Category: Regional

  • Zee Telugu Kutumbam Awards 2021 to be aired on 23 and 31 Oct

    Zee Telugu Kutumbam Awards 2021 to be aired on 23 and 31 Oct

    Mumbai: Zee Telugu and Zee Telugu HD channels will telecast the Zee Telugu Kutumbam Awards 2021 on 23 and 31 October starting at 6:00 p.m.

    The celebration is the recognition of the best actors, anchors, and experts that successfully narrated stories of ordinary people embarking upon extraordinary journeys. The awards ceremony was an evening high on glitz, glamour, and entertainment anchored by Shymala, Pradeep Machiraju, Sreemukhi, and Akhil Sarthak.

    Tamannaah, Mehreen, Shreya Saran, Krithi Shetty, Nikhil, Ali, Akash Puri, Niharika Konidela, Hebba Patel, Surabhi were among the celebrities who attended the event. Tollywood actress Shreya attended the event with her husband Andrei Koscheev for the first time, Tamannah, Pradeep, Akhil, Sreemukhi presented a heart-warming performance with the F3 theme skit and Akhil and Mehreen serenaded the viewers with the ‘Emaipothave’ song. Among other highlights of the event were Akul’s ‘Paada Pooja’ ritual in which he expressed his gratitude to his mother. Jai Dhanush and Keerthy introduced their baby to the world and Sudha Chandran reminisced her father.

  • Aaj Tak Bangla’s Durga Puja coverage goes beyond food and pandal hopping

    Aaj Tak Bangla’s Durga Puja coverage goes beyond food and pandal hopping

    Mumbai: Durga Puja is the time of the year that puts Bengal on the global itinerary of culture and festivities. For Bengal, Durga Puja is not just a festival but also a celebration of art, history, heritage, and homecoming. A five-day-long celebration, Durga Puja is more than what meets the eye and Aaj Tak Bangla celebrated its first Durga Puja with the promise of bringing out untold stories from not just Bengal but also from the Bengali diaspora across the globe.

    The channel’s week-long coverage through the pujas included ground reports of theme pandals, heritage pujas that go back to hundreds of years, celebrity puja celebrations, stories on gastronomic delights, and much more.

    Aaj Tak Bangla’s puja reportage debut travelled all the way to USA and Germany, not only restricting itself to Bengal.

    However, the coverage was not just about festivities, Aaj Tak Bangla touched upon other important issues around the festival too. For instance, Aaj Tak cameras reached Malda to capture how a small puja organised by the locals of the area celebrates communal harmony. Both Hindus and Muslims participate in the puja and enjoy the festivities together. While they have never publicised their pujo ever before, Aaj Tak’s coverage of this small pujo in the outskirts of Kolkata brought out the true spirit of Durga Puja which is all about spreading peace and unity, due to which this unique puja is now popular in the state and is already setting an example for others to follow.

    Apart from all the above initiatives, the channel also saw intellectuals from various walks of life contributing opinion pieces to add to the highly engaging and impactful Puja Aaj Tak celebrated this year. The Aaj Tak Bangla’s Puja coverage was supported by Dollar, Assam Downtown University, and Adani Wilmar as its sponsors.

  • Sun TV Network launches Marathi GEC Sun Marathi

    Sun TV Network launches Marathi GEC Sun Marathi

    Mumbai: Sun TV Network has launched its Marathi general entertainment channel (GEC) Sun Marathi on 17 October.

    The channel’s tagline is ‘sohala natyancha’ which translates to ‘celebrating relationships.’ The channel has announced three hours of original programming with six shows starting from 6:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m.

    The shows announced are “Nandini” at 6:30 p.m, “Sundari” at 7:00 p.m, “Jaau nako dur..baba!” at 7:30 pm, “Abhalachi Maya” at 8 p.m, “Kanyadaan” at 8:30 p.m and “Sant Gajanan Shegaviche” at 9 p.m.

    The channel has also announced ‘bagha roj jinka rokh’ (‘watch daily, win cash’) contest which every day offers an opportunity for more than 1,000 viewers to win up to two crores in cash prize from Dussehra to Diwali. Every day during the contest period, one question will be asked in each of the six shows and viewers will have to give a missed call to register their answers on the numbers provided, said the broadcast network in a statement.

    Sun Marathi is widely distributed and is available on all leading DTH platforms including DD Free, Dish as well as on all cable networks across Maharashtra for free. In terms of its placement, it is part of the Marathi GEC neighborhood on all the platforms.

  • Sakal Media Group launches four flagship podcasts with Ideabrew Studios

    Sakal Media Group launches four flagship podcasts with Ideabrew Studios

    Mumbai: Sakal Media Group has joined hands with podcast company Ideabrew Studios to launch a multi-genre lineup of podcasts. As part of the association, the company will create, produce, distribute, and monetise the podcasts for Sakal Media Group.

    The launch is in line with the group’s objective to expand their digital foray and create newer avenues to reach out to newer, younger, and digital-first audiences, said the media company in a statement.

    “As we begin a new chapter for us at Sakal Media, we are glad to associate with one of the leading platforms for podcasts. Ideabrew will be instrumental in giving shape to our audio shows through their insights and industry expertise,” stated Sakal Media Group head of platform – content Stefanie Maria Feicht. “With the association, we want to explore newer avenues to reach out to audiences by being present on the platforms where our target audience are consuming content.”

    The lineup featuring varied podcast content covering news, inspirational stories, sports, and general news trivia includes “Sakalchya Batmya – Top 10 news of the day,” “IPL Run-Sangram” – an IPL-focused show with daily previews and reviews of the matches, “Lakshya Asta Maaza” – a news-commentary podcast hosted by Prasann Joshi, and “Inspiring Stories” – a show focused on sharing motivational stories of people who have had to face struggles to make it big in their fields.

    “With listeners consuming content through different platforms, we wanted to expand our digital footprint and also our offerings. Our various offerings feature eminent industry experts, who, through their insightful conversations, aid in inculcating a sense of innovation and motivation amongst the people,” said Sakal Media Group’s head of digital business Swapnil Malpathak.

    The podcasts will be available on all audio platforms including Spotify, JioSaavn, Gaana, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Prime Music, Wynk, Hungama, Epic On, and over 50 other platforms globally, said the statement.

    “At Ideabrew, our vision is to create content that appeases the listener and benefits the brand,” commented Ideabrew Studios CEO Aditya Kuber. “Sakal Group aims to inform people and elevate the brand to newer heights through digital avenues. The podcasts offer multi-genre content, right from daily news to IPL trivia to inspiring stories, while also getting experts on board for the listeners.”

  • Colors Tamil bolsters primetime band with two new shows

    Colors Tamil bolsters primetime band with two new shows

    Mumbai: Colors Tamil has bolstered its primetime band and announced two new shows – “Dance Vs Dance Season 2” and “EngaVeetu Meenakshi.”

    “Dance vs Dance Season 2” will premiere on 17 October with a grand launch episode at 6 p.m, followed by competitive rounds every Saturday and Sunday at 7.30 p.m, starting from 23 October. The first season of “Dance vs Dance” was a hit among the masses. The second edition has actor Kushboo and choreographer Brinda Master in the judges’ panel. There are four team owners including actors Shaam, Abhirami Venkatachalam, and Ineya, and choreographer Sridhar.

    “EngaVeetu Meenakshi” is directed by Ramkumar and features actors Poornima Bhagyaraj, Jeeva, and Shritha Sivadas in the lead. Premiering on 18 October at 7 p.m, the tale set in the backdrop of Karaikudi will be telecast from Monday to Friday. “EngaVeetu Meenakshi” revolves around the life of a lecturer Meenakshi and Chidambaram – a 35-year-old wedding planner. The plot takes viewers through Meenakshi and Chidambaram’s relationship as they set out on a quest to unite their families.

    “True to the ideology of Color Kattum, Colors Tamil’s aspires to entertain families with novel plotlines, engaging characters, and a fresh format altogether,” said Colors Tamil’s business head Rajaraman. “The channel has always been keen to break stereotypes and showcase progressive themes that serve as an inspiration to audiences, especially by highlighting different facets of women.”

    As part of the part of its newly launched brand campaign ‘Ini Dinam Dinam ColorKattum,’ the channel has further strengthened its primetime band with a lineup of shows including “Amman Season 2” at 6 p.m, “EngaVeetu Meenakshi” at 7 p.m, “Idhayathai Thirudathey Season 2” at 8 p.m, “Abhi Tailor,” at 9 p.m and “Sillunu Our Kadhal” at 10 p.m, starting 18 October. Additionally, it will also premiere films during weekdays at 1.30 p.m.

    “We are extremely thrilled to launch ‘EngaVeetu Meenakshi.’ Unlike other fiction shows, it has a unique storyline that focuses on the idea that women are the harbingers of prosperity among families and the fact that they can achieve anything once they set their minds on it,” stated “EngaVeetu Meenakshi” director Ramkumar Dass.

  • Zee Telugu to premiere ‘Agnipariksha’ on 18 October

    Zee Telugu to premiere ‘Agnipariksha’ on 18 October

    Mumbai: Zee Telugu is set to premiere its new show “Agnipariksha” on 18 October at 9:30 p.m. The show will air every Monday to Saturday on the channel.

    Bringing together a stellar cast including actors Thanuja Puttaswamy, Akarsh Byramudi, Maahi Gouthami, Navin Vetri, and Prabhakar, the show highlights the journey of two sisters compelled into a loveless relationship.

    Set in Hyderabad, the tale revolves around two sisters, Radhika, Priyanka, and their father who is against love marriages. Radhika, an obedient, graceful and kind girl, loves her long-time friend Amar who loves her back unconditionally. However, due to destiny’s play, Kailash enters into the life of Radhika, changing the dynamics of her relationship with Amar. Priyanka, the younger sister to Radhika, is a vivacious girl. Her life will take a 360-degree turn with her sister’s change of relationships. 

    The gripping plot, theatrical characterisation, and intense performances make Agnipariksha a roller coaster ride of emotions as Radhika, Priyanka, Amar, and Kailash meet at crossroads, creating the sense of anticipation on the twists and revelations that will transform equations among the characters at every stage.

    “I have always believed in experimenting as an actor and I found Amar’s character very promising. A layered character, Amar is a complex but interesting and intriguing person,” said Akarsh Byramudi. “I’m grateful and delighted to be working with Zee Telugu once again and connect with the audience through this new project. I hope that we reach remarkable heights with this show.”

  • News18 Gujarati unveils Navratri special programming lineup

    News18 Gujarati unveils Navratri special programming lineup

    Mumbai: True to its tradition of always coming up with innovative and quality programs during Navratri, this year News18 Gujarati has a bouquet of entertainment with a lineup of two special programmes for its viewers between 7-15 October.

    It is that time of the year, where people across India gear up for the biggest dance festival in the country. Be it children or adults, everyone’s busy planning costumes, learning new dance moves and ascertaining the latest Gujarati garba. News18 Gujarati’s “Garba ni Ramjhat” and “Non Stop Garba” would make sure that viewers not only get featured themselves on the channel but also they can dance to the tune of their favourite artists from the safety and comfort of their homes.

    In “Garba Ni Ramjhat,” viewers are told to share the videos of their favourite garba steps from their societies or houses which would be featured on News18 Gujarati during Navratri every day at 2:30 p.m. “Non Stop Garba” every day during Navratri at 10 p.m would enthrall the viewers with their favourite artists like Kirtidan Gadhavi, Osman Mir, Atul Purohit, Kinjal Dave, Jignesh Barot who would be performing their favourite garba.

  • Zee Bangla announces special programming for Mahalaya

    Zee Bangla announces special programming for Mahalaya

    Mumbai: Zee Bangla has come up with a special musical offering “Agomoni Aradhana” around Mahalaya to engage with its digital and TV audiences. The celebration will begin with digital festive content, starting from midnight to 4:30 a.m on 6 October, followed by Mahalaya telecast on Zee Bangla from 5 a.m onwards.

    Agomoni Aradhana”  is a musical extravaganza bringing together well-known celebrities spanning two different generations to celebrate Mahalaya with a  collection of more than 40 songs consisting of Rabindrasangeet, Nazrul Geeti, Agomoni, classical, Bangla modern, and Band songs. It will feature singers including Jayati Chakraborty, Raghob Chatterjee, Sahoj Ma, Madhubanti Bagchi, Durnibar, Aditi Munshi, Neeharika (first runner up, “SaReGaMaPa“), Arkadeep (winner “SaReGaMaPa“), and Anushka (second runner up, “SaReGaMaPa”), along with popular YouTuber and singer Rishi Panda.

    The show aims to connect with the viewers on the eve of Mahalaya – a night that is ritualistically known as nishijapon, where people stay up all night and tune into radio or TV to listen or watch Mahalaya. “Agomoni Aradhana” will enthrall audiences with four hours of programming showcasing an array of Bangla cultural performances.

    On the digital front, celebrities like Srima and Anik, and YouTube sensation ‘Wonder Munna’ have been roped in as hosts of a “Youth Adda” and other content initiatives, respectively. “Agomoni Aradhana” will premiere on Zee Bangla Facebook page on 6 October at midnight.

  • Colors Bangla to celebrate Mahalaya with new show ‘Nabarupe Mahadurga’

    Colors Bangla to celebrate Mahalaya with new show ‘Nabarupe Mahadurga’

    Mumbai: Colors Bangla will be marking the auspicious occasion of Mahalaya with a new mythological show “Nabarupe Mahadurga” set to premiere on 6 October at 5 a.m. The show narrates the origin of the nine forms of the divine Goddess, namely, Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kaalratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri.

    Directed by Anirban Mullick, “Nabarupe Mahadurga” will tell the timeless story of Goddess Durga – how she manifests to save the Gods and mankind from the evil Mahishasur. Anchor and actor Gaurab Chatterjee has been brought onboard as the narrator and Debajyoti Mishra has composed the score for the drama which relies heavily on dance and music. 

    Koel Mullick will be seen as Maa Durga in the show, alongside Colors Bangla’s most popular artists like Adrija Roy, Tumpa Ghosh, Titiksha Das, Pallabi Roy Jasmine Roy, Ushoshi Roy, Devlina Kumar and Saoli Chattopadhyay, who will be essaying her different forms and avatars. Samrat Mukherjee will be seen as Mahishasur.

    “Mahalaya is not just an important day but an emotion as it ends the year-long wait for Durga Puja, the most important festival celebrated by Bengalis,” said Colors Bangla business head Sagnik Ghosh. “As the name suggests Nabarupe Mahadurga will introduce the nine different forms of the goddess. We have roped in popular actress Koel Mullick to play the role of Durga and we are extremely excited to bring to our viewers this powerful act.”

    Colors Bangla will use cross promotion on other channels to generate interest for “Nabarupe Mahadurga.” On the digital front, interesting trivia about the nine forms of Maa Durga, her weapons and vahanas will be shared, said the statement.

  • ‘Mayaadweepam’ returns on Zee Telugu starting 3 October

    ‘Mayaadweepam’ returns on Zee Telugu starting 3 October

    Mumbai: Zee Telugu has revived its kids reality show “Mayaadweepam” after seven years. The show will be led by Ohmkar as host along with fictional characters Pillamarriraju and Ontu Kannu Rakshasudu starting from 3 October at 9 p.m on Zee Telugu and Zee Telugu HD.

    This season’s sponsors include Close Up, Dazller Eterna and Triplex detergent.

    “Mayaadweepam” is an adventure game show that unearths the skills of young contestants including their physical, intellectual, satirical and educational ability. The intricately designed sets created for the show are one of the most composite setups in Telugu television. A crew of 100 members worked over 50 days to bring alive the setting, blending India’s rich mythic structures to give viewers a grand viewing experience, said the channel in a statement.

    This year Zee Telugu announced digital auditions for the show. Participants between the age of 6-12 years were invited to participate in the virtual auditions and this helped the channel receive over 12,000 entries in a short period of time. The selected participants will be part of the game show where every episode will witness four different contestants. Each episode will end with a ‘Showdown’ in which the contestants will be undergoing various levels of challenges.

    “Mayaadweepam is my dream project,” said producer and host of the show, Ohmkar. “It marks my foray into the fantasy genre and empowers me to explore further variants of content. As we march onwards, we bring together not only the show’s original characters such as Pillamarriraju and Onti Kannu Rakshasudu but also the uniquely monumental set that is one-of-a-kind in the history of Telugu television. Besides, I’m happy to see the promo receive tremendous praises and I am certain that it makes for an unforgettable viewing experience.”