ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Vinod Cookware joins Celebrity MasterChef as co-powered sponsor on Sony TV

    Vinod Cookware joins Celebrity MasterChef as co-powered sponsor on Sony TV

    MUMBAI: Cooking just got star-studded! Vinod Intelligent Cookware is gearing up to sizzle in kitchens nationwide as it partners with Celebrity MasterChef – Sabki Seeti Bajegi!, airing on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV starting 27 January 2025. As the co-powered sponsor, Vinod Intelligent Cookware will showcase its premium range in a show that blends culinary brilliance, entertainment, and a dash of star power.

    The show will bring together a stellar lineup of celebrities, including Usha Nadkarni, Tejasswi Prakash, Dipika Kakar Ibrahim, and Abhijeet Sawant, all swapping their usual roles for chef hats as they battle for the coveted title of ‘Celebrity MasterChef’. Hosted by the ever-entertaining Farah Khan and judged by celebrated chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar, this season promises to combine high-pressure cooking challenges with unforgettable moments of hilarity and heart.

    Vinod Intelligent Cookware’s innovative products will be front and centre, with seamless brand integrations across the show. From prominent displays on branded utensil racks to contestants using the cookware in their culinary adventures, the campaign will ensure maximum visibility and engagement across television and digital platforms.

    “This marks our second collaboration with MasterChef, and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” shared Vinod Cookware India Pvt Ltd MD Sunil Agarwal. “Celebrity MasterChef offers the perfect stage to highlight the reliability and performance of our cookware under challenging conditions. We’re proud to see our products in the hands of talented contestants, showing their mettle in the heat of the competition.”

    The show’s reach and popularity make it a strategic win for the brand. With Sony TV’s loyal primetime audience and SonyLIV expanding digital footprint, the collaboration aligns with Vinod Intelligent Cookware’s mission to elevate everyday cooking into an art form.

    Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) head of ad sales Sandeep Mehrotra added, “MasterChef’s star-studded format this season promises to delight viewers like never before. Vinod Cookware’s integration into the show ensures an elevated experience for our audience while highlighting the brand’s premium quality. We are excited for a fruitful partnership.”

    Beyond just entertainment, the show reflects the growing aspiration among home cooks for premium kitchen tools that stand up to the test of professional challenges. As Network Advertising Pvt Ltd president of media, Priya Jacob noted, “The use of Vinod Cookware by celebrity contestants creates organic brand moments that demonstrate reliability under high-pressure scenarios, enhancing credibility and consumer trust.”

    So, get ready to tune in to Celebrity MasterChef – Sabki Seeti Bajegi! every Monday to Friday at 8:00 pm on Sony TV and SonyLIV. Watch as celebrity contestants cook up a storm with Vinod Intelligent Cookware, proving that the right tools can truly transform a dish—and perhaps a career.

  • Disney’s Iger’s big pay harvest in 2024

    Disney’s Iger’s big pay harvest in 2024

    MUMBAI: Can you guess how much Bob Iger was rewarded for being a part of the decision making during  the $10-odd billion Reliance-Viacom18-Disney Star India joint venture called JioStar? Not just for that monumental merger but also for the strategic leadership decisions he made throughout 2024?

    He received an impressive 30 per cent pay rise, taking home a staggering $41.1 million – equivalent to a cool ?350 crore. Around Rs 1 crore a day if you round up figures. Now, that’s some serious money!

    Breaking it down, Iger’s remuneration included $18.3 million in stock awards, $12 million in option awards, $7.2 million in bonuses, and an additional $2.1 million in other forms of compensation, as disclosed in regulatory filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

    For comparison, his income in 2023,  stood at $31.6 million. It’s clear that 2024 brought a significant boost to his financial rewards.

    Guarding the so-called “Mouse House” truly seems to pay dividends, and Iger’s leadership continues to demonstrate why he is one of the most influential executives in the media and entertainment industry.

  • Jenica Kalra takes on a new role to promote Japanese content in India

    Jenica Kalra takes on a new role to promote Japanese content in India

    MUMBAI:  Jenica Kalra, an experienced professional at the Japan External Trade Organisation (Jetro), has transitioned from the intellectual property rights (IPR) department to the Japanese content development department. In her new role as assistant director, she is set to focus on fostering stronger cultural and creative exchanges between India and Japan.

    During her three-year tenure in the IPR Department, Kalra worked closely with colleagues and industry partners, gaining valuable insights into intellectual property laws and practices. Now, she steps into a dynamic role with a mission to enhance awareness of Japanese content in India while building bridges between Indian buyers and Japanese creators.

    “My aim is to promote Japanese titles in diverse fields such as anime, music, live-action films, movies, gaming, and artists. By connecting Indian buyers with Japanese title holders, we can deepen the cultural ties between our two nations,” said Kalra.

    The new position will allow her to play a pivotal role in integrating Japanese content into India’s creative industries, ensuring seamless collaborations and exchanges. “This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the India-Japan relationship in the creative sector. I’m eager to create impactful partnerships that highlight the best of Japanese culture in the Indian market,” she added.

    Kalra’s career reflects her passion for cultural exchange and education. Before joining 
    Jetro, she worked as a Japanese language teacher at the Tsubomi Japanese Institute. Her background in language and cross-cultural understanding makes her well-suited to bridge gaps between the two nations in the entertainment and creative domains.

    Her message to industry professionals is clear: “If you’re interested in collaborating or exploring opportunities in this space, feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to create meaningful exchanges in this vibrant industry.”

    Kalra’s transition underscores Jetro’s ongoing commitment to enhancing cultural and creative cooperation between India and Japan. With a growing appetite for Japanese content in India, her efforts are expected to open up exciting possibilities for collaboration in fields ranging from anime to gaming and beyond.
    As Kalra embarks on this new chapter, her work promises to further strengthen the India-Japan bond, fostering a shared appreciation for creativity and innovation across borders.

  • Sameer Gogate returns to Viacom18 as Colors business head

    Sameer Gogate returns to Viacom18 as Colors business head

    MUMBAI: When general manager Sameer Gogate put in his papers at BBC Studios, it was not clear why and where he was headed. Why would someone give up a plum secure job working with the Beeb which many an executive joins with a retirement plan in mind?

    That clarity came in mid-this week, when whispers started that he was actually heading back to his alma mater – Viacom18 – now called JioStar, followed the merger  with Disney Star India. 

    But what would he be doing there, was the question? Isn’t the company extremely top heavy with so many bosses that not even department executives know who is reporting to whom and who has the responsibility for a particular function?

    That clarity too came when Gogate’s responsibility was leaked. He would be in charge of the business of Colors, Viacom18’s star channel.  In his new role, Gogate will report to Alok Jain, head of cluster entertainment at JioStar.

    For the record, Gogate joining Viacom18 is like returning home for him  as he was once deeply embedded in its ecosystem. He was director of commercial and syndication, overseeing content syndication, film acquisitions, and co-productions for Viacom18 Motion Pictures and he also had a position at Colors, where  he managed music and format licensing, talent management, and group commercial strategy a few years ago.

    Gogate brings a wealth of experience from his time at BBC Studios, where he played a pivotal role since 2019 in producing local adaptations of popular BBC formats, including multiple seasons of Criminal Justice and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa (Dancing with the Stars). He also oversaw the creation of original series such as Highway Love, Ishq in the Air, School of Lies, and Tujhpe Main Fida. Among his recent successes was the IMDb top-ten hit, The Shekhar Suman Show.

    Prior to BBC Studios, Gogate worked at Vuclip as Head of Monetisation, Commercial, and Distribution, where he managed revenue operations and key content partnerships. He also held senior roles at Eros International Media, Endemol India, Viacom18, and EY. 

    Meanwhile, following Gogate’s departure, BBC Studios India has announced an interim leadership arrangement. Deepa Nair, head of business and legal affairs, and Sachin Mahajan, head of finance, will jointly oversee the production team in India. Stanley Fernandes will continue leading the channels & streaming and content sales divisions for India and South Asia. The company has yet to announce a permanent successor for Gogate.

  • Celebrate Republic Day with Sony YAY!’s toon parade of fun and laughter

    Celebrate Republic Day with Sony YAY!’s toon parade of fun and laughter

    MUMBAI: Who said parades were just for marching bands and floats? This Republic Day, Sony YAY! is rolling out a toon-tastic extravaganza that promises to unite generations in laughter and nostalgia. From the hilarious antics of Shin chan to the never-give-up spirit of Naruto, the channel is all set to bring fans a parade of animated legends that will make you laugh, cheer, and relive the magic of growing up.

    The toon parade lineup

    Shin chan

    First in line is the irrepressible Shin chan, with his cheeky moves and endless pranks. Waving mischievously to the crowd while dodging his mom’s wrath, he reminds us to embrace our inner goofball and find joy in the little things. Shin chan’s antics are sure to leave everyone in splits!

    Oggy

    Armed with his trusty frying pan, Oggy chases the notorious cockroaches down the parade path. His slapstick humour and never-quit attitude bring chaos and hilarity, proving that even in the midst of a mess, you can always laugh your way through life’s curveballs.

    Naruto

    Bursting into the parade with his signature ninja run and unstoppable determination, Naruto brings energy and inspiration to the festivities. His journey of grit and self-belief, from aspiring Hokage to saving the world, shows fans everywhere the power of perseverance. Believe it!

    Honey Bunny

    Bringing up the rear in a whirlwind of colour and chaos, Honey and Bunny roll in on a gadget-filled float, turning every moment into a laugh riot. Their wacky stunts, comedic timing, and unmatched teamwork ensure this parade ends on the perfect high note.

    Sony YAY!’s Republic Day celebration goes beyond nostalgia—it’s a tribute to the animated icons who shaped our childhoods and continue to spark joy today. With a lineup like this, the day promises to be bursting with laughter, fun, and heartwarming moments.

    Tune into Sony YAY! this Republic Day, and march alongside your favourite toons in this one-of-a-kind parade. Relive the magic, share the joy, and celebrate the characters that make growing up unforgettable.

    Don’t just watch the parade—be a part of it!

  • Vijay TV’s Pongal lineup breaks records with stellar viewership

    Vijay TV’s Pongal lineup breaks records with stellar viewership

    MUMBAI: Festive entertainment doesn’t get better than this. Vijay TV delivered a Pongal lineup for the ages, smashing viewership records and proving once again why it reigns supreme as Tamil Nadu’s leading satellite channel. From blockbuster premieres to its iconic reality shows, the channel left no stone unturned in ensuring that audiences had a Pongal to remember.

    Vijay TV’s Pongal offerings were anchored by the sensational world television premiere of Amaran, starring Sivakarthikeyan and Sai Pallavi. This biographical action-drama captivated audiences with an impressive 8.5 TVR, reaching a jaw-dropping two crore viewers and generating 1.2 billion minutes of watch time.

    Joining the fray, the nostalgic family drama Meiazhagan, featuring Karthi and Arvind Swamy, became another viewer favourite. With a heartfelt storyline, the movie garnered a stellar 7.4 TVR, cementing its place in Tamil Nadu’s festive tradition.

    The Pongal movie lineup didn’t stop there. Vijay TV also premiered Vaazhai and the supernatural thriller Aranmanai 4, further bolstering its reputation for curating cinematic spectacles.

    Vijay TV’s ability to merge cinematic brilliance with its signature reality shows, mega-serials, and game shows continues to set it apart from competitors. This Pongal, the channel didn’t just entertain—it dominated.

    From securing high-profile premieres to delivering diverse content, Vijay TV consistently raises the bar for festive entertainment. As it continues to push boundaries and set new industry benchmarks, audiences know where to tune in for premium entertainment during Tamil Nadu’s most cherished occasions.

    This year’s Pongal programming wasn’t just about numbers; it was about creating shared moments of joy across households. With record-breaking ratings, overwhelming audience appreciation, and unforgettable stories, Vijay TV ensured that Pongal 2025 was a cinematic celebration like no other.

  • Zee Media financial resolutions put to e-voting by shareholders

    Zee Media financial resolutions put to e-voting by shareholders

    MUMBAI:  It’s got clout in the right places. Now the Subhash Chandra-founded Zee Media is beefing itself financially. At  a recent board meeting, Zee Media announced two significant financial resolutions aimed at enhancing its capital structure and investor participation.

    The company has put the resolutions to vote by its shareholders through postal ballot or e-voting from 23 January 2025.

    The company has approved the issuance of securities amounting to a maximum of Rs 400 crore, or its equivalent in foreign currencies. This move is in compliance with the Companies Act of 2013 and applicable regulations including those of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The board is authorised to raise funds through equity shares, preference shares, and other eligible securities via several methods such as private placements and qualified institutional placements. The issuance may be conducted in multiple tranches and will not exceed the specified limit.

    Additionally, the board has been empowered to determine the terms of issuance, including pricing, timing, and the class of investors targeted for the securities.

    Zee Media also resolved to increase the aggregate limit for investments by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to 49 per cent of the paid-up equity share capital, on a fully diluted basis. This increase is part of a broader strategy to attract foreign investments and enhance liquidity in the company’s shares, while adhering to the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) regulations.

    The board will be responsible for executing necessary acts, deeds, and documents to implement this resolution and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

    These resolutions signify Zee Media’s commitment to strengthen its financial framework while potentially boosting growth through increased foreign investments and capital raise initiatives.
     

  • ABI Health shook hands with WPBL to champion fitness

    ABI Health shook hands with WPBL to champion fitness

    MUMBAI: When healthcare meets pickleball, the game gets serious. ABI Health has announced its partnership with the World Pickleball League (WPBL). This collaboration unites ABI’s mission to revolutionise wellness with WPBL’s drive to make pickleball a national movement. Together, they’re proving that fitness, fun, and community are a match made in heaven.

    Pickleball is more than just the fastest-growing sport globally—it’s an embodiment of inclusivity, low injury risks, and intergenerational fun. Recognising this, ABI Health sees pickleball as a perfect vehicle to inspire healthier lifestyles and strengthen community ties.

    ABI Health vice president global, Shreyas highlighted the significance of this partnership, “At ABI Health, we believe that health, wellness and prevention need to be part of everyone’s lifestyle in today’s day and age. Fitness and an active lifestyle are integral to a healthier tomorrow, and pickleball is the perfect embodiment of this ethos. We are thrilled to support WPBL in their mission to make this sport a movement that inspires people to stay fit. This partnership reflects our dedication to building a healthier, more connected world.”

    WPBL brings together six dynamic teams from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, and Hyderabad to compete at Brabourne Stadium, creating a platform that celebrates not just pickleball but also teamwork, fitness, and community spirit.

    WPBL co-founder & CEO, Gaurav Natekar expressed excitement for the collaboration, “We welcome ABI Health as a partner in this journey to elevate pickleball in India. ABI’s passion for promoting health and wellness aligns perfectly with our mission to make pickleball a sport for everyone. Together, we hope to create a platform that celebrates fitness, teamwork, and community spirit.”

    This partnership goes beyond the court. It’s a movement to build healthier lives, foster connections, and redefine what fitness looks like in today’s world. Pickleball is no longer just a sport; it’s a lifestyle.

    Catch the action as WPBL brings pickleball fever to India while ABI Health ensures the fitness revolution hits its stride.

  • Zeel files $8 million counterclaim against Star India in ICC media rights dispute

    Zeel files $8 million counterclaim against Star India in ICC media rights dispute

    MUMBAI:  Like two Sumo wrestlers in the ring sizing each other up, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Zeel) and the Reliance-and Walt Disney backed Star India have been circling each other, eyeing each other in relation to a failed  International Cricket Council (ICC ) men’s cricket rights (2024-27) rights deal the two had made with each other in August 2022. Both have been saying the other owes them money as the failed deal has proved to be an expensive affair.

    Star’s first claimed $940 million in damages in September 2024  over the failed International Cricket Council (ICC) broadcasting rights deal. Now, it’s the turn of  Zeel to file an $8 million counterclaim, plus interest against Star India. The dispute is being arbitrated by the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA)

    It all began with Star sub-licensing ICC rights to Zeel.   Zeel later withdrew from the agreement and Star India took over the entire $3billion liability for the rights.  Star  has argued  that Zeel TV  failed to pay the $203.56 million first instalment (Rs 1,693 crore) and  meet additional financial obligations of Rs 17 crore for bank guarantees and deposit interest. In March 2024, Star initiated arbitration seeking enforcement of the agreement or damages. It later terminated the contract in June 2024 and focused on claiming damages. 

    Zeel submitted its defence on 23 December 2024, refuting Star’s claims and seeking a refund of Rs 69 crore paid under the agreement. The LCIA constituted a three-member tribunal, with proceedings at an early stage. Zee TV has argued that that the agreement became void due to Star’s failure to meet conditions precedent, including financial guarantees and ICC approval. Zeel  also cited the planned (but now failed) merger with Sony Pictures Networks as a complicating factor. Star India reported a Rs 12,548 crore net loss for FY24, driven by a Rs 12,319 crore provision for the ICC media rights deal.

    Zeel maintains that the dispute will not significantly impact its operations or finances, citing the strength of its legal position. The company’s board is monitoring the matter and remains confident in its ability to defend against Star’s claims.

  • Zeel shows smart bottom line, despite a slippage in its top line IN Q3 FY 25

    Zeel shows smart bottom line, despite a slippage in its top line IN Q3 FY 25

    MUMBAI: A sharp focus on its expenditure and tight cost controls have resulted in Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Zeel)  notching up a respectable showing in its latest quarter FY2025 results as well as for the nine months of FY2025.  The net result: there has been a growth in profitability despite revenues slipping because of a challenging advertising environment.

    The company’s operating revenue for Q3 2025 ended 31 December 2024 stood at Rs 19,788 million, reflecting a three per cent  decline year-over-year (YoY) due to a weak festive season and lower advertising revenues.

    In the investor call which followed, CEO Punit Goenka confessed  that “the green shoots we witnessed during the beginning of the quarter did not pick up the required pace to drive a positive growth momentum. This, coupled with muted spending by FMCG brands in a festive quarter, further slowed the pace of growth for the industry at large, although there was a marginal pickup in the rural recovery. The lacklustre sentiment in the urban market led to weaker demand November and December.  This, in turn, also impacted our advertising revenue during the quarter.” 

    Punit, however, expressed optimism of a recovery in the coming months. Said he: “Going forward, we are hopeful that the upcoming union budget will encompass pertinent steps by the honorable finance minister to revive the consumption cycle in order to spur growth. On the back of these factors, we remain optimistic about a gradual recovery in the new fiscal that will enable us to capitalise on the increased spending by advertisers.”

    Added deputy CEO &  CFO Mukund Galgali: “The TV industry landscape remains healthy, and the overall industry wide TV viewership has increased by 1.4 per cent further. We continue to be strong, number two entertainment network in India, and we have gained 40 BPS share to 16.9 per cent as  compared to the same period last year. And as Punit mentioned again, Zee  Marathi has shown a consistent progress four car intervention. And Zee  Tamil has also gained healthy share on a year on year basis compared to the same period last year. on the digital side, Zee5 has further narrowed its operating losses in this quarter. Its EBITDA loss is lower by Rs 22.6 crores in QoQ and Rs 107.8 crore YoY basis. A B2B deal which is still being discussed and was not renewed impacted our top line for Zee5.” 

    In contrast to ad revenues, subscription revenues grew by  seven per cent year on year to Rs 9,406 million driven by linear TV and digital platform Zee5. EBITDA for Q3 FY25 increased by 52 per cent YoY to Rs 3,184 million, with a margin of 16.1 per cent  (up from 10.2 per cent in Q3 FY24). Profit after tax (PAT) from continuing operations rose by 207 per cent YoY to Rs 1,636 million, underscoring effective cost management and operational efficiency. Total expenditure decreased by 10 per cent  YoY to Rs 16,604 million, driven by optimised programming and technology costs.

    For the nine month period ended 31 December for FY25, total revenue was at Rs 61,100 million a six per cent decline YoY, while expenditure decreased 10 per cent, reflecting disciplined cost control.  EBITDA for 9M FY25 rose by 31 per cent  YoY to Rs 9,110 million, with margins improving to 14.9 per cent  (up 410 basis points YoY). PAT from continuing operations increased by 167 per cent  YoY to Rs 4,988 million.

    Zee Network’s TV viewership share grew by 40 basis points YoY, driven by strong performances in Hindi movies and Marathi content. New show launches like Jaane Anjaane Hum Mile (Zee TV) and Lakshmi Nivas (Zee Marathi) contributed to the viewership growth. Zee5 recorded an eight per cent  YoY revenue growth in Q3 FY25, releasing 14 shows and movies, including seven originals. EBITDA losses for Zee5 reduced significantly YoY, reflecting better cost structures. Zee Music Company remained the second-largest music label with 160 million YouTube subscribers, adding 3.6 million during the quarter. The channel clocked 43 billion video views during Q3 FY 2025. Zee Studios released five films in Q3, including two Hindi and three regional movies.

    The company spent a lot more this quarter on promoting its shows as well as on building its brand following the collapse of the merger with Sony. Its advertisement and promotion expenses stood at Rs 2826 million  in Q3FY25 as against Rs 2275 million  in the previous quarter and Rs 2065 million Q3 FY 2024.  In the 9 months in FY2025, it has spent Rs 7725 million as against Rs 6963 million in 9m FY2024. 

    The company also announced the appointment of media veteran Divya Karani as an additional director in the category of independent director for three years with effect from 23 January 2025  based on the recommendation of the nomination & remuneration committee and subject to the approval of the ministry of information and broadcasting and shareholders of the Company.  Finally, Zeel’s sustainability efforts saw a 33 per cent  reduction in waste sent to landfills and an 11 per cent decrease in daily carbon emissions during FY24.