Category: TV Channels

Pickleball goes big: Indian Open League 2025 set to smash expectations!

MUMBAI: Move over cricket, there’s a new sport in town stealing the limelight—and it’s pickleball!

In a grand press conference that had as much star power as it did sporting passion, Globalsports announced the launch of the Indian Open League 2025 and the Global Sports Pro and Challenger League—set to be Asia’s largest pickleball tournament.

What makes this event a big dill? Ten city-based teams, a massive $125,000 prize pool, and Indian cinema glamour, all coming together to elevate pickleball from a niche game to a nationwide phenomenon.

Fans were buzzing as Globalsports revealed the star-studded roster of teams and their illustrious owners, including celebrities, business moguls, and professional athletes.

Here’s who’s bringing the heat:

1. Mumbai Chhatrapati Warriors – Bollywood star Janhvi Kapoor leads the charge.

2. Ahmedabad Olympians – Anmol Patel and Aditya Gandhi take the reins.

3. Bengaluru Blazers – Entrepreneur Amrita Deora holds the torch.

4. Chennai Cool Cats – The Ruia family trio—Anshuman, Radhika, and Yudi—represent Chennai.

5. Delhi Snipers – Jai Gandhi and the Bajaj family aim for bullseye.

6. Goa Gladiators – A dynamic mix of Samrat Javeri, Atul Rawat, and others lead this team.

7. Hyderabad Vikings – Techpreneur Akshay Reddy helms this southern powerhouse.

8. Jaipur Jawans – Bollywood director Luv Ranjan joins comedian Anubhav Singh Bassi for Jaipur.

9. Kolkata Kings – The city of joy is led by Varun Vora and Rohan Khemka.

10. Nashik Ninjas – Karishma Thakker heads this swashbuckling squad.

This isn’t just a sports league; it’s a brewing revolution.

Speaking about the league’s ambitions, Globalsports founder Hemal Jain said, “Our goal is to elevate pickleball to unprecedented heights. This league is a celebration of talent and unity, showcasing the incredible growth of the sport in India.”

Globalsports co-founder Shashank Khaitan added, “Pickleball is not just a game; it’s a movement. We aim to inspire young talent and position this sport as a mainstream sensation in India.”

Indian cinema’s king of drama, Karan Johar, has swapped the director’s chair for a pickleball court, becoming the league’s brand ambassador. With his trademark enthusiasm, KJo quipped, “Pickleball is all about inclusion, fun, and passion. I am thrilled to bring this incredible sport to the forefront.”

The Indian Open League will run from 3–9 February 2025, at Nesco in Goregaon, Mumbai. With over 1,800 players battling it out on 25+ courts, the event promises a mix of pro and amateur matches, drawing participants from over 15 cities. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned player, this tournament has something for everyone.

What’s in It for fans? From high-stakes matches to the electric atmosphere created by Indian cinema’s brightest stars, this tournament is shaping up to be a can’t-miss spectacle.

Who will walk away with the grand prize? Which city will dominate the courts? Can pickleball become the next big thing in Indian sports? Only time shall tell.

Under the leadership of Hemal Jain and co-founders Niraj Jain, Divyesh Jain, and Suresh Bhansali, Globalsports is leaving no stone unturned in making this tournament a game-changer. With Indian cinema heavyweights like Shashank Khaitan and Yuvraj Ruia onboard, expect a perfect blend of entertainment and sportsmanship.

January 16, 2025
Piyush Gupta resigns as group CTO of TV Today network

MUMBAI: TV Today network has announced the resignation of Piyush Gupta from his position as group chief technology officer. Gupta submitted his resignation via letter, indicating his intent to pursue new opportunities elsewhere. The company has accepted his resignation, and he will officially relinquish his duties at the close of business on 15 April 2025. TV Today informed the Bombay stock exchange about his resignation through a regulatory filing.

Piyush Gupta has had a distinguished career in the broadcasting industry, having served as Group CTO at TV Today since January 2015. Prior to that, he spent 15 years at Network18 Media & Investments Limited, where he played a pivotal role in launching several prominent channels, including CNBC TV18, CNN IBN, and others. His extensive experience includes overseeing technology and operational processes that significantly contributed to the growth of the network.

Gupta began his career at Television18 India and also served as a senior engineer at NDTV, bringing a wealth of technical knowledge and leadership experience to his roles. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering from Delhi University.

As TV Today Network prepares for this transition, Gupta’s contributions to the organization and the broadcasting sector will certainly be remembered. For further information, please contact TV Today Network’s corporate communications team.

January 16, 2025
CNN-News18 Indian of the Year 2024 to honour India’s icons on 17 January

MUMBAI: The wait is almost over!

CNN-News18 Indian of the Year (IOTY) 2024, the 14th edition of India’s most prestigious television awards, will unveil its winners on 17 January 2025, in a grand ceremony in New Delhi. With a legacy of honouring exceptional achievements, IOTY has become the ultimate stage for recognising those who’ve inspired, amazed, and made India proud.

From Shah Rukh Khan to Neeraj Chopra and Virat Kohli, past winners have embodied excellence. Who will join this elite club in 2024?

The awards span seven major categories—entertainment, sports, rising sports star, youth icon, business, climate warrior, and social change. These categories celebrate everything from cinematic brilliance to environmental activism.

Here’s the twist: 50 per cent of the decision lies with you, the audience, while an illustrious jury panel decides the rest. The jury includes heavyweights like Sanjiv Goenka, Harish Salve, Ramesh Sippy, and more. What’s your pick for the winners?

The spotlight will shine on some of the biggest names:

● Sports: Olympic stars like Manu Bhaker and cricketers like Jasprit Bumrah.

● Entertainment: Powerhouses like Shraddha Kapoor, Vijay Sethupathi, and Pankaj Tripathi.

● Youth Icons: Vicky Kaushal and rising entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath.

● Business Leaders: Visionaries like Deepinder Goyal (Zomato CEO) and Bhavish Aggarwal (Ola CEO).

But it’s not just the glitz and glamour. Climate warriors like Vinisha Umashankar and changemakers like Palak Muchhal in Social Change are also vying for honours.

What makes IOTY stand out?

Network18 CEO – english & business news, Smriti Mehra nailed it when she said, “The immense popularity of Indian of the Year lies in its legacy of recognising and celebrating excellence over the past thirteen editions. From icons such as Shah Rukh Khan and Neeraj Chopra to visionary leaders such as Narendra Modi and Manmohan Singh, our past winners have truly embodied the spirit of the Indian of the Year title. This platform has become a hallmark of achievement, inspiring audiences and delivering unparalleled value to the brands that associate with it.”

Meanwhile, CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob added, “The awards evening will be a gathering of the greatest of Indians who have made the country proud over the past year. As we step into the new year, it’s important to look back at the achievements of the past year that hold significance for us as a nation. We are excited to celebrate the remarkable contributions of those who rose above challenges and inspired next generations.”

The event, hosted by CNN-News18, promises a glittering display of India’s best and brightest. Catch the action at 6 pm on 17 January on CNN-News18 or via live stream on www.indianoftheyear.com.

Who will walk away with the title? Will it be a star athlete, an inspiring climate activist, or a business mogul? Join the conversation and don’t miss the magic of India’s achievers being celebrated.

January 16, 2025
Jiostar gives Vipul Nagar programming responsibility for Star Bharat as well

MUMBAI: JioStar network has expanded Gujarati language business head Vipul Nagar’s role to include Star Bharat programming, starting earlier this month. Earlier in November 2024, Vipul had transitioned from Viacom18 Media where he was heading content for Colors Rishtey to Jiostar where he was given the responsibility of the Gujarati language business.

Prior to Viacom18 Media, Vipul spent nearly 15 years at Radio Mirchi which he finally quit as senior vice-president & national creative director (brand solutions) in September 2021.

Nagar’s career highlights include working as AVP & cluster programming head, Gujarat at Mirchi, where he handled programming of four Gujarat stations. He also served as AVP & station director in the Varanasi area, India, and cluster programming head at Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi.

In his current role, Nagar will oversee programming for Star Bharat and business development for the Colors Gujarat Cluster at JioStar Network. His appointment is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills, creative vision, and industry expertise.

Nagar holds a post graduate diploma in digital marketing from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, Jaunpur.

January 16, 2025
Zee Media hires Aditya Tandon as chief brand officer

MUMBAI: Zee Media has picked Aditya Tandon as its new chief brand officer for campaigns & intellectual properties, effective 15 January 2025. The decision follows a recommendation from the company’s nomination and remuneration committee. Zee Media informed the Bombay stock exchange about his hiring as he is classified amongst the senior management personnel in the company.

Aditya brings over 25 years of extensive experience in marketing and brand management across multiple regions, including India, Nepal, Mauritius, and Canada. His career spans various industries, including media, telecom, and web services. He is recognised for his proficiency in brand building and has effectively executed numerous launch and re-launch initiatives. His innovative strategies often include technological and digital interventions, contributing to impactful marketing campaigns.

Throughout his career, Aditya has received over 100 awards at prestigious forums like the Asian Television Awards and Promax for his communication and promotional efforts. He has also served as a speaker at various industry platforms, sharing his insights on brand strategy and marketing trends.

Aditya holds a bachelor of arts (Hons) from Delhi University, a postgraduate diploma in international marketing from the Delhi School of Economics, and a master’s degree in management studies from Carleton University, Canada.

Prior to this role, he served as vice-president of brand marketing at Network18 Media & Investments, where he was responsible for marketing the company’s Hindi news cluster, significantly boosting brand performance post re-launches. His notable contributions include the rebranding of CNN-News18 and several award-winning campaigns that have established him as a leading figure in the marketing domain.

January 15, 2025
Infosys and Tennis Australia unveil AI innovations for Australian Open 2025

MUMBAI: Are you watching the Australian Open on SonyLiv or one of the Sony Sports channels in the wee hours of the morning?

Pause, wait a minute – a lot of what you are watching is courtesy of an Indian digital services and consulting company – Infosys.

The firm has been mandated by Tennis Australia to unleash a cutting-edge suite of AI-driven features for the Australian Open (AO) 2025.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in their seven-year collaboration, aimed at enhancing the immersive tennis experience through innovative technologies.

Central to these advancements is Infosys Topaz, an AI-first suite utilising generative AI technologies to revolutionise fan engagement, empower players and coaches, and expand digital interactivity in tennis. Key highlights include:

Beyond Tennis: This pioneering offering is the world’s first generative AI-powered tennis league. Fans can interact with 16 AI-crafted virtual players across eight teams, training their teams and participating in AI-generated tournaments year-round. Dubbed The Slam That Never Stops, the league aims to captivate younger Gen Z audiences while ensuring a safe digital environment through a responsible AI framework.

AI Commentary: The Infosys Match Centre will feature AI Commentary on AO digital properties, providing real-time insights during matches. Utilising advanced large language models, this tool will deliver concise, engaging updates at each match moment.

VR AI Stadium: : At the Infosys Fan Zone in Melbourne Park, fans can explore a new VR AI Stadium, where they can create and play on imaginative virtual courts, including nature-inspired and themed designs.

Wait, there’s more if you’re a tennis fan and also a technology geek.

Infosys is empowering the Australian Open with video analytics and machine learning tools, providing players and coaches access to post-match reviews and pre-game video analysis. The AI Shot of the Day feature assists in rapid content creation for social media, highlighting remarkable on-court moments.

The Infosys Fan Zone is climate-conscious, with a fully offset carbon footprint and recyclable structures. Additionally, the Future Leaders Program, powered by Infosys Springboard, offers participants digital learning and exposure to generative AI.

Infosys executive vice president – Asia Pacific, Andrew Groth stated, “We continue to push the boundaries of technology to enhance fan engagement and player performance. Our latest generative AI innovations will redefine the experience for fans, players, and coaches.”

Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley added, “Infosys has consistently elevated our digital offerings. The AI advancements at AO 2025 will deliver new interactivity for fans and invaluable insights for players, showcasing the transformative impact of technology in tennis.”

January 15, 2025

Star Sports’ ‘SKYball’ campaign soars ahead of India-England T20I series

MUMBAI: Ready for cricket balls orbiting the moon?

Get your beers ready, because cricket’s biggest showstoppers—India and England—are set to light up your screens with a five-match T20I series starting 22 January. With Suryakumar Yadav leading the Blues and England bringing their explosive Bazball approach, this series is not just a clash of cricketing heavyweights—it’s a fireworks display in the making.

What’s more? Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar have launched the quirky and entertaining ‘SKYball’ campaign, and trust us, it’s out of this world—literally. But before we spill all the details, ask yourself: Can the moon survive SKY and Bazball’s six-hitting spree?

The campaign film, featuring India’s T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav, takes cricket fandom to a whole new level—space. Set in a mission control room, it hilariously shows cricket balls zooming toward the moon like mini rockets. Suryakumar, aka SKY, even apologises to the celestial body before delivering his punchline: “Moon, see you soon!”

If that’s not enough, the film cheekily teases England’s big hitters joining the action, as sirens blare and cricket balls whiz past the control station. The message? This series isn’t about boundaries—it’s about breaking them.

Speaking about the campaign, SKY said, “Every time we take the field, we are always looking to push the boundaries that help aim consistently for the moonshot. This rivalry has been among the most iconic and competitive ones for decades now, and even more so for the fans who are looking forward to witnessing some exciting cricket in our backyard.”

Adding to the hype, JioStar head of marketing – sports, Vikram Passi noted, “The campaign is a tribute to how the Blues, under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, have taken power-hitting to a new high. Add the English power-hitters into the mix, and a sumptuous buffet of sixes is about to be served.”

With England’s much-hyped Bazball tactics facing India’s SKYball, fans can expect a high-octane contest where cricket balls will spend more time in the air than on the ground.

The stakes are sky-high. This five-match T20I series at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens kicks off India’s first home series of 2025 and serves as a crucial warm-up for the ICC Champions Trophy in February. With India ranked number one and England at number three, the battle promises to deliver top-tier cricketing drama.

Clear your evenings; you won’t want to miss a single six.

As cricket fans count down to 22 January, the question remains: Who will win the battle of the big hitters? Will SKY’s fireworks outshine England’s Bazball pyrotechnics? One thing’s for sure—this series will be unmissable.

Catch all the action live on Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar.

Series schedule: Mark your calendars

Match	Date	Day	Time
1st T20I	22.01.25	Wednesday	7:00 PM
2nd T20I	25.01.25	Saturday	7:00 PM
3rd T20I	28.01.25	Tuesday	7:00 PM
4th T20I	31.01.25	Friday	7:00 PM
5th T20I	02.02.25	Sunday	7:00 PM

January 15, 2025

Network18’s rollercoaster Q3: Cash crunch or clever moves?

MUMBAI: When Mukesh Ambani sets his sights on a business, it’s never a low-stakes affair—and the Q3 FY25 results of Reliance Industries-owned Network18 Group are no exception.

With Rahul Joshi at the editorial helm and Adil Zainulbhai overseeing the boardroom, Network18’s quarterly performance unfolds like a high-stakes thriller, leaving analysts juggling numbers and the audience wondering: is this brilliance or blunder?

From headline revenue twists to profit-margin cliffhangers, this quarterly report reads more like a script straight from Bollywood. So grab your popcorn because this isn’t just a financial disclosure—it’s Mukesh Ambani, once again, rewriting the playbook of India’s media landscape.

Standalone stars & stumbles

For Q3 FY25, Network18 pulled in Rs 476.41 crore in revenue from operations. That’s a respectable leap from last quarter’s Rs 445.27 crore, but is it really a win when Q3 FY24 wasn’t far behind at Rs 469.10 crore?

Total income, at Rs 483.96 crore, held its ground against Rs 447.62 crore last quarter. Steady as it goes, right? Yet, for a company of this scale, one might wonder: is this pace enough to stay ahead of the competition?

But here’s the plot twist: the company posted a net loss of Rs 66.27 crore. While better than Q2’s Rs 74.45 crore, it’s a wider hole than the Rs 43.42 crore loss in Q3 FY24.

What’s eating into those profits?

Higher operational costs of Rs 103.07 crore and ballooning employee expenses at Rs 181.24 crore seem to be playing the villains here. Add to this the creeping pressure of content investments, and it’s clear Network18 is juggling multiple priorities.

Nine months in, and the company’s revenue has grown to Rs 1,374.45 crore from last year’s Rs 1,282.74 crore. But with a cumulative loss of Rs 216.37 crore, you’ve got to ask—is this progress or just treading water? Can they turn this around with their strategic pivots, or is a deeper overhaul needed?

Consolidated chaos or calculated moves?

The consolidated picture? Think of it as the bigger, messier sibling. Revenue from operations slipped to Rs 1,360.50 crore, down from Rs 1,825.18 crore in Q2. Total income followed suit at Rs 1,442.55 crore. Soft advertising revenues and soaring expenses seem to be the culprits here. It begs the question: are advertisers tightening their belts, or is Network18 losing its edge in attracting ad spend?

And then there’s the elephant in the room: the Rs 1,400.05 crore net loss. Yes, you read that right.

Exceptional items—mainly from the derecognition of subsidiaries post the Viacom18 and Star India restructuring—contributed a jaw-dropping Rs 1,425.73 crore to the loss column. Talk about exceptional! While this move may have long-term benefits, the immediate financial optics are challenging to say the least.

So here’s the question: does shedding these subsidiaries make Network18 leaner and meaner, or just lighter in the pocket? With this dramatic restructuring, will the company’s new shape enable it to sprint ahead, or will it limp along burdened by its past?

Operational costs for Q3 soared to Rs 682.44 crore, while marketing expenses hit Rs 340.00 crore. It’s clear the company is investing in its brand, but with employee benefits at Rs 267.78 crore, could some belt-tightening be in order? Or is it all part of a grand plan to win the long game? After all, balancing brand-building with profitability is no small feat.

Consider this: even as costs rise, the company’s digital platforms are gaining traction. Could this be the silver lining in a stormy quarter? And how long before these investments start paying dividends?

A key subplot of this quarter is the composite scheme of arrangement. Selling Viacom18 and other assets to Star India and Digital18 might seem like a costly move now, but will it pay off in the long run? Time’s the ultimate critic, but this bold restructuring has certainly captured attention. As part of the shakeup, Viacom18 ceased to be a subsidiary as of 30 December 2024. While this realignment adds immediate weight to the expense column, it positions the company to streamline and optimise in future quarters. Could this be Network18’s masterstroke?

The challenges are clear: falling advertising revenue and rising content costs. But don’t count Network18 out just yet. With its digital platforms growing steadily, could we be seeing the early stages of a bold new chapter? Or is this just a trailer for more turbulent times?

There’s also the matter of competition. In a crowded media landscape, innovation and adaptability are key. Network18’s investments in digital transformation signal ambition, but can these moves outpace rivals who are equally hungry for market share?

Network18’s Q3 FY25 is a tale of highs, lows, and bold bets. Sure, the losses are glaring, but the strategic realignments hint at a company playing the long game. Is this a case of short-term pain for long-term gain? Or are we witnessing the opening act of a broader reckoning?

So, will the next quarter be a comeback or another cliffhanger?

January 15, 2025
India TV connects viewers to Maha Kumbh through 24-hour CTV channel

MUMBAI: With all the glare of the spotlight on the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, can anyone be left behind? Obviously not. And especially, Rajat Sharma’s India TV.

The Hindi news channel which has been driving into connected TV channels has launched a of a 24×7 pop-up channel dedicated to the Maha Kumbh 2025 so that viewers can stay connected to the grandeur, rituals, and cultural essence of the world’s largest spiritual gathering.

The exclusive channel will feature over 1,000 hours of immersive content, offering a 360-degree experience of the Maha Kumbh Mela. Viewers can expect stunning visuals, in-depth reporting, and comprehensive coverage of rituals, cultural activities, and the spiritual energy of the event.

This marks India TV’s third pop-up channel on CTV, following its successful channels for the Olympic Games 2024 and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. The move reinforces India TV’s commitment to delivering uninterrupted, engaging, and CTV-first content for its audience.

India TV managing director Ritu Dhawan said: , “Maha Kumbh 2025 is one of the world’s biggest spiritual and cultural events, and India TV is proud to bring this exclusive viewership experience to our CTV audience. This initiative ensures that every viewer can connect with the rituals, celebrations, and spiritual essence of the Maha Kumbh from the comfort of their homes.”

India TV’s Maha Kumbh 2025 channel promises to provide a front-row seat to the event, blending expert reporting with rich storytelling, making it an unmissable experience for CTV viewers.

January 14, 2025
Bigg Boss18 used to reveal IPL team Punjab Kings’ skipper Shreyas Iyer

MUMBAI: There are many synergistic benefits that the merger between Star India and Viacom18 under Reliance can -and will- bring. And this was an obvious one – the low hanging fruit –but it was not expected. An IPL team announcing its captain on an entertainment reality show.

Yes, that did happen. And it’s kudos to JioStar vice-chairman Uday Shankar and his band of merry executives. Can’t forget our man from Endemol, Deepak Dhar and his creative bunch. And to the team which ventured to do it.

The 12 January weekend episode of Bigg Boss18 saw, for the first time in IPL history, the Punjab Kings unveiling their captain in a way that’s never been done before—on the Bigg Boss18 stage, hosted by none other than Salman Khan! And of course the Punjab Kings skipper was revealed to be Shreyas Iyer, the swashbuckling batsman and leader.

“We are breaking barriers between sports and entertainment. This iconic collaboration between cricket and entertainment celebrates innovation and ambition, setting the tone for IPL 2025. Shreyas Iyer, our leader, is ready to guide PBKS to new heights,” said the Punjab Kings in a post.

It went to congratulate “the visionary teams at Punjab Kings and Endemol for making this happen. Satish Menon (CEO) and Saurabh Arora (CCO).”

Added London-based sports consultant Anduhav Roda on Linkedin: “This unprecedented move not only captured the attention of cricket fans but also showcased a brilliant marketing strategy that leverages one of India’s largest entertainment platforms By choosing Bigg Boss18 as the stage for their announcement, Punjab Kings effectively tapped into the show’s massive viewership, reaching millions of potential fans in a single broadcast The involvement of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and the involvement of players with housemates added a layer of excitement to the announcement, making it a memorable moment for both cricket and reality TV fans This approach allowed for a more personal connection with fans, as they witness their favorite players in a familiar entertainment setting. This not only sets a new precedent for how sports franchises can engage with audiences but also highlights the growing intersection between sports and entertainment in India.”

However, a senior media planner who was not willing to be identified said this was only possible as both the streaming and television telecast rights for the IPL are now under one roof –that of JioStar. Says she: “Earlier it was not possible as both Viacom18 and Disney Star had to be on tenterhooks in case one objected to the other’s innovation.”

Let’s hope the merger gives us a lot more surprises – like the one Punjab Kings did.

January 13, 2025