy is characterized by innovation, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to bringing joy and laughter into the lives of millions. His journey from theatre to television production exemplifies his remarkable evolution, and his contributions continue to shape the landscape of Indian television.

    Today, Neela Films is one of the top production houses in India and enjoys immense goodwill in the television fraternity. Their current show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (on-air SAB TV) is presently the No. 1 Sitcom on Indian Television. Owing to its immense popularity amongst audiences of all ages, the show has been running successfully for over 15 years and continues to amuse the masses.

    Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is one of the longest- sitcoms that aired first in 2008 and is now in its 15th year with over 3700 episodes. Other than its flagship show, Neela Film Productions Private Limited also streams Gukuldhamchi Duniyadari in Marathi and Tarak Mama Ayyo Rama in Telugu on YouTube. The shows along with the character universe are authored and created by Asit Kumarr Modi.

    Indiantelevision.com in conversation with Neela Film Productions Pvt. creator, producer, managing director, Asit Kumarr Modi, on the longest running show on TV and much more……

    Edited excerpts

    On ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ being the longest-running shows, now in its 15th year

    “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah” has firmly established itself as one of India’s enduring television series, becoming a fixture in countless households. Its impact goes beyond mere entertainment; it has been a catalyst for fostering unity, joy, positivity, and laughter among our viewers.

    In its initial years, the show swiftly captured attention due to its distinctive storyline and its ability to humorously depict everyday life. With its unique talent for addressing societal issues and delivering moral lessons through humor, it quickly endeared itself to families across the nation.

    The series introduced a vibrant cast of characters residing in Gokuldham Society, each representing a different Indian state. These characters, along with the catchphrases they popularized, became integral parts of daily life for many.

    Over the years, the show has received numerous awards and accolades, including recognition from prestigious institutions like the Indian Television Academy Awards and the Indian Telly Awards. These honors acknowledge its outstanding contributions to the television industry.

    The show has also found resonance in international markets, particularly among the Indian diaspora, further expanding its global audience and influence. As the oldest running show on Indian television, it continues to thrive, offering family-friendly programming that entertains while delivering important social messages.

    On TMKOC venturing into edutainment, gaming, and e-commerce

    The decision for Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to enter the realms of edutainment, gaming, and e-commerce can be attributed to a strategic vision aimed at diversifying its offerings and embracing innovative approaches to engage its audience. This move aligns with the evolving preferences of viewers, especially among younger generations, allowing the show to stay in tune with emerging trends.

    By venturing into these new domains, the show has the opportunity to extend its brand reach beyond the confines of television, thereby connecting with a broader audience spanning various demographics. Gaming and e-commerce platforms present a unique avenue for enhancing viewer engagement and enabling interaction with the show’s characters and storylines.

    Furthermore, by providing multiple avenues for fans to connect with the show, including through interactive games and merchandise, the production team can foster a deeper sense of loyalty among viewers while nurturing a vibrant sense of community. Additionally, by incorporating rhymes that encourage the use of local languages, the show can further connect with diverse audiences and celebrate linguistic diversity.

    It’s worth noting that the decision-making process behind this strategic move likely involved a blend of these factors, possibly complemented by insights from market research and an awareness of the ever-changing dynamics within the entertainment industry. The overarching goal is to amplify the show’s reach, engagement levels, and revenue prospects, all while remaining true to its core values and mission of delivering entertainment that resonates with its audience. In an industry as competitive as media and entertainment, adapting to shifting consumer behaviours and preferences is essential to maintaining a strong and lasting presence.

    On TMKOC starting off as a comedy show, but over the years it has picked up social issues, built gender awareness, and promoted a positive outlook toward life

    The TMKOC show has earned a special place in the hearts of its viewers, leaving a positive impact by addressing societal concerns and driving constructive change through its episodes.

    The show has actively supported initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, promoting hygiene and cleanliness. It celebrates India’s diverse culture by thoughtfully depicting various festivals, fostering inclusivity and cultural unity. TMKOC has effectively advocated for traffic rules and road safety, even earning recognition from the Mumbai police.

    The show also raises health and environmental awareness, encourages eco-friendly practices, and highlights the importance of water conservation. It portrays women as strong and independent, challenging traditional gender roles, and embracing the significance of senior citizens.

    TMKOC’s ability to seamlessly blend humor with meaningful content has made it a powerful vehicle for promoting positive change and raising awareness on a wide range of societal issues. As the world evolves, the show remains committed to adapting and evolving along with it.

    On any plans in venturing into a web series and any plans for future projects in other channels

    Given the immense popularity of the existing IP, we aim to create additional IPs with several shows, and films and continue our growth journey in animation, and games.

    On the vision for Neela Films in the coming years

    In light of the success of our current intellectual property, we have diversified our ventures by launching Neela Mediatech Pvt. Ltd., supported by a substantial investment of INR 24 crores. Our primary goal is to cultivate growth in the domains of Gaming, Animation, and E-commerce, all the while extending our presence across various platforms, with the ultimate aim of creating an extensive TMKOC universe. Additionally, we are in the active process of developing multiple new television shows to enrich and diversify our content portfolio.

  • WION announces Mission Sustainability initiative

    WION announces Mission Sustainability initiative

    Mumbai: In an interconnected world where challenges are shared, resources are pooled, and wisdom is collective, the journey towards a greener tomorrow through collaborative actions at every level has begun. WION, India’s first and only global news platform, has joined forces with the drivers of change to chart a roadmap for a sustainable and responsible economy, announcing the launch of ‘Mission Sustainability – No Action, Not An Option!’ initiative. This on-ground event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 11 October 2023, in New Delhi, and aims to galvanize global efforts towards a greener future.

    WION’s Mission Sustainability will feature strategic conversations with key industry leaders focusing on critical topics such as ‘Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its implementation,’ ‘New-age solutions for a sustainable tomorrow,’ and ‘Corporate Sustainability and Responsible Business Practices – Adopting Inclusive Action’. Additionally, attendees will also witness insightful fireside chats on ‘Sustainable Mobility’ and ‘Sustainability Warriors – the harbingers of change with notable speakers such as Tesla Power USA MD Kavinder Khurana; Zypp Electric co-founder & CEO Akash Gupta and moderated by NRI Consulting & Solutions head – new mobility practice, automotive industry consulting group Ankit Awasthi and Swami Prem Parivartan (Peepal Baba) – an environmentalist & founder of GiveMe Trees.  

    The upcoming Mission Sustainability Conclave is poised to be a landmark event, bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, industry associations, innovation hubs, and climate activists to chart a course towards a sustainable future. It also aims to create awareness and inspire action for the realisation of the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).

    Speaking about the relevance of Mission Sustainability, WION chief business officer Madhu Soman said “At WION, we recognise that the path to sustainability requires collective effort.  WION’s Mission Sustainability is more than an event; it’s a movement.  We are empowering individuals, corporations, and the government to present actionable solutions and embrace sustainable practices and work together towards a common goal – a sustainable and responsible future.”

    The conclave will be live-streamed from 6 pm onwards across WION’s digital and social platforms, and the highlights will be aired on the WION channel in the subsequent week. WION is the most subscribed news channel on YouTube with nearly eight million subscribers.

  • Zee Media Corp Ltd and Rotary International join forces for Global Mindcare Conclave

    Zee Media Corp Ltd and Rotary International join forces for Global Mindcare Conclave

    Mumbai: In commemoration of World Mental Health Day, Zee Media Corporation Ltd partnered with Rotary International (District 3012, Rotary Club of Delhi North), the Cosmos Institute of Mental Health & Behavioral Sciences (CIMBS), New Delhi, and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) to host the inaugural Global Mindcare Conclave on 10 October 2023. The event resonated as a pivotal global advocacy for mental health rights while also focusing on addressing India’s pressing mental health challenges.

    The prestigious Global Mindcare conclave was inaugurated by former Chief Justice of India UU Lalit, along with Zee Media CEO Abhay Ojha, Rotary immediate past district governor Dr. Lalit Khanna, and WFMH VP Dr. Sunil Mittal, addressed the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day, ‘Mental Health is a Universal Human Right’. This conclave served as a comprehensive platform for diverse mental health stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), caregivers, and individuals with lived experiences of mental health disorders. It facilitated in-depth discussions on overcoming barriers, forging partnerships within the mental health sector, and exploring advancements in mental healthcare.

    Key highlights from the Global Mindcare Conclave :

    •  Mental health statistics: Dr. Sunil Mittal underscored the gravity of the situation, stating that nearly 1 billion  individuals worldwide grapple with mental disorders, with 20 crore individuals residing in India. Notably, the National Mental Health Survey (2015-2016) unveiled that one in every sixth Indian requires mental health support, demanding immediate innovative interventions.
       
    • Wide range of mental health topics: The conclave hosted eight informative sessions, encompassing a wide spectrum of mental health topics. These sessions included a global and Indian perspective on mental health rights, discussions on mental health law and policy, and an exploration of advancements in mental healthcare. A particular highlight was the discussion on the Tele-Manas program and the role of private psychiatrists in augmenting mental health services.
       
    •  Rotary Connect and Care Campaign: Rotary, in collaboration with CIMBS and WFMH, unveiled the Rotary Connect and Care campaign on Mental Health, designed to raise awareness, combat stigma, and provide advanced mental health treatments, including Deep TMS, to underserved populations.
       
    •  Psychological First Aid Training: Rotary also revealed its plan to train one lakh individuals in psychological first aid, empowering them as first responders. Zee Media Corp Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha expressed full support for this initiative.
       
    •  Recognising Mental Health Advocacy: The conclave paid tribute to individuals from diverse sectors for their significant contributions to mental health by presenting them with “Excellence in Mental Health Care” awards.

    Key participants included prominent figures such as Dr. V.K. Paul (Member, NITI Aayog), Dr. Randeep Guleria (Chairman, Dept of Internal Medicine, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Medanta), Dr. Upasana Arora (MD, Yashoda Superspeciality Hospitals), and Dr. Shikha Nehru Sharma (founder, Nutriwell Health (India)), among others.

    Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha highlighted “As media advocates, we have a responsibility to promote positive change. The Global Mindcare Conclave is a step forward towards uniting like-minded partners and advocate for the right to mental health. Our goal is to amplify the conversation, challenge misconceptions, and foster a more inclusive mental health landscape.”

    It was a resounding success in fostering collaborative efforts to enhance global mental healthcare. The Global Mindcare Conclave also delved into the critical relationship between nutrition and mental health and highlighted the importance of communication and relationships in maintaining good mental health.

    Zee Media Corp Ltd, one of India’s leading 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.

  • Star Sports Hindi feed goes global in a historic first for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup

    Star Sports Hindi feed goes global in a historic first for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup

    Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, is thrilled to announce the global expansion of its Hindi feed for the marquee tournament. Fans in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East can now savour uninterrupted coverage of all the thrilling action in Hindi. This marks the first-ever occasion where the ICC Men’s CWC is being broadcast in Hindi within these regions, accessible through both linear and digital platforms, catering to the vibrant Indian diaspora. This milestone underscores the profound significance of cultural pride -‘Hindi Mein Baat Hai, Kyunki Hindi Mein Jazbaat Hai.’ (The language brings out all the emotions)

    The coverage of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in Hindi will be available on:

    •    ESPN+ (USA/Canada)
    •    Willow TV (USA/Canada)
    •    Fox Sports / Kayo (Australia)
    •    Starzplay (Middle East)
    •    CricLife Max (Middle East)

    The Hindi coverage on these platforms will also include Star Sports’ pre-match show ‘Cricket Live’, India’s most watched cricket show.

    John Lasker, senior vice president of ESPN+, said, “Anchored by ESPNcricinfo, the leading digital destination for cricket news and information around the world, ESPN has a long history covering top-level international cricket for fans in the U.S. Presenting the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in both English and Hindi on ESPN+ is part of our continued commitment to growing an established audience of cricket fans in the States and around the world.”

    Fox Sports managing director Steve Crawley said, “We know there is a large and passionate Australian Indian cricket community so to be able to provide the Hindi feed, powered by an expert team of commentators, during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 for all Indian matches plus the semi-finals and final on FOX SPORTS gives fans more choice and more ways to enjoy the action, and that’s good for cricket and good for fans.”

    Disney Star head- sports Sanjog Gupta said, ‘’The global response to Disney Star’s Hindi coverage for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 has been tremendous as we take the excitement of the tournament to hearts and homes of millions worldwide and deepen their engagement. The coverage in Hindi, in addition to the World Feed, not only makes it more accessible to the Indian diaspora but more importantly, galvanises the sense of belonging and deep emotional connection with Indian Cricket. The Hindi feed, with India-focussed storylines, distinctly Indian perspectives on non-India narratives, unique visuals including customised graphics and powered by an incredible line-up of talent, will significantly bolster the unifying experience of watching Cricket for Indians worldwide and hopefully deepen the sense of pride in being an Indian Cricket fan.”

    This illustrious panel of commentators includes iconic Indian cricketing figures such as Sunil Gavaskar, a 1983 World Cup winner, former India Head Coach Ravi Shastri, and members of the 2011 World Cup-winning side – Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh, and Piyush Chawla. Adding to the wealth of expertise are former India cricketers Mohammad Kaif, Irfan Pathan, and Sanjay Manjrekar, renowned for their tactical acumen in the sport. The roster also features former India women’s captain Mithali Raj, along with South Africa’s spin wizard Imran Tahir, former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta, domestic veteran Amol Muzumdar, and cricket presenter Jatin Sapru, all of whom will lend their voices and effervescent charm to the StarCast.

    Irfan Pathan, T20 World Cup winner who is part of Star Sports “StarCast” for World Cup said, “Cricket has a unique way of uniting people, and with the Hindi feed reaching Indian fans across the globe, we are not just witnessing a tournament; we are celebrating the spirit of cricket in a language that resonates with emotions. It’s a fantastic initiative that ensures every passionate Indian fan, regardless of their location, can experience the magic of the World Cup in a language that feels like home.”

    India’s Cricket World Cup Winner, Harbhajan Singh, said, “I am proud to be part of StarCast’s Hindi feed that is engaging with fans overseas during the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. This allows our extended family outside our country to revel the thrilling action in their preferred language.”

    India’s Cricket World Cup Winner, Gautam Gambhir, said, “I’m excited to see fans from all corners of the world coming together to celebrate this great sport in the language they love. With the Hindi feed now available globally, we are breaking barriers and ensuring that cricket enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds can enjoy all the action from the tournament together with the rest of India.”

  • Abu Dhabi T10 2023 to begin from 28 November

    Abu Dhabi T10 2023 to begin from 28 November

    Mumbai: The eight teams of Abu Dhabi T10, the fastest format of cricket, have made their picks, and – the road to another exciting season is officially underway with the players draft for 2023 coming to a close on Monday evening.

    It was a fantastic evening that saw some exciting picks, with former Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis and India heavy hitter Robin Uthappa being the Bangla Tigers’ prominent signings. Strategically, the Tigers also bolstered their pace attack with Reece Topley.

    The Chennai Braves went for veteran spinner Imran Tahir who has been showcasing unbelievable skills across various leagues for the past several years. The defending champions Deccan Gladiators made bold moves straightaway, packing their squad with Sherfane Rutherford and Fabian Allen. Picking David Wiese as their first optional pick, Gladiators showcased their intentions of bringing on all-rounders among their ranks.

    Delhi Bulls picked up the popular fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq along with the rising Sri Lankan youngster Dunith Wellalage, who has been predicted to be an unexpected trump card by cricket pundits, being a massive signing for the franchise. Morrisville Samp Army had their plans well laid out as they brought on young England allrounder George Garton and Netherlands fast bowler Bas de Leede. With Monank Patel and Obus Pienaar as their optional picks, Morrisville showed that they are relying on youth in the shortest format.

    New York Strikers picked Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Odean Smith in their team, along with youngster Lasith Croospule as their Emerging player. Northern Warriors made the first draft pick of the day with Kiwi batting-allrounder Colin Munro who has growing among the ranks in the T20 format recently. Warriors also picked Indian talent Ankur Sangwan and Abhimanyu Mithun.

    Team Abu Dhabi packed powerhouses Dwaine Pretorius and Colin Ingram on their squads, while Keemo Paul was also picked up by Team Abu Dhabi.

    Speaking at the draft, T10 Global chairman Shaji Ul Mulk said, “The franchises have picked some of the best players in the world this season. The fans will get to witness real skillsets on display which will truly give an international dynamic to the tournament. T10 is already going global, and these are exciting times for us. The format has really captured the imagination of young people around the world, and it is also reflected in the quality of young players we saw in the draft today. We have kept the essence of cricket exactly the same, but the fast-paced format and the quality of players each season make it exciting every year for the fans. I am sure it will be yet another fantastic season, one that we await eagerly!”

    Abu Dhabi T10 Season 7 full teams:

    Bangla Tigers:

    Draft Signings: Kusal Mendis (Cat A), Dominik Drakes (Cat B), Reece Topley (Cat B), Saim Ayub (Cat B), Matiullah Khan (Cat C), Haider Ali (UAE-RES), Abdul Ghaffar (UAE-RES), Amartya Kaul (Emerging), Rassie van der Dussen (Opt 1), Taskin Ahmed (Opt 2), Robin Uthappa (Opt 3)

    Retained: Shakib Al Hasan (Icon), Iftikhar Ahmed (Cat C), Matheesha Pathirana (Cat C), Rohan Mustafa (UAE-RES), Daniel Sams (Cat A)

    Pre-Signings: Carlos Brathwaite (Platinum), Azam Khan (Asian Super Star)

    Chennai Braves:

    Draft Signings: Sam Cook (Cat B), Imran Tahir (Cat B), George Munsey (Cat C), Kobe Herft (Cat C), Richard Ngarava (Cat C), Junaid Siddique (UAE-RES), Aayan Khan (UAE-RES), Vriitya Aravind (UAE-RES), Kai Smith (Emerging), Stephen Eskinazi (Opt 1)

    Retained: Obed McCoy (Cat A), Sikandar Raza (Cat B)

    Pre-Signings: Jason Roy (Icon), Charith Asalanka (Platinum), Bhanuka Rajapaksa (Cat A), Hassan Ali (Asian Super Star)

    Deccan Gladiators:

    Draft Signings: Sherfane Rutherford (Cat A), Fabian Allen (Cat B), Joe Clarke (Cat B), Zahir Khan (Cat C), Waqar Salamkheil (Cat C), Mohammad Zahid (UAE-RES), Nav Pabreja (UAE-RES), Khawaja Nafay (Emerging), David Wiese (Opt 1), Nuwan Thushara (Opt 2)

    Retained: Nicholas Pooran (Icon), Andre Russell (Cat A), Tom Kohler-Cadmore (Cat B), Joshua Little (Cat C), Zahoor Khan (UAE-RES)

    Pre-Signings: Trent Boult (Platinum), Imad Wasim (Asian Super Star)

    Delhi Bulls:

    Draft Signings: Naveen-ul-Haq (Cat A), James Vince (Cat B), Usman Khan (Cat C), Richard Gleeson (Cat C), Dunith Wellalage (Cat C), Muhammad Rohid Khan (UAE-RES), Wasim Akram (UAE-RES), Ali Abid (UAE-RES), Sufiyan Muqeen (Emerging), Johnson Charles (Opt 1), Usama Mir (Opt 2), Abbas Afridi (Opt 3)

    Retained: Dwayne Bravo (Cat A), Rilee Rossouw (Cat B), Fazalhaq Farooqi (Cat B)

    Pre-Signings: Quinton de Kock (Icon), Rovman Powell (Platinum), Ambati Rayudu (Asian Super Star)

    Morrisville Samp Army:

    Draft Signings: George Garton (Cat B), Bas de Leede (Cat B), Andries Gous (Cat C), Najibullah Zadran (Cat C), Salman Irshad (Cat C), Ansh Tandon (UAE-RES), Muhammad Irfan (UAE-RES), Tadiwanashe Marumani (Emerging), Peter Hatzoglou (Opt 1), Monank Patel (Opt 2), Obus Pienaar (Opt 3)

    Retained: Moeen Ali (Cat A), Maheesh Theekshana (Cat B), Basil Hameed (UAE-RES), Karim Janat (Asian Super Star)

    Pre-Signings: Faf du Plessis (Icon), Jason Holder (Platinum), Dewald Bravis (Cat A)

    New York Strikers:

    Draft Signings: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Cat A), Odean Smith (Cat B), Mohammad Haris (Cat B), Lahiru Kumara (Cat C), Chamika Karunaratne (Cat C), Kusal Perera (Cat C), Muhammad Jawadullah (UAE-RES), Chundangapoyil Rizwan (UAE-RES), Lasith Croospule (Emerging), Will Jacks (Opt 1), Ali Khan (Opt 2)

    Retained: Kieron Pollard (Icon), Akeal Hosein (Cat B), Muhammad Waseem (UAE-RES)

    Pre-Signings: Sunil Narine (Platinum), Mohammad Amir (Cat A), Shoaib Malik (Asian Super Star)

    Northern Warriors:

    Draft Signings: Colin Munro (Cat A), Romario Shepherd (Cat B), Mohammad Hasnain (Cat B), Tabraiz Shamsi (Cat B), Ziaur Rahman (Cat C), Rahul Chopra (UAE-RES), Rameez Shahzad (UAE-RES) Kaunain Abbas (UAE-RES), Shamar Joseph (Emerging), Ankur Sangwan (Opt 1), Abhimanyu Mithun (Opt 3)

    Retained: Wanindu Hasaranga (Icon), Kennar Lewis (Cat C), Adam Hose (Cat C)

    Pre-Signings: James Neesham (Platinum), Hazratullah Zazai (Cat A), Angelo Mathews (Asian Super Star)

    Team Abu Dhabi:

    Draft Signings: Dwaine Pretorius (Cat A), Rumman Raees (Cat B), Leus de Plooy (Cat B), Mohammad Nawaz (Cat C), Keemo Paul (Cat C), Colin Ingram (Cat C), Asif Khan (UAE-RES) Alishan Sharafu (UAE-RES), Ethan D’Souza (UAE-RES), Allah Mohammad (Emerging), Dilshan Madushanka (Opt 1)

    Retained: Philip Salt (Icon), Tymal Mills (Cat A), Alex Hales (Cat B)

    Pre-Signings: Noor Ahmad (Asian Super Star), Kyle Mayers (Platinum)

  • Chief minister and sports minister of Goa rally support for 37th National Games 2023

    Chief minister and sports minister of Goa rally support for 37th National Games 2023

    Mumbai: In a historic event, chief minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the torch relay for the eagerly awaited 37th National Games 2023 in a grand ceremony held at the Goa Legislature Secretariat, Alto-Porvorim Goa on 10 October. The event witnessed the gracious presence of distinguished dignitaries, including minister for Sports & Youth Affairs Govind Gaude, secretary of Sports & CEO, NGOC, Swetika Sachan, Dr. Geeta S Nagvenkar, Jt. CEO and executive director, SAG, Arvind Khutkar, directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, among other notable guests.

    This year, Goa is set to make history by hosting the largest-ever National Games, featuring an impressive lineup of 43 sporting disciplines. The 37th National Games will also mark the introduction of several new sports disciplines on the medal stage, including beach football, rollball, golf, sepak takraw, sqay martial arts, kalaripayattu, and pencak silat. Furthermore, yachting and taekwondo are making a triumphant return to the Games after their absence in the previous edition. In a nod to tradition and culture, the sports of lagori and gatka have been included as demonstration sports, adding a unique dimension to the event.

    Speaking on the occasion, Sawant saying, “Today, as we commence the torch relay from Goa, I am filled with immense pride. The torch, a symbol of the eternal flame of sportsmanship, embodies the commitment to athletic excellence. Be assured, Goa is fully prepared to host this prestigious event, and the torch will journey through our beautiful state in all 12 Talukas and will cover all major tourist destinations in the evening, igniting enthusiasm for the National Games and involving rural areas in this grand celebration.”

    The torch carries the spirit of never-ending flame of sportsmanship so let’s join hands to celebrate Sports and India in Sports.

    The torch will travel to all 12 talukas, prominent tourist spots with the final stay of the torch at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on 25 October prior to the opening ceremony on 26 October.

    Addressing the ceremonial event, Sports & Youth Affairs minister Gaude stated, “We are at the defining moment in the sporting history of Goa. We are not looking at the 37th National Games as a mere event but a roadmap for rejuvenated sports ecosystem for the state. With the record number of sports disciplines incorporated in the current edition, this edition will be the biggest ever National Games organised in the country. I am hopeful that these Games will create new interest and focus on Olympic Sports in Goa. The kind of love shown by the Goenkars for the National Games is becoming a people’s initiative. I urge students to be part of this process and request their parents and teachers to motivate them to be part of National Games.”

    The 37th National Games 2023 promise to be a remarkable spectacle of sportsmanship and unity, showcasing the nation’s talent and spirit. The prestigious event will see participation from 28 states and 8 union territories, with over 10,000 athletes and 2,000 officials. Notably, badminton will lead the charge, commencing seven days before prime minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the National Games Goa 2023 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

    As the torch sets off on its journey across the state of Goa, anticipation and excitement continue to build for this grand celebration of sports.