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Category: TV Channels

  • ET Now & ET Now Swadesh bring the budget blitz—Facts, figures & fireworks!

    ET Now & ET Now Swadesh bring the budget blitz—Facts, figures & fireworks!

    MUMBAI: The Union Budget 2025 is around the corner, and India’s economic future is about to get a big reality check. As the nation tunes in for the finance minister’s grand reveal, ET Now and ET Now Swadesh are rolling out an electrifying lineup of in-depth analyses, expert insights, and high-powered discussions under the theme ‘Budget for Viksit Bharat.’

    From decoding fiscal policies to tracking market movements and corporate strategies, ET Now and ET Now Swadesh promise a 360-degree budget deep dive, with cutting-edge AR graphics, real-time data insights, and expert takeaways that will leave no stone unturned. Helmed by editor-in-chief Nikunj Dalmia, the editorial teams will bring clarity to the complexities of the Budget—so you can decide if it’s time to pop the champagne or tighten the belt.

    Starting with live coverage of the budget speech on 1 February, ET Now will deliver expert-backed insights on what’s in it for businesses, investors, and the ‘aam aadmi’.

    1    The economist’s verdict: Veteran economist Swaminathan Aiyar will dissect the Budget’s vision with sharp, data-driven insights into India’s fiscal trajectory.

    2    Market masterclass: Experts Kunal Bothra, Nooresh Merani, and Anshul Saigal will craft winning stock market strategies to navigate post-Budget market swings.

    3    Multibagger mania: Want to spot the next big wealth creator? Nilesh Shah, Sandeep Tandon, Porinju Veliyath, Hiren Ved, Raamdeo Agrawal, Samir Arora, Sunil Singhania, Vijay Kedia, Saurabh Mukherjea, and Sandip Sabharwal break down the hottest investment picks.

    4    Macro moves: Economic heavyweights R Gopalan, Ashok Tyagi, Yashish Dahiya, Rajnish Kumar, and Rohinton Sidwa will provide insights into India’s economic roadmap.

    5    Corporate insights: Top business leaders including Sanjiv Puri, Rajiv Memani, R Mukundan, Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, Anant Goenka, Keki Mistry, and Sanjeev Bikhchandani will share industry expectations and reactions.

    6    FII watch: Global investors Timothy Moe (Goldman Sachs) and Gautam Chhaochharia (UBS India) will weigh in on India’s attractiveness on the global stage.

    The budget in Hindi, simplified and supercharged:

    1    ‘Viksit Bharat Ka Budget’ (7 am- 4 pm): Live budget coverage, dynamic market programming, and exclusive insights from Radhika Gupta, Atul Chaturvedi, Yashish Dahiya, Pankaj Tibrewal, Abhay Soi, A. Balasubramanian, Niranjan Hiranandani, and Mihir Vora.

    2    ‘Budget Darbaar’ (4 pm): A no-nonsense breakdown of personal finance, tax implications, and investment takeaways from Feroze Azeeze, Anthony Heredia, Alok Agarwal, and Nilesh Shah.

    3    ‘Budget & Markets’ (5 pm): Market mavens Gurmeet Chadha and Amit Jeswani decode how the Budget will move the markets.

    4    ‘Gaon-Kisaan Ka Budget’ (7 pm): Rural India takes center stage as experts Siraj Hussain, G. Chandrashekhar, G.K. Sood, Gunwant Patil, and B.V. Mehta analyse the budget’s impact on agriculture, farmers, and rural businesses.

    To make budget-watching even more rewarding, ET Now and ET Now Swadesh will run contests from 8 am to 4 pm, where lucky viewers can win vouchers for premium smartphones—because who says finance can’t be fun?

    With ET Now and ET Now Swadesh bringing the biggest names in economics, business, and markets together, this budget season promises insights, action, and a whole lot of drama. Will this be the budget that fuels India’s march toward prosperity, or will it leave businesses and investors wanting more? Tune in on 1 February, and let’s find out!

  • DD partners with Dilli Gharana Prodns for new classical music talent show

    DD partners with Dilli Gharana Prodns for new classical music talent show

    MUMBAI: In a bid to promote India’s rich musical traditions, Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan’s  Dilli Gharana Productions has partnered with Doordarshan to launch Wah Ustad, a classical and semi-classical music talent hunt reality show.  

    The initiative is part of the Create in India Challenge under the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (Waves) 2025, organised by the ministry of information and broadcasting.

    The show aims to provide a global platform for young, classically trained vocalists aged 18 and above, with basic training in Hindustani, Carnatic, or Sufi music. Participants will be selected through a multi-phase process, including online registrations via the Dilli Durbar portal, video-based shortlisting, regional auditions, and a grand national finale at the Waves 2025 event in Mumbai.

    With 26 episodes to be aired on Doordarshan, Wah Ustad will feature innovative rounds such as fusion performances and self-compositions, focusing on themes like Sufi, devotional, and semi-classical music. Dilli Gharana Productions has Mohd Imran Khan and Vusat Iqbal Khan listed as the co-founders. A panel of renowned musicians and cultural icons, including members of Dilli Gharana, will judge the competition.

    The winner will receive a cash prize, while other finalists will gain mentorship opportunities, recording contracts, and recognition from dignitaries. By blending traditional expertise with modern technology, Wah Ustad seeks to inspire the next generation of musicians and preserve India’s musical legacy for years to come.

  • Robin D’Silva gets group account director role at ABP Network

    Robin D’Silva gets group account director role at ABP Network

    MUMBAI:  Robin D’Silva has been appointed as group account director at ABP Network. With over a decade of experience in media sales, market research, business development, and marketing strategy, D’Silva brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.

    Prior to this appointment, D’Silva served as group account manager at CNN-News18, where he was instrumental in driving client engagement and business growth. He has also held key positions at Zee Media Corp, National Geographic Traveller India, and Bennett Coleman & Co.

    D’Silva expressed enthusiasm about contributing to ABP Network’s continued growth and innovation in the media landscape.

    A postgraduate in marketing from Welingkar Institute of Management, D’Silva has consistently demonstrated a strong ability to manage client relationships, negotiate contracts, and deliver impactful business solutions.

  • India launches major initiatives for Waves Summit 2025

    India launches major initiatives for Waves Summit 2025

    MUMBAI: The ministry of information and broadcasting marked a significant milestone today with the launch of key initiatives for the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (Waves) at the National Media Centre. Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat led the event, which highlighted India’s ambition to become a global hub for the creative economy.

    The Waves Summit, envisioned as India’s answer to the Davos Economic Forum, aims to showcase the nation’s rich cultural and creative landscape, often referred to as the ‘Orange Economy.’

    Key Initiatives Launched:

    * Waves  Bazaar: A global e-marketplace connecting India’s creative talent with international markets, supporting B2B interactions across sectors like film, TV, music, animation, esports, and gaming.
    * Create in India Challenges: Three new challenges launched:

    o Wah Ustad! – A platform for young classical vocalists, culminating in a grand finale at Waves 2025.

    o Make the World Wear Khadi – A creative campaign to position Khadi as a global brand.

    o Resonate: The EDM Challenge – Inviting global talent to showcase expertise in electronic dance music.

    * Waves Awards: Nominations open on 15 February 2025, celebrating achievements across categories like Game of the Year, Film of the Year, and Advertising Campaign of the Year.

    A new challenge was also announced to encourage filmmakers to explore India’s cultural heritage and tourism, promoting the country’s vibrant traditions to national and international audiences.

    Union Minister of Information &  Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said: “Waves will position India as the global capital of the creator economy, celebrating our cultural strength and innovation.”

    Union Minister of Culture and Tourism  Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, added: “Our cultural heritage is not just a testament to our past but the backbone of our future on the global stage.”

    Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur described India as a “powerhouse of cultural and digital content”, emphasising Waves  as a critical platform to demonstrate India’s creative leadership globally.

    The summit, scheduled for 2025, aims to converge audio, video, and entertainment industries, offering creators a platform to collaborate, network, and showcase their talents to a global audience.

    Says a disgruntled media observer: “Twice, they have postponed it  – twice. Waves is a good initiative but the management of its rollout is something that the government needs to get in order and not just leave it to sarkari types who pay obeisance to their superiors. The prime minister may be behind it, but he is not going to execute it on the ground. IFFI has taken decades to reach the quality it has reached now. The MIB will have to put a lot of checks and balances in place to make Waves work. They can’t continue living in their echo chambers where everything they are doing is good. Shekhar Kapur as a face is history. The doubting Thomases are wondering whether it will be postponed again.” 

  • Navbharat Ka Mahakumbh charts India’s cultural & economic roadmap

    Navbharat Ka Mahakumbh charts India’s cultural & economic roadmap

    MUMBAI: If spirituality meets strategy, and tradition fuels transformation, then ‘Navbharat Ka Mahakumbh’ was the place to be. Hosted by Times Now Navbharat, the conclave turned Lucknow into the epicentre of discussions on culture, economy, and governance, proving once again that India’s past and future walk hand in hand. With a power-packed lineup of political leaders, industry stalwarts, and spiritual icons, the event placed the Mahakumbh’s global significance under the spotlight while outlining a vision for India’s growth.

    From policy and infrastructure to tourism and faith, the conclave unpacked the synergy between tradition and modernity. The event featured Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, tourism minister Jaiveer Singh, and spiritual leader Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, among other dignitaries. With high-impact discussions, the conclave provided a blueprint for cultural diplomacy, economic advancement, and sustainable development.

    Addressing the audience, Adityanath emphasised how India’s rise as a global power is deeply tied to its cultural and spiritual strength. He pointed to the Mahakumbh’s economic impact and the state’s commitment to reviving sacred sites, stating, “Sambhal, once plagued by power theft, now stands as a beacon of historical and religious significance. Our government is dedicated to reviving these sacred sites—not just as places of worship but as symbols of India’s rich legacy.”

    On India’s global cultural influence, he remarked, “The President of Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, proudly acknowledges his Indian ancestry. Indian leaders should take inspiration from this rather than dividing communities through appeasement politics. The Indian Constitution ensures justice and equality, and our government upholds ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ as its guiding principle.”

    Discussing infrastructure advancements, Adityanath highlighted major developments ahead of Mahakumbh 2025, including 14 new underpasses and flyovers, expansion of the civil terminal, and 5,000 additional acres allocated for parking.

    With 16 crore devotees already taking the sacred dip at the Sangam, he called it a “moment of global faith and unity”—even adding a cheeky political jab, “Even those who once dismissed India’s traditions are now taking the holy dip. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge may not be here yet, but he will come sooner or later.”

    Maurya dismissed claims that the Mahakumbh was a political spectacle, emphasising its centuries-old spiritual significance. He criticised past administrations, stating, “The Kumbh is not a BJP event—it is an event of faith. Unlike in 2013, when mismanagement plagued the festival, this government has ensured its smooth execution under PM Modi and CM Yogi’s leadership.”

    Singh highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s rise as a global spiritual tourism hub, stating, “What was once a gathering of saints is now a global celebration. The world is watching how Uttar Pradesh manages this massive event with precision and peace. Our vision goes beyond Mahakumbh—we are driving long-term investments in eco-tourism, spiritual tourism, and rural tourism to create sustainable growth.”

    The event wrapped up with discussions on how governance, spirituality, and industry can fuel India’s economic and cultural aspirations. As Uttar Pradesh cements its position as a spiritual and economic powerhouse, the Mahakumbh is proving to be more than a festival—it is a movement redefining India’s identity on the world stage.

  • MediaGuru powers Africa’s most advanced broadcast hub for TVC Communications

    MediaGuru powers Africa’s most advanced broadcast hub for TVC Communications

    NIGERIA: Lagos-based, privately owned, multi-platform, national and international full-service media firm, TVC Communications has unveiled its state-of-the-art broadcasting headquarters, hailed as the most advanced facility in Africa. Developed in collaboration with Indian broadcast systems integrator the Sanjay Salil-owned MediaGuru, the custom-built hub was completed in under 24 months and is redefining the future of broadcasting across the continent.

    TVC Communications group managing director &  CEO Victoria Ajayi highlighted the overwhelmingly positive response from viewers since the launch. “The new facility has elevated our capabilities, allowing us to deliver superior content quality to audiences across Africa, Europe, and beyond,” she said.

    The facility boasts cutting-edge features, including:
    * Multi-purpose studios and a newsroom with world-class sets
    * HD broadcasting for unparalleled content quality
    * AR and VR integration for immersive storytelling
    * AI-powered news gathering and production via MediaGuru’s proprietary platform
    * IP-ready infrastructure for global scalability
    * Multi-city studio integration for seamless collaboration

    Rajeev Kumar of MediaGuru expressed pride in the partnership, stating: “This is one of our most ambitious turnkey projects, from design to execution. We’re shaping the future of broadcasting in Africa.”

  • Sony Pictures Television appoints Jennifer Rogers Doyle as EVP of franchise management

    Sony Pictures Television appoints Jennifer Rogers Doyle as EVP of franchise management

    MUMBAI:  Sony Pictures Television (SPT) has appointed Jennifer Rogers Doyle as executive vice president of franchise management, a newly created role aimed at maximising the value of the company’s intellectual properties (IP).

    Effective immediately, Rogers Doyle will lead SPT’s franchise strategy, collaborating across divisions to drive revenue opportunities for key titles such as Cobra Kai, For All Mankind, The Boys, Outlander, Messi and the Giants, and Bewitched. She will report directly to SPT Studios president Katherine Pope and be based at the Culver City lot.

    Rogers Doyle joins SPT after a 20-year tenure at Disney, where she most recently served as senior vice president of franchise, licensing, and integrated planning. Her work spanned projects for Disney Entertainment Networks, Disney Channel, 20th Television & Animation, FX, and ABC, with content streaming across Disney+ and Hulu.

    During her time at Disney, she managed franchises for preschool favourites including Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Doc McStuffins, tween hits like Hannah Montana and High School Musical, and adult properties including Percy Jackson, Family Guy, and The Bear. She previously held roles at Warner Bros Consumer Products and Landmark Entertainment group.

    “With our ever-expanding series universes, we are focused on enhancing fan engagement and driving long-term IP value,” said Katherine Pope. “Jennifer’s expertise in franchise development makes her the perfect fit for this role. We are thrilled to have her join the team.”

    Rogers Doyle commented: “Sony Pictures has an incredible portfolio of classic and new IP. I am excited to collaborate with Katherine and the team to extend this storytelling beyond the screen through products, experiences, and social activations that deepen fan loyalty.”

  •  Zee Business launches Budget Get Set Grow special series for Union Budget 2025

     Zee Business launches Budget Get Set Grow special series for Union Budget 2025

    MUMBAI: It’s getting down to business about the budget. Zee Business is set to air its special programming series Budget Get Set Grow on 1 February 2025, starting at 7 AM. The series aims to decode the Union Budget 2025, offering in-depth analysis of its impact on the economy, businesses, and citizens.

    The programme will feature expert panels comprising economists, policymakers, and industry leaders who will break down key budget proposals and their implications. Sector-specific insights will cover infrastructure, manufacturing, green energy, and technology, providing a comprehensive understanding of the budget’s potential to drive growth and foster innovation.

    In addition to expert-driven discussions, the series will provide real-time perspectives to help viewers understand how fiscal policies affect everyday lives. The coverage aims to empower businesses and investors with actionable insights to navigate the evolving economic landscape.

    Zee Business managing editor  Anil Singhvi said: “The budget is a crucial step in shaping India’s economic journey. Budget Get Set Grow is designed to simplify and analyse the budget’s potential, enabling viewers to plan for a brighter future with confidence.”

    Zee Media CEO  Karan Abhishek Singh added: “The Union Budget represents a vision for India’s future. With Budget Get Set Grow, we are dedicated to delivering credible and insightful coverage that breaks down the budget’s impact across key sectors and industries.”

    Viewers can catch the live broadcast on Zee Business and stay informed about the government’s vision for sustainable development, innovation, and inclusive growth.

  • CM Yogi Adityanath showcases Uttar Pradesh’s growth and Mahakumbh legacy

    CM Yogi Adityanath showcases Uttar Pradesh’s growth and Mahakumbh legacy

    MUMBAI: The Mahakumbh 2025 is not just a religious gathering; it is a grand celebration of unity, tradition, and progress. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, in an exclusive interview with Ndtv editor-in-chief Sanjay Pugalia during the Mahakumbh Samvaad, eloquently shared how the state has emerged as India’s growth engine, with Mahakumbh reflecting a perfect blend of cultural heritage and sustainable development.

    Speaking from Lucknow, Adityanath’s words carried a mix of pride and purpose. He declared, “Uttar Pradesh has become the growth engine for India.” From empowering the youth through seven lakh government jobs to enhancing Mahakumbh’s grandeur with modern infrastructure, the chief minister painted a picture of a state transforming its legacy into a progressive powerhouse.

    The ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, which began on 13 January and runs until 26 February, has already drawn over 12 crore devotees from across the country to the sacred ‘Triveni Sangam’. Reflecting on the lessons from Ardha Kumbh 2019, Adityanath detailed his government’s meticulous preparations, “We reviewed hygiene, river cleanliness, and infrastructure gaps and worked systematically to improve them. This year, we built 14 underpasses, expanded the civil terminal, and added 5,000 acres of parking to the 10,000-acre mela area.”

    Adityanath highlighted the event’s inclusivity, noting, “This is a Maha Parv. On January 14, nearly six crore devotees took a dip in the Sangam. There was no discrimination, and even critics of Sanatana Dharma came to witness the event.”

    The Ndtv program also hosted prominent figures like Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who shared the spiritual essence of the Mahakumbh, “Spirituality is an integral part of life. Consciousness is eternal, and with peace and patience, we can transcend stress and embrace life fully.”

    The chief minister applauded Ndtv’s comprehensive coverage, stating, “The media has worked positively to bring this message of inclusivity and spirituality to the world.” Pugalia reflected on the event’s scale, calling it, “an unprecedented spectacle of grandeur, meticulously planned and executed.”

    The Mahakumbh Samvaad demonstrated how the Mahakumbh has become a symbol of unity, tradition, and development under Adityanath’s leadership. With initiatives like clean rivers, expanded facilities, and a focus on inclusivity, the event has set new benchmarks for organising large-scale spiritual gatherings.

    The Mahakumbh 2025 not only connects people through spirituality but also redefines Uttar Pradesh’s role on the national stage. As Yogi Adityanath aptly said, “Pickleball isn’t just a sport; it’s a movement.” Wait… wrong quote. But hey, the essence is the same—it’s not just an event; it’s a legacy.

  • Raja Kumari, Suhani Shah, Dhvani Bhanushali to rock World Pickleball League

    Raja Kumari, Suhani Shah, Dhvani Bhanushali to rock World Pickleball League

    MUMBAI: The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is about to serve up more than just high-speed rallies. From 24 January to 2 February 2025, the historic Brabourne Stadium will witness a dazzling fusion of competitive pickleball and sensational live performances. This inaugural event promises to transform India’s sportainment landscape, pairing the nation’s newest sporting craze with a powerhouse lineup of stars.

    The league’s entertainment roster, curated by Entertainment Consultant, features some of the biggest names in music and performance. Expect electrifying acts from Raja Kumari, Dhvani Bhanushali, Suhani Shah, The Yellow Diary, The Indian Jam Project, Taba Chake, and more, alongside emerging sensations like Akshath Acharya and Adi Dishaan. Anchoring the event is the charismatic Himanshu Chatwani, who promises to keep the energy high between matches and performances.

    Entertainment Consultant business head Aahana Mehta summed up the event’s vision, “WPBL is not just about sport—it’s about creating an immersive experience. By blending world-class pickleball with live entertainment, we’re redefining the way audiences engage with sports in India. It’s about making pickleball a celebration for all, not just the players.”

    The tournament’s six franchises—Mumbai Pickle Power, Pune United, Bengaluru Jawans (led by filmmaker Atlee), Chennai Super Champs (owned by Samantha Prabhu), Hyderabad Superstars, and Dilli Dillwale—will compete in a thrilling format culminating in the finals on 2 February 2025. Adding star power to the semi-finals will be a special exhibition match featuring legendary boxer Amir Khan, who will step onto the court for a memorable showdown.

    WPBL co-founder & CEO Gaurav Natekar shared his excitement, “The World Pickleball League is a movement as much as it is a tournament. We’re blending fast-paced athleticism with unparalleled fan engagement. This league is about making pickleball the next big thing in Indian sports, and the Brabourne Stadium will be the epicentre of this revolution.”

    The event will feature 12 matches, each paired with a stellar performance, ensuring every evening is a mix of edge-of-the-seat sporting action and unforgettable entertainment. WPBL has also partnered with Swiggy Scenes as its official ticketing partner, making it easier for fans to grab their spot at the event.

    Schedule highlights:

    .  24 January: Raja Kumari kicks off the league alongside Mumbai Pickle Power vs Pune United at 8 pm.

    .   26 January: Suhani Shah performs during Chennai Super Champs vs Dilli Dillwale.

    .   1 February: Semi-finals to feature a special exhibition match with Amir Khan.

    .  2 February: The Yellow Diary headlines the finals.

    The league isn’t just focused on elite competition. Through its grassroots tournaments in franchise cities, WPBL is committed to nurturing talent and building a strong foundation for pickleball in India. This initiative, spearheaded by Natekar Sports and Gaming, aims to inspire new players and foster a thriving pickleball community. And with Sony Corporation as a partner and support from the All-India Pickleball Association, WPBL is creating ripples in India’s sporting ecosystem.