ITV

Category: Viewership

  • “Future of Ultimate Kho Kho looks very promising”: Sony Pictures Networks India’s Rajesh Kaul

    “Future of Ultimate Kho Kho looks very promising”: Sony Pictures Networks India’s Rajesh Kaul

    Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) commenced airing the inaugural edition of Ultimate Kho Kho on 14 August. The final takes place on 4 September. The broadcaster has a five-year deal for the event. SPNI chief revenue officer, distribution and head of sports business Rajesh Kaul is optimistic about the future of the league.

    Speaking with Indiantelevision.com, he said, “All leagues in their nascent years have taken time to grow, and this would also stand true for the Ultimate Kho Kho. That being said, the feedback for the league so far in its first couple of weeks has been great and its future looks very promising.”

    He further added that Kho Kho is one of those sports that has pan-India appeal driven by the fact that it is indigenous to the country. “In our research, a lot of young audiences were playing the game, and the older audiences remembered the game with a lot of nostalgia and fondness. It’s a sport that is widely played in schools by both boys and girls. The fact that the sport doesn’t require any expensive equipment adds to its appeal across all economic sections in society.”

    The broadcaster is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the league gains traction with viewers. There are five language feeds. He noted that Kho Kho is one of the few sports in the country that attracts high interest in both the Hindi-speaking markets as well as the South. “For the first season, we have gone all out with five language feeds – English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi. We also have six teams from across the country that are already garnering a following across the country: Mumbai Khiladis, Chennai Quickguns, Telugu Yoddhas, Gujarat Giants, Odisha Juggernauts, and Rajasthan Warriors.”

    On the sponsorship front, he noted that season one was never going to be about sponsors. “Our efforts are targeted towards putting up a fantastic product which does justice to the sport and attracts viewers. This in turn will lead to sponsors’ interest in the upcoming seasons of Ultimate Kho Kho. It should be mentioned though that in its inaugural year, Ultimate Kho Kho has attracted interest from and brought on board corporates like Adani Group, GMR Group, Capri Global, and KLO Sports, along with Singing Sensation Badshah and the Odisha government in collaboration with steel manufacturer ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India to own teams in the league.”

    When asked if Sony would look at taking a stake at some point in a sports league, he said that while the broadcaster is continuously on the lookout for opportunities that might emerge, the primary focus in any partnership is to ensure the best coverage of the sport on our sports channels. “At this point, we are working with our various content partners and leagues that share our vision to provide Indians with the best live coverage of sporting action from India and around the world to our viewers.”

  • Zee News and Zee MPCG to host event ‘Emerging Chhattisgarh’ on 22 August

    Zee News and Zee MPCG to host event ‘Emerging Chhattisgarh’ on 22 August

    Mumbai: Zee News and Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh channel Zee MPCG will host “Emerging Chhattisgarh” to enable and highlight the development activities in the state. The event will be graced by the Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel. The event will focus on the state government initiatives that have taken the state forward and have enabled progress for all sections of society.

    Chhattisgarh has seen a dynamic growth trajectory in the three-year tenure of the current government, which will be highlighted through this event. The session with CM Baghel will also focus on the slew of initiatives launched in the state and a report on the promises delivered and fulfilled. A government’s success in administration is measured not just by the popular vote but also depends on industrial development, economic and agricultural growth, and the state of health, education, and other civic amenities.

    Speaking of the event, Zee MPCG editor Mohit Sinha said, “Media is a reflection and the fourth pillar that upholds democracy. The event aims to bring out an honest picture of the government’s performance and present the same to the audience.”

    Adding to this development, ZMCL chief business officer, cluster 3 Abhay Ojha said, “We are excited to host the Hon’ble CM to highlight his government’s work. We look forward to having a great discussion and a successful event.”

    The event is scheduled for 22 August at Raipur and will also see a performance from the Indian Ocean Band, widely recognized as the pioneers of the Indie music and fusion rock genre in India. Zee news MPCG will air the event live.

  • Barc Wk 32: Sun TV maintains pole position in all India market

    Barc Wk 32: Sun TV maintains pole position in all India market

    Mumbai: Broadcast Audience Research Council (Barc) India has released currency data for week 32, i.e., from 6 August to 12 August. As per data for all India’s 2+ target group, Sun TV is the most watched channel in India with an average minute audience (AMA) of 2567.21 (000). It was followed by Star Maa at 2169.44 (000) AMA, Goldmines at 2127.63 (000) AMA , Star Plus at 2033.82 (000) AMA and Dangal at 1744.75 (000) AMA.

    The average minute audience (AMA) is defined as the number of individuals from a target audience who viewed a televised “event,” averaged across minutes.

    In the Hindi-speaking market (HSM), Goldmines emerged as the most watched channel at 2098.29 (000) AMA, followed by Star Plus at 1963.01 (000) AMA, Dangal at 1736.38 (000) AMA, Sony SAB at 1624.39 (000) AMA and Star Pravah at 1500.53 (000) AMA.

    In the South market, Sun TV was the most watched channel at 2553.69 (000) AMA, followed by Star Maa at 2111.34 (000) AMA, Star Vijay at 1566.23 (000) AMA, Zee Kannada at 1405.92(000) AMA, and Zee Telugu at 1377.34(000) AMA.

    In the Maharashtra/Goa market, Star Pravah was the most watched channel at 1482.76 (000) AMA, followed by Zee Marathi at 460.1 (000) AMA, Colors Marathi, Sony SAB and Goldmines.

    In the West Bengal market, Star Jalsha was the most watched channel with 1121.2 (000) AMA, followed by Zee Bangla at 805.43 (000) AMA, Jalsha Movies, ABP Ananda and Sony Aath.

    In the megacities market, including Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai, Sun TV was the most watched channel at 438.38 (000) AMA, followed by Star Plus, Star Vijay, Colors, and Sony SAB.

    All the data is for 2+ audiences.

  • Viacom18 files FIR over piracy of ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’

    Viacom18 files FIR over piracy of ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’

    Mumbai: An FIR was registered on a complaint filed by Viacom18 at Banaswadi police station, Bangalore against a suspect who was arrested on 12 August. Viacom18 received a tip from Cinepolis, Orient Mall, Bangalore, and made the arrest.

    During the investigation, police discovered incriminating evidence, and there is the possibility of an organised crime syndicate operating in the realm of illegal uploading and distribution of the film “Laal Singh Chaddha” and other pirated content.

    According to a preliminary police investigation, the accused may be involved in a larger piracy racket with websites such as Tamilrockers and Primerockers, which are engaged in uploading and illegally distributing pirated content. Because of their illegal actions, such pirate websites cause huge losses to producers, content owners, and creators.

    The arrest of the accused is a ray of hope for all content creators, and it could be a significant step toward action against pirates, as well as a sigh of relief for the industry.

    The company believes larger pirate networks may come to light as a result of this arrest, and the offenders may be prosecuted.

    Viacom18’s General Counsel, Anil Lale, said: “Viacom18 pledges its continuous support in the fight against piracy. We will continue our endeavour to create a secure and piracy-free space. It is important to take proactive measures to prevent piracy or infringement. We believe it is even more important to be involved and actively participate in the execution process to give effect to the larger interest we are trying to achieve.”

    Viacom18 recently obtained injunctive relief from the Madras High Court against a number of more than 12,000 specific websites/links, specified cable operators, internet service providers, as well as unknown individuals, prohibiting them from violating the film “Laal Singh Chaddha” or any part of it by copying, recording, reproducing, distributing, or downloading, etc. in any way without proper authorisation. 

  • Zee Zest & Nexa launches new show Luxe Pins

    Zee Zest & Nexa launches new show Luxe Pins

    Mumbai: Zee Zest, in collaboration with Nexa, has launched the first episode of its multi-part Nexa Journeys series, Luxe Pins. The first episode, hosted by actor Karan Tacker, aired on Zee Zest on 14 August.

    Luxe Pins is an eight-episode series that aims to let the audience experience exclusivity through the host’s eyes.

    From luxury hotels to handcrafted fragrances, treetop adventures to bespoke personal accessories, India offers unfathomable luxury experiences to a select few.

    The host takes the audience on an unexplored journey of the finer things in Nexa XL6 as he travels through this world of splendour.

    The launch of Nexa Journeys presents Luxe Pins also marks the beginning of a year-long collaboration between Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. and Zee Zest, that aims to bring forth a series of unique shows, centred around travel, luxury, road-tripping and much more, over the next year.

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises chief cluster officer-west, north & premium channels, Amit Shah, said, “Zee Zest, being a leader in the lifestyle space since launch, has always endeavoured to offer high-quality content and ideas for advertisers to partner. Our association with Nexa is a clear win for both since Luxe Pins aligns with our content philosophy to unlimit life and its experiences and Nexa Journey’s objective to create premium travel experiences. We hope this breathtaking series will capture our viewers’ hearts by offering them an experience they can enjoy with the entire family.”

    Maruti Suzuki India senior executive officer marketing and sales Shashank Srivastava said, “Nexa was born in 2015 when conventions were challenged, ‘premium’ was redefined, and car buying was transformed. Nexa introduced three experiential pillars which catered to the expectations of the discerning customers; Nexa music, Nexa lifestyle, and Nexa journeys.”

    He further added, “Being a part of exclusive curated experiences that are unique, resonates with the concept of Nexa journeys. Nexa is pleased to showcase the gateway to providing exclusive, immersive, and indulgent experiences. So, while viewers see the Nexa cars in action as they traverse across the country, they also savour some truly unique and marvellous sights to behold on this journey.”

    ZEE Entertainment Enterprises chief sales officer-FTA cluster and north branch head Ali Zaidi said, “At ZEE, we have been at the forefront of delivering personalised, holistic solutions to our partners through our diverse offerings. We are glad to further strengthen our partnership with Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. through Nexa Journeys on Zee Zest. Through this association, our aim is to weave Nexa’s objectives seamlessly into our programming, enabling them to target their audiences more effectively.

  • Sun TV Q1 results: Revenue rises 47.38% to Rs 1,193.90 crore

    Sun TV Q1 results: Revenue rises 47.38% to Rs 1,193.90 crore

    Mumbai: Sun TV Network revenue increased by 47.38 per cent (including IPL) to Rs 1,193.90 crore in Q1 FY23, compared to Rs 810.10 crore in Q1 FY2022.

    The advertisement revenues for the quarter were up by 40.84 per cent for the quarter ended June 2022 at Rs 343.17 crore as against Rs 243.66 crore from the previous year’s same quarter. Ebidta increased by 54.32 per cent to Rs 763.83 crore from Rs 494.97 crore. For the same period, profit after taxes increased by 26.15 per cent to Rs. 491.68 crore, up from Rs 389.76 crore the previous year.

    At the board meeting held on Friday, the board of directors declared an interim dividend of rupees five per share (100 per cent) on a face value of rupees five per share.

    Sun TV operates satellite television channels across six languages: Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Bangla, and Marathi. It also airs FM radio stations across India and owns the SunRisers Hyderabad cricket franchise of the Indian Premier League and the Digital OTT Platform Sun NXT.

    Sun TV has been awarded a licence to operate a team in the city of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) by the Africa Cricket Development (Pty) as part of Cricket South Africa’s T20 league to be staged from January 2023 and annually thereafter.

  • Q Marathi gears up with a new content lineup for the festive season

    Q Marathi gears up with a new content lineup for the festive season

    Mumbai: This festive season, Q Marathi is preparing to expand its content slate with nonstop quality entertainment. Q Marathi is gearing up for the festive season with a new programming initiative, including creator-led shows, a movie band, and a watch-and-win contest.

    Q Marathi business head Neeta Thakare said, “Shravan is one of the most auspicious periods in Maharashtra’s culture, and it was only apt for us to celebrate with our audiences by introducing a fresh content lineup with a programming strategy that allows us to tap into an entirely new set of creators.”

    She further added, “Our new shows will offer viewers entertainment that is non-stop, unique to Q Marathi, and universally appealing. It will further drive viewer engagement and build loyalty for our channel. We are sure that viewers will continue to appreciate our offerings and propositions while we continue to build Q Marathi as a wholesome Marathi entertainment destination.”

    The channel has innovated and curated content, adding hues of drama and comedy to its primetime programming with Gavakadhchya Goshti, MukkamPost BhannatWadi, and Goshta Lay Beshta, airing daily at 8:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 9:30 p.m., respectively.

    In addition to this, to make the upcoming long weekend entertaining, Q Marathi announces the launch of Bhannat Cinema, a movie band showcasing evergreen and entertaining movies by popular Marathi actors, between 13 August to 15 August at 11:30 a.m. and thereafter every Sunday at 11:30 a.m.

    A “watch and win” contest will be active between 17 to 27 August. Viewers watching Q Marathi from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. will get a chance to answer simple show-based questions and win exciting gifts daily.

    The channel will also award one viewer with a bumper prize for answering all questions correctly throughout the contest duration.

    Speaking on the stellar programming line-up, Q Marathi business head Neeta Thakare said, “Shravan is one of the most auspicious periods in Maharashtra’s culture and it was only apt for us to celebrate with our audiences by introducing a fresh content line-up with a programming strategy that allows us to tap into an entirely new set of creators. Our new shows will offer viewers entertainment that is non-stop, unique to Q Marathi, and universally appealing. It will further drive viewer engagement and build loyalty for our channel. We are sure that viewers will continue to appreciate our offerings and propositions while we continue to build Q Marathi as a wholesome Marathi entertainment destination.”

    This new robust programming line-up for Q Marathi is sure to create new benchmarks in entertainment and engagement through pioneering content that will continue to captivate new viewers while connecting with the existing audience.

  • IN10 Network’s Filamchi Bhojpuri presents 75-hours non-stop entertainment to celebrate Independence Day

    IN10 Network’s Filamchi Bhojpuri presents 75-hours non-stop entertainment to celebrate Independence Day

    Mumbai: As India marks its 75th Independence Day this year, IN10 Network’s Filamchi Bhojpuri has come up with a unique way of celebrating. The regional channel has curated a feature film line-up for India@75 to honour the occasion.

    The channel has always captured the pulse of the nation and its viewers with special programs. It will air super-hit patriotic films like “Baaghi Ek Yodhha,” “Sher-E-Hindustan,” “Bolo Garv Se Vandemataram,” and many more for 75 hours non-stop as it recognizes the historic moment with Bhojpuriya Garv Azadi ka Mahaparv. 

    On Bhojpuriya Garv Azadi ka Mahaparv, Filamchi Bhojpuri VP-programming and strategy Rajeev Mishra said, “As the nation celebrates Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, we at Filamchi Bhojpuri want to salute the brave hearts of the region. Through this, we aim to not just entertain our viewers but also highlight the prominent personalities and their contributions to the region.”

    The three-day celebrations will commence on 13 August at 7:00 a.m. on the channel.

  • Balaji Telefilms reports revenue of Rs 118.8 crore for Q1 FY23

    Balaji Telefilms reports revenue of Rs 118.8 crore for Q1 FY23

    Mumbai: Balaji Telefilms earned a revenue of Rs 118.8 crore for Q1 FY23 of which ALTBalaji contributed Rs 36.8 crore through its direct subscription, which stood at Rs 6 crore in Q1 FY23, the company said in a statement.

    The group’s EBITDA loss is Rs 20.4 crore and the loss after tax is Rs 24.5 crore. 

    Balaji Telefilms Ltd managing director Shobha Kapoor said, “Our content has always resonated with audiences at large as it is deeply ingrained in India’s socio-cultural fabric and this quarter has been no different given that we have continued to provide content-driven and quality entertainment while simultaneously focusing on sustainable growth for our investors.”

    “We continue to have strong controls on the cash spend while driving overall profitability including some strong strategic content sharing deals which allows us to further our growth,” she added. 

    OTT-business

    ALTBalaji has 93+ shows live on its platform. ‘Lock Upp’ which was live streamed, gained enormous popularity and went on to become the most watched reality show in the OTT space, with 500+ million views. As a result, the company generated significant long-term IP because this format had never been seen in the Indian entertainment domain before. This quarter they released Apharan- Season two which garnered more than a million views within a short time.
    For the three months ending 30 June, the company sold 3.1 lakh subscriptions (including 1.62 renewals). This excludes subscribers on partner apps where the content continues to do well. 

    The company, in its release, said, “ALTBalaji continues to produce content-driven shows and we are confident that it will be regarded as one of the leading Indian OTT players shortly as we have a strong content library catering to classes and masses alike with consistent hit shows across genres.”

    The company continues its strategy to drive deeper audience engagement by creating quality and content-driven shows that are targeted at a mass audience seeking differentiated stories. Currently, the engagement time stands at 62+ mins, with watch time at 16.19 billion minutes. Video views stand at 1.37 billion cumulative to date.

    Some of our shows continue to be highly rated and popular amongst our audiences, especially the youth, and also include our immensely popular niche reality competition show (that was released last quarter). 

    TV Business

    In Q1 FY23, Balaji’s TV business continued at normal for three months with 246.5+ hours of production across 8 shows compared to 174.5 hours in Q1 FY22. Two more TV shows are lined up across genres for the next quarter. ‘Apnapan’ was launched in Q1 FY23 which generated a good audience response.

    Kapoor said, “As always, we are confident that our content will strike a chord with audiences as our storytelling is backed by strong creative capabilities which drive our business growth.”

    Movie business 

    In terms of movies, “Ek Villain Returns” starring John Abraham and Arjun Kapoor, was released on 29 July to positive reviews, earning 51 crore plus at the box office. 

    Kapoor said, “Considering that theatres are now operating at 100 percent capacity, we are confident that our movie business will be back on track given that we have six more movies up for release in FY23, out of which two films are ready to release stage, three films in post-production stage and one film under production. We have pre-locked exciting revenue deals on our movies slate, thereby de-risking our movie business segment.”

  • Anjana Om Kashyap to lead India Today Group’s new digital platform Aaj Tak 2

    Anjana Om Kashyap to lead India Today Group’s new digital platform Aaj Tak 2

    Mumbai: The India Today Group has launched Aaj Tak 2, a brand extension of its flagship Hindi news channel Aaj Tak.

    In an internal communication sent to their staff this morning, India Today Group vice-chairperson Kalli Purie stated, “For now, Aaj Tak 2 will be available on aajtak.in and Aaj Tak digital platforms.”

    Purie further added, “This is the beginning of an exciting new journey for our much loved, all-pervasive brand Aaj Tak. Aaj Tak 2 will unshackle Aaj Tak from the boundaries of a linear medium. It gives us the chance to bring the Aaj Tak brand of journalistic rigour to more than one news story simultaneously.”

    He said, “We have always been the news choice of Indians and the non-linear opportunities of digital give us the chance to create a parallel channel of news more appropriate for the younger audiences.”

    Anjana Om Kashyap will lead Aaj Tak 2 in addition to her current responsibilities at Aaj Tak.

    Purie said, “To lead this super exciting new venture, I am happy to appoint our very own Anjana Om Kashyap. Anjana will spearhead AT2 in addition to her current responsibilities at Aaj Tak 1. Anjana played a key role in the founding days of News Tak, building it up into the force it is today. I hope that her experience, enthusiasm and nose for news will help us create another unmissable channel. She will report to Supriya Prasad for this new initiative.”