ITV

Category: TV Channels

  • Vikas Khanna appointed cluster head emerging markets at Jiostar

    Vikas Khanna appointed cluster head emerging markets at Jiostar

    MUMBAI: Vikas Khanna has been appointed as cluster head for emerging markets at JioStar, bringing over 25 years of experience in media and entertainment. Known for driving business growth and scaling revenue above Rs 250 crore, Khanna has excelled in profit center-management, public policy advocacy, and sales across print, radio, television, and live events.
    Previously, Khanna led critical clusters at Viacom18, including Colors Marathi and Colors Gujarati, achieving significant revenue growth. He was in the driver’s seat doing sales for the kids’ cluster for five years, first only for the north and  east, and then on a national level.  His assignment with Viacom18 kept him occupied for 17 years in all. His strategic focus on analytics, collaboration, and team leadership has consistently delivered strong results. 

    Khanna’s expertise also includes launching branded content solutions, fostering government partnerships, and spearheading innovative revenue streams in the media industry. A graduate of Delhi University, with further qualifications from the Indian School of Business and Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan,  he has now moved to Mumbai from Gurugram.

  • Kites, chaos, and comedy: Toons add hilarious twists to Makar Sankranti

    Kites, chaos, and comedy: Toons add hilarious twists to Makar Sankranti

    MUMBAI: This Makar Sankranti, Sony YAY! turns the skies into a canvas of laughter and cheer as it brings a YAY moment to kids across India!

    With the fan-favourite toons Shin chan, Oggy, Naruto, and Honey Bunny joining the kite-flying frenzy, the harvest festival gets a quirky animated twist.

    Imagine rooftop battles bursting with til laddoos, laughter, and unstoppable mischief as these beloved characters take kite-flying to hilarious new heights. Under the winter sun, it’s a celebration like never before—a perfect blend of tradition and toe-tapping fun, crafted specially for young hearts!

    In this unique twist, the characters bring their personalities to the forefront, transforming kite-flying into a hilarious adventure:

    . Shin chan: The Chaos King

    True to form, Shin chan thrives on creating mayhem rather than winning. He teases competitors, dances around to distract them, and throws in his trademark quips. Amid the chaos, his iconic line, “Don’t praise me so much,” draws the crowd’s laughter.

    . Oggy: The Unlucky Underdog

     Oggy simply wants a peaceful kite-flying day, but the cockroaches steal his kite and sabotage his efforts with fireworks. As sparks fly, Oggy’s frantic chase ends in hilarity when he cuts his own kite’s string.

    . Naruto: The Ninja Strategist

    Naruto brings his shinobi skills to the battle, controlling multiple ninja-themed kites with precision. Using his tactics to stay ahead, he confuses opponents while winning hearts as the crowd favourite.

    . Honey Bunny: The Dynamic Duo

     The mischievous duo enters with a giant carrot-shaped kite. Bunny handles the string while Honey takes to the skies, snipping rivals’ kites mid-air. Their antics leave everyone laughing and cheering, proving they aim to win with flair.

    This Makar Sankranti, Sony YAY! invites viewers to tune in and join the laughter-filled chaos as these beloved characters transform the festival into a spectacle of humour and competition. Whether it’s Shin chan’s pranks, Oggy’s misfortunes, Naruto’s ninja tactics, or Honey and Bunny’s outrageous stunts, every moment promises to entertain.

    Don’t miss out

    . Where to watch: Sony YAY!

    . When: This Makar Sankranti, 14 January 2025.

     

  • Kickstart 2025 with a bang! Warner Bros. brings a whirlwind of fun for kids

    Kickstart 2025 with a bang! Warner Bros. brings a whirlwind of fun for kids

    MUMBAI: The countdown is over, and 2025 has arrived!

    While the grown-ups toasted their way into the new year, it’s time for kids to celebrate in their style—fun, laughter, and edge-of-your-seat adventures.

    And guess what? Warner Bros. Discovery’s kids’ channels—Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids—are here to turn January into a rollercoaster of excitement!

    Kids be ready (Adults too! we don’t judge) for a month packed with action, humour, and stories that will make your imagination soar. Because 2025 isn’t just about starting a new year—it’s about starting it your way, with the coolest lineup of shows that make every day an adventure.

    So, grab the popcorn, turn up the volume, and let Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids set the stage for your best year yet!

    This January, it’s all about kids. It’s all about fun.

    Cartoon Network starts the year with the return of Lamput on 11-12 January at 10 am, featuring new episodes of the mischievous, shape-shifting troublemaker outwitting the persistent scientists.

    1    Bandbudh aur Budbak introduces fresh episodes every Monday to Friday at 7 pm, following the hilarious antics of Badrinath and Budhdeb.

    2    The thrilling Bionic Max premieres on 13 January, with daily episodes at 9:30 am, spotlighting Max, the bionic guinea pig, and Jean-Claude, his loyal fish friend, navigating urban challenges.

    3    Fans of high-seas adventures can join Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates in One Piece East Blue, airing every Sunday at 1 pm, as they chase the legendary One Piece treasure.

    Pogo takes viewers on mythical journeys, starting with the Chhota Bheem Big Picture: Mahashaitan – The Rise of Dark World trilogy. The three-part special airs every Sunday from 5-19 January, bringing action-packed episodes as Bheem battles to stop Mahashaitan’s dark forces.

    On 26 January, Little Singham: amrit ke Rakhwale premieres, featuring Little Singham and his team fighting to protect the sacred amrit of Garuda. Packed with suspense, the story follows Little Singham teaming up with Gari, an injured eagle warrior, to save the day.

    Discovery Kids kicks off the year with the Zamana Titoo Ka movie premiering on 26 January at 12:30 pm. Titoo, the brave protagonist, embarks on an electrifying journey to stop the sinister Tornado from turning humanity into machines.

    1    Fans can also enjoy daily episodes of Titoo at 12:30 pm and 8:30 pm, featuring more exciting adventures with Titoo and his futuristic robot companion.

    January promises an unmatched entertainment experience for kids as Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids deliver a mix of humour, action, and heartwarming moments. Whether it’s Lamput’s escapades, Chhota Bheem’s battles, or Titoo’s adventures, young viewers are in for an epic treat.

  • DP World ILT20 Season 3 opens with a star-studded ceremony at Dubai International Stadium

    DP World ILT20 Season 3 opens with a star-studded ceremony at Dubai International Stadium

    MUMBAI: The highly anticipated DP World ILT20 Season 3 kicked off in grand style at the Dubai International Stadium. Indian cinema stars Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, and Sonam Bajwa lit up the stage with an electrifying performance during the opening ceremony, thrilling fans who packed the iconic ‘Ring of Fire’ for a night of spectacular entertainment.

     

    Hosted by Bollywood actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani and popular host Ridhima Pathak, the event concluded with a dazzling fireworks display that marked the beginning of the cricket season. 

    The tournament opener saw Dubai Capitals face off against defending champions MI Emirates in a rematch of last year’s final. MI Emirates won the toss and chose to bowl first, with the opening ball bowled at 8:45 pm IST.

    The action-packed tournament is broadcast live on Zee’s 15 linear TV channels, including &Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Telugu HD, and more, as well as the OTT platform Zee5. Fans can also catch the action via Zee’s syndication partners’ TV and digital networks.

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd  chief growth officer – digital & broadcast revenue Ashish Sehgal,  shared his excitement about the launch: “The opening ceremony exceeded all expectations! The fusion of world-class cricket, entertainment, and passionate fans watching on Zee platforms made it an unforgettable evening. We’re thrilled to bring this premium sports and entertainment content to a global audience.”

    DP World ILT20 Season 3 features top international cricketers, including Nicholas Pooran, Sikandar Raza, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, and many others, making it a month-long cricket fest filled with thrilling action.

  • Live Times founder Dilip Kumar Singh and his news story

    Live Times founder Dilip Kumar Singh and his news story

    MUMBAI: This is a news channel that seems to be getting Indian viewers’ attention. At least if one goes by BARC numbers for average time spent  (ATS) among the 15+ demographic.

    A press release issued by Live Times, says the global multicast news hub, managed to get an ATS of around 10 minutes  across India and Hindi speaking markets in the past four weeks.The ATS for urban areas like Mumbai was at a remarkable 21 minutes while for Delhi it was  over eight minutes in week 51.  

    “The exceptional ATS numbers are a testament to the trust and loyalty of our viewers, who turn to us for news that not only respects their intelligence but also prioritises the truth. This accomplishment strongly affirms Live Times’ commitment to providing news that people can rely on. Our audience seeks more than just headlines; they desire information that empowers, educates, and inspires,” says Live Times founder & CEO Dilip Kumar Singh. 

    According to him, Live Times’ success is rooted in its unique value proposition—delivering real-time, authentic and accurate news and information that connects deeply with audiences across demographics. With a steadfast commitment to uncovering the truth and addressing public issues that matter, Live Times has become a beacon of reliable news for millions, adds Singh. 

    He points out that at Live Times, it’s all about the interest of viewers. Flagship shows like Live Pradesh, Delhi Ke Dil Mein Kya Hai, and Live Express bring the news closer to home, diving into the stories that shape the audience’s day and impact their future. “Whether it’s breaking headlines, in-depth analyses, or uncovering the stories behind the scenes, Live Times delivers journalism that connects and empowers.” he says. 

    Singh believes that “for advertisers, Live Times offers a golden opportunity to connect with an engaged, diverse audience. By aligning with a platform rooted in integrity and trust, brands can ensure their message resonates deeply and authentically.”

    Are  advertisers listening?

  • Aditya Narayan transitions from Disney Star India to JioStar as regional sales head

    Aditya Narayan transitions from Disney Star India to JioStar as regional sales head

    MUMBAI: He’s got a premium job at JioStar. Aditya Narayan has just transitioned from Disney Star India  to the Uday Shankar-headed behemoth continuing with his earlier designation as regional sales head.

    At Disney Star India,  Aditya  spearheaded sales strategies for over three and a half years. His tenure there was marked by remarkable success in developing key partnerships and driving sales across multiple domains. At JioStar he has been charged with  integrated selling and raising revenue for premium sports  from the south. 

    Aditya’s professional journey also includes significant contributions at ByteDance India, where he led monetisation efforts, and Rajasthan Patrika, where he helmed business operations for Patrika TV. Notably, he  played a pivotal role in launching the Magicbricks Now channel during his time at the Times Network, showcasing his ability to lead large-scale projects with finesse. Following Times Network, he did short stints with Network18 and BTVI. 

    Throughout his career, Aditya has built a reputation for strategic thinking, interpersonal communication, and his ability to adapt to dynamic market conditions. His hands-on approach and visionary mindset have consistently delivered exceptional results, making him a trusted leader in the sales domain.

    In the early part of his career, Aditya spent almost four years working  in sales for FM radio stations beginning with Radio Mirchi (a year), followed by  Radio City (a  year nine months)  and then with RadiOne (a year and five months).

    As he steps into his new role at JioStar, Aditya is poised to bring his experience to the table, leveraging his deep understanding of the premium sports market to drive regional sales growth.

  • Disney restructures EMEA operations; appoints Tony Chambers as region president

    Disney restructures EMEA operations; appoints Tony Chambers as region president

    Mumbai: The Walt Disney Co has announced the appointment of Tony Chambers as president, of its EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) operations, as part of a strategic restructuring of its entertainment businesses in the region. Chambers will report to Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, as well as ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro. Chambers will be vacating his current job as head of global theatrical distribution. Current EMEA president Jan Koeppen will step down in February as part of the transition.

    In the new structure, several of the company’s lines of business in the region, including direct-to-consumer, ad sales, platform distribution, networks, local original content, studio marketing, theatrical distribution and sports will now report directly in to the global business leaders of those businesses, who will have P&L oversight for their respective regional businesses in EMEA.

    The regional president – in this case,  Chambers – will continue to be the company’s representative in the region and be responsible for consolidating strategic priorities and financials and coordinating teams at the regional level, leading local initiatives that span across businesses (excluding Disney Experiences), and overseeing shared service functions including human resources, communications, and finance.

    “EMEA is a key region in terms of the success of our business globally, and as we realign our strategy for our entertainment businesses there, we are fortunate to transition between two fantastic leaders,” said Bergman, Walden, and Pitaro in a joint statement. “Tony Chambers is a seasoned senior executive who has a highly collaborative style and stellar reputation in EMEA and across the company. He brings a wealth of experience to this important new role. We look forward to continuing to accelerate our growth in EMEA and around the world, and we are immensely grateful for Jan’s exceptional contributions, which have made a meaningful and enduring difference to this team and the company during his tenure.”

    Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Chambers commented, “I’m truly honored to be leading the world-class EMEA team in this new capacity. It’s a dynamic region that has gone through incredible, positive change over the past several years, and I’m very eager now to build on that momentum.”

    Chambers, who is Irish, has been with Disney for over 30 years and  has had a lot of experience in the EMEA having looked after studio sales and distribution, theatrical, home entertainment in various capacities for either Europe or the region. 

    Outgoing president Jan Koeppen reflected on his tenure, saying, “I’m grateful for the incredible six years I have had at Disney, working with some of the most talented and creative people in the industry through a period of profound transformation and growth as we launched and established Disney+ in the region. I leave with a full heart and with great pride in the exceptional Disney EMEA team.”

    As Tony Chambers steps into his new role, Disney is set to announce a new global head of theatrical distribution in the near future, further strengthening its leadership team for continued growth and innovation in the region and beyond.

  • TV Today Network to turn off its Ishq 104.8 FM radio operations

    TV Today Network to turn off its Ishq 104.8 FM radio operations

    MUMBAI: The TV Today Network has  lost all the love it once had for the  FM radio business under the brand of IshqFM  (romantic love) 104.8  FM. 

    The company, on 9 January 2025, informed the Bombay stock exchange, that its board of has approved the closure of its IshqFM radio broadcasting operation, which includes three stations in Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. The decision, announced at a board meeting on January 9, is subject to regulatory approvals and compliance requirements, with the shutdown expected to occur within one to six months.

    The FM radio business contributed a turnover of Rs 16.18 crore in FY 2023-24, representing 1.7 per cent of the company’s total turnover for the year. However, it reported a net loss of Rs 19.53 crore during the same period.

    In a statement, the board cited the challenging state of the FM radio industry and its evolving dynamics as key reasons behind the decision. “The board of directors considered it in the better interest of the company to close this business rather than continue operations,” the statement said.

    The move aligns with TV Today Network’s strategic focus on its core media and broadcasting ventures, as the FM radio segment has struggled to remain profitable in a competitive and shifting landscape.

  • Sony Sports Network unveils Australian Open 2025 coverage across India

    Sony Sports Network unveils Australian Open 2025 coverage across India

    MUMBAI: As the sun rises over Melbourne Park, the echoes of rackets and roars of the crowd signal the dawn of Grand Slam week—a tennis fan’s ultimate dream.

    Sony Sports Network is all set to serve an ace with exclusive live coverage of the Australian Open 2025, running from 12-26 January.

    From the thrill of a five-set marathon to the elegance of a perfectly executed backhand, fans can experience it all in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, bringing the action closer to every corner of India.

    With marquee sponsors like Rolex, Amul, Kia Motors, and Apple rallying alongside, Sony promises a broadcast that’s as electrifying as a match point on Rod Laver Arena.

    The tournament will kick off on Sunday, 12 January, a strategic adjustment aimed at enhancing the experience for both players and fans by reducing late-night match strain. Viewers can expect thrilling performances from top players, including defending champion Jannik Sinner, 10-time winner Novak Djokovic, and women’s World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.

    In addition to Sinner and Djokovic, players like Alexander Zverev (World No.2), Carlos Alcaraz (World No.3), Taylor Fritz (World No.4), and Daniil Medvedev (World No.4) will compete for glory. The women’s draw features fierce competition with Iga Swiatek (World No.2) vying for the title. Adding to the excitement is the return of Nick Kyrgios, aiming to make a triumphant comeback.

    Indian players will also feature prominently, with Rohan Bopanna, Sumit Nagal, Yuki Bhambri, and Sriram Balaji participating. Rithvik Bollipalli, ranked 72 in doubles, will make his Grand Slam debut, building on his successful 2024 season, which included his first ATP Tour title.

    The exclusive broadcast will feature EXTRAAA SERVE, a panel of experts including Sania Mirza, Somdev Devvarman, and Purav Raja, who will deliver insights and analysis.

    Mirza expressed excitement about the competition, stating, “I have some of my fondest memories at the Australian Open and I look forward to being back in the expert’s chair for Sony Sports Network’s EXTRAAA SERVE. I am also excited to watch the 2025 season, as Rohan Bopanna and Sumit Nagal will represent India. The competition is about to get more interesting as this season will bring lots of opportunities, whether it’s for Jannik Sinner, who looks to defend his title or its Novak Djokovic, who is looking to restore his past glory. Adding to the Melbourne heat will be the contest between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek.”

    Devvarman praised the network’s efforts, saying, “Over the years, Sony Sports Network has become the home for the Australian Open and it gives me immense pleasure to return to the commentary box and the studio chair for yet another exciting season. The 2025 edition of the tournament will set the tone for the upcoming Australian Open tournaments and other Grand Slams especially when it comes to the next legend in tennis.”

    Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), chief revenue officer – distribution and international business and head – sports business, Rajesh Kaul commented, “The Australian Open has established itself as the preferred Grand Slam among Indian tennis fans, differentiated by its entertainment quotient and the presence of top-seeded players. It is the most watched Grand Slam on linear television over the last three years. We are committed to continuing this momentum and delivering premier tennis action to our Indian audiences. The response from advertisers has been exceptionally positive, with prestigious brands such as Rolex, Kia Motors, Apple and more joining us for this remarkable tournament.”

    Sony Sports Network’s #WHEREGREATNESSBEGINS campaign celebrates the tournament as a platform for unearthing future tennis legends.

    Fans can catch the live action on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), and Sony Sports Ten 4 SD & HD (English). Matches will also be live-streamed on Sony LIV, starting 5:30 am IST daily.

  • Teams and players for DP World ILT20 Season 3 announced

    Teams and players for DP World ILT20 Season 3 announced

    MUMBAI: Just two days to go! The countdown has begun for the DP World ILT20 Season 3, which will be broadcast exclusively on Zee starting 11 January at the Dubai International Stadium. The tournament kicks off with the Dubai Capitals hosting the defending champions, MI Emirates, in the opener at 8:45 PM IST. Over the next month, 34 action-packed matches will take place, concluding on 9 February 2025. These matches will also air on Dubai TV, Abu Dhabi TV, the ILT20 official YouTube channel, and Myco for viewers in the MENA region.

    The broadcaster announced the teams and their compositions on 9 January, with the flexibility for changes in case of injuries or non-availability of selected players.

    Among the key squad updates ahead of the opener, England opener Phil Salt and Pakistan left-arm wrist spinner Sufiyan Muqeem have joined the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. Salt has been added as a wildcard, while Sufiyan replaces the unavailable Hassan Khan. Afghanistan spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar has been signed by MI Emirates, and Vijayakanth Viyaskanth will join the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

    Zee’s Chief Growth Officer – Digital & Broadcast Revenue, Ashish Sehgal, commented:  “Zee is delighted to unveil the impressive squad line-up for Season 3, featuring some of the world’s finest and most popular players. With iconic locations like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah, world-class infrastructure, and six powerhouse franchises, our aim is to solidify the league as one of the most widely followed global cricket events. We have significantly expanded our broadcast reach by adding five more linear channels, including South Indian channels, and are excited to present this thrilling cricketing spectacle to fans across the world.”

    Cricket fans can watch the tournament on ZEE’s extensive network of 15 linear TV channels, including &Pictures SD, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema 2, Zee Action, Zee Biskope, Zee Zest SD, Zee Cinemalu HD, Zee Telugu HD, Zee Thirai, Zee Tamil HD, Zee Kannada HD, Zee Zest HD, &Flix SD, and &Flix HD. Additionally, the matches will be free to view on Zee5, one of India’s leading OTT platforms. Zee aims to capture a viewership of 230 million for the season.

    Here are the six DP World ILT20 Season 3 squads as of 9 January 2025:

    Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

    New Signees: Gudakesh Motie, Ibrar Ahmad, Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers, Phil Salt (Wildcard), Roston Chase, Shahid Iqbal Bhutta, Sufiyan Muqeem, Terrance Hinds, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth Retentions: Aditya Shetty, Ali Khan, Alishan Sharafu, Andre Russell, Andries Gous, Charith Asalanka, David Willey, Joe Clarke, Laurie Evans, Michael Pepper, Sunil Narine.

    Desert Vipers

    New Signees: Dan Lawrence (Wildcard), David Payne, Dhruv Parashar, Fakhar Zaman, Kushal Malla (replacement for injured Bas de Leede), Khuzaima Bin Tanveer, Lockie Ferguson, Max Holden, Sam Curran (played for Vipers in Season 2 as a wildcard) Retentions: Adam Hose, Alex Hales, Ali Naseer, Azam Khan, Luke Wood, Michael Jones, Mohammad Amir, Nathan Sowter, Sherfane Rutherford, Tanish Suri, Wanindu Hasaranga.

    Dubai Capitals

    New Signees: Adam Rossington (Wildcard), Aryaman Varma (replacement for Jake Fraser McGurk), Ben Dunk, Brandon McMullen, Garuka Sanketh (replacement), Farhan Khan, Gulbadin Naib, Joe Burns, Joe Weatherley, Najibullah Zadran, Obed McCoy, Scott Kuggeleijn, Sharafuddin Ashraf (replacement), Shai Hope, Shahrukh Ahmed, Zeeshan Naseer Retentions: Dasun Shanaka, David Warner, Dushmantha Chameera, Haider Ali, Raja Akif, Rovman Powell, Sam Billings, Sikandar Raza, Zahir Khan, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Oliver Stone.

    Gulf Giants

    New Signees: Adam Lyth, Dominic Drakes, Daniel Worrall (played for Giants in Season 2 as a wildcard), Dushan Hemantha (replacement), Ibrahim Zadran, Mark Adair, Ollie Robinson (wicketkeeper-batter), Tim David, Tom Curran, Tymal Mills, Muhammad Saghir Khan, Muhammad Uzair Khan, Wahidullah Zadran Retentions: Aayan Afzal Khan, Blessing Muzarabani, Chris Jordan, Dipendra Singh Airee, Gerhard Erasmus, James Vince, Jordan Cox, Mohammad Zuhaib Zubair, Rehan Ahmed, Shimron Hetmyer.

    MI Emirates

    New Signees: Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, Alzarri Joseph, Aryan Lakra, Ben Charlesworth, Fareed Ahmad, Romario Shepherd, Tom Banton, Thomas Draca, Zahoor Khan Retentions: Akeal Hosein, Andre Fletcher, Daniel Mousley, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Jordan Thompson, Kieron Pollard, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Rohid Khan, Muhammad Waseem, Nicholas Pooran, Nosthush Kenjige, Waqar Salamkheil.

    Sharjah Warriorz

    New Signees: Tim Southee (Captain), Adam Milne, Adil Rashid (played for Warriorz in Season 2 as a wildcard), Ashton Agar, Avishka Fernando, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Daniel Sams, Ethan D’Souza, Harmeet Singh, Jason Roy, Karim Janat, Keemo Paul, Matthew Wade, Rohan Mustafa, Tim Seifert, Traveen Mathew, Virandeep Singh Retentions: Dilshan Madushanka, Johnson Charles, Junaid Siddique, Muhammad Jawadullah, Kusal Mendis, Luke Wells, Peter Hatzoglou, Tom Kohler-Cadmore.