Category: TV Shows

Ad film maker Rohit Reddy and his magical AI series Mahabharat

MUMBAI: We all know of him as the husband of Anita Hassanandani, the actress who tends to spew venom as the negative lead in many an Ekta Kapoor show. As well as her dance partner some years ago on Nach Baliye and a part time actor-model. But EiPI Media founder & CEO Rohit Reddy has a lot more to his credit. Apart from having a long-running corporate career which he gave up to turn entrepreneur and offer branded solutions from the time he set up his agency along with his wife in 2018.

EiPi Media has been working on adding that additional layer of gee whiz CG imagery, VFX, and mixed reality to make TV commercials and social media campaigns stand out. This apart it has been working with several influencers to create influencer marketing videos. Among the influencers it has been working with feature: Varun Dhawan, Soha Ali Khan, Shakti Mohan, Neeti Mohan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Konkana Sen Sharma, Sanaya irani, Barun Sobti, Alanan Panday, Sanya Malhotra, Shivam Dube, Arjun Kapoor, Parineeti Chopra, Tiger Shroff, Varun Sharma – the list could go on.

Among the ads and vertical videos that Rohit and team EiPi have worked on include: Adidas and the reveal of the blue team jersey, Too Yum with Varun Dhawan, TruNativ and Kareena Kapoor Khan, Euro Pratik with Hrithik Roshan, LensKart kids glasses , Fossil, BBlunt – and scores of other campaigns.

But what has sent Linkedin on fire in the past two days is Rohit’s recent post of a teaser for a series we are all so familiar with – the epic Mahabharat. What makes the trailer special, says Rohit, that it has been totally generated using generative artificial intelligence. Seven generative AI tools have been used to produce the sizzle reel in which the characters look so real it makes some of the earlier productions which have come on television with actual human actors look rather primitive. It even has a feel of the DI heavy film 300.

Rohit has not revealed much about the project excepting to say that it is coming soon, labelling it as an EiPi Media project. The reel ends with the caption: “Mahabharat. An Eternal War.”

The post has been viralised on linkedin, generating numerous likes, comments and reposts.
We, at indiantelevision.com, tried to reach out to Rohit, but could not get a hold of him at the time of writing. However, you can continue watching this space when we do.

In the meantime, to get a dekko of the teaser click here: Mahabharat

November 21, 2024
Rana Daggubati voices Barca in Solo Leveling Season two in three Indian languages

Mumbai: Crunchyroll proudly announces that acclaimed Indian actor Rana Daggubati, renowned for his stellar roles in Baahubali and Ghazi, will voice the enigmatic Ice Elf Barca in the highly awaited Solo Leveling Season two. Daggubati will lend his iconic voice to the character in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, offering fans a culturally immersive experience.

Adding to the excitement, Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment will release the fan omnibus film “Solo Leveling -ReAwakening” in theaters across India on 6 December 2024. This cinematic event will showcase Daggubati’s Hindi voice acting debut as Barca, alongside a recap of the first season and an exclusive preview of the first two episodes of season two.

Barca, a powerful Ice Elf and the boss of the Red Gate Dungeon, poses a formidable challenge for Jinwoo with his sword mastery, stealth, and speed. This clash promises to elevate the gripping narrative of Solo Leveling.

“Voicing Barca in Solo Leveling across three languages has been an exciting challenge that I truly enjoyed,” said Daggubati. “Bringing such a complex, powerful character to life in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu allowed me to connect with anime in a way I’ve never done before. This is a unique, thrilling journey into the anime world, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience the action!”

Crunchyroll, senior director of marketing – APAC, Akshat Sahu shared, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Rana Daggubati, who brings a powerful presence to the character of Barca in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. His involvement reflects our commitment to delivering culturally resonant anime experiences in India. We’re excited to offer Indian audiences a truly immersive and accessible anime experience on both big and small screens.”

November 21, 2024
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
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.”

November 19, 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
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.”

November 13, 2024
A+E Global Media Group & Arré Studio to bring ‘Alone’ to India

Mumbai: A+E Global Media Group has announced a partnership with Arré Studio to bring the global hit survival format Alone to India for the first time. The announcement was made by Arré Studio CEO Namit Sharma and A+E Media Group’s Asia-Pacific content sales director, Amreet Chahal.

Alone, described by The New Yorker as ‘the best reality show ever made,’ challenges contestants to survive in the remote wilderness without any external help. Each participant must rely on their survival skills, mental resilience, and resourcefulness to source food and water, build shelter, and endure increasingly harsh weather conditions. With no camera crew, contestants self-film their journey throughout the experience.

“Alone is an incredible, ambitious format, gripping audiences the world over. We’re excited to be bringing it to India,” said Sharma. “Our audience loves captive reality shows and Alone is a uniquely dramatic and challenging format. This partnership with A+E is a mark of Arré’s commitment to bringing the best international scripted and unscripted formats to our clients and audience.”

“A+E is thrilled to be partnering with top producers Arré Studio,” said Chahal. “Alone is an awe-inspiring test of the power of human spirit, set in stunning unspoiled wilderness. We can’t wait to bring this to an Asian territory for the very first time”

Alone first premiered on A+E’s The History Channel US in 2015, and has now run for eleven smash hit seasons with a twelfth season in production. Alone Denmark has aired for eight seasons, and three new European adaptations of the format are shortly to be announced. Alone Australia has been the highest rating original commission in the history of the network channel SBS, and a third season will premiere in 2025.

November 12, 2024
Superb Ideas Trending’s ‘Pati Patni Aur Baby’ moves to Colors

Mumbai: As 2024 comes to a close, Colors presents Pati Patni Aur Baby, the popular YouTube series from Superb Ideas Trending, bringing its family humour to television. This series, featuring relatable marriage and family sketches, showcases Chhavi Mittal as the demanding Rohini, Karan Veer Grover as her loving husband Rishi, Pracheen Chauhan as Abhimanyu, Pooja Gor as his wife Meera, and Shubhangi Litoria as Baby, the mischievous house-help. Every family can see their day-to-day life come alive in ‘Pati Patni Aur Baby’, premiering on 18 November and airing at 12:30 pm every day only on COLORS.

With Colors’ wide audience and Superb Ideas Trending’s signature humour, Pati Patni Aur Baby captures the chaos of Indian households and fits seamlessly into Colors’ lineup of relatable and engaging content. The series’ portrayal of daily family life has gained millions of fans, and its move to Colors will bring families together with laughter, extending the show’s reach and impact.

Superb Ideas Trending founders Chhavi Mittal & Mohit Hussein jointly said, “We’re thrilled to join hands with Colors to bring our popular YouTube series to television with Pati Patni Aur Baby. At Superb Ideas Trending, our goal has always been to tell stories that every family member can connect with, stories that make you laugh and think about the peculiarities of life. Moving to Colors feels like an exhilarating progression for the show, and we’re excited for more families across India to enjoy the entertaining rollercoaster of Pati Patni Aur Baby in their living rooms with their loved ones. We hope that families across India will find their own stories in the fun and relatable characters of the show. A huge thanks to Colors for welcoming our content into its programming, making it accessible to a larger audience base.”

November 12, 2024
Indian Idol season 15 tops charts as highest-rated reality show

Mumbai: Indian Idol season 15 is hitting all the right notes as it climbs to the top, emerging as the highest-rated reality show in week 44 on Sony Entertainment Television. The singing competition, which airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM, has captivated viewers nationwide, boasting an impressive 3.0 million average viewership (TVM) in its launch week, a 1.5X increase over the channel’s previous slot average.

Spanning over 20 years and now in its 15th season, Indian Idol has cemented itself as a cultural mainstay and advertiser’s delight, uniting diverse audiences and elevating talent from across the country. This season is co-presented by Birla Opus Paints, with co-power sponsors Smith & Jones Pasta Masala, Code Deodorants, Adani, and Vaseline, alongside associate sponsor Siyarams.

Renowned for its legacy in launching new musical talent, Indian Idol is more than a singing competition—it’s an institution. This season’s ‘playfront’ philosophy presents each contestant as a complete performer, where every performance is designed to be a grand spectacle, building on its legacy of musical excellence and nationwide impact.

Indian Idol’s influence continues to shape India’s music landscape, reinforcing its place as the country’s most beloved singing platform.

November 8, 2024
Shikhar Dhawan conquers the wild in Star vs Food Survival season two

Mumbai: The latest episode of Star vs Food Survival S2 features cricket icon Shikhar Dhawan alongside chef Ranveer Brar as they tackle the rugged terrains of Himachal Pradesh.

Aired on 4 November 2024 on discovery+ and Discovery Channel, the episode tests their survival skills and explores Dhawan’s personal side, revealing his love for poetry alongside his cricket warrior spirit, symbolized by his famous thigh-pat celebration.

The weekly series not only showcases stars cooking but also facing survival challenges in wilderness settings. Upcoming episodes will feature stars like Kartik Aaryan, Munawar Faruqui, and Shriya Saran as they take on challenges in locations across India, from Maharashtra’s Western Ghats to the jungles of Meghalaya and the Himalayas.

Shikhar stated, “Being a part of Star vs Food Survival S2 was an enriching and thrilling experience for me. Working alongside Chef Ranveer Brar, I was able to push myself out of my comfort zone in ways I never imagined. Not only was it a test of endurance, but it also deepened my appreciation for food. Chef Brar’s incredible knowledge on food opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about what we eat, and I’ve learned a lot from this journey. It’s been an adventure I’ll always cherish.”

The episode explored deeper conversations about life and personal growth. Shikhar talked about fatherhood, reflected on his career, and how he looks at his illustrious 15-year-long career from a new perspective, from the outside.

Ranveer stated, “Every adventure teaches you something new, and Star vs Food Survival Season 2 was no different. Cooking in the wild with someone like Shikhar, known for his fierce ‘Gabbar’ mindset on the cricket field, was a unique experience. His resilience and adaptability, both as a cricketer and a person, really shone through. It was amazing to see how he brought that same determination to our journey in the wild.”

Ranveer and Shikhar’s expedition was more than a survival challenge; it was a heartfelt journey exploring personal growth, resilience and the beauty of life’s varied paths. But did they conquer the obstacles that nature threw their way and completed their culinary quest?

November 7, 2024