Category: TV Channels

  • I.N.D.I.A. Media Committee boycotts selected journalists/anchors; NBDA concerned

    I.N.D.I.A. Media Committee boycotts selected journalists/anchors; NBDA concerned

    Mumbai: News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) is deeply anguished and concerned by the decision taken by the I.N.D.I.A. Media Committee not to send their representatives on the shows and events hosted by certain journalists/anchors. The decision taken by the I.N.D.I.A. Media Committee sets a dangerous precedent.

    The ban on representatives of the opposition alliance from participating in TV news shows anchored by some of India’s top TV news personalities goes against the ethos of democracy. It betokens intolerance and imperils press freedom.

    The opposition alliance claims to be the champion of pluralism and a free press, but its decision betrays callous disregard for democracy’s most fundamental tenet – the inalienable right to openly express ideas and opinions.

    The boycott of certain journalists/anchors takes the nation back to the Emergency era, when the press was gagged, and independent opinions and voices were crushed.

    NBDA urges the opposition alliance to withdraw its decision of boycotting certain journalists and anchors as such a decision would amount to browbeating journalists and stifling freedom of speech and expression of the media.

  • South Side Story: Where culture meets curiosity, Red FM’s Nisha Narayanan

    South Side Story: Where culture meets curiosity, Red FM’s Nisha Narayanan

    Mumbai: 93.5 RED FM, India’s leading private radio and entertainment network’s event ‘South Side Story Season 5’ in Mumbai, the edition proved to be a tremendous success. The event held at Richardson & Cruddas, Byculla witnessed an incredible turnout, with music lovers braving the rain to be a part of this unforgettable experience.

    South Side Story Season 5 featured exceptional performances by Aattam Kalasamithi ft The Theikkinkaadu Band, Maalavika Sundar, Sean Roldan & Friends, Arivu, Agam, and Thaikkudam Bridge. Beyond the captivating music, attendees had the opportunity to indulge in a sumptuous spread of Sadhya and other South Indian delicacies, and refreshing beverages.

    In light of the tremendous success of the Mumbai Edition, Red FM, the next stop in Delhi for the musical journey. South Side Story Season 5 – Delhi Edition is set to take place on 16 September 2023, at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This edition promises a unique blend of hip-hop, rap artists, and playback singers and composers like Thirumali, Arivu, Humankind, All OK, Neeraj Madhav & Sithara’s Project Malabaricus who will take the stage to deliver unforgettable performances. The Delhi edition will be headlined by Karthik.

    Indiantelevision.com in conversation with RED FM, and Magic FM director & COO Nisha Narayanan on the journey of South Side Story, the artists and advertisers response and much more…….

    Edited excerpts

    On the fifth season of South Side Story, your feelings and your expectations for this season

    Over the years and in previous editions of South Side Story, we have received an overwhelmingly positive response from our audience. It is our humble effort to bring the south of India to the metros. We believe it is our responsibility to continue bringing the best out of regional spaces. This year too, our vision has been to get the spirit of inclusion and diversity, with all the flavours of South India to the North and West, primarily through music. Listeners from both Delhi and Mumbai have validated our efforts by embracing the need gap of regional music consumption in the cities.

    We recently concluded one edition in Mumbai on September 2nd, and we are deeply touched by the immense love the city has shown us, even amidst heavy rainfall on the day of the event. We anticipated (Mumbai edition) and are anticipating (Delhi Edition) a fantastic gathering of music enthusiasts coming together under one roof to sing, dance, and soak in the vibrant spirit of South India in their own city. Our commitment has always been to create an immersive festival experience for our listeners.

    On how the earlier four seasons delivered for RedFM

    As a NAT-local brand, we never neglect the cultural or local ethos. This commitment inspired the inception of our concept five years ago, where we recognized the importance of introducing regional music to the metros. South Side Story represents our humble endeavor to showcase independent music created in various South Indian languages such as Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and more.

    We invest in a number of community-building initiatives and IP. Due to COVID-19, we moved South Side Story online for two years. Last year, we held it in Delhi and the response was so positive that we decided to bring back the festival in Mumbai this year.

    The name South Side Story encompasses the whole South Indian experience in three words. It echoes a sense of belonging to the ones whose roots lie down south, while creating an intrigue for those who wish to be a part of the culture. The intent was to create a simple name which retains top of mind recall, while also striking a chord with the younger generation. A story gives the listener an infinite scope of imagination, and likewise this festival also has infinite possibilities, flavors, colors and melodies.

    We embarked on this journey with two bands,Thaikkudam Bridge and Agam the Band. However, the overwhelming response led us to include more talented artists. As a result, this season of the festival features a total of 12 artists in Mumbai and Delhi, including the two bands that have been a part for all five seasons i.e Agam and Thaikkudam Bridge

    Sometimes, an IP gains popularity simply because it has been around for a while. For instance, if Dugga Dugga (an experiential festival that celebrates Kolkata’s iconic Durga Puja through music) continues for a few more years, it will likely reach the same scale as South Side Story. We embrace and celebrate all cultures, striving to be an inclusive brand that brings people together.

    On the selection of artists for the South Side Story

    Over the years of hosting South Side Story, we’ve consistently received suggestions as soon as each edition concludes. The overwhelming love and affection from our audience inspires us to explore and extend opportunities to artists and musicians beyond their regional cities.

    On advertisers’ interest in an event like this

    A wide range of brands from various sectors, including automobile, BFSI and FMCG have been supporting us through multiple IPs that we do through the year. What sets South Side Story apart is its inclusive audience that lacks age restrictions making it an attractive advertising platform. For this year, we have Acko Insurance as the Title Partner and Bank of Maharashtra, Himalaya Wellness Co. (Rumalaya) and ENO as associate partners to name a few. 

  • Sony Sports Network launches the grandest campaign ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar’ for 19 Asian Games

    Sony Sports Network launches the grandest campaign ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar’ for 19 Asian Games

    Mumbai: Ahead of the 19 Asian Games Hangzhou 2022, official broadcasters, Sony Sports Network, have launched the grandest campaign in the history of the Asian Games in India. In order to ensure that the message ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar, Phir se, Hum Hongey Kamyab’ resonates across every corner of India, Sony Sports Network has garnered support from an impressive line-up of influential and iconic figures such as the union minister of sports, Anurag Thakur, chief of defence staff, Lt Gen Anil Chauhan along with chiefs of tri-services Gen Manoj Pandey, Admiral Radhakrishnan Hari Kumar and air chief marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari who have put their might behind the Indian athletes vying for top honours at the prestigious multi-sporting event.  

    Recognising the power of collective ambition, the campaign shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of Indian sports – those who have relentlessly dedicated themselves to their respective disciplines and are on the precipice of donning the national colours at this esteemed multi-sport event. Among the prominent influencers of the country who have joined the broadcaster’s mission and shared their messages for the participating athletes to reach higher echelons in this edition of the quadrennial extravaganza are Amitabh Bachchan, Sudha Murty, Aamir Khan, Hema Malini, Madhuri Dixit, Aditya Roy Kapoor, John Abraham, Abhishek Bachchan, Kapil Sharma Mirabai Chanu, Zaheer Khan, Anju Bobby George, Raja Randhir Singh and many more. Also joining the broadcaster, was an all-star lineup of Indian sports journalists who have been covering the journeys of our sporting heroes from Dainik Jagran, Dainik Bhaskar, Rajasthan Patrika, The Telegraph, Deccan Chronicle, Dinakaran, Lokmat, Eenadu, Gujarat Samachar, Sandesh, Asomya Pratidin, Sportskeeda along with RJs from Radio City and Radio One and representatives from leading news channels Aaj Tak and NDTV 24X7.

    This vast consortium unites with a singular purpose: to challenge Indian athletes to transcend past records, push boundaries, and ignite a nationwide fervour for sports. The strategy stands clear: a united India, cheering in unison, can inspire its athletes to unprecedented heights.

    The hon’ble Anurag Singh Thakur shares a special message for our athletes | Asian Games –

    A special message from Gen. Anil Chauhan, chief of defence staff, Indian Armed Forces | Asian Games –

    Indian Army chief’s passionate call: Rally behind our athletes at Asian Games 2023 –

    Best wishes from the IAF chief marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | 19 Asian Games | Sony Sports Network –

    India’s biggest stars unite for team India at the 19 Asian Games –

    Amitabh Bachchan shares a special message for Indian Athletes | Asian Games | Sony Sports Network –

    Aamir Khan joins the #GrandestAsianGamesCampaign | Sony Sports Network –

    Mirabai Chanu Hai Zidd Par Sawar | 19 Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 | Sony Sports Network –

    Journalists across India come together to wish Indian Athletes | 19 Asian Games –

    Sony Sports Network’s ‘Iss Baar Sau Paar, Phir se, Hum Hongey Kamyab’ campaign is the grandest campaign ever made in the history of the Asian Games in India. The campaign has attracted a host of sponsors such as Hyundai, JSW, Limca Sportz, Paisabazaar, LIC of India, Ultratech Cement, State Bank of India, and Panasonic amongst others and more brands are expected to be announced by the time the Asian Games begin on 23 September 2023.  

    Comments:  

    Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer – distribution & international business and head – sports business Rajesh Kaul:

    “The Asian Games is one of the grandest stages in the sporting world of Asia and the Indian contingent is training hard to add to our medal count. It’s a moment of national pride as we have stalwarts from every walk of life joining us for the campaign to rally behind our Indian athletes making this the grandest campaign ever for the Asian Games. Adding to that, we have also received great support from our sponsors who will surely benefit from the strategic partnership with Sony Sports Network for the Asian Games.”  

    Sony Pictures Networks India head Ad sales, network channels, Sandeep Mehrotra:  

    “Over the years, multi-sporting events have attracted significant viewer interest and we have done well to tap into the immense potential of non-cricket sports in India. Brands want to associate with content that is not only culturally relevant but also inspirational and evokes national pride. The 19 Asian Games on Sony Sports Network will provide advertisers with the ideal platform to communicate their message to a wide demographic of receptive viewers from across the country through innovative advertising solutions. We are thrilled to witness a tremendous response for the upcoming 19th Asian Games with advertiser interest from across categories like Automobiles, BFSI, Beverage, consumer durables and others.”

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd AVP & head of marketingVirat Khullar:  

    “Hyundai’s partnership with Sony Sports Network for the Asian Games signifies a strategic commitment that extends beyond the world of sports in India. Sport serves as a formidable catalyst, fostering performance, personal growth, teamwork, and discipline among our youth. By investing in events like the Asian Games, Hyundai not only promotes youth participation but also ignites their aspirations, encouraging them to dream big and realize their full potential. This initiative is one of many in Hyundai’s sports portfolio, aligned with our overarching mission of enriching vibrant and healthy communities.

    Our strategic alliance with sports nurtures talent and resonates with Hyundai’s global vision of ‘Progress for Humanity.’ In this endeavour, Hyundai goes beyond manufacturing cars; we actively contribute to the construction and promotion of a brighter future for youth through the transformative power of sports.”  

    Paisabazaar.com chief marketing officer Sachin Vashishtha:  

    We are delighted to associate with Sony Sports Network for the 19th Asian Games, the biggest stage for sports in the continent. At Paisabazaar, we have always believed in leveraging the power of sports to take our brand to each and every household across towns and cities in India. Our association with the Asian Games is also in line with our commitment towards promoting sports and encouraging athletes across the country. This year’s Asian Games promises to be bigger and better with a record participation by the Indian contingent. We are firm believers in a long-term partnership with our media partners and with Sony Sports Network, Once again, we aim to leverage the power of the broadcaster’s customised solutions for this marquee event. Paisabazaar wishes the entire Indian contingent all the best for the Games.”  

    The 19 Asian Games will also see a first-ever appearance for the Indian cricket teams at the Asian Games with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Smriti Mandhana headlining the teams. Olympic Gold medallist Neeraj Chopra will be one of India’s top medal hopefuls in the Javelin throw followed by PV Sindhu, HS Prannoy, and the doubles duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty who have been in excellent form in recent months and are strong contenders for medals in badminton. In addition to these athletes, the runners, archers, Indian rugby, hockey and football teams, swimmers, bridge, and chess teams, amongst others, will also be competing to add to the medal tally. All these athletes will be giving their best to help India achieve its goal of the 100 medal tally for the 19 edition of the quadrennial event.

    Sony Sports Network has launched the grandest campaign ever for the 19th Asian Games which features eminent personalities such as Union Minister of Sports, Shri Anurag Thakur, Chiefs of the tri-services and Defence Staff from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force along with Bollywood Icons Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Hema Malini, Madhuri Dixit, John Abraham along with Sports Icons Mirabai Chanu, Zaheer Khan, Anju Bobby George, Raja Randhir Singh and so many more. Sony Sports Network also announces the great advertiser interest and the brands onboarded for the prestigious multi-sporting event that starts next week.

    Watch the 19 Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 – LIVE on Sony Sports Ten 2 & Sony Sports Ten 2 HD, Sony Sports Ten 5 & Sony Sports Ten 5 HD channels from 5:30 pm IST, 23rd September, 2023. 

  • Evergent launches Sports Accelerator to optimise monetisation for sports programming

    Evergent launches Sports Accelerator to optimise monetisation for sports programming

    Mumbai: Evergent, the customer management and monetisation leader for streaming and D2C sports businesses, has announced the launch of its new Sports Accelerator package, a suite of features designed to optimise monetization of live event programming for sports OTT providers. Evergent’s Sports Accelerator addresses the most challenging aspects of subscription management and monetisation for sports programming, including reducing churn between professional sports seasons, navigating couch rights and blackout restrictions, and supporting channel sales and global payment processing. The new package builds on Evergent’s existing relationships and experience with sports media leaders including the National Basketball Association (NBA), YES Network, Bally Sports, MSG Network, and Marquee Sports.

    Live sports programming is consistently one of the most popular television genres in the United States and throughout the world and it has only become more popular of late, as viewers are left with fewer original content choices due to the ongoing actors and writers strikes. Over the past year, streaming providers have also invested heavily in live sports programming, with major U.S. sports leagues including the NHL, MLB, and MLS broadcasting some games exclusively on platforms including Apple TV+, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime.

    The new Sports Accelerator package from Evergent is purpose-built to address the seasonal, location-specific nature of live sports programming. Evergent’s seasonal subscription feature allows customers to retain subscribers across season boundaries while aligning those subscriptions to season validity dates. Additional benefits of the feature include price grandfathering across seasons to help reduce churn that would otherwise take place after a major event like the Super Bowl or NBA Finals.

    In addition to seasonal subscription management, Evergent’s Sports Accelerator package also includes the following features designed to improve monetization and subscriber retention:

    ●   Couch Rights: Evergent’s couch rights feature allows RSNs to seamlessly remain compliant with complicated geofencing rules and blackout restrictions. Evergent allows RSNs to establish and enforce couch rights for subscribers traveling beyond the RSN’s broadcasting boundaries, allowing subscribers to enjoy their subscription content while away from home.

    ●   Subscription Pause and Resume: Evergent’s flexible subscription management tools allow end users to pause their subscription for any reason, minimising the number of subscribers who churn without returning to the platform. This customer-friendly feature allows streaming companies to avoid the high costs of customer reacquisition.

    ●   Channel Sales Manager: With Evergent, media providers can sell tickets and subscriptions through a variety of channels, including the teams themselves. Media companies can create and issue coupons or vouchers through the Evergent platform, allowing them to enable, manage and track coupon use across channels in a single platform.

    ●   Favourite Teams/Players: This feature allows media companies to capture information on the subscriber’s favourite teams or players during the sign-up process, providing valuable data for personalised experiences and upselling opportunities.

    Sports media customers use these tools for customer relationship management and monetization to overcome the challenges specific to their industry. Customers such as the NBA to deploy the seasonal subscription feature to increase customer retention. Regional sports networks (RSNs) including Bally Sports use Evergent’s couch rights feature to maintain compliance with geofencing and blackout restrictions.

    “The live sports media landscape is changing, and it’s clear that media companies can no longer rely on the same playbook,” said Evergent CEO & founder Vijay Sajja. “Our new Sports Accelerator package was built with the fan in mind, simultaneously improving the user experience and reducing customer churn. We will continue to hone these features as we learn from our partnerships with some of the leading entities in sports media.”
     

  • Zee 24 TAAS to host ‘RISE: Udyog Bhushan Marathwada Edition’

    Zee 24 TAAS to host ‘RISE: Udyog Bhushan Marathwada Edition’

    Mumbai: The entrepreneurial landscape of Marathwada is in the midst of a profound transformation, with a burgeoning focus on technology start-ups, agribusinesses, and small-scale manufacturing units. In a momentous endeavour, Zee 24 TAAS is all set to host its ‘RISE: Udyog Bhushan Marathwada Edition’, an esteemed program poised to recognise outstanding entrepreneurs who are redefining the world of business, ushering visionary change, and pioneering innovation. This landmark event is scheduled to take place on Friday, 15 September 2023, in the vibrant city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

    Marathwada’s industrial development, particularly in Aurangabad, has played a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and generating employment opportunities. Entrepreneurs in this region are tapping into local expertise and resources to craft innovative solutions that not only cater to local needs but also resonate with global markets. It exerts a magnetic pull on both tourists and investors, offering a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and economic potential. The presence of a diverse range of industries has also spurred infrastructural enhancements and urban development.

    The upcoming RISE: Udyog Bhushan Marathwada Edition will be graced by Bhagwat Karad, minister of state for finance, govt. of India, Uday Samant, minister of industries, govt of Maharashtra, Atul Save, minister of housing, govt of Maharashtra, Sandipan Bhumare, minister of employment guarantee & horticulture, Govt of Maharashtra. The event looks forward at engaging Industry stalwarts and dignitaries in in-depth discussions on topics revolving around infrastructure development, including road connectivity, transportation, and utility services, the growth of real estate in Aurangabad, focusing on affordable housing, development challenges, and investment prospects, dairy farming and livestock management, market links for agricultural and dairy products, both within India and for potential export etc

    Emphasizing on the relevance of RISE: Marathwada Udyog Bhushan, Zee24 TAAS editor Dr. Nilesh Khare said, ” RISE: Udyog Bhushan Marathwada Edition is a platform that celebrates the indomitable spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship within Marathwada and Aurangabad. It spotlights the remarkable contributions of young executives and entrepreneurs who are rewriting the rules of business, harnessing the city’s rich entrepreneurial legacy. We are honored to host this event in Aurangabad, a city that seamlessly blends history with industrial progress, making it a thriving hub for visionary entrepreneurs.”

    Zee Media Corp Ltd chief revenue officer Mona Jain added “In an era that is characterized by transformative change, it is imperative to acknowledge and celebrate individuals who are leading with vision and innovation. RISE signifies the limitless possibilities that innovation can unlock. It is a celebration of these trailblazers who not only inspire but also leave an indelible mark on their communities.”

    “Zee Media is committed to showcasing the pioneers of innovation and entrepreneurship. RISE is a testament to our dedication to honoring those who drive transformative change,” highlighted Zee Media Corporation Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha.

    RISE: Marathwada Udyog Bhushan Edition promises to be an enlightening and enriching experience, bringing together visionaries, industry experts, and innovators who are shaping the destiny of Marathwada and beyond. The Associate Sponsors for the event are Dr. Chate Homeopathy, E Agro Care Machineries & Equipment Pvt Ltd & भाग्यविजय Astro Vastu Solution.

    Zee Media Corporation 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.

  • News18 Lokmat announces its dominance in a print campaign

    News18 Lokmat announces its dominance in a print campaign

    Mumbai: News18 Lokmat has launched a print ad campaign to showcase its dominance in the Marathi news segment.

    The targeted campaign with a striking creative crowns the channel as ‘Mumbai’s King of the News’ and reiterates News18 Lokmat’s prominence in the Marathi news segment with a high impact.

    News18 Lokmat has consistently maintained its dominant position in the Marathi news segment. The channel has consistently outperformed its competitors on platforms like YouTube and Facebook. News18 Lokmat’s website stands at the forefront, setting a benchmark in the segment with its viewership figures.

    By capitalising on engaged viewership, bolstered by top prime time anchors such as Vilas Bade, Milind Bhagwat, Vishal Pardeshi, Suvarna Joshi and Shweta Vadke, News18 Lokmat aims to grow its market share, elevate brand perception and forge a deeper advertiser connection on the back of its increasing visibility.

  • Amuz Distribution & Pixcom announce distribution deal for comedy series, Counter Offer for four seasons

    Amuz Distribution & Pixcom announce distribution deal for comedy series, Counter Offer for four seasons

    Mumbai: Amuz Distribution’s vice president of global distribution Alex Avon, and Pixcom’s president, Nicola Merola jointly announced their international distribution deal for four seasons of Pixcom-produced Counter Offer (Contre Offre). This is the first acquisition for the Amuz Distribution brand (formerly ComediHa! Distribution until May of this year).

    There are three seasons (each season 12×30 min) with S4 currently in production. The distribution agreement is for all territories outside of Canada. The series is originally produced for Bell Media and airs in Canada on Noovo and Crave.

    Counter Offer follows the small family-run Levesque agency desperately trying to survive within the highly unpredictable real estate industry. The father and agency founder, Alain, broker for 35years, is on the verge of burnout and his family and friends cause chaos.  Dysfunctional, but endearing, the fledging real estate team always come together to support their buyers and sellers as they seek happiness and success within the hectic real estate jungle.

    Avon stated, “As we grow Amuz Distribution, we are thrilled to add this fantastic series to our portfolio – the Pixcom production Counter Offer. This fun program supports our mission  — keeping the world feeling good. ”

    Merola added, “Pixcom is in great hands with Alex and his Amuz Distribution team. The show is doing really well in Quebec and is perfect for the world stage. Our comedy of a dysfunctional family is relatable across borders, and we look forward to following its journey around the globe.”

  • MTV India and T-Series strike ground-breaking industry-first global deal for MTV Hustle

    MTV India and T-Series strike ground-breaking industry-first global deal for MTV Hustle

    Mumbai: The mega giants of the music industry MTV India and T-Series join forces in first of its kind global deal for a genre-defining rap reality television show, MTV Hustle. Launched in 2019 by MTV India, this clutter-breaking show successfully brought India’s underground rap music to country’s mainstream landscape. A first-of-its-kind initiative by a non-fiction IP in India, this partnership will entail exclusive music rights for worldwide distribution, thereby serving the show’s vision of building industry-ready rap professionals and powering up their professional journeys at an extensive global scale.

    As a part of the 3-season deal, all original music created from Seasons 1, 2, and 3 will be distributed globally by T-Series, providing unprecedented reach to the diverse body of work by MTV Hustle. Championing desi hip-hop and rap culture, the country’s leading youth entertainment platform, MTV India created a music revolution which will be further catalyzed globally by the largest music label, T-Series through multi-platform distribution including its YouTube channel that ranks number one with over 238 million subscribers across continents, music channels, audio streaming platforms and many more.

    On partnering with T-Series, Viacom18 business head – youth, music, and English entertainment Anshul Ailawadi said, “MTV Hustle 2.0 has pioneered India’s hip-hop revolution. It’s cultural impact in the sub-continent has been multi-fold, making rap the choice of expression for contemporary youth voices. T-series is a pioneer in the world of Indian music. This is a natural partnership that will catapult South Asian hip-hop onto the world stage.”

    T-Series managing director & chairman Bhushan Kumar said, “The music that MTV Hustle has created resonates well with the audiences and surely deserves to get its due credit and recognition. Our partnership with the show is in line with our vision to grow the Indian music market and make it available to global audiences. We are excited on this partnership as it is the first of its kind for us too. We look forward to providing existing and new content and talent the right stage and platform while helping them in their musical journey.”

    With a focus on talent, performance, meter, technique, musicality, and storytelling, MTV Hustle has launched fresh voices from India’s evolving rap subculture and youth music. As the ultimate rap battleground in India, MTV Hustle has launched successful performers including King, EPR, and more. Performers like MC Square, Srushti Tawde and Paradox have tasted extraordinary success through the launch pad, vaulting from limited local recognition to multi-million fandom on social media within a few months and becoming the talk of the town with brand partnerships, collaborations with eminent industry names and international exposure. Their songs have become an electric mode of self-expression and catharsis for fans, and a significant commentary on socio-political-economic causes, personal experiences and pop-culture. MTV Hustle 2.0 has produced 100+ original compositions in under 10 weeks and has driven inclusivity in music genres including Bollywood, Sufi, Folk and Regional rap. MTV Hustle 2.0 songs have become trendsetting cultural mainstays, having garnered 1.3Bn organic views on Kaanphod Music channel, delivering over 9Bn impressions, with 30+ videos crossing 10Mn views. The partnership with T-Series promises to take desi, multi-cultural hip-hop to a universal audience.

  • India gears up for MotoGP ten days to rewrite speed records

    India gears up for MotoGP ten days to rewrite speed records

    Mumbai: With just ten days to go, motorsport fans across the globe are eagerly awaiting to witness history in the making at MotoGP Bharat. Hosted at the renowned Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida on 22-24 September, the race aims to shatter the highest speed record in the history of motorsport.

    The Buddh International Circuit has been homologated making it suitable for motorcycle racing for the first time ever.

    This year, Brad Binder of Red Bull KTM set the high-speed record at 366.1 Km/hr. India hopes to reach somewhere around 370 Km/hr, thanks to the long back straight, measuring 1006 metres. This straight stretch is divided into two parts – the first segment is downhill, which will allow the riders to achieve maximum acceleration, while the latter part, which is uphill, will enable them to brake late and maintain top speed.

    Fairstreet Sports director racing Amit Sandill said, “MotoGP Bharat is poised to redefine speed in the world of motorcycle racing. The Buddh International Circuit has undergone remarkable modifications, and it will be breathtaking to see the riders achieve mind-boggling speeds.”

    The parabola or the stadium section on turns 9 and 10, is the perfect camber for riders to slingshot out of the turns and permits them to push their bikes to the limit. The track’s surface gives exceptional grip to the tires, offering riders complete control over their machines. Meanwhile, safety measures have been bolstered with the installation of 1800 metres of new safety barricading.

    Dorna Sports chief sporting officer Carlos Ezpeleta added, “The changes made to the Buddh International Circuit are truly remarkable. This track now stands witness to India’s commitment to hosting world-class motorsport events. We believe the circuit has the potential to register speed that could rewrite the MotoGP record books.”

    With a track that is flowing, and fast, and includes 13 challenging turns (eight right and five left), MotoGP Bharat promises to be a landmark event in the world of motorsport.

    Some of the biggest names from the racing world including Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati, Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda Team, Marco Bezzecchi of Mooney, Brad Binder and Jack Miller of Red Bull KTM, Jorge Martin of Prima among others, will participate in MotoGP Bharat to be held on 22-24 September 2023.

  • Disney+ Hotstar records 2.8 crore concurrency during India-Pak Asia Cup match

    Disney+ Hotstar records 2.8 crore concurrency during India-Pak Asia Cup match

    Mumbai: In yet another triumphant victory, India cruised to a record 228-run win over rival Pakistan on Monday and collected crucial points in the super four stage of the Asia Cup. Having set a target of 357, India bowled out Pakistan for 128 runs, its third-lowest total against India.

    The tournament which is being live-streamed on Disney+ Hotstar, clocked a concurrency of 2.8 crore when India was batting, the highest for any India match in the history of digital. 25.3 million simultaneous viewers watched the ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final match between India and New Zealand in 2019.

    In a tweet, BCCI secretary Jay Shah tweeted the same.