ITV

Category: TV Shows

  • Sony TV brings back Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa from BBC Studios

    Sony TV brings back Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa from BBC Studios

    Mumbai: Bringing large-scale international formats to the Indian sub-continent, Sony Entertainment Television has acquired the rights to the highly anticipated and immensely popular dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, a BBC Studios unscripted format of Dancing with the Stars. Returning to Sony Entertainment Television after 12 years, the show will premiere on November 11th and will air every Saturday and Sunday at 9.30 PM IST.

    The upcoming season of the celebrity dance reality show will witness Farah Khan Kunder, Arshad Warsi, and Malaika Arora coming together to form a dynamic judging panel. Farah Khan Kunder, a highly skilled choreographer, and acclaimed filmmaker, is known for her imaginative dance routines and possesses a discerning eye for spotting talent, making her an ideal choice for the judging panel. Versatile actor, dancer, and entertainer, Arshad Warsi will contribute his wit and charm to the mix while Malaika Arora is renowned for her mesmerizing moves and captivating presence, having made her mark not only as a Bollywood icon but also as a popular judge in various reality shows. Together, this trio, with their wealth of experience and expertise, promise to offer valuable feedback and unforgettable entertainment in the show.

    Sony Entertainment Television, Sony SAB, PAL and Sony MAX Movie Cluster business head Neeraj Vyas said, “The return of ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa’ on Sony Entertainment Television marks an exciting addition to our nonfiction lineup. It signifies our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class content and this season will see celebrities from different walks of life perform diverse routines, judged by Farah Khan Kunder, Arshad Warsi and Malaika Arora. Acquiring the rights to this beloved format is more than just a homecoming for the show; it’s a celebration of entertainment, glamour, and dance, posing a visual extravaganza for our audiences.”

    One of the most popular BBC Studios formats with 61 licenses of the show globally, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa is the Indian adaptation of Dancing with the Stars, or Strictly Come Dancing as it is known in the UK. It is recognized for its dazzling dance-offs, and its star-studded judging panel has remained a household sensation since its inception. With its unique blend of entertainment, emotion, and unparalleled choreography, the show consistently raises the bar for television.

    Excited about the launch of the show, Sameer Gogate, General Manager, BBC Studios Production, India, said, “I am delighted that Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa is dancing its way back to its original home of Sony Entertainment Television. It is a hugely popular show, both in India and internationally, and it continues to surprise and delight as the incredible hidden dance talents of our celebrities are revealed on the dance floor. We have begun shooting and can’t wait to see the contestants sashaying onto the dance floor for this new edition on Sony Entertainment Television!”

    A transformation that fans look forward to, the show will see much loved actors and stars shed their inhibitions and don their dancing shoes in a bid to impress the nation.  This season promises a line-up of sensational contestants from diverse walks of life including Indian wrestler Sangeeta Phogat, the vivacious Tanishaa Mukerji, TV actor and model Aamir Ali,  television icon Urvashi Dholakia,  TV heartthrobs Shoaib Ibrahim and Vivek Dahiya, Rocky aur Rani ki Prem Kahaani actor Anjali Anand, Indian television’s much loved Pushpa aka Karuna Pandey, reality show star Shiv Thakre, comedian Rajiv Thakur, Celebrity Teen Actor Adrija Sinha and Indian playback singer Sreerama Chandra. This forthcoming season of ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa’, Co-Powered by Priyagold Butter Delite Biscuits, is hosted by Gauahar Khan and Rithvik Dhanjani and promises an even more immersive and electrifying experience for viewers across India.

    Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa premieres on November 11 at 9.30 pm, only on Sony Entertainment Television

  • Anurag Kashyap and Gautham Vasudev Menon voice ‘Creative Killers’

    Anurag Kashyap and Gautham Vasudev Menon voice ‘Creative Killers’

    Mumbai: Warner Bros Discovery unveils the latest installment of “Mission Big Cat,” an enthralling anthology dedicated to the captivating world of majestic felines. In this edition, director Anurag Kashyap narrates the Hindi version, while director Gautham Vasudev Menon takes the reins for the Tamil rendition of “Creative Killers.” The show offers an intimate exploration of two of Africa’s most iconic predators, delving into their lethal strategies in the northern Botswana region of Savuti.

    Anurag Kashyap, reflecting on his role in voicing “Creative Killers” within the latest edition of Mission Big Cat anthology, expressed, “Collaborating with Warner Bros. Discovery for Mission Big Cat is a matter of immense pride for me. Tigers play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem and their wellbeing should be the utmost priority of us as a society. I feel honoured to give my contribution towards this initiative of spreading awareness of the wild cats of the planet.”

    Set against the backdrop of the prime territory in northern Botswana, “Creative Killers” focuses on Africa’s apex predators, renowned for their impeccable hunting instincts. This extraordinary journey into the world of big cats’ premieres on 10 November 2023, on Animal Planet. Viewers can catch the “Mission Big Cat” anthology from Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM, with a repeat telecast at 4:00 PM.

    Warner Bros Discovery head of factual and lifestyle cluster, South Asia Sai Abishek said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with both Anurag Kashyap and Gautham Vasudev Menon for Mission Big Cat, a returning franchise that stands as one of Animal Planet’s most prominent programming lineups. ‘Creative Killers’ will introduce audiences to the intricate web of family dynamics, behavioural traits, and challenges faced by these magnificent Big Cats. The upcoming edition will provide unique insights into their species and the livelihoods of animals. Having prominent faces lend their voices for the Hindi and Tamil versions will further enhance the fun that will soon unfold upon audiences in varied languages. Through these informative series, we uphold our steadfast commitment to raising awareness and contributing to the conservation of wildlife and their natural habitats”

    Gautham Vasudev Menon said, “Collaborating with Warner Bros. Discovery for ‘Creative Killers’ has been an extraordinary experience. It’s not just about the incredible tigers and their hunting prowess; it’s about introducing this captivating world to the Tamil-speaking audience. I am confident that they will gain profound insights into the wonders of nature through this show.”

    With this collaboration, Anurag Kashyap and Gautham Vasudev Menon join a list of notable celebrities who have partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery for Mission Big Cat in the past, including Tapsee Panu, Anushka Sharma, and Vidyut Jamwal, and others.

    Catch Anurag Kashyap and Gautham Vasudev Menon on Creative Killers, 10 November onwards, Mondays to Fridays at 8:00 pm with a repeat telecast at 4:00 pm on Animal Planet.

     

  • Pakistani trending show ‘Kabli Pulao’ first time on Indian television

    Pakistani trending show ‘Kabli Pulao’ first time on Indian television

    Mumbai: Zindagi, known for its commitment to fostering cultural exchange is set to unveil the latest trending Pakistani show Kabli Pulao for the first time ever on Indian television. This marks a significant milestone for Zindagi, as it embraces the Honorable Bombay High Court ruling that has lifted the ban on Pakistani artists in India. This launch is a testament to Zindagi’s ongoing efforts to celebrate artistic freedom, diversity, and the rich tapestry of stories from both sides of the border.

    Kabli Pulao is an unconventional and emotionally charged series that has garnered effusive praise for its remarkable writing, direction, and profound acting.  The celebrated Pakistani writer Zafar Mairaj has artfully spun a narrative that delves into the intricacies of human emotions under the thoughtful direction of Kashif Nisar. Taking the audiences on a heartfelt journey, experience the 18-part series starting 11th November 2023 at 10pm, Monday to Sunday only on Zindagi DTH Services Dish TV, D2h, Tata Sky, and Airtel. Moreover, two nations (India & Pakistan) will join forces and together witness the grand simulcast of Kabli Pulao’s finale only on Zindagi.

    Kabli Pulao is a masterpiece and relishes its depth through extraordinary performances from lead actors – Mohammed Ehteshamuddin and Sabeena Farooq, who have breathed life into their roles.  The show also enjoys a mesmerizing original soundtrack – Ankhain, sung by the music maestro – Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan which has struck a chord with audiences and beautifully complimenting the show.

    Kabli Pulao follows the story of Haji Mushtaq aka Mohammed Ehteshamuddin an upright man from Lahore, and Barbeena, played by Sabeena Farooq, an Afghan girl in need.  The story revolves around how Haji (a simple bachelor who is in his 50s) crosses paths with a young girl Barbeena (In her 20s) in need seeking medical help for her ill mother. As the protagonist spends more time with the girl, he starts seeing the world from a different perspective and finds himself falling in love for the first time in his life.

    With its focus on refugees and empowering female characters, Kabli Pulao a show that crossed 100 million+ views and counting on Youtube, stands as a beacon of progressive storytelling, inviting viewers to connect with the characters’ experience and form a bond that transcends the screen.

    Commenting on Zindagi’s latest announcement of telecasting ‘Kabli Pulao’ in India, maverick director behind films like Superstar & Dum Mastam and TV show Sadqay Tumhare Mohammed Ehteshamuddin, who plays the lead role of Haji Sahab said, “This show brings forth the essence of love in the most unexpected and heartwarming way and showcases the power of love, the pursuit of happiness, and the blending of cultures in an inspiring narrative. It’s a beautifully written story that dives deep into the human heart. Kabli Pulao will hold a special place in my heart as this was perhaps the one of the few times where I got the chance to be in front of the camera, playing Haji Mushtaq, after being behind it for many years. It is extremely overwhelming to see the love and appreciation that the show is receiving & It brings me immense joy to see Zindagi air this show in India along with its airing in Pakistan and truly connect audiences for this heartfelt cross-border journey. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this and patiently await all the love and views from the Indian audiences.”

    Lead actress Sabeena Farooq, unlike her recent stint in the hit show Tere Bin where she played a diabolical role, will be seen in a completely different and lovable character as Barbeena in Kabli Pulao. Talking about the show’s India release, she added, “Acting in ‘Kabli Pulao’ has been an emotional rollercoaster. The depth of the characters and the realism of the story is unlike anything I’ve worked on before. It’s a privilege to be part of a project that showcases love’s ability to transform lives. The distinctive storyline is beautifully reflected throughout the show and I’m certain that it’ll leave a mark on everyone who watches it. I can’t wait for the Indian viewers to embark on this emotional journey with us as Kabli Pulao immerses the audience in an authentic world that feels close to home.”

    Director Kashif Nisar said, “Kabli Pulao’ is a departure from the ordinary, an exploration of love and life. Creating complex stories that resonate with the audience has always been my passion. ‘Kabli Pulao’ allowed me to craft a narrative that combines the richness of human emotions with the allure of culinary traditions. My mission was to create a show that remains faithful to the essence of storytelling. Kudos to Sabeena and Mohammed for meticulously portraying the raw and intricate emotions that love entails, their performances resonated with viewers on an emotional level, leaving an indelible mark with each scene. I am exceptionally proud to present Kabli Pulao to both the Indian and Pakistani audiences together as Zindagi conducts the grand finale simulcast for the first time ever on television. To conclude, our team also extends deepest gratitude to Zindagi for bridging the gap by providing cross-border content and opening new horizons for artists.”

    Get ready to embark on Kabli Pulao starting 11 November, at 10 pm on Tata Play (Channel no. 154) Dish TV and D2h (Channel no. 117), and Airtel TV (Channel no. 102).

  • MasterChef India joins forces with leading brands for Sony LIV exclusive

    MasterChef India joins forces with leading brands for Sony LIV exclusive

    Mumbai: Over the years, MasterChef India has played an integral role in igniting the nation’s passion for food and culinary. In addition, the emergence of the digital age has fuelled the love for food across cultures and continents. Understanding the widespread reach, accessibility of digital platforms, and audience preferences, MasterChef India is now exclusively digital on Sony LIV. This season of MasterChef India captures the aspirations, dreams, and narratives of countless aspiring home cooks who are passionate about the culinary arts.

    This strategic move not only signifies the show’s adaptation to changing viewer patterns but also opens a world of opportunities for advertisers to connect with their audience. Sony LIV is delighted to partner with esteemed sponsors who share the platform’s passion for culinary excellence. Veeba, a leading name in condiments and sauces, has come on board as the co-presenting sponsor and is set to showcase various usages of its products to curate exclusive delectable dishes, adding a dash of unique flavour to MasterChef India. The show is also co-powered by ACKO Health Insurance and Maggi Masala Ae Magic, who will have customized challenges in the show curated specifically to showcase their product offerings and usage.

    Additionally, ITC Aashirvaad Atta, India Gate Basmati Rice, iD Fresh Food, Urban Company, and Welspun have stepped in as partner sponsors, along with Dyson, further enriching the show’s flavour palette.

    Tune in to MasterChef India from October 16 only on Sony LIV!

    Comments

    Sony LIV head ad sales revenue Ranjana Mangla

    Embracing the digital wave, MasterChef India is undoubtedly redefining culinary entertainment for viewers across the country. Each sponsor adds a unique flavour to the show, enhancing the experience for viewers. In this digital-exclusive format, where food meets fierce competition, we are showcasing exciting culinary skills and crafting engaging content bytes for an interactive experience. While we are cooking up a storm of innovation and entertainment, our sponsors are the secret ingredients that make it all possible.

    ACKO EVP marketing Ashish Mishra

    At ACKO, we are disrupting the health insurance space and in MasterChef India we found the perfect partner to drive awareness about it. A healthy lifestyle starts with a healthy diet. We believe that MasterChef India has the power and reach to educate millions of Indians on how to cook and eat healthy. ACKO “health ki baat” is the perfect device to deliver this.

    ITC Ltd COO, staples & adjacencies Anuj Rustagi

    We are delighted to announce our association as partner sponsors with MasterChef India. The show stands for the best-in-class culinary experience created by handpicked chefs. Just like MasterChef contestants infuse their magic into traditional recipes, Aashirvaad Select Atta too is crafted using 100% Sharbati wheat sourced from select farms of Madhya Pradesh, providing consumers with the finest roti experience. This partnership perfectly reflects our shared values of pursuing excellence and pushing the boundaries of innovation. We look forward to seeing how these talented contestants use their creative minds and Aashirvaad Select Atta to bring together innovative and delicious dishes every day.

    KRBL Ltd head of marketing Kunal Sharma

    Our continued partnership with MasterChef India is a testament to our commitment to excellence. As the ‘Masters of Basmati,’ this partnership is as perfect as the ‘Winning Recipe’ – A symphony of flavours, authentically prepared & beautifully served. In this alignment with MasterChef India on Sony LIV, we are also strategically leveraging the expanding OTT landscape to foster a more profound connection with our consumers, ensuring our brand thrives in their hearts and homes.

  • Nazara’s ‘Beti Humari Anmol’ empowers ‘Little People’

    Nazara’s ‘Beti Humari Anmol’ empowers ‘Little People’

    Mumbai: Set in the quaint town of Dhanbad, Jharkhand, the story revolves around Anmol, a resilient young woman navigating societal norms that often hinder the progress of girls in areas like education, career choices, and marriage. Anmol, though possessing all the qualities of a 21st-century successful woman, faces neglect and rejection solely due to her height.

    Amidst these hurdles, Anmol’s unwavering confidence empowers her to confront the hostility from society, even in the face of an unfavorable marriage. Undeterred, she emerges triumphant, ultimately achieving the esteemed position of a doctor at the same hospital where her father serves as a custodian.

    Anmol’s story resonates deeply, illustrating how an indomitable spirit can overcome any obstacle in life. Julie Aslam takes on the role of Anmol, while Pratham Kunwar portrays Rishi. Renowned actor Rani Chatterjee also plays a significant character in the show.

    Reflecting on her portrayal of Anmol, Julie Aslam expressed, “I hope viewers appreciate my character and the show, as it’s not just a romantic or family drama, but a genuine account of a girl who achieved her dreams against all odds.”

    After previously portraying negative characters on television, Pratham Kunwar, who plays Rishi, stated, “Every actor aspires to carry a show on their shoulders. When I began, I lacked confidence, so I took on finite roles to grasp this medium, work ethic, discipline, and craft. Today, I am prepared and grateful to lead, portraying a boy-next-door who stands up for what’s right. Hopefully, I’ll also win a few hearts.”

    The show is scheduled to air every Monday to Friday at 9:00 pm, starting from the 6 November, 2023.

  • Sony BBC Earth launches Earth Champions

    Sony BBC Earth launches Earth Champions

    Mumbai: In a momentous stride towards captivating storytelling, Sony BBC Earth has announced the launch of its marquee property ‘Earth Champions’. Earth Champions which began as an Instagram live session, will now inspire viewers as interesting three-minute capsules, whisking them away on an extraordinary voyage through nature’s kaleidoscope. The property will go live on the channel on 6 November 2023.

    Narrating stories of nature enthusiasts to ordinary citizens from all walks of life, ‘Earth Champions’ intends to shed light on the tremendous power of individual actions that collectively become a force of positive change. Sony BBC Earth aims to honour and celebrate real-life heroes each month addressing issues of forest restoration, waste management, water, and air purification, etc. at a personal, household, or community level.

    Packaged as an on-air property with promotions across social media, Sony BBC Earth’s Earth Champions has undergone a quirky makeover with a gripping script intertwined with befitting music. The inaugural episode of Earth Champions will feature ‘Mr. Jadav Payeng’, also known as the Forest Man of India. Hailing from Assam, Payeng has transformed the barren lands into a thriving man-made forest. He is also the proud recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award for his selfless and tireless efforts.

    Sony BBC Earth, through its landmark shows such as Blue Planet II, Climate Change: The Facts, and A Perfect Planet has united viewers from around the nation, instilling a profound connection with the natural world. The channel has been raising awareness about the imperative of sustainability and building a community of loyalists through its various initiatives.

    Sony AATH business operations head and Sony Pictures Networks India Head – marketing & insights, English cluster Rohan Jain:

    “With Earth Champions, we aim to embark on a mission to empower individuals and communities to showcase the profound impact of their eco-friendly actions. Through this extraordinary initiative, we invite people from across the nation to join us on an exhilarating journey toward a greener and more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference and create a legacy for generations to come.”

    Reforestation hero and Padma Shri awardee, the remarkable ‘Forest Man of India’ Jadav Payeng:

    “I am deeply honored to be a part of Sony BBC Earth’s Earth Champions. It is a great initiative that inspires people and evokes a sense of eco-consciousness in them. It fills my heart with joy and gratitude to witness the power of collective action creating a lasting impact that benefits our planet.”

  • Balancing capability and quality in India’s dynamic market: Cosmos Maya’s Megha Tata

    Balancing capability and quality in India’s dynamic market: Cosmos Maya’s Megha Tata

    Mumbai: Murty Media, a content production house, is embarking on an initiative to turn the literary works of the renowned author and philanthropist, Sudha Murty, into a captivating animated series titled, ‘Story Time with Sudha Amma.’ The show will feature 52 of the most popular stories from Mrs. Murty’s titles, ‘Grandma’s Bag of Stories’, ‘Grandparents’ Bag of Stories’, and ‘The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories.’ The show will be streamed on the YouTube channel, ‘Murty Media’, a dedicated platform to showcase stories by the beloved author.  

    Murty is a celebrated Indian author, known for her engaging storytelling that taps into India’s rich cultural heritage while addressing contemporary issues. Her heart-warming children’s stories, including ‘Grandparents’ Bag of Stories’, ‘Gopi Diaries’, and others have enjoyed remarkable success. Her stories resonate with readers of all ages and have garnered a global fanbase. The animated series “Story Time with Sudha Amma” will be launched in 6 languages – Hindi, English, Marathi, Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu, catering to a diverse audience and making these beloved stories accessible to a wider spectrum of viewers.

    ‘Story Time with Sudha Amma’ is Murty Media’s flagship animation series. To bring these stories to life, Murty Media has appointed Cosmos Maya, Asia’s leading animation studio, as its animation partner.

    Indiantelevison.com in conversation with Megha Tata, CEO, Cosmos Maya on the partnership, the evolving nature of kids content and much more……

    Edited excerpts

    On Kid’s channels, how have they evolved over the years, and the evolution and innovations in kids’ content today

    I think kids’ content consumption has changed over the last few years, especially post the pandemic, TV content by kids is largely consumed but over the last couple of years a lot of the kid’s content has been moved to digital as well and I think youtube has been a big gainer for that. A lot of TV broadcasters and even the digital players is changing so that has been a big change in the last 2-3 years.

    On animation being an expensive proposition, has it changed over the years in India? When it comes to kids’ content, why is it always an animated series, not live-action? Do we see kids engaging more when the content is animated?

    One of the cheapest forms of content creation in animation is in India. When you look at the type of content being created globally, the cost of production is much higher as well, but in India, it works in a way where we have to balance the cost. At Cosmos, we have two divisions, one is the domestic division where we work on the domestic content and another one is the international content creation where we deal with international content, the ones that have a huge business in the industry as international projects but outsource ones.

    So, the capability and ability to create such content in India at such a price is amazing but again in India you don’t see that type of quality also because of the economic growth function. International ones are able to pay a larger cost according to the international price so that was in terms of other animation now as to why animation for kids and not live action I think in India specifically we still buy one TV at home, and the remote control of the TV is always in the hand of the lady of the house by and large.

    The action for kids to get to watch TV is usually with and around family mostly live action so that exposure is already there so when the child wants to watch his preferred content then it’s always animation so that is why it’s generally preferred to watch content in animation by kids also it has the highest shelf life unlike live action which starts looking dated over a period of time but animation is evergreen like you can still watch Tom and Jerry today.

    On the animation industry in India?

    Over the last 8-10 years the industry has moved dramatically in a positive trajectory and has players in the industry who have worked really hard and even the government to bring in policies to support animation and help the industry. It’s a journey and is definitely on the right path of growth and everyone in the industry is hoping that in the coming years, it will only grow further.

    On the growth of digital content and the viewership of kids’ channels

    As I mentioned above the content is transitioning from TV to digital so those things are there and then it’s about the content eventually about how the content can remain intact and focused whatever the medium, TV or not. Overall, I see there is a shift in conversations from TV to digital but neither will at all, I think both will co-exist.

    On Cosmos Maya getting into a partnership with Murty Media, the strategy behind this, and the growth trajectory of the company in the next few years

    Murty Media is a company which is headed by Mrs Murty’s daughter-in-law, Aparna Krishnan with a vision to bring Mrs. Murty’s work to life with animation. We’re humbled and privileged to be chosen partners and we have also identified the stories at the moment we have worked on 52 stories with each one of them and with a different lesson. This is launching on the YouTube channel Murty Media and on 31 October we’ve created these stories in 6 languages that is Hindi, English, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, and Karnataka.

    On your vision and future plans for the organisation in the coming years

    Animation has been an evolving industry but the last couple of years has been quite challenging for everyone in the industry. We at Cosmos got the opportunity to bring the book content to life in a new beginning of things we are hoping to create news. While TV is of course an integral part, we have to look at alternate ways to create new business models. 

  • Zee Theatre presents Manto’s ‘Mammad Bhai’ in ‘Koi Baat Chale’

    Zee Theatre presents Manto’s ‘Mammad Bhai’ in ‘Koi Baat Chale’

    Mumbai: Zee Theatre is all set to captivate audiences with the dramatic reading of Saadat Hasan Manto’s story ‘Mammad Bhai’. Directed by Seema Pahwa and narrated by Vineet Kumar, this story is part of the acclaimed literary anthology, ‘Koi Baat Chale.’  The story revolves around a mafioso of Arab Gully in Mumbai who couldn’t bear to part with his dagger or his moustache. When life forces him to give up both, how does he cope without the symbols that defined his identity? Watch the reading to discover the answer to that intriguing question.  It will be aired on 27 October 2023 on Airtel Theatre, Dish TV Rangmanch Active and D2H Rangmanch Active.
     

  • IN10 Media Network’s Ishara ropes in Ravi Kishan for ‘Crime Files’

    IN10 Media Network’s Ishara ropes in Ravi Kishan for ‘Crime Files’

    Mumbai: Amidst the frequent headlines featuring heinous crimes, Ishara, the general entertainment channel under the IN10 Media Network umbrella, is shedding light on these grim stories through its new crime show – Crime Files – Rahe Khabardar! Bane Hoshiyar! – aiming to raise awareness among viewers.

    The show, hosted by actor Ravi Kishan, who will serve as the guiding presence throughout the series in the role of the ‘sutradhar’, will present crime narratives from various corners of the country, urging people to remain vigilant in their daily lives. Each episode will lead viewers through peculiar and captivating cases that have occurred within our society – spanning from commonplace situations to more intricate, contemporary issues like online scams, and beyond.

    The distinctive feature of this crime show lies in its storytelling, where human tales, relationships, optimism, and trust are shattered as crime infiltrates ordinary lives. The narrative centers around characters who are relatable and grounded, reflecting us and the world we live in.

    Expressing his thoughts on hosting the show, Kishan, who has portrayed various characters and delved into the minds of many people over the last 31 years of being an actor said, “As an informed citizen of this nation, it is not only my responsibility but everyone’s duty to acknowledge the escalating crime rate and educate people to combat it, thereby fostering a crime-free society. Crime is an unfortunate reality, and I want to use this platform to raise awareness and inspire change. I was delighted to come on board as the show’s host, as I believe I can encourage people to be more observant of their surroundings and take action to save lives. I request people to tune in and fight against crime.”

    In line with the brand’s commitment to delivering top-notch content across various genres, this show will further enrich the channel’s offerings. Crime Files – Rahe Khabardar! Bane Hoshiyar! will broadcast every Monday to Friday at 10:00 pm on the channel, starting 30th October 2023.

  • Zee Zest announces the second edition of the Unlimit Awards in 2024

    Zee Zest announces the second edition of the Unlimit Awards in 2024

    Mumbai:  Zee Zest, India’s leading lifestyle platform is all set to return with the second edition of the highly anticipated Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024. The awards will recognize and felicitate those who inspire innovation, progress, and challenge the status quo; exemplifying the boundless possibilities in the world of food, travel and lifestyle.

    In an era where there is a strong craving for originality, genuineness, and groundbreaking ideas, the Unlimit Award celebrates those trailblazers who are reshaping the definition of innovation in the F&B, travel and hospitality industries. The awards presents an exhilarating array of categories, including Cuisine, Beverages & Nightlife, Travel and individuals . The winners will be decided by a combination of jury selection and viewer’s choice via voting process.

    The previous edition included trailblazing establishments like Izumi,Goa, The Craftery Subko, Mumbai, Avartana at ITC Royal Bengal, and Sidecar,Delhi among others winning the Unlimit awards. These awards stand as a level playing field, welcoming any establishment that has made significant strides in the realms of food, travel, and lifestyle to nominate themselves. It’s an inspiring opportunity for establishments of all scales to shine in the spotlight, gain well-deserved recognition, and set new benchmarks.

    An esteemed panel renowned for their significant contributions to the industry will meticulously assess and scrutinize entries across every category, while consumers cast their votes for their preferred choices to determine the victors. The jury – a mix of culinary and beverage experts, authors and filmmakers, influencers, photographers, and music artists will evaluate the entries based on their understanding and expertise in the industry.

    The illustrious jury panel includes renowned names of the industry like chef Ranveer Brar, food expert and chef Vinesh Johny, chef and restaurateur Anahita Dhondy, celebrity chef and TV presenter Shipra Khanna, actor and TV presenter Maria Goretti, chef and food historians Rakesh Raghunathan, Chef Ajay Chopra, content creators Ashwin Rajagopalan and Indrajit Lahiri, entrepreneur Aneesh Bhasin, musician Anish Sood, photographer Ajay Sood, influencer Nivedith Gajapathy, travel and food writers Anurag Mallick and Priya Ganapathy, Indian filmmaker Hansal Mehta, advisor for craft spirit Priyanka Blah, head programming at Zee Zest Srikant Malladi.

    The process of inviting nomination begins from 15 October – 29 November 2023. A total of 18 categories are open, encompassing top luxury hotels to resorts, cafes to QSRs, and fine-dining restaurants to the best nightclubs. Below is the list of categories –

    QSR

    Speaking of the event, Zee Zest chief channel officer Amit Nair said, “The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards aim to celebrate individuals who epitomize the ‘Unlimit’ perspective and establish fresh standards within the realms of food, travel, and lifestyle. These accolades pay tribute to those who spark innovation, drive advancement, and push the boundaries of conventional norms. For establishments, registering for the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards is not merely participation; it is an invaluable opportunity to etch their mark in the annals of excellence..”

    The second edition of Zee Zest Unlimit Awards is a golden opportunity for industry members to celebrate and honor those who have set new benchmarks in their respective fields.