Category: Drama Series

  • GoQuest gets new distribution   deals for Turkish Drama Kuma going

    GoQuest gets new distribution deals for Turkish Drama Kuma going

    MUMBAI: It’s quest to go further global has met with more success. Indian content distribution firm GoQuest Media has secured licensing deals in additional territories for it first co-production, the Turkish family drama Kuma (The Other Wife): Latvia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, and Kenya.

    These new agreements build on earlier sales announced at Mipcom 2024, which included Hungary, Romania, and India. The series, produced by Stellar Yapim, completed production in October 2024 and has since debuted on television.

    Further distribution deals were recently closed by co-producers VIP 2000 TV, extending Kuma’s reach to Paraguay, Peru, and Panama.

    Set against the rugged landscapes of eastern Turkey, Kuma (The Other Wife) tells the gripping story of Ceylan, a woman falsely accused of murder. Forced into becoming the second wife of Karan — the brother of the man she is accused of killing — Ceylan navigates a complex family dynamic while fighting to clear her name. The drama explores themes of love, redemption, and resilience.

    GoQuest Media, headquartered in Mumbai with offices in the UK and Vietnam, specialises in the global distribution of high-quality international dramas and scripted formats. The company’s curated catalogue includes titles featured on major platforms such as Disney+ Hotstar, Globoplay, SBS, Voyo, and Telemundo. It has a sales presence in Istanbul and the Central and Eastern Europe region.     

  • Shemaroo Umang to debut Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain in primetime

    Shemaroo Umang to debut Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain in primetime

    MUMBAI: What happens when centuries-old family traditions meet modern twists? Shemaroo Umang’s latest show, Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain, dares to flip the script on inheritance, hierarchy, and familial power dynamics.

    Set against the opulent backdrop of Rajasthan, this gripping family drama premieres 27 January 2025, airing Monday to Saturday at 9:00 pm. With a plot brimming with twists, stellar performances, and emotional depth, this show promises to keep viewers glued to their screens.

    Produced by Natkhat Productions, helmed by renowned writer and producer Raghuvir Shekhawat, the show explores an age-old Indian tradition: passing the keys of the family haveli to the eldest daughter-in-law. But what if this cherished custom takes an unexpected turn? Enter Chaina, played by the vivacious Diksha Dhami, the youngest daughter-in-law of the haveli, who disrupts the family’s power dynamics with her charm, wit, and resilience.

    Joining Chaina’s journey is Sheel Verma, portraying the enigmatic Jayveer, and Ishita Ganguly, who takes on the role of the scheming sister-in-law Chamkeeli, determined to challenge the new order in the family. Set in the grandeur of Rajasthan’s aristocratic traditions, the show follows the mystery surrounding Chaina’s unexpected rise as the Chhoti Thakurain and her battle to navigate shifting allegiances, jealousy, and secrets hidden within the haveli’s grand walls.

    Shemaroo Entertainment COO of broadcasting business, Sandeep Gupta expressed his excitement, “Television audiences today crave content that resonates on a deeper emotional level. ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain’ is a refreshing break from conventional melodrama. The show introduces strong, complex characters and relatable dynamics that families will enjoy watching together. This marks our second collaboration with Raghuvir Shekhawat, and we’re confident it will leave an indelible mark in the primetime slot.”

    Shekhawat shared his passion for the project, saying, “This show is more than a story; it’s a reflection of the changing dynamics within Indian families. While the ‘saas-bahu’ trope has reigned supreme, the often-overlooked relationship between the jethani (eldest daughter-in-law) and devrani (youngest daughter-in-law) holds untapped potential. With ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain,’ I aim to bring this dynamic to the forefront in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.”

    Shekhawat also celebrated the launch of Natkhat Productions, calling this show his ‘first baby’ and a personal milestone in his two-decade career.

    With its intricate storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performances, Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain promises to redefine family dramas. The show captures the essence of tradition while exploring themes of empowerment, resilience, and transformation. Viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises that will resonate long after the credits roll.

  • Zee-Indira IVF shine a light on infertility with mini-series Vitromates

    Zee-Indira IVF shine a light on infertility with mini-series Vitromates

    MUMBAI: Zee TV, known for pushing the boundaries of storytelling, has launched Vitromates, an emotionally resonant mini-series tackling the challenges of infertility.

    The show is part of the ‘Zee Mini Series’ format, a revolutionary approach designed to captivate modern audiences with its bite-sized, seven-episode stories. But here’s the kicker: Zee has partnered with Indira IVF to bring authenticity and awareness to this sensitive topic.

    Do we talk about infertility enough? Probably not. And that’s precisely why Vitromates is here—to tell stories that matter and, hopefully, shatter some taboos along the way.

    The series introduces Kriti, a widow contemplating IVF to fulfil her late husband Ved’s dream of parenthood. At Dr. Tejaswini’s IVF clinic, Kriti reconnects with three women—Maya, Madhuri, and Asha—each grappling with their own fertility struggles. Together, they form the ‘Vitromates’, a circle of support that embodies resilience, friendship, and hope.

    From Maya’s financial struggles to Madhuri’s marital doubts and Asha’s secret IVF journey amid family tensions, the show masterfully navigates the emotional rollercoaster of infertility. And the ending? A heartwarming testament to human strength and new beginnings.

    This collaboration with Indira IVF aims to normalise conversations around infertility—a condition that affects millions but is often swept under the rug. Did you know only 2 per cent of affected individuals seek treatment? Through Zee’s vast network of TV channels, digital platform Zee5, and an expansive social media presence, Vitromates brings this topic into the limelight.

    Zee chief growth officer Ashish Sehgal shared his excitement,  “At Zee, we are dedicated to crafting innovative solutions tailored to meet the partner brands’ unique needs and with Vitromates, we’ve redefined how socially relevant messaging can be seamlessly integrated into storytelling. This collaboration with Indira IVF not only highlights an important conversation around infertility but also sets a benchmark for the industry, blending creative storytelling with impactful brand alignment. Through the unique format of the Zee Mini Series, we are excited to present compelling, snackable content that resonates with today’s viewers while creating memorable brand associations for our partners.”

    Indira IVF co-founder Nitiz Murdia echoed this sentiment,  “Vitromates is an attempt to bridge the awareness gap and stigma surrounding infertility, with only 2 per cent of affected individuals seeking treatment. By partnering with Zee TV, the goal is to promote the understanding that infertility is common and treatable, encouraging people to view it as a medical condition that can be addressed with modern technology.”

    The campaign has been meticulously planned by Team Madison, whose representatives expressed their pride in being part of such a groundbreaking initiative. “We are thrilled to be a part of Zee TV’s groundbreaking mini-series, where the emotional and practical challenges faced by individuals on their IVF journey are portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity. The seamless integration of Indira IVF’s state-of-the-art clinics, labs, and expert care into the storyline not only highlights the technical aspects of fertility treatments but also connects deeply with viewers on an emotional level. This collaboration allows us to show the real-life impact of our services, providing hope and reassurance to those considering IVF, all while emphasizing the compassionate and safe environment we offer at every step.”

    Vitromates is more than a mini-series; it’s a conversation starter. Whether you’re looking for relatable stories, a dose of hope, or just great storytelling, this show promises to deliver it all. 

  • Bodhitree Multimedia’s Gunaah season 2 to premier on Disney+Hotsstar  on 3 Jan

    Bodhitree Multimedia’s Gunaah season 2 to premier on Disney+Hotsstar on 3 Jan

    MUMBAI: Come 3 January and Bodhitree Multimedia’s second season of drama Gunaah is going to premier  on Disney+Hotstar.  This new season takes the intensity up a notch, delving deeper into a gripping tale of revenge, betrayal, and love. With more twists, emotional drama, and shocking revelations, it promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It  stars  Abhimanyu (Gashmeer Mahajani), Tara (Surbhi Jyoti), Shiva (Zayn Iqbal Khan), JK (Darshan Pandya) and Michael (Shashank Ketkar) amongst others, 

    Director Anil Senior said, “I’m beyond excited to bring Gunaah Season 2 to our audience. After the overwhelming success of Season 1 on Disney+ Hotstar, we knew we had to raise the stakes even higher. This season isn’t just about revenge and betrayal; it’s about exploring the raw, unfiltered emotions of each character. Their journeys are more complex, and I believe viewers will truly connect with the depth of their struggles. It’s been a thrilling challenge to push the boundaries of storytelling and create an even more intense and immersive experience. I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve put together.” 

    Bodhitree Multimedia producer & managing drector Mautik Tolia added, “The return of Gunaah with its second season is a reflection of the incredible response and love the audience has given to this series. At Bodhitree Multimedia, we strive to create stories that resonate deeply and Gunaah is no exception. This season delves into the complexities of human relationships, blending intense drama with emotions that are both raw and real. It has been an awarding journey bringing this story to life and we are thrilled to take audiences on another unforgettable ride.” 

    Surbhi Jyoti, who plays Tara, expressed, “Season 1 introduced everyone to Tara’s world—her struggles, her relationships, and the weight of her choices. But Season 2 is on a whole new level. Tara is thrown into situations that challenge everything she stands for, pushing her strength and emotions to their very limits. The twists in her relationship with Abhimanyu are heart-wrenching and raw, and I think anyone who has ever wrestled with love, guilt, or redemption will deeply connect with her story. I’m so excited for audiences to see this side of her—it’s emotional, intense, and full of surprises!”   

     Gashmeer Mahajani, who plays Abhimanyu, shared, “Abhimanyu’s journey in Gunaah Season 2 is nothing short of extraordinary. This time, his choices are more difficult, his struggles are more profound, and his vulnerabilities are laid bare. It was both challenging and rewarding to portray his evolution, especially as he navigates the tumultuous relationships and high-stakes decisions that define this season. I’m confident that viewers will resonate with the complexities of his character and the emotional depth of his story.” 

  • Shemaroo Entertainment and PWR Chain announce strategic partnership

    Shemaroo Entertainment and PWR Chain announce strategic partnership

    Mumbai – Shemaroo Entertainment, a prominent media and entertainment leader in India with over sixty years of industry experience, has announced a strategic partnership with PWR Chain, an advanced Layer 0 blockchain infrastructure. Through this alliance, PWR Chain becomes the official blockchain partner for ShemarooVerse, Shemaroo Entertainment’s immersive platform set to deliver next-generation immersive content. This partnership is a landmark step in India’s entertainment and technology landscape, combining Shemaroo Entertainment’s vast content offerings with PWR Chain’s scalable and environmentally efficient blockchain capabilities.

    New Digital Frontiers with ShemarooVerse

    With an expansive digital footprint across more than 50 content channels on YouTube, Shemaroo Entertainment commands over 200 million subscribers and garners 100 million views daily across diverse categories, including Bollywood, regional, television, devotional, and children’s entertainment. ShemarooVerse is designed as a next-generation digital content platform that allows users to explore, discover, and engage with a diverse array of entertainment offerings in a fully immersive environment. The platform will leverage PWR Chain’s high-speed, decentralized infrastructure to create an immersive, interactive digital experience for audiences in India and beyond.

    PWR Chain’s blockchain technology is among the most sustainable on the market, operating with a minimal carbon footprint. Unlike conventional blockchains that require high energy resources, PWR Chain achieves high throughput with minimal power, processing over 300,000 transactions per second while using only a single CPU core per validator node. This efficiency allows ShemarooVerse to scale seamlessly without environmental impact, setting a new standard in green blockchain technology for the entertainment industry.

    As Shemaroo Entertainment transitions its expansive IP portfolio onto the blockchain, PWR Chain’s infrastructure offers creators unique opportunities to monetize their content through tokenization and digital collectibles, a pivotal innovation in India’s content landscape. With PWR Chain’s cost-effective fixed-fee structure, creators can realize predictable revenue while engaging with audiences through exclusive experiences, limited releases, and other novel formats.

    The advanced interoperability and scalability of PWR Chain enable ShemarooVerse to support an array of personalized, interactive features across devices, connecting fans to their favorite content and personalities like never before. ShemarooVerse leverages PWR Chain’s developer-friendly design, the first blockchain that allows the deployment of full software applications in traditional coding languages, making it easy for developers to build both smart contracts and applications. With PWR Chain’s instant finality and quantum-resistant security, ShemarooVerse offers users a secure, dynamic, and immersive digital space for authentic engagement with Shemaroo Entertainment’s iconic content.

    Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd., COO Arghya Chakravarty said, “Partnering with PWR Chain marks a transformative leap in digital engagement for Shemaroo Entertainment. ShemarooVerse will benefit from the speed, scalability, and sustainability of PWR Chain’s blockchain infrastructure, offering audiences a more immersive, secure entertainment experience while providing creators with unique monetization avenues. We are thrilled to bring ShemarooVerse to life in a way that resonates with the evolving preferences of digital consumers.”

    PWR Labs CEO Melanie Mohr added, “Shemaroo Entertainment’s leadership in Indian entertainment provides an ideal platform to demonstrate PWR Chain’s high-performance, eco-friendly blockchain technology. This partnership not only underscores the potential of blockchain for enhancing digital experiences but also positions PWR Chain to drive growth and create engaging opportunities within India’s entertainment industry.” 

  • Sony SAB’s Wagle Ki Duniya highlights financial scam awareness

    Sony SAB’s Wagle Ki Duniya highlights financial scam awareness

    Mumbai: In November 2024, Sony SAB’s Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey captivated viewers with an episode that sheds light on the growing concern of financial scams. In this storyline, Rajesh Wagle’s (played by Sumeet Raghvan) boss, Kiara (Anju Jadhav), falls victim to scammers who impersonate investigating officials, manipulating her into fraudulent financial transactions. Rajesh’s suspicion leads him to step in and prevent further damage.

    This episode draws inspiration from an incident involving Karuna Pandey, known for her role as Pushpa in “Pushpa Impossible”, who experienced a similar scam where impostors posed as authorities to deceive her into acting on unauthorised transactions. By portraying this story, Wagle Ki Duniya aims to educate viewers on recognising and avoiding financial scams, adding a touch of realism that resonates with everyday challenges.

    Raghvan expressed, “Feel proud to be a part of Wagle Ki Duniya as the show consistently brings real-life issues to the forefront. We hope to not only entertain but also educate our audiences about staying vigilant and taking wise action in difficult situations. Through this storyline, we hope to raise awareness about financial scams and encourage viewers to stay informed and cautious.”

    Pandey reflected on the importance of sharing her story: “I truly appreciate how Wagle Ki Duniya is addressing such relevant and relatable issues. Having personally experienced a scam like this, I felt it was essential to share my story. If my experience can help others avoid falling into similar traps, then bringing it to life on the show is more than worthwhile. I’m glad the show has taken up the cause to bring these realities to light in a meaningful way.”

  • Dangal TV’s Mann Sundar gains 44 weeks of leadership in TV ratings

    Dangal TV’s Mann Sundar gains 44 weeks of leadership in TV ratings

    Mumbai: As Dangal TV’s flagship show, Mann Sundar marks an exceptional accomplishment in the Indian television landscape. Since its inception, the show has captivated millions of viewers across India, continuously pushing the boundaries of storytelling while maintaining exceptional viewer engagement. It has firmly held the number one position in viewership ratings, boasting 44 weeks of leadership in the 8 PM time slot (Source: BARC). Mann Sundar is a story that resonates with every household, highlighting the essence of inner beauty, making it not only a popular show but also a cultural phenomenon.

    Dangal TV’s commitment to socially relevant and family-friendly programming has been instrumental in the success of Mann Sundar. The network’s focus on impactful storytelling and relatable content has kept the show at the top of its game, setting new benchmarks for television excellence across India.

    As Dangal TV commemorates this extraordinary milestone, managing director Manish Singhal expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly thankful to our advertisers, stakeholders, and most importantly, our loyal viewers who have supported Mann Sundar on this journey. This success is a result of a collective effort, and we are committed to delivering more groundbreaking content.”

    Mann Sundar airs daily on Dangal TV at 8:00 PM.

    Source: BARC TG 2+ India, Wk’27-Wk’41 2024, All Days 24hrs, Weekly AVG AMA, TV Screens
    Source: BARC TG 2+ HSM Wk 50’23-Wk’41’24 2000 hrs MON-SAT AVG AMA TV Screens

  • Baba Siddique’s tryst with the television fraternity

    Baba Siddique’s tryst with the television fraternity

    MUMBAI: The Nationalist Congress Party’s late Baba Siddique, who was shot dead outside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra yesterday, was not just a power house in political circle and close to Hindi film stars. He, along with his son,  also were pretty close to Indian television personalities, especially the onscreen personalities.

    During his iftaar get togethers, he made sure that Indian television actors were invited. And they came in large numbers. Some he posed with for photographs. Some posed by themselves.

    Among the TV actors who attended his iftaar include: Neil Bhatt, Vahbiz Sorabjee, Jaaved Jaffrey, Eijaz Khan, Sophie Choudhry, Shenaaz Gill, Aamir Ali, Pooja Banerjee, Mahhi Vij, Karishma Tanna, Arjun Bijlani, Aarti Singh, Karan Singh Grover, Adaa Khan, Anikta Lokhande, Vicky Jain, Shweta Tiwari, Hina Khan, Abhishekh Kumar, Aishwarya Bhatt, Jasmin Bhasin, Aashika Bhatia, Sana Khan, Aamna Sharif, Deepshikha Nagpal, Amruta Khanvilkar, Neha Pendse, MC Stan, Karan Tacker, Srishty Rode,  Karan Kundra, Nia Sharma, among many others.

     

    Many of them are in a state of shock, following his killing by three shooters.

     

  • Zee TV presents ‘Hamara Parivar’ show

    Zee TV presents ‘Hamara Parivar’ show

    Mumbai: Over the past three months, Zee TV’s first-of-its-kind audience feedback mechanism ‘Hamara Parivar’ reached nearly 50 crore individuals across the country, gathering candid suggestions on its shows and characters. With an overwhelming response from viewers through calls and messages, Zee TV is now taking this engagement to the next level by transforming the audience’s feedback into a daily interactive show. Starting 3 October at 6:30 PM, ‘Hamara Parivar’ will give viewers a unique opportunity to see their opinions shape the very stories they watch, making them an integral part of the creative process.

    This series introduces an all-new genre of television, where a family called ‘Hamara Parivar’ conveys the audience’s thoughts directly to the channel’s kutumb of actors and show-makers. But the new show goes beyond just entertainment feedback—it will also touch upon everyday concerns and pain points faced by Indian families. Through candid conversations among its members, the show will explore home truths, impart family values, and emphasize positivity through practices like meditation. Fans will witness their favourite stars responding to real-time feedback, bringing them closer than ever to the content they love!

    The Hamara Parivar family, led by the warm and ever-engaging Sakshi, includes her husband Vijay, kids Vedika and Veeru, sister Mandy, and brother-in-law Abhay. Together, they will share their views on Zee TV’s shows and characters, speaking on behalf of viewers and discussing relatable family challenges. “Being chosen as the sutradhar between the audience and Zee TV has been an incredible opportunity,” says Sakshi. “Voicing the audience’s sentiments, whether it’s suggestions, critique, or praise, is something my family and I are passionate about. It’s inspiring to see how committed Zee TV is to listening and evolving with its viewers.”

    ZEE chief growth officer – digital and broadcast revenue Ashish Sehgal said, “At ZEE, we’ve always strived to innovate and create content that resonates with our audience’s evolving preferences. With Hamara Parivar, we’re opening up an entirely new genre of entertainment that brings viewers closer to the heart of our stories, not just as spectators, but as active contributors. This daily show goes beyond traditional formats, addressing real concerns and values that matter to Indian families. It offers a one-of-a-kind engagement experience for direct, real-time interactions between our viewers, actors, and creators. For brands, this is a phenomenal opportunity to strike meaningful conversations with their target audiences. The show’s ability to connect deeply with viewers over shared values, family-centric themes, and life lessons provides a rich canvas for brands to build long-term relationships with their consumers in a context that truly resonates”

    In each episode, apart from reading letters and messages from fans across India, Hamara Parivar will offer audiences a glimpse of upcoming high points and plot twists lined up for that evening’s primetime shows across Zee TV, keeping viewers engaged and hooked. In an initial episode, Sakshi and her family will visit the set of ‘Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye’ to convey the audience’s pulse directly to the actors. In other episodes, viewers will witness actors like Yesha Rughani and Seerat Kapoor, seen as Ibaadat and Mannat from ‘Rabb Se Hai Dua,’ visiting the Hamara Parivar residence to hear firsthand what their fans think of their performances and storylines. Fans will also have the opportunity to visit the Hamara Parivar family at their home, and at other times, even host Sakshi and her family at their own homes.

    Sriti Jha, known for her role as Amruta in Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye, expressed her gratitude for the initiative: “It’s refreshing to hear real-time feedback on our work. ‘Hamara Parivar’ allows us to reflect on the audience’s perspectives and evolve accordingly.”

    Yesha Rughani, who plays Ibaadat in Rabb Se Hai Dua, shared her excitement: “To hear directly from the audience through Hamara Parivar is both empowering and humbling. Sometimes, it’s easy to get caught up in our characters, but when you hear firsthand how your role affects viewers emotionally, it grounds you and makes you appreciate the impact of what we do. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with them more deeply.”

    Zee TV’s ‘Hamara Parivar’ isn’t just lip service but a genuine, ongoing effort to ensure that viewer feedback actively shapes future stories and episodes. This daily show stands testament to Zee TV’s unwavering commitment to listening, evolving, and honouring the voices of its viewers.

  • GoQuest Media licenses Polish drama ‘Crusade’ to Walter Presents

    GoQuest Media licenses Polish drama ‘Crusade’ to Walter Presents

    Mumbai: Global independent content distributor – GoQuest Media has licensed the Polish crime drama Crusade to Walter Presents for broadcast in the UK and Ireland. This aligns with GoQuest Media’s ongoing strategy to bring the best of Central and Eastern European (CEE) dramas to an international audience.

    Produced by Telewizja Poland (TVP), Crusade (13X45’) is a suspenseful police procedural following detective Jan ‘Manjaro’ Góra and his colleagues from the crime and criminal terror division of the Warsaw Metropolitan Police. The investigation into a series of celebrity murders quickly reveals a deeper, more intricate conspiracy involving an anti-system terrorist organization operating in Warsaw.

    Launched in 2016, Walter Presents is part of Channel 4’s streaming platform, focusing on foreign-language dramas with English subtitles. It brings award-winning international series to audiences in the UK, US, and other regions.

    GoQuest Media continues to expand its role in exporting CEE content to new markets, securing deals that place Polish and regional content on prominent global platforms.

    Walter Presents’ co-founder & curator, Walter Iuzzolino commented on the deal, “I have always been a fan of Polish drama, and Crusade is a perfect addition to our substantial and ever expanding slate of the best Eastern European titles on the market: it is an intoxicating cocktail of gritty and glamorous, fast pace and twisted – a brilliant show which will keep you glued to the screen”.

    GoQuest Media MD Vivek Lath said, “Crusade represents the latest success in our growing portfolio of internationally distributed crime dramas from the CEE. From the outset, we recognized its potential to resonate with crime genre fans worldwide. Its gripping suspense and unpredictable twists make it a standout in our catalog. We’re thrilled that Walter Presents, known for curating high-quality international content, will now feature this exceptional series.”

    GoQuest Media will present Crusade and fresh new crime dramas from their catalogue at MIPCOM later this month.