ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Infinitum ropes in Rajiv Lakshman as group head to beef up its creative IP playbook

    Infinitum ropes in Rajiv Lakshman as group head to beef up its creative IP playbook

    MUMBAI: What happens when one of India’s most iconic TV creators gets behind the wheel of a fast-growing digital content rocket ship? Sparks fly, formats morph, and global audiences better buckle up. Infinitum Network Solutions, the Hyderabad-based content powerhouse, has appointed Rajiv Lakshman as group head, intellectual properties—and it’s clearly not playing small.

    Lakshman, best known for co-creating reality TV staples like MTV Roadies and MTV Splitsvilla, brings more than 20 years of storytelling firepower to Infinitum. This hire isn’t just strategic—it’s symbolic. It signals the company’s serious pivot from a traditional multi-channel network to a global brand ambassador for Indian creativity.

    “Rajiv’s exceptional track record in creating formats that resonate with Indian audiences across diverse cultural backgrounds perfectly complements our mission to help talented creators grow from non-metro, tier two, tier three cities, and bring their voice to a global stage,” said Infinitum Network Solutions founder Satyadev Chada Krishna.

    Founded in 2017, Infinitum has already left its mark across 160+ countries, with over 400 projects under its belt and more than 300 brands served globally. Not too shabby for a homegrown outfit rooted in Hyderabad, now stepping into a global spotlight.

    Lakshman, clearly revved up about the appointment, said, “Infinitum’s innovative approach to content creation and distribution represents the future of Indian digital media on the global stage. I’m excited to join an organisation that has achieved such impressive global reach while staying true to its Indian roots. Together, we’ll create compelling intellectual properties that showcase India’s cultural richness while transcending boundaries. By reaching out to creators from tier two and tier three cities, we aim to create opportunities for young talent across diverse languages and regions, empowering them to grow, build careers, and establish a launchpad for the next generation of content creators.”

    This move couldn’t be better timed. As the company expands its original content slate across formats and platforms, Lakshman’s experience navigating the transition from linear TV to OTT fits like a glove. From children’s shows to thrillers and rom-coms, Infinitum’s evolving playbook is about to get a splash of Lakshman’s trademark edge.

  • Sparks fly at Times Now Summit as Pathan and Trivedi lock horns on stage

    Sparks fly at Times Now Summit as Pathan and Trivedi lock horns on stage

    MUMBAI: It was anything but a polite panel discussion. By the time the dust settled at the Times Now Summit 2025 in New Delhi, the audience had witnessed more fireworks than a Diwali finale. What started as a debate quickly turned into a political mud-wrestling match, as AIMIM’s Waris Pathan and BJP’s Sudhanshu Trivedi squared off in a no-holds-barred clash of ideologies, history, and hot potatoes.

    The brawl began with BJP MP Trivedi laying out his now-signature ‘chronology’ on the Aurangzeb controversy. According to him, the blame game begins not with the BJP but with Samajwadi Party’s Abu Azmi, followed by Congress’ Rashid Alvi and Imran Masood. “It was Abu Azmi of the Samajwadi Party who raked up the issue of Aurangzeb, followed by Rashid Alvi of the Congress Party and then Imran Masood,” Trivedi claimed, looking more historian than politician.

    Pathan, never one to duck a punch, fired back with a stinging retort. “Everyone knows who has mastered and holds a PhD in polarisation—it’s the BJP. For the last 10 years, we have seen BJP-driven polarisation across the country. The party has completely lost focus on its priorities,” he said, accusing the ruling party of sowing division like it’s sowing season.

    The debate flared up further over the Waqf Amendment Bill. Pathan slammed the BJP for what he called a deliberate attack on minority rights. “What message do you want to send? What was the need to bring the Waqf Amendment Bill? We know BJP’s intention is to take over our land. The BJP wants to usurp our Waqf land just to polarise the situation. Why do they want to spread hatred”

    Trivedi, unfazed, cited land statistics to back his party’s move. “The Waqf Board claimed 120 properties in Delhi, and the Congress handed them over by 2014. The move was necessary to protect government assets,” he argued.

    While the political slugfest stole the spotlight, the Summit wasn’t all fire and fury. BSE MD & CEO Sundararaman Ramamurthy joined virtually with a more optimistic pitch. “The theme of Keeping India Ahead aligns very well with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed nation by 2047, led by our PM Narendra Modi,” he said. He cited India’s $4.5 trillion economy and projected a leap to $30–35 trillion by 2047, potentially hitting $50 trillion.

    Minister of consumer affairs and renewable energy Pralhad Joshi, flexed the green credentials, revealing a Rs 20,000 crore investment push into renewables. “India is currently the third-largest producer of renewable energy globally,” he noted, casually.

    Jal Shakti minister Chandrakant Raghunath Patil dived into water politics—literally. Speaking on rainwater management and pollution, he pointed fingers at agricultural chemicals like urea for polluting rivers. “If agricultural water is used specifically for agriculture, this problem can be addressed,” he said. He added that the government had launched a cleanup drive for six major rivers, including the Ganga.

    The summit, backed by state partners such as Punjab, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Goa and Haryana, along with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham and a raft of brand partners, served up a heady cocktail of policy, polemics, and personality clashes.

    And if day one was anything to go by, Times Now Summit 2025 might need a referee as much as a moderator.

     

  • Shalimar Paints adds colour to Mumbai Indians for a vibrant cricket season

    Shalimar Paints adds colour to Mumbai Indians for a vibrant cricket season

    MUMBAI: When cricket meets colour, the result is a masterpiece, this IPL season, Shalimar Paints is bringing its brushstrokes to the Mumbai Indians (MI) as their official paint partner. With a legacy spanning over 120 years, the iconic paint brand is set to paint the town blue with its vibrant association with one of the league’s most successful franchises.

    This partnership isn’t just about branding, it’s about blending passion and performance, much like a perfectly mixed shade. With MI boasting five IPL titles and a colossal global fanbase, Shalimar Paints aims to amplify its reach, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where the brand sees immense growth potential. The collaboration promises wide brand visibility across MI’s team merchandise, advertisements, digital campaigns, and fan engagement initiatives making Shalimar a household name, both in the stadium and at home.

    Shalimar Paints director Kuldip Raina said, “At Shalimar Paints, we are thrilled to partner with Mumbai Indians as the official paint partner, tapping into the massive cricket fan base to connect with India’s passionate audience. This collaboration targets the young, radiant generation who value creativity, modern aesthetics, and bold, dynamic energy, principles that drive our Shalimar Paints 2.0 transformation. We are blending exceptional quality, innovative products, and forward-thinking solutions, supported by substantial investments in R&D. With a wide range of sustainable, power-packed products, we cater to individuals whose dynamic lifestyle aligns with our offerings. Leveraging digital integration, social media, and region-specific campaigns, we are creating experiences that drive awareness, build lasting connections, and foster loyalty. This collaboration is about igniting a passion that resonates with India’s energetic spirit, positioning Shalimar Paints as a brand that evolves with today’s vibrant audience.”

    A Mumbai Indians spokesperson added, “We welcome Shalimar Paints to the Mumbai Indians family. Their commitment to innovation and quality aligns well with our team’s ethos. We look forward to an exciting season together, bringing fans closer to the game and enhancing their engagement with Mumbai Indians.”

    As the IPL fever grips the nation, Shalimar Paints and Mumbai Indians are set to create a bold, bright, and unforgettable season, because whether on walls or wickets, a flawless finish is what truly matters.

  • Animation maverick plots comeback in Technicolor takeover

    Animation maverick plots comeback in Technicolor takeover

    MUMBAI: In a phoenix-like manoeuvre that would make Hollywood scriptwriters blush, Boris Hertzog has clinched a court-approved acquisition that resurrects his animation ambitions from the corporate graveyard.

    OuiDO Productions—Hertzog’s brainchild—has swooped up Technicolor animation’s intellectual property and Mikros Animation’s episodic production operations, marking what the  entrepreneur calls “OuiDO 2.0”. Three years after departing the company  (Technicolor Animation Productions) he co-founded with Sandrine Nguyen-Tiet, Hertzog is back with a vengeance.

    “The context may be challenging,” he quips, ” to create, to innovate, to dream and to realise meaningful projects with all the energy that drives us..”

    Backed by Lift Value (which he co-founded with Gilbert Saada) and bolstered by strategic partners Cyd Partners, Hertzog’s ecosystem is expanding faster than a cartoon character’s imagination. Moon-Keys International Content provides distribution muscle, with whispers of a publishing subsidiary on the horizon.

    The who’s who of broadcasters—TF1, M6/Gulli, Disney, CNC—have pledged continued support, suggesting this isn’t just another corporate reshuffling, but a genuine creative renaissance.

    “We’re more determined than ever,” Hertzog declares, tipping his hat to the “loyal, passionate talent” who’ve been his creative co-conspirators.

    Game on, animation world. OuiDO is back, and it’s not playing nice—it’s playing brilliant.

  • Sony Music and Tiger Baby birth new label, Tiger Baby Records

    Sony Music and Tiger Baby birth new label, Tiger Baby Records

    MUMBAI: Sony Music Entertainment India and Tiger Baby have unveiled Tiger Baby Records, a fresh joint venture designed to champion emerging talent and weave musical narratives. This new label, a fusion of Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti’s creative clout, and Ankur Tewari’s musical vision, with Sony Music’s global reach, promises to shake up the Indian music scene.

    Tiger Baby Records has already made waves, collaborating with jewellery brand Tanishq on a wedding song composed by Abhishek-Ananya and performed by Poorvi Koutish, directed by Kagti. They’ve also released the soundtrack for “Superboys of Malegaon,” featuring compositions by Sachin-Jigar and lyrics by Javed Akhtar.

    The label will also showcase original music curated by Tewari, highlighting diverse styles and emerging artists. To further support budding talent, Tiger Baby Records is launching the “City Sessions” initiative, in partnership with Mumbai’s Island City Studios. This program will offer a platform for artists to experiment and collaborate in a dynamic environment.

    “Tiger Baby Records represents a new era of music in India, where compelling storytelling and groundbreaking collaborations take center stage. We are thrilled to be part of this journey, pushing boundaries and bringing fresh, authentic voices to the forefront of the industry and are excited to partner with Zoya, Kagti, and Tewari, who have an exceptional track record in music and creative storytelling,” said Sony Music Entertainment India managing director Vinit thakkar.

    “Music has always been a vital part of our storytelling, and with Tiger Baby Records, we want the music to be the main story. Partnering with Sony Music India allows us to bring our vision to life and provide a platform for indie, homegrown talent to shine,” commented Tiger Baby Films co-founder Zoya.

    “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for us at Tiger Baby. With Tiger Baby Records, we aim to delve into the diverse soundscapes of the subcontinent and represent them globally. By collaborating with brands and upcoming artists, we hope to have this music reach a large audience,” added, Tiger Baby Films co-founder Kagti.

    “Tiger Baby Records is all about fostering an environment where creativity thrives. I’m thrilled to be a part of this journey where we get to build a legacy with artists who are using the power of their voice to express freely,” said, Tiger Baby Films singer-songwriter & music supervisor at Tewari.

  • Refex Group bowls over CSK with sponsorship deal

    Refex Group bowls over CSK with sponsorship deal

    MUMBAI: Refex Group, a diversified business heavyweight, has struck a deal to sponsor Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of cricket’s most celebrated franchises. Refex’s first CSK partnership mixes sports with eco-friendly goals.

    The collaboration signifies a growing trend of industry titans aligning with sports giants, a move Refex hopes will “drive innovation, growth, and a bit of crowd-pleasing razzmatazz.”

    “We’re not just sponsoring a team; we’re sponsoring a sustainable revolution,” declares Refex Group managing director Anil Jain. “CSK’s winning spirit mirrors our own, and together, we’ll champion a greener future.”

    “We’re chuffed to have Refex on board,” says CSK managing director KS Viswanathan. “Their commitment to eco-friendly initiatives aligns perfectly with our values. We’re aiming to hit a six for sustainability.”

    Refex hopes to use the partnership to amplify its message of environmental responsibility, leveraging CSK’s massive fanbase to promote sustainable practices. “We’re not just playing the game; we’re changing the game,” Jain adds. “And we’re doing it with a bit of style.”

  • India’s M&E sector tipped for third place, Vaz declares at FICCI Frames curtain raiser

    India’s M&E sector tipped for third place, Vaz declares at FICCI Frames curtain raiser

    MUMBAI: JioStar chief executive officer -entertainment business TV & digital and chairperson of the Ficci media and entertainment committee Kevin Vaz, kicked off the Ficci Frames curtain raiser with a bullish assessment of the nation’s entertainment sector, predicting it will be the third largest globally by 2028. He unveiled the 25th edition of the Ficci IEY M&E Report 2025, the industry’s official bible, amidst a flurry of industry heavyweights.

    “We are not an ‘OR’ market, but an ‘AND’ market,” Vaz declared, emphasising the co-existence of television and digital platforms. “Television will grow from 190 million households in 2024 to 214 million households by 2026, while digital platforms continue to soar.” A rather tidy bit of growth, one might say.

    He highlighted India’s global clout, citing Cannes and Oscar wins, and its emergence as a VFX powerhouse. Southern cinema, he noted, has reached “unprecedented heights,” showcasing some rather grand storytelling.

    Sports, particularly the IPL, is driving content consumption like a runaway train. “IPL 2025…it will be exciting to see how it reaches new heights and break records across both TV and digital platforms once again,” Vaz quipped, clearly anticipating a right royal viewership bonanza. He reported the 2024 IPL reached 525 million viewers on TV and a staggering 550-600 million on streaming platforms.

    OTT, he asserted, is set to become a “major force,” while television remains the “bedrock,” commanding over 30 per cent of the market. A rather sturdy foundation, then.

    Vaz welcomed industry luminaries including Sylvie Forbin, Gaurav Dwivedi, Ashish Pherwani, Arjun Nohwar and Munjal Shroff. He also plugged the Best Animated Frames (BAF) Awards, adding a touch of animated flair to the proceedings.

    “Let’s celebrate our achievements and the exciting opportunities ahead,” Vaz concluded, urging attendees to engage in discussions that would “propel the Indian M&E sector to the global stage.”

  • NDTV’s board level announcements

    NDTV’s board level announcements

    MUMBAI: News broadcaster NDTV has orchestrated a strategic board recalibration, bringing back heavyweight independent directors for another three-year performance while reshuffling key leadership roles.

    The corporate choreography  features the comeback of three seasoned professionals:

    * Upendra Kumar Sinha, former Seb supremo, returns as independent director and chairperson from 27 March 2025

    * Dipali Balkrishan Goenka, a powerhouse of the home textile universe from the Welspun group, secures her second independent director term

    * Dinesh Kumar Mittal, an administrative service veteran, extends his directorial stint

    Senthil Chengalvarayan’s has decided to transition from  whole-time director to non-executive, non-independent director— because of personal commitments. 

    Sinha, who previously helmed Sebi from 2011 to 2017, brings gravitas, while Goenka—a Forbes-recognised business maverick—adds entrepreneurial spark to the boardroom.

    Mittal, an ex-IAS  officer with a physics doctorate, completes this triumvirate of corporate heavy-hitters, promising continued governance sophistication.

  • Live Times hits 500 million views news hub surges

    Live Times hits 500 million views news hub surges

    MUMBAI: Live Times, has achieved 500 million views in just 200 days, demonstrating significant audience trust and demand for fact-based journalism. This milestone underscores the channel’s growing influence and its commitment to delivering accurate and authentic news.

    In the Delhi market, Live Times has secured a Gross Rating Point (GRP) of 2.3 and an Average Time Spent (ATS) of 16 minutes in Week six, highlighting its increasing audience engagement. The channel maintains an average time spent of over 12 minutes across viewer segments, exceeding 16 minutes in some, indicating deep and meaningful audience interaction.

    This achievement reflects Live Times’ emergence as a credible source of news and information in India. The channel remains dedicated to delivering truthful content and supporting core democratic values.

    Live Times founder Dilip Kumar Singh expressed, “Feeling more humbled, with such a large number of viewers placing their trust with Live Times. These numbers are huge encouragement to Our mission of delivering truth. This achievement belongs to our viewers alone. At Live Times, we stand committed to provide authentic and impactful news and information that continues to empowers citizens.”

    Live Times is accessible across multiple platforms, including Tata Play (Channel 539), DishTV (Channel 665), Airtel Digital TV (Channel 385), Jio TV (Channel 3069), and Sikka Cable TV (Channel 319).

  • Moneycontrol tops charts business news dominance

    Moneycontrol tops charts business news dominance

    MUMBAI: Moneycontrol has reinforced its position according to the latest Comscore data for February 2025. The global audience measurement agency confirmed Moneycontrol’s top ranking across key digital metrics, including unique visitors, page views, and time spent.

    The Comscore India MMX data, encompassing mobile, desktop, and app traffic, revealed Moneycontrol’s continued dominance. With 39.89 million unique visitors (UVs) in February, Moneycontrol exceeded The Economic Times’ (ET) 32.39 million UVs, widening its audience share.

    Moneycontrol also outperformed ET in other crucial digital metrics. The platform recorded 349.10 million page views, more than double ET’s 120.74 million. Readers spent 326.11 million minutes on Moneycontrol, compared to ET’s 146.5 million minutes.

    Moneycontrol managing editor Nalin Mehta stated, “Moneycontrol’s sustained management position reaffirms the deep trust our audience has reposed in us for reliable market-focused business news and insights. We are relentlessly focussed on providing market intelligence that can help investors make informed decisions and this strengthens our resolve to double down on creating even more innovative and useful tools for our readers.”

    The Comscore data solidifies Moneycontrol’s status as India’s premier markets, finance, and business news platform, reflecting its commitment to delivering high-quality, authoritative content for the Indian investor and business community.

    In October 2024, Moneycontrol Pro, the platform’s subscription service, surpassed one million paying subscribers, establishing itself as India’s largest news subscription platform and ranking among the top 15 globally.