Category: Awards

Maruti Suzuki and Zee Cine Awards roll out the red carpet for ‘FANtertainment’

MUMBAI: The glitz and glamour of Hindi cinema found a new crescendo in Mumbai as Maruti Suzuki revved up its engines in support of the 23 Zee Cine Awards 2025. The city, already a bubbling cauldron of cinematic brew, added another feather to its cap with the star-studded event that promises to eclipse previous shows. With a theme that rings close to every cinephile’s heart—’FANtertainment’—this year’s gala is not just another award night; it’s a grand salute to the fan armies that have propelled Hindi cinema to global fame.

Unveiled amid the sparkling lights was the new trophy—a symbol of the inseparable bond between the stars and their supporters. Crafted to perfection, the trophy, revealed by none other than Hindi cinema’s heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, features two intertwined hands forming a heartfelt emblem. A fitting tribute indeed, as the stars and fans come together in a cinematic embrace.

The FANtertainment theme, a brainchild of the creative minds at Zee and Maruti Suzuki, pivots from mere celebration to an outright jubilee of the people behind the curtains—the fans. Tamannaah Bhatia, Vaani Kapoor, and Jacqueline Fernandez, the divas of the night, ignited the stage, not just with their presence but by recreating the iconic heart symbol from the trophy, setting the stage for an epic fan frenzy.

The night also shimmered with promises of innovation and sustainability from Maruti Suzuki senior executive officer – marketing & sales, Partho Banerjee steering the narrative towards the future. “The partnership between Maruti Suzuki and Zee Cine Awards reflects the perfect synergy between innovation and excellence. Just as filmmakers push creative boundaries to craft powerful stories, we at Maruti Suzuki are redefining electric mobility with the e VITARA—a bold, masculine SUV that seamlessly blends cutting-edge electric technology with premium interiors. e VITARA is more than just an electric SUV—it is a statement of innovation and progress, embodying the spirit of India’s next-gen mobility. With its advanced performance, stylish design, and sustainable engineering, it represents the future of electric driving in India. This collaboration is a celebration of creativity, performance, and a shared vision for an electrified, sustainable, and exhilarating future—one where mobility meets aspiration, and innovation drives excellence.”

As the stage is set for 17 May at NSCI Dome, Mumbai, the anticipation is palpable. With stars like Aaryan at the helm, celebrating genres from biopics to horror and comedy, the event is more than an awards night—it’s a cultural festival. “This year has been all about pushing my limits—be it exploring genres like biopic, or horror and comedy. Every role I take on is a chance to connect with my audience and fans, and their love is my biggest motivation. Zee Cine Awards’ FANtertainment theme is special because it truly celebrates this connection—where fans don’t just watch cinema, they live it with us. I’m excited to be here and celebrate this beautiful bond,” said Aaryan, capturing the essence of the evening.

With energy drinks flowing courtesy of Hell Energy, the event promises to keep the adrenaline pumping. “Hell Energy Drink – India’s largest energy drink in the can segment is glad to be the part of the biggest celebration of Hindi cinema – Zee Cine Awards. As the proud energy drink partner, we are thrilled to join hands with Zee in celebrating the extravagant world of cinema through the exciting new edition of the 23 Zee Cine Awards 2025. Hell Energy is a choice of millions of Indians as they continue to recharge themselves and chase their dreams. We celebrate the unique taste of Hell Energy with the entertainment that the stars provide on the grand stage of ZCA and honour the best of talent in the world of Indian cinema,” chimed in director Unnikannan Gangadharan adding an effervescent buzz to the affair.

Bhatia said, “It’s only the beginning of the year, but it has already been creatively exciting—balancing different industries, exploring unique roles, and breaking stereotypes. Through it all, the unwavering love from my fans has been my biggest strength. Zee Cine Awards, with FANtertainment, truly celebrates this bond between artists and their fans, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.”

Kapoor said, “I am humbled and forever grateful for the unwavering love and support from my fans and audiences. With an exciting year ahead, I look forward to giving my audiences something truly special and refreshing. Zee Cine Awards’ FANtertainment celebrates the magic of cinema and the unbreakable bond between cinema and its fans. I am thrilled to be a part of this celebration and share this incredible experience with everyone.”

Fernandez etched, “2024 has been a mix of passion projects, thrilling collaborations, and memorable performances. But the real magic comes from the fans—their energy, their dedication, and the way they make every moment count. Zee Cine Awards’ FANtertainment is all about this shared joy of cinema, and I’m so happy to be here to be part of this celebration!”

Zee Entertainment Enterprises CGO Ashish Sehgal summed up, “Zee has always been committed to recognizing and applauding Indian cinema and the incredible talent that drives it forward. Zee Cine Awards stands as a testament to this commitment and has firmly established itself as the ultimate celebration of Indian cinema, uniting the biggest stars, iconic performances and an unparalleled entertainment experience. As a flagship property, it has also become the preferred destination for leading brands to connect with audiences through the magic of cinema.

This year, Maruti Suzuki presents Zee Cine Awards 2025 is set to be more spectacular than ever, featuring a stellar lineup of performances and an electrifying atmosphere. With innovative 360-degree brand engagement opportunities extending across pre-event buzz, seamless integrations during the event and sustained post-event amplification, it offers sponsors a massive platform for unmatched visibility and impact. Going LIVE from NSCI Dome, Mumbai, on 17th May, we promise an unforgettable night of cinematic brilliance that fans simply cannot afford to miss.”

With that commitment, the 23 Zee Cine Awards is set to redefine the standards of cinematic accolades, making it an unmissable event that promises not just to showcase, but to celebrate the very soul of Hindi cinema.

March 21, 2025
Business Today MindRush returns with top leaders decoding disruption at Vucanomics 2025 in Mumbai

MUMBAI: Global disruptions, economic turbulence, and CEOs dancing through chaos—sounds like the perfect storm waiting to hit Mumbai! Hold onto your hats because Business Today’s MindRush 2025 is about to turbocharge the narrative. Gathering the sharpest minds and slickest suits, BT MindRush will speed into Mumbai on 22 March, transforming global upheaval into growth opportunities faster than you can say ‘Vucanomics’.

Taking place at the swanky Sofitel in BKC, the 13 edition of this flagship event will see India’s corporate titans swapping survival tips and secret sauces for thriving amidst turmoil. “Vucanomics 2025: Thriving in Turmoil – Turning Global Disruptions into Growth” isn’t just catchy; it’s an entire blueprint for business brilliance.

Headlining this leadership carnival will be luminaries like India’s road transport czar Nitin Gadkari; diplomatic heavyweight S. Jaishankar; and NSE India boss Ashish Chauhan. Throw in Kumar Mangalam Birla, Harsh Mariwala, Praveer Sinha, Kishor Patil, and PwC India’s Sanjeev Krishan, and you’ve got more star power than a Hindi cinema blockbuster.

From fiery keynote speeches to razor-sharp panel discussions, BT MindRush will dish out lessons in leadership, innovation, and grabbing disruption by the horns. This year’s edition won’t be for the faint-hearted, promising ‘ample networking opportunities’—corporate speak for ‘bring your best elevator pitch or stay home.’

The crème de la crème will also get their moment in the spotlight with the prestigious BT India’s Best CEOs Awards. These won’t be your run-of-the-mill trophies—winners will be selected through the intense BT-PwC India’s Best CEOs survey, honouring those who have turned volatility into victory.

March 21, 2025
Bharat Pavilion makes debut at Hong Kong Filmart

MUMBAI: India’s film industry has gone global, with the Bharat Pavilion at Hong Kong’s International Film & TV Market (Filmart, 17-20 March) being unveiled a couple of days ago. The pavilion, inaugurated by Hong Kong & Macau’s consul general of India, Satwant Khanalia, marked a milestone moment in India’s cinematic outreach. Filmart concludes today in Hongkong.

Spearheaded by the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the initiative was a power play to boost Indian cinema’s global footprint. Backed by the consulate general of India, Hong Kong & Macau, the pavilion was positioned as a launchpad for cross-border partnerships, international co-productions and market expansion.

“India’s film industry is one of the world’s largest, telling stories that transcend borders. The Bharat Pavilion is a new chapter in global collaborations, unlocking fresh opportunities for Indian cinema,” said Khanalia.

NFDC also spotlighted Waves – The World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit, set to hit Mumbai from 1-4 May 2025. Billed as a premier content hub, the event will pull in industry titans, innovators and investors, pushing India as the epicentre of global content creation and trade.

NFDC, a veteran in promoting Indian cinema at Cannes, Berlinale and Filmart, continues to drive co-productions, market expansion and distribution deals. The Bharat Pavilion was the latest jewel in its crown, offering Indian filmmakers a fast-track to international markets.

The opening day saw a whirlwind of activity—networking frenzies, industry huddles, and high-stakes talks on co-productions and content sales. Indian producers, distributors and filmmakers seized the moment, pitching projects, shaking hands, and scouting fresh markets.

March 20, 2025
2025 Golden Globes honour excellence across film and television

MUMBAI: In the glittering heart of Hollywood, where dreams take centre stage and stardust fills the air, the 2025 Golden Globes unfolded like a cinematic masterpiece.

A night of dazzling gowns, heartfelt speeches, and golden statuettes, it brought together the brightest stars of film and television under one resplendent roof. With every applause and every tear of triumph, the evening celebrated not just winners, but the art of storytelling itself—a timeless homage to creativity, talent, and the magic of the silver screen.

The 80th Golden Globe Awards celebrated the brightest talents in entertainment, with The Brutalist and Shogun emerging as standout winners. Adrien Brody led the charge for The Brutalist, earning the Best Actor in a Drama award, while Brady Corbet claimed Best Director, and the film itself secured Best Motion Picture Drama.

In the comedy and musical realm, Emilia Pérez dominated, winning Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy, and Best Non-English Language Film. Zoe Saldaña’s emotional performance won her Best Supporting Actress, and the film’s El Mal earned Best Original Song.

The night’s television accolades were led by Shogun, which won all four of its nominations, including Best Television Series, Drama. Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai triumphed in acting categories, solidifying the show’s impact. Hacks reclaimed its place in comedy as Best Television Series, Musical or Comedy, with Jean Smart winning Best Actress.

Fernanda Torres surprised audiences by winning Best Actress in a Drama for I’m Still Here, while Demi Moore earned her first Golden Globe for The Substance. Colin Farrell’s portrayal in The Penguin garnered him Best Actor in a Limited Series, and Tadanobu Asano’s performance in Shogun earned him Best Supporting Actor in Television.

Top honours across categories

. Best Motion Picture, Drama: The Brutalist

. Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy: Emilia Pérez

. Best Animated Film: Flow

. Cinematic and Box Office Achievement: Wicked

. Best Director: Brady Corbet, The Brutalist

The Golden Globes 2025 proved that creativity and storytelling remain at the forefront of entertainment. With powerful narratives and diverse voices celebrated, the awards set the stage for an exciting year in the industry.

January 7, 2025
ITV Network honours UP’s bravest at Shaurya Samman 2025

MUMBAI: Heroes aren’t born; they are forged in the fires of courage and sacrifice.

While the nation sleeps, they stand guard, embodying resilience and patriotism.

The Shaurya Samman 2025, hosted by ITV Network and India News at Lucknow’s iconic Taj Mahal Hotel, became a beacon of gratitude on 6 January, illuminating the heroic tales of Uttar Pradesh’s police, paramilitary, and army personnel. In a night of honour and reverence, leaders, dignitaries, and citizens united to celebrate those who shield the nation’s soul with unflinching determination and unmatched bravery.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath graced the occasion as the chief guest and presented the Shaurya Samman awards to the families of fallen heroes, including Lance Naik Martyr Sudama Ram, Major Martyr Narendra Kumar Tuli, and Martyr captain Manoj Pandey, among others. Adityanath also honoured retired major Dhirendra Nath Singh, a Veer Chakra awardee for his gallant efforts during the 1965 war.

The chief minister lauded ITV Network’s initiative, emphasising that paying homage to the sacrifices of martyrs is a fundamental duty that fosters national unity. “A martyr’s sacrifice defines a community’s essence, infusing society with renewed vitality,” he stated. He further highlighted the pivotal role of security forces in safeguarding the nation under arduous conditions and referenced PM Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047, urging collective effort in achieving this ambitious goal.

The Shaurya Samman ceremony also recognised UP’s leading figures from various walks of life, including actors Vineet Kumar Singh, Kushal Tandon, and Aahana Kumra. Dignitaries like Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma and deputy CM Brajesh Pathak commended the state’s police force for its relentless efforts in maintaining law and order. ADG Amitabh Yash reaffirmed Uttar Pradesh’s strengthened security framework, while Pathak highlighted the state’s strides toward development and safety.

The Sunday Guardian Foundation chairperson Aishwarya Pandit Sharma extended gratitude to Adityanath and reaffirmed ITV Network’s commitment to honouring the nation’s brave-hearts. “We remain steadfast in recognising the sacrifices and service of our heroes, ensuring their legacy inspires generations,” she said.

The event underscored the vital importance of honouring those who ensure national security and called for a continued commitment to fostering an equitable and secure society.

January 7, 2025
AR Rahman & KM Music Conservatory introduce the Bharat Maestro Awards

MUMBAI: In a country where music connects generations, the Bharat Maestro Awards have been established to recognise and inspire talent.

Initiated by composer AR Rahman and the KM Music Conservatory, the awards celebrate the legacy of Indian classical music while supporting emerging artists.

“The greatest joy of a guru is to witness the success and growth of their students, and it is this bond that the Bharat Maestro Awards seeks to celebrate. The idea behind instituting this is for it to be more than just an award; it’s about connecting the past, present, and future of music, and uniting us all through the language of sound,” said AR Rahman.

The conservatory aims to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, creating opportunities for young artists to develop their craft while remaining connected to India’s cultural fabric. “With this annual award being instituted, I want to support building an ecosystem that will also fuel immersive experiences in the arena of music,” Rahman added.

The Bharat Maestro Awards will celebrate young musicians, lifetime achievements in teaching, and contributions from Indian states to the musical landscape. Music legends such as Asha Bhosle, Amjad Ali Khan, and Bombay Jayashri will mentor aspiring artists, foster talent and inspirie younger audiences through innovative presentations and performances.

January 6, 2025
IFFI 2024: A cinematic extravaganza celebrating art, culture, and innovation

Mumbai: The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has long been a beacon of cinematic excellence, and its 55th edition promises to be no exception. Scheduled from 20-28 November 2024 in the vibrant state of Goa, IFFI 2024 is poised to be a celebration of art, culture, and innovation, attracting cinema enthusiasts from around the globe. From a dazzling opening ceremony to a thrilling array of performances, premieres, and cultural events, this year’s festival sets a new standard for cinematic grandeur.

IFFIESTA, an electrifying celebration of art, music, and culture, will take centre stage at the Kala Academy, Panaji. This interactive experience will blend cinema with live performances, showcasing India’s unparalleled cultural diversity. Regional and traditional troupes from across the nation will light up the festival with their vibrant displays. The highlight, a grand parade themed “Celebrating the Joy of Cinema”, will feature local float designers and parade groups presenting breathtaking creativity.

IFFIESTA will also host an entertainment lineup featuring iconic artists such as Asees Kaur, Paradox, When Chai Met Toast, and The Yellow Diary, alongside emerging talents like Anumita Nadesan and DJ The Spindoctor. With food, music, and art in abundance, IFFIESTA will immerse attendees in the magic of Indian culture.

The festival will begin with a glittering opening ceremony on 20 November 2024 at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Goa. The Australian film “Better Man”, directed by Michael Gracy, will set the tone as the opening film, celebrating the life of British pop icon Robbie Williams.

Cinematic legends and film personalities, including Subhash Ghai, Bhumi Pednekar, and Randeep Hooda, will grace the red carpet alongside chief minister Pramod Sawant and union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Attendees will witness awe-inspiring cultural performances, a nostalgic Bollywood dance medley, and a poetic tribute to cinematic icons such as Raj Kapoor and Mohammed Rafi.

IFFI 2024 will focus on nurturing young filmmaking talent through the ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ initiative, which has expanded to support 100 young filmmakers. A newly instituted Best Indian Debut Director Award will honour emerging creators with a Silver Peacock and a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh.

Masterclasses led by renowned personalities, including A.R. Rahman, Shabana Azmi, and international guests such as Philip Noyce, will offer invaluable insights to aspiring filmmakers.

This year’s festival will feature 180 international films from 81 countries, with 16 world premieres and 43 Asian premieres. The International Competition section includes 15 feature films vying for the coveted Golden Peacock and a Rs 40 lakh cash prize.

Australia, the Country of Focus, will showcase its cinematic brilliance through a dedicated film package. Philip Noyce, the acclaimed Australian director, will receive the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award.

IFFI 2024 will be its most inclusive edition yet, featuring live Indian sign language interpretation and accessibility features at all venues. Eco-friendly practices will be implemented throughout the festival, emphasising sustainability.

With over 270 films, 25 masterclasses, and immersive cultural events, IFFI 2024 promises a week-long celebration of creativity, storytelling, and innovation. The festival will conclude on 28th November with an awards ceremony recognising cinematic excellence.

Save the dates and join the magic as IFFI 2024 redefines the essence of cinema.

November 20, 2024
T.V. Today Network shines at SAFA BPA Awards 2023

Mumbai: T.V. Today Network Ltd has been awarded the Silver Award in the Service Sector category at the SAFA BPA (Best Presented Annual Reports) Awards 2023. The recognition by the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) underscores the organization’s dedication to excellence in financial reporting.

SAFA, a network partner of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), represents eleven leading accountancy bodies across South Asia with a membership exceeding 475,000 professionals. The organization is a key driver in promoting transparency, accountability and governance across the region.

The Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2022-23 was evaluated by SAFA’s Committee for Improvement in Transparency, Accountability & Governance. It was selected for its high-quality presentation and adherence to applicable financial reporting standards, setting a benchmark within the service sector.

Earlier this year, the annual report also received the Silver Shield in the Service Sector category for “Excellence in Financial Reporting” from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). This recognition led to its nomination to SAFA, reflecting its consistent commitment to meeting the highest standards in financial reporting.

The award was conferred to Yatender Kumar Tyagi, CFO T.V. Today Network during a ceremony on 11 November 2024, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, attended by eminent leaders in finance and business.

November 13, 2024
Zee Zest Unlimit Awards returns for the third edition

Mumbai: Zee Zest, an Indian lifestyle platform, has announced the third edition of the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2025, which honor the visionaries and innovators shaping the future of food, travel, and lifestyle.

For this edition, Zee Zest invites pioneering establishments—from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to fine dining restaurants and nightlife destinations—to showcase their contributions and stand out in the industry. With 40 categories available, businesses have the opportunity to gain recognition for their creativity and impact. Entries will be reviewed by a panel of industry leaders, including Rashmi Uday Singh, Varun Sharma, Avinash Martins, Aditi Dugar, and Suvir Saran, ensuring a thorough evaluation. Public voting will also allow consumers to participate in selecting their favorite innovative establishments.

Nominations for all categories are open from 15 October to 30 November 2024, with early bird submissions closing on 31 October 2024. Establishments of all sizes are encouraged to participate, whether they are boutique hotels or trend-setting bars. This is an opportunity to gain visibility and make an impact in the industry.

Zee Zest business head Rishi Parekh added: “The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards celebrate the trailblazers who redefine the boundaries of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. We’re proud to recognise the changemakers who push the limits in food, travel, and lifestyle, offering something truly exceptional. These awards are not just about recognition; they provide an invaluable opportunity for establishments to make a lasting impact on their industry. Our 2025 edition of the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards will continue to focus on identifying these iconic places and celebrating their innovative spirit.”

Building on last year’s success, which honored iconic places like Sidecar in Delhi, Subko Coffee Roasters in Mumbai, Avartana at ITC Grand Chola, and The Glass House in Goa, this year’s event promises to be equally impressive. The ceremony will feature celebrities including Bobby Deol, Chitrangda Singh, Babil Khan, Atul Kasbekar, and Manoj Bajpayee, alongside culinary stars like Ranveer Brar and Pankaj Bhadouria. The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2025 aims to provide establishments with a platform to showcase their excellence. The event celebrates creativity, vision, and the pursuit of excellence.

November 5, 2024
Disney Star celebrates five wins at Digital Studios Awards 2024

Mumbai: Disney Star’s Broadcast Technology and Operations (BTO) team brought home five awards at the Digital Studios Awards 2024, underscoring its commitment to excellence in broadcast technology and operational innovation.

At the individual level, Gajendra Tijare from Disney Star received the Excellence in Broadcast Leadership award for his visionary contributions in shaping the future of broadcast technology. The team subsequently received the Excellence in Broadcasting award, celebrating their significant advancements in broadcast processes that have enhanced operational efficiency.

Disney Star also earned the Excellence in Broadcasting and Technology for Entertainment and Sports award, recognising exceptional delivery of broadcast experiences that resonate with audiences. Additionally, they received the Innovation in Broadcasting award for pioneering advancements in 4K UHD solutions, showcasing their commitment to cutting-edge technology. The Innovation in Post Production award further recognised Disney Star’s cloud-based post-production approach, which has set new standards in content creation.

“We are honored to receive these prestigious awards, which recognize the hard work and dedication of our talented team at Disney Star. These awards reflect our unwavering commitment to advancing broadcast technology and our passion for delivering exceptional experiences to the audiences,” said Disney Star finance & strategy Mani Rangarajan.

October 29, 2024