ITV

Category: Viewership

  • Zee Media, Havas Play and Namami Gange launch ‘Ganga Kinare’

    Zee Media, Havas Play and Namami Gange launch ‘Ganga Kinare’

    Mumbai: To celebrate the harmonious blend of music, culture, and environmental consciousness, Havas Play, Zee Media, and Namami Gange has come together to launch a unique music festival ‘Ganga Kinare’ on the ghats of Varanasi. The inaugural edition of the festival will take place on Saturday, 9 December 2023. The initiative aims to celebrate the cultural richness of Varanasi and raise awareness about the significance of the holy river Ganga.

    Nestled against the timeless ghats of Varanasi, the Ganga Kinare Music Festival promises an unforgettable sojourn, a symphony that reverberates through the sacred waters of the Ganga. Beyond being a melodic extravaganza, this grand celebration is a poignant ode to the purity and essence of rivers. Beyond the enchanting performances, the Ganga Kinare Music Festival aspires to be a catalyst for change, calling upon its attendees to become stewards of river preservation, fostering a lasting bond between the festival-goers and the sacred waters that flow through the heart of Varanasi.

    Aligned with the globally recognized ‘Namami Gange Programme’ championed by the United Nations, the festival transcends the realms of entertainment, aspiring to create a dynamic community of river champions. The Ganga Kinare Music Festival aligns with the national mission for a cleaner Ganga. It seeks to build a community dedicated to championing rivers and establishing a unique bond between the younger generation and the holy river. The journey begins in Varanasi in 2023 and will continue through Rishikesh (2024), Prayagraj (2025), Patna (2026), and Kolkata (2027).

    Zee Media Corp Ltd CEO Abhay Ojha highlighted, “At Zee Media, we believe in the power of storytelling through diverse mediums. Our partnership with Havas Play and Namami Gange, stands at the forefront of a cultural and environmental movement. Through this festival, we invite our widespread viewers and readers to not just witness but actively participate in the call for river conservation and cultural preservation. Let the music be the bridge that connects us to the soul of Varanasi and the sacred Ganga.”

    Zee Media Corp Ltd CRO Mona Jain further expressed, “Ganga Kinare Music Festival is a testament to the transformative power of music and its ability to unite people in celebration. We firmly believe in the profound impact of cultural initiatives and are thrilled to be part of this initiative that harmonizes the beats of our traditions with the melodies of the Ganges, fostering a deeper connection with our roots and a commitment to the conservation of our sacred rivers.”

    Interestingly, Havas Play will ensure a seamless blend of cultural immersion and entertainment, leveraging digital and social media exposure to extend the festival’s reach. Collaborations with headline artists will include exclusive content creation and behind-the-scenes access. Speaking on the collaboration, Havas Play MD and Havas Media president investments R. Venkatasubramanian said, “India’s rich legacy continues to influence and enthral people from around the world. It is critical that we find newer ways to celebrate them and pass on the legacy to the newer generation. Music is the universal language that binds people across all age groups, and transcends geographies. Hence Ganga Kinare Music Festival blends in the power of music in the historic city of Varanasi on the banks of the holy Ganga. The Festival aspires not just to captivate audiences but to crescendo into a global festival deeply rooted in India’s history, evolving with the beats of our collective journey.”

    At its core, the event seeks to forge a unique connection between the younger generation and the holy Ganga, weaving together the threads of music and cultural heritage to illuminate the path of river preservation. This initiative encourages an enduring dedication to the preservation of our revered waters and the safeguarding of our rich cultural heritage.

  • Inside NSG: Honours 26/11 heroes on National Geographic India

    Inside NSG: Honours 26/11 heroes on National Geographic India

    Mumbai: As India solemnly commemorates the 15 anniversary of the horrific 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, it stands as an unwavering symbol of strength and resilience. Remembering the great sacrifice of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and other martyrs of NSG, National Geographic India proudly unveils its upcoming documentary ‘Inside NSG,’ a testament to the gallant hard work, resilience, and professional commitment of the NSG commandos. Premiering on 26 November at 8 pm, Inside NSG a 44-minute documentary, is a never-seen-before glimpse into the elite anti-terror force of India. Filmed with multiple cameras on the ground and air, Inside NSG is a look behind the scenes at the NSG, as a world-class zero-error force.

    Embed link: https://youtu.be/11bPlrEwwO8

    The overarching story is of the efficiency of the many different competencies of the NSG. From the counter-terror, and counter-hijack operations; to the close protection force; and the state-of-the-art bomb detection and disposal squad and the National Bomb Data Center.

    At another level, Inside NSG follows the story of a young officer who aspires to become a Black Cat Commando of the National Security Guard. The film follows his journey as he tries to clear the three-month commando conversion course followed by the six-week unit induction course. The filming is raw, visceral, and inspiring, leaving the viewer amazed at the strength and endurance required of an NSG commando.

    At every level, Inside NSG shows the patriotism and bravery of a force like this one. A legacy forged with sacrifice and blood while protecting India. Besides the 26/11 attacks, the film provides a brief glimpse into previous operations such as the Pathankot and Akshardham Temple incidents, highlighting the crucial role played by the NSG in upholding national security.

    “At NSG, we stand firm against terrorists who threaten the integrity of our nation. Through intense training, we forge ourselves to confront any adversity and execute counter-terrorism missions. We are glad to have a credible brand like National Geographic depict our efforts, as they capture the very essence and emotion of Sarvatra, Sarvottam, Suraksha which is NSG’s motto. Their bold, powerful, and thought-provoking style of storytelling unveils the true essence of being an NSG commando” said NSG director general.

    “At National Geographic, we harness the transformative power of storytelling and exploration to tell stories that can change the way we see the world. ‘Inside NSG’ is a part of our commitment to bring forward the best stories about our elite forces and provide our audience with a deeper understanding of the remarkable journey of the ‘black cats.’ We are honored that the NSG selected our channel to present this inspiring film to our viewers. Their valour echoes in every frame, imprinting upon us the sheer spirit of sacrifice and unwavering dedication.” said a National Geographic spokesperson.

    Inside NSG will premiere on National Geographic in India at 8 PM on 26 November 2023.

  • Zee TV’s Ikk Kudi Punjab Di: A gripping tale of resilience!

    Zee TV’s Ikk Kudi Punjab Di: A gripping tale of resilience!

    Mumbai: Meet Heer Kaur Virk, a beautiful, vibrant young woman born into a Jatt family of Punjab. Lovingly called chatori for being a hopeless foodie, this vivacious Sikhni is an aspiring lawyer. Her father is her weakness and strength and has taught her to stand up for what’s right, no matter what! Her biggest priority has always been the well-being of her family and her father.  However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she marries into the Atwal family. After a life-altering incident turns her world upside down, the show captures Heer’s journey of drawing from her inner strength, confronting injustice, and rising like a phoenix from the ashes. While the beautiful Tanisha Mehta breathes life into the character of Heer, television heartthrob Avinesh Rekhi will play her childhood friend, Ranjeet aka Ranjha who stands by her side and lets no harm ever come her way! Produced by Dome Entertainment, Ikk Kudi Punjab Di will premiere on 21 November and will air every day at 7 PM on Zee TV.

    Zee TV business head Aparna Bhosle said, “With Ikk Kudi Punjab Di, we introduce our audience to Heer and her journey of transformation and resilience after a life-altering incident. We’re pleased to collaborate with Dome Entertainment once again and bring forth this inspiring narrative of strength.”  

    Dome Entertainment producers Mohamad Morani and Mazhar Nadiadwala said, “Our next fiction show with Zee TV captures the pulse of Punjab. It’s an intense family drama capturing Heer’s spirited struggle for asserting her truth and standing up to injustice. With childhood friend Ranjha as the wind beneath her wings, the way she faces adversity with fierce determination will have viewers rooting for her. We have a strong cast on board and we’ve shot extensively across real locations of Chandigarh and Amritsar to ensure authenticity.”

    Avinesh Rekhi said, “With a character like Ranjha, I am looking forward to changing the perception of what an ideal man should be like. I believe that the storyline and the narrative of the show is gripping and it will surely touch your hearts. In fact, Ikk Kudi Punjab Di showcases the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of relationships. My fans have showered me with immense love for my previous shows and I hope they support me in this new journey as well.”

    Tanisha Mehta said, “I am thrilled to be a part of Ikk Kudi Punjab Di and bring a character like Heer to life. It has been a fascinating experience running through the by lanes of Punjab, shooting beautiful as well as dramatic sequences for the show. It is a gripping tale of love, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of a unique friendship. I believe Heer’s character has been developed very thoughtfully. I am really looking forward to the audience’s reactions to my character as well as this show.”  

    To witness this magical tale, watch Ikk Kudi Punjab Di, starting 21 November, every day at 7 PM only on Zee TV! 

  • Colors Bangla Cinema unveils the Great Blockbuster League

    Colors Bangla Cinema unveils the Great Blockbuster League

    Mumbai: As the cricket season winds down, Colors Bangla Cinema has the perfect solution to your post-match blues! Brace yourselves for a mind-blowing, power-packed extravaganza as Colors Bangla Cinema presents the Great Blockbuster League, set to kick off from 18th November 2023 onwards.

    Prepare for a cinematic event that aims to captivate and entertain. The Great Blockbuster League is more than just a cinema celebration; it’s a grand spectacle uniting Bengal’s top stars for an unforgettable entertainment experience.  

    Get ready to be part of a thrilling cinematic journey with iconic movies like:

    1   MLA Fatakeshto starring Mithun Chakraborty, Debashree Roy and Soumitra Chatterjee

    2   Saathi starring Jeet and Priyanka Upendra

    3   Rehmat Ali starring Mithun Chakraborty and Rituparna Sengupta

    4   Awara starring Jeet and Sayantika Banerjee

    5   Challenge starring Dev and Subhashree Ganguly

    6   Bojhena Se Bojhena starring Soham Chakraborty and Mimi Chakraborty

    7   Shoshurbari Zindabad starring Prosenjit Chatterjee and Rituparna Sengupta

    Colors Bangla and Colors Bangla Cinema business head Sagnik Ghosh shared, ‘As the cricket fever subsides, Colors Bangla Cinema steps up to keep the audience unified through the seven colours of cinema. Let the game of entertainment commence, and may the blockbusters reign supreme with the curtain rising on the Great Blockbuster League.’

    Mark your calendars, set your reminders, and prepare for the ultimate entertainment showdown, the Great Blockbuster League exclusively on Colors Bangla Cinema from 18 November onwards, around the clock.

  • Earnings release for the quarter ended 30 September, 2023

    Earnings release for the quarter ended 30 September, 2023

    Mumbai: Sun TV Network Ltd, one of the largest television broadcasters in India, operates satellite television channels across six languages of Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Bangla and Marathi, airs FM radio stations across India and owns the SunRisers Hyderabad Cricket Franchise of the Indian Premier League, SunRisers Eastern Cape of Cricket South Africa’s T20 League and the digital OTT platform Sun NXT.

    For the quarter ended 30 September 2023, the revenues for the quarter was up by 27.82  per cent at Rs 1,017.98 crores as against Rs 796.43 crores for the corresponding quarter ended 30 September’2022. The total income for the quarter was up by 27.48 per cent at Rs 1,125.08 crores as against Rs.882.54 crores for the corresponding quarter ended 30 September’2022. EBITDA for the quarter ended 30th September’2023 moved up by 36.48  per cent at Rs 716.21 crores as against Rs. 524.78 crores for the previous quarter ended 30 September’2022. The profit before taxes for the current quarter also grew by 13.88 per cent to Rs.608.24 crores as against Rs 534.09 crores for the previous quarter ended 30 September’2022. The profit after taxes for the current quarter ended up higher by 13.86 per cent at Rs 456.24 crores as against Rs.400.71 crores for the previous quarter ended 30 September’2022.

    At the Board Meeting held on Friday, the Board of Directors declared an interim dividend of Rs 5.00 per share (100 per cent) on a face value of Rs 5.00 per share.

  • COLORS & Ministry of Women and Child Development join forces to support ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative

    COLORS & Ministry of Women and Child Development join forces to support ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative

    Mumbai: COLORS, India’s leading Hindi GEC, has announced its collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative, to address the issue of girl child abandonment, through the launch of its new fiction show Doree. Television as a medium has played a huge role in holding a mirror to society and led to many women becoming agents of change. With an aim to bring societal change and address the gender bias against girl child, through this association COLORS aims to raise awareness about the social evil of girl child abandonment. In addition to launching a primetime show on the subject, as part of this association, COLORS will promote the 24-hour emergency toll-free Childline India helpline number (1098) for those seeking assistance for any abandoned girl child across the nation. Doree, airing every Monday to Friday at 9:00 pm on COLORS, aims to generate popular conversation and thereby raise awareness on the issue of girl child abandonment.

    Hon’ble Minister of Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs  Smriti Irani said, “Just as a nation’s progress is defined by how it treats its women and children, similarly entertainment’s impact is defined by how it can change mindsets. Under the guidance of our honourable PM Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has made great strides through the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative in changing the way girl child is perceived. I’m glad that our country’s foremost entertainment channel COLORS has joined in this initiative to create a show, Doree on the important but often overlooked issue of girl child abandonment. The channel will be raising awareness of our Childline India 1098 helpline amongst viewers and provide the much-needed popular support to this initiative.”

    Viacom18 CEO – broadcast entertainment Kevin Vaz said, “We are honoured to be partnering with the Ministry of Women and Child Development to raise awareness about the prevalent issue of girl child abandonment through our new show, Doree and the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative. As the country’s most watched primetime entertainment destination, joining forces with the ministry to promote the Childline helpline number through our show is poised to catalyse meaningful behavioural change in society.  We are hopeful that Doree will touch the lives of millions of viewers and bring focus on the social evil of girl child abandonment.”

    The social drama revolves around a six-year-old Doree fighting against a patriarchal society for her rights and features popular television actors Amar Upadhyay as Ganga Prasad, Sudhaa Chandran as Kailashi Devi Thakur, and child actor Mahi Bhanushali as Doree.

    Let’s pledge to bring a change in society with ‘Doree’ premiering tonight at 9 pm and thereafter every Monday to Friday only on COLORS.

  • Eveready & ZEE join hands for a first-of-its-kind brand collaboration

    Eveready & ZEE join hands for a first-of-its-kind brand collaboration

    Mumbai: Eveready, a trusted name in the world of batteries has partnered with ZEE, India’s leading content company to promote its new range of batteries. As part of the brand collaboration, Eveready ULTIMA will feature prominently on ZEE’s popular and homegrown reality shows, including Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, Dance Bangla Dance, Dance Karnataka Dance and Telugu medium I school.. ZEE’s linear channels that are an integral part of the brand association are Zee TV, Zee Sarthak, Zee Tamil, Zee Marathi, Zee Bangla, Zee Kannada and Zee Telugu.

    Eveready ULTIMA will be showcased in the reality shows, and the brand’s logo will be integrated into the shows’ set design, graphics, and on-screen promotions. The battery brand has also worked closely with ZEE to create custom content for the shows, such as sponsored segments and product challenges.

    Commenting on this announcement, Eveready Industries India Ltd Sr VP and SBU head (batteries and flashlights) Anirban Banerjee, “We have recently unveiled our new and improved Ultima range of batteries supported by a 360 campaign ‘Khelenge Toh Sikhenge’. The campaign highlights that children in any family can learn valuable life lessons like caring, sharing, love and equality when playing in daily life with battery operated toys. Thus to keep the child’s play ongoing effortlessly, our new 400% longer lasting Ultima batteries are just perfect. Our collaboration with ZEE seamlessly aligns with the campaign’s objective and values, as majority of ZEE’s shows are packed with energy, fostering a blend of entertainment while actively nurturing the young talents. Eveready is committed towards its mission to empower the youth with the essential support they require for a brighter and more promising future, and our partnership with ZEE amplifies our ability to achieve this noble endeavour.”

    Adding to this, Starcom India COO Niti Kumar said, “At Starcom, we believe that a successful product launch requires a powerful platform that maximises consumer engagement and brand visibility. Such a key communication pillar was vital to drive home Eveready’s new message. ZEE’s reality shows enjoy immense popularity among Indians, which makes it a strong channel for brand collaboration. Accordingly, we forged this first-of-its-kind strategic partnership, which not only introduces Eveready’s robust product offerings but also harnesses ZEE’s expansive reach across diverse regions, languages, and content formats.”

    Eveready ULTIMA recently launched its campaign, ‘Kheloge Toh Bahut Kuch Seekhoge’, which highlights the exceptional longevity of Eveready ULTIMA batteries, perfectly suited to power the modern gadgets and appliances that have become an integral part of daily lives.

  • Warner Bros. Discovery premieres ‘Mission Big Cat’

    Warner Bros. Discovery premieres ‘Mission Big Cat’

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery is delighted to announce “Mission Big Cat,” an exhilarating new anthology dedicated to the mesmerizing world of regal felines. This edition’s captivating lineup will present exclusive content that delves deep into the lives of lions, tigers, leopards, and other awe-inspiring species. Scheduled to premiere on 23 October 2023, on Animal Planet, the series will air from Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM, with a repeat broadcast the following day at 4:00 PM. This unique programming represents a compelling endeavour to unveil the intricacies of these magnificent creatures, providing viewers with insights into their behaviour, predatory skills, family dynamics, and much more.

    The seven-week lineup, running until 15 December, will include shows such as “Big Cat Country,” “Creative Killers,” “Lions vs Hyenas,” “Lethal Attractions,” “Story Of Cats,” “The Lions Queens: Fighting For Survival,” “The Brother’s Pride,” “Brotherhood of Lions,” and “Lions Country: Night & Day.” These shows will shed light on territorial disputes among these magnificent creatures, unveil their ingenious hunting techniques, explore the bonds of brotherhood that bind them, and uncover the fascinating origin stories of these apex predators.

    Watch Mission Big Cat, 23 October onwards, Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM on Animal Planet

  • History TV18 unveils new documentary on India’s Jal Jeevan Mission, ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’

    History TV18 unveils new documentary on India’s Jal Jeevan Mission, ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’

    Mumbai: History TV18 has announced the premiere of its new documentary, Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’, releasing on 23 October, 2023 at 8 p.m. The 40-minute documentary unravels the remarkable story of India’s ambitious ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’, a nationwide initiative aimed at providing permanent water connections to 16 Crore rural households by 2024. The mission is set to quench the thirst of millions of Indians and prevent the impending water crisis in the country.

    Narrated by renowned journalist Richa Anirudh, ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’ takes viewers on an inspiring journey that traces the beginning of India’s water revolution, which started in Gujarat. The film features personalities like Bharat Lal, (Former JJM Mission Director), Ashok Gulati (Agricultural Economist and Professor at ICRIER), Vini Mahajan (Secretary, Jal Shakti Ministry – DDWS), Sunita Narain (Environmentalist – Centre for Science and Environment) and R. K. Sama (Project Director – WASMO, Gujarat), who highlight the tireless efforts of India’s ‘water warriors’, including the inspiring ‘Jal Sahelis’, dedicated ‘Pani Panchayat members’ and ordinary citizens who are making valuable contributions towards water security for all.

    ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’ transcends geographical boundaries as it travels from the parched valleys of Ladakh to traditionally water-stressed regions like Bundelkhand and Vidarbha. It explores the difficulties encountered in areas in and around the Thar desert, and urban coastal landscapes in cities like Chennai.

    While the film highlights the daily struggles of people due to water scarcity, it also showcases the historic milestone of laying water pipelines that reach even the most remote and inaccessible corners of India, transforming ‘Har Ghar Jal se Nal’ into a people’s movement.

    The documentary provides audiences with insights into India’s innovative ‘Water Model,’ a blend of traditional water wisdom and cutting-edge technology. It highlights the revival of traditional water sources, the construction of check dams and watersheds for rainwater harvesting, and the significance of ‘catching the rain where it falls, when it falls.’ The film also explains how technology is empowering individuals and communities while creating new opportunities for livelihood and financial security. It features large-scale projects for water management, desalination, and greywater treatment, as well as satellite mapping, climate-smart farming, and sustainable housing.

    The Jal Jeevan Mission is not only shaping a sustainable and water-secure future for India but also serving as a global model for future initiatives.

    ‘Jal Dhaara: Har Ghar Jal’ premieres on History TV18 on 23 October, 2023 at 8 p.m. and will also be made available on the factual entertainment leader’s YouTube channel.

  • Warner Bros. Discovery India offers festive deals on discovery+ subscriptions

    Warner Bros. Discovery India offers festive deals on discovery+ subscriptions

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery India is ushering in the festive season with enticing offers on discovery+, its definitive non-fiction and real-life entertainment subscription streaming service. Starting from October 25, 2023, viewers can enjoy a flat 25 per cent discount on the discovery+ annual membership, offering a diverse and premium content library of renowned shows.

    discovery+ brings fans a differentiated direct-to-consumer (D2C) streaming experience. With thousands of hours of exclusive content spanning over 55 genres, including Science, Adventure, Food and Lifestyle, and available in seven languages such as Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Bengali. Premium subscribers gain access to a curated selection of never-before-seen premium Discovery titles, must-watch documentaries, homegrown India originals, and exclusive acquisitions. As viewers set out to unwind for the holidays, they can enjoy premium content at reduced prices.

    Warner Bros. Discovery head – Subscriber Growth & Retention, APAC,  Praveen Chaudhary said, “We are delighted to elevate the festivities this season with exclusive discovery+ subscription pricing.  In addition to an extensive premium library, we have a compelling lineup of upcoming releases on the horizon that we know viewers will enjoy. discovery+ has indisputably pioneered the realm of real-life entertainment content in India, offering an extensive array of non-fiction subjects that deeply engage audiences across the country. From standout true crime shows, exhilarating adventure reality series, and delectable culinary delights, there’s something for everyone.”

    Kickstart the festive season and subscribe to discovery+ only at Rs 299 starting 25 October 2023.