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Tag: Avinash Mudaliar

  • Vidnet Summit 2024: The evolving landscape of OTT in India: Regional growth, consumer trends, and aggregation dynamics

    Vidnet Summit 2024: The evolving landscape of OTT in India: Regional growth, consumer trends, and aggregation dynamics

    Mumbai: The OTT business in India is buzzing with new streamers, niche, and language offerings. However, early players are struggling as heavy content spending isn’t matching revenues, and India-specific low pricing hasn’t spurred subscriptions. Growth has plateaued as consumers return to post-COVID normalcy, preferring to binge occasionally.

    Adding to the churn is the shift towards AVOD by giants like JioCinema, offering premium events like cricket for free, with Disney+Hotstar following suit. This has strained streaming bottom lines. The rise of FAST channels is also causing industry jitters. Vidnet explored the future of the streaming ecosystem.

    The fireside session was hosted by Indian Television.com Group founder, chairman & editor in chief Anil NM Wanvari along with host HT Labs co-founder & CEO Avinash Mudaliar.

    The interaction dug deeper into the rapid expansion and increasing popularity of regional OTT platforms in India, and the role of regional OTTs in preserving and promoting local languages and cultures. It also explored how changing viewing habits and personalisation algorithms are shaping Indian OTT content trends, emphasising diverse, inclusive offerings and platform adaptation to technology and user feedback.

    “We’ve navigated through the challenge of finding what to watch, but the next hurdle is choosing an OTT platform. How much do we pay for these services, and can we access them all at once? Our goal is to simplify this with Odd Play Premium. By partnering with major players like Sony, Zee5, Lionsgate, and more, including regional ones like Malayala Manorama and Ahad Mammal Telugu, we’ve delved into diverse language content. Our recommendation engine stands out—it not only suggests based on metadata but also considers thematic preferences. For instance, if you’re watching “Trance” on Netflix, it might recommend similar films or those featuring the same actors,” said Mudaliar.

    He further continued, “We also tackle acquisition costs for partners. By lowering these costs through our distribution channels, we make it easier for them to gain new users. Our platform acts not only as a discovery engine but also as a marketing tool, enhancing exposure for content that might otherwise go unnoticed. Plus, we offer a unified experience across 11 platforms—Android, iOS, and various smart TV ecosystems—eliminating the need for multiple app downloads. This approach not only benefits partners but also offers users a cost-effective way to access a wide range of content.”

     

  • OTTplay onboards Chaupal Punjabi to expand their regional audience base

    OTTplay onboards Chaupal Punjabi to expand their regional audience base

    Mumbai: OTTplay, a platform for OTT content aggregation, is thrilled to announce the addition of Chaupal Punjabi to its growing roster of top-tier entertainment providers. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in OTTplay’s mission to offer diverse and high-quality content to its users.

    Chaupal, known for its extensive library of regional content, including Punjabi, Bhojpuri, Haryanvi, among others, will now be accessible to OTTplay’s extensive audience base. This collaboration promises to bring a rich variety of movies, TV shows, and exclusive originals to OTTplay subscribers, enhancing their viewing experience with unique and culturally resonant stories.

    OTTplay, an OTT aggregator with 40 plus apps, continues to solidify its position as a leading platform in India. By bringing together content from various OTT platforms, OTTplay ensures that users can effortlessly find and enjoy their favourite shows and movies from a single, convenient interface. With the inclusion of Chaupal Punjabi, OTTplay reaffirms its commitment to offering diverse and high-quality entertainment options for its ever-expanding and discerning audience base.  

    Chaupal OTT founder and MD Sandeep Bansal shared his excitement about the partnership: “We are delighted to join hands with OTTplay, a platform that shares our commitment to delivering high-quality and diverse entertainment. At Chaupal, we believe in the power of regional stories to connect with audiences on a profound level. By partnering with OTTplay, we are confident that our rich and varied content will reach new heights, resonating with viewers who appreciate authentic and culturally significant storytelling.” 

    He added, “This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to expanding the reach of regional content and celebrating the diversity of Indian culture. We look forward to a fruitful partnership with OTTplay, one that will undoubtedly enrich the entertainment experience for our combined audience.”

    OTTplay CEO and co-founder Avinash Mudaliar expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are excited to welcome Chaupal Punjabi to the OTTplay family. This collaboration aligns with our vision to provide a comprehensive and diverse entertainment experience. Chaupal’s unique content offering will significantly enrich our platform, providing our users with an unparalleled viewing experience that celebrates regional diversity. With the rising demand for regional content and storytelling, we are optimistic that this partnership will be a testament for delivering quality content across regions.”

  • OTTplay wins big at INMA Global Media Awards 2024

    OTTplay wins big at INMA Global Media Awards 2024

    Mumbai: HT Labs-backed OTTplay has scored big at the esteemed INMA Global Media Awards 2024, reaffirming its position in the digital media landscape. OTTplay has won Gold (first place) in the Best Product Iteration category and Silver (second place) in the category for Best Use of an Event to Build a News Brand.

    OTTplay’s pioneering effort in product iteration was duly recognised as it managed to beat Germany’s WeltN24 (“Revitalizing the Welt Community”) and Chile’s La Tercera (“The Match Project”) for the top spot. OTTplay’s evolution from a recommendation platform to a OTT aggregator that solves the problem of maintaining multiple subscriptions while offering a unified platform to discover and consume content from across OTTs was recognised as a novel and innovative solution. This is a validation for OTTplay’s commitment to drive consistent innovation and raise the bar for the digital industry.

    OTTplay Awards, the brand’s IP that recognises the best movies, shows, actors and makers across the country helped OTTplay win the Silver for Best Use of an Event to Build a News Brand. The first of its kind, OTTplay Awards, which turns three this year, truly celebrates the One Nation One Award philosophy allowing content across all Indian regional languages to compete for ultimate glory. This activation effort stems from the brand’s belief that great content is language agnostic and OTTplay Awards provides a democratic playing field where movies, shows and makers from all regional industries compete for top honours. This win underscores OTTplay’s strategic acumen in establishing a brand that’s determined to build audience engagement through personalising content discovery and by elevating content based on merit alone.

    “To be recognised on a prestigious and global platform like INMA is a great honour and we’re humbled to receive these awards,” said OTTplay CEO and co-founder Avinash Mudaliar. He further emphasised that this recognition is a clear testament to the sharp focus, unwavering dedication, and innovative spirit of the entire team. “This strengthens our dedication to leaving a mark on the digital media scene and discovering inventive approaches to delight our users,” Mudaliar added.

  • OTTplay Premium and KCCL introduce combo of high-speed internet and Premium OTT content

    OTTplay Premium and KCCL introduce combo of high-speed internet and Premium OTT content

    Mumbai: In a strategic move to meet the escalating global demand for high-speed internet and diverse entertainment options, OTTplay Premium, India’s first AI-powered streaming platform, has joined forces with Kerala Communicators Cable Limited (KCCL), the largest Multiple System Operator (MSO) in Kerala and a top-ranking MSO with the largest connection base in India.

    This game-changing partnership is set to redefine the landscape of home entertainment and high-speed internet access, offering an unparalleled package that includes a 50 MBPS internet connection, a massive 4000 GB data limit, and access to 14 premium OTT platforms. Subscribers will also enjoy a rich array of content, featuring popular platforms such as SunNXT, Sony Liv, Zee 5, Lionsgate Play, Distro TV, Namma Flix, ALT Balaji, Play Flix, iStream, Fancode, Dollywood Play, Shorts TV, and Raj Digital.

    What makes this offering truly innovative is the affordable pricing at just Rs. 616, making it one of the most cost-effective and comprehensive entertainment and internet packages in the market. This partnership between OTTplay Premium and KCCL aims to cater to the growing consumer demand for high-quality content and high-speed internet at an accessible price point.

    Recently, the announcement of this partnership took place during a grand ceremony at Radisson Blu Kochi, Kerala. Key representatives from both OTTplay and KCCL teams were present at the event, marking a significant moment for the industry. This event symbolized the commitment of both entities to revolutionize home entertainment and high-speed internet services in India.

    Representatives from both sides have conveyed their enthusiasm on the announcement, stating:

    OTTplay CEO and co-founder Avinash Mudaliar expressed his excitement about this partnership, saying, “Our mission at OTTplay Premium has always been to enhance the streaming experience for our users through cutting-edge technology and a vast content library. Teaming up with KCCL allows us to extend our reach and offer a comprehensive package that combines the power of personalized streaming with high-speed internet access. We believe this partnership will set new standards for the industry.”

    Commenting on the partnership, Aboobecker Sidique, president said, “The Company adopted OTT bundled schemes previously but the tie-up with OTTplay is a full-fledged one to meet the demand of operators and customers.”

    COA general secretary KV Rajan said, “KCCL has sustained competition from big corporate giants in the entertainment industry of Kerala and launching of OTT bundling offer with OTTplay will be a new leap to retain customer base.”

    KCCL and KVBL chairman Govindan highlighted, “The growth story of KVBL in broadband as the 8th largest FTTH broadband provider in India and reiterated that it will grow further by diversification of its service offer including OTT bundling”

    KCCL and KVBL MD  Sureshkumar explained, “New attractive OTT bundled schemes with higher Mbps and attractive rate to ensure maximum market penetration.”

    KCCL and KVBL COO Padmakumar N said, “Wired broadband penetration in India is only 5% of total broadband and there is high potential for wired broadband to grow with attractive offers like OTT bundling.”

    TCCL chairman Shakeelan also attended the launching function.

    OTTPremium is proud to be the leading aggregator in the south, and this partnership adds another feather to its cap. This collaboration is expected to have a transformative impact on the way consumers experience entertainment and internet services at home. The bundled offering is now available for subscription, and both companies are confident that it will quickly become the go-to choice for households seeking a seamless blend of high-speed internet and premium entertainment.

  • Excitel and OTTplay launch southern OTT pack at affordable price

    Excitel and OTTplay launch southern OTT pack at affordable price

    Mumbai: Excitel home internet startup has introduced the ‘Southern OTT Pack’ for modern entertainment enthusiasts in key southern cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mangalore, Guntur, Vijayawada, etc. In response to the surging global demand for high-speed internet coupled with diverse entertainment choices, this plan offers speeds up to 400 Mbps, 17 premium OTT, and a variety of more than 300 live TV channels, including Aha, SunNXT, RAJ Digital TV, ETV, NammaFlix in partnership with OTTplay.

    At an affordable price starting at just Rs 599/month for a 12-month subscription. This is an internet plan featuring content from major southern cities and languages, including Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mangalore, Guntur, Vijayawada, and more.

    On the launch of this plan, Varun Pasricha COO Excitel commented, “At Excitel, we’ve been at the forefront of redefining home entertainment. Today, we are thrilled to present India’s first South Plan, tailored for the rich tapestry of languages and cultures in regions like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and more. In response to the evolving landscape of home broadband and Cable TV, we’re putting an end to the era of restrictive DTH subscriptions and costly add-ons.

    Our new OTT Pack, starting at an affordable Rs 599/month for 12 months, not only offers affordable, high-quality viewing but also revolutionises user experience. By integrating over 17 OTT platforms into one seamless OTTplay app, we eliminate the hassle of multiple subscriptions and interfaces. Users can now enjoy a library of over more than 50,000 titles and shows with a single sign-on.

    Further, OTTplay’s cutting-edge AI technology enhances the viewing experience by analysing user preferences and viewing history. This results in personalised, cross-platform content recommendations, transforming the way our users discover and enjoy entertainment.

    Excitel and OTTplay Premium, AI-powered streaming platforms have joined forces with a shared vision to revolutionise home entertainment. This partnership aims to upgrade the experience as you navigate through your preferred shows, movies, and live TV—all consolidated into one dynamic and comprehensive package.

    OTTplay CEO and co-founder Avinash Mudaliar expressed his excitement about this partnership, saying, “This partnership is a watershed moment for Indian entertainment. With Excitel’s lightning-fast internet and OTTplay’s AI-powered recommendations, we’re creating a personalised content universe that redefines how viewers experience entertainment.”

    Excitel is actively collaborating on an exciting initiative to introduce a comprehensive north Plan, aiming to broaden its services. This expansion goes beyond just incorporating OTT apps, as Excitel plans to include a variety of regional northern apps. This strategic step reflects Excitel’s commitment to delivering diverse and region-specific content, ensuring that subscribers nationwide can enjoy a rich selection of entertainment.
     

  • OTTplay Premium adds more regional flavor with aha Telugu & Tamil

    OTTplay Premium adds more regional flavor with aha Telugu & Tamil

    Mumbai: India’s first AI-powered streaming, recommendation, and content discovery platform, is thrilled to announce the strategic on-boarding of aha, a dynamic addition to its premium content lineup “aha”, renowned for its high-quality Telugu and Tamil-language content, brings a unique flavor to OTTplay Premium’s platform. This collaboration enhances the diversity of available content while also playing a crucial role in strengthening OTTplay Premium’s presence in the regional market.

    With an extensive array of exclusive Telugu & Tamil movies, original series, and engaging shows spanning various genres, aha Telugu & aha Tamil with OTT play Premium is set to captivate the audience with its diverse and culturally rich content. This partnership is a testament to OTTplay Premium’s commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment experiences to its subscribers and strategically aligns with aha’s expertise in providing top-notch Telugu and Tamil-language content.

    “We are pleased to announce the addition of aha Telugu & aha Tamil to the OTTplay Premium portfolio. This collaboration extends beyond content expansion; it represents a transformative shift in the essence of entertainment. This partnership transcends boundaries; it’s a fusion of quality, cultural resonance, and the sheer joy of storytelling. We are confident that this collaboration will not only redefine streaming experiences but also establish a lasting connection with our esteemed regional audience” said OTT play CEO & co-founder Avinash Mudaliar.

    aha CEO Ravikanth Sabnavis said, “We are delighted to announce this strategic partnership with OTT Play, a pivotal step in our ongoing mission to become an integral part of every Telugu and Tamil household. In the dynamic landscape of digital entertainment, aha envisions itself not just as a leading Telugu and Tamil OTT App but as a cultural companion for families across regions. With OTT Play, we are excited to amplify our efforts and reach an even wider audience. OTT Play’s reputation as a key player in the digital streaming realm aligns seamlessly with aha’s vision, making them an invaluable strategic partner on our journey. Together, we aim to redefine the entertainment experience, ensuring our exclusive content resonates with viewers on a profound level. As we forge ahead, we are eager to share the excitement and joy that our content brings to the OTT Play family.”

    OTTplay Premium subscribers can now enjoy a seamless transition to aha’s Telugu & Tamil content, exploring a wide range of options from blockbuster movies to critically acclaimed original series, all while tapping into aha’s expertise in delivering exceptional Telugu and Tamil-language entertainment.

    The expansion of the content horizon ensures that OTTplay Premium continues to be a go-to destination for entertainment enthusiasts seeking variety, quality, and innovation. This exciting collaboration reflects OTTplay Premium’s dynamic approach to staying ahead in the competitive streaming landscape, fostering creativity and audience engagement.

  • Danube Properties presents OTTplay Awards 2023: Recognising the best in Indian OTT

    Danube Properties presents OTTplay Awards 2023: Recognising the best in Indian OTT

    Mumbai: The second edition of the highly anticipated OTTplay Awards 2023, took the entertainment industry by storm with a star-studded gala that set the stage for a night of unparalleled glamour and recognition. Held at the iconic Taj Lands’ End in Mumbai, the event commenced at 8:00 PM on 29 October 2023 and brought together the best of India’s thriving OTT (Over-The-Top) entertainment industry.

    At the prestigious OTTplay Awards 2023, an array of outstanding talents took centre stage. Notable among the winners was Kajol, who secured the award for Best Debutant Female in recognition of her remarkable performance in “The Trial.” The OTT Performer of the Year was Rajkumar Rao, and Aditi Rao Hydari received the Female OTT Performer of the Year award. Rana Daggubati was honoured as the Most Promising Actor, while Karishma Tanna clinched the title of the Most Promising Female Actor in OTT. The coveted title of Best Film of the Year was bestowed upon “Darlings,” making it a night to remember for all involved.

    OTTplay Awards, known for celebrating excellence in digital content across various genres, recognized outstanding achievements in more than 30 categories. The event’s unique distinction lies in its mission to honour India’s rich cultural diversity and its contribution to digital entertainment. This year’s edition marked a significant milestone, as it became the first-ever PAN-INDIA OTT Award, perfectly embodying the spirit of “One Nation, One OTT Award.

    Danube Group founder, and chairman Rizwan Sajan said, “OTTplay Awards is more than just a partnership; it’s a recognition of the transformative power of digital entertainment. In a world where storytelling knows no boundaries, these awards celebrate the visionaries who redefine narratives and captivate global audiences. From the perspective of Danube Properties Dubai, we firmly believe that our support for this platform is not solely an investment in innovation; it stands as a resounding testament to our unwavering commitment to pushing the very limits of what can be achieved in the realm of content creation.”

    OTTplay CEO and co-founder Avinash Mudaliar shared his enthusiasm about the success of the OTTplay Awards 2023, stating, “This year’s OTTplay Awards have truly exemplified the diversity and excellence within India’s digital entertainment space. We are honoured to recognize the outstanding contributions of the industry’s finest talents across a wide array of categories. It’s not just an award show; it’s a celebration of our remarkable stories, brilliant storytellers & the ones who bring it to life. We are proud to have created the first-ever PAN-INDIA OTT Award”

    The OTTplay Awards 2023 have undoubtedly raised the bar for recognising excellence in the Indian OTT industry. The event’s commitment to celebrating the unity of India’s diverse cultural landscape reflects the spirit of our times. As we look ahead, we anticipate even greater achievements and innovation in the world of digital entertainment. 

  • OTTplay Awards returns for its second grand celebration

    OTTplay Awards returns for its second grand celebration

    Mumbai: The OTTplay Awards, India’s most prestigious recognition of outstanding achievements in the realm of over-the-top content, is back with its much-anticipated second edition, presented by Danube Properties Dubai. In an ever-evolving digital landscape, the OTTplay Awards continue to honour excellence and innovation, setting the gold standard for the Indian OTT industry.

    The OTTplay Awards 2023 promises to be a night to remember, featuring a star-studded lineup of guests. The purple carpet event at the iconic Taj Lands End in Mumbai is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 pm on 29 October 2023, offering an unparalleled glamour quotient.

    This year, the OTTplay Awards proudly announces its telecast partnership with Colors Infinity, adding an extra layer of grandeur to the event. With this collaboration, the awards ceremony will reach an even wider audience, celebrating the brilliance of Indian OTT content across the nation.

    The OTTplay Awards will recognize achievements across a remarkable over 30 categories, encompassing all genres. The event’s one-of-a-kind distinction is its mission to celebrate India’s diverse cultural landscape, making it the first-ever PAN-INDIA OTT Award – truly embodying the spirit of “One Nation, One OTT Award.”

    The prestigious awards night will witness the presence of the who’s who of the OTT industry, from celebrated actors to visionary directors, talented writers, and producers who have contributed to the growth and success of India’s digital entertainment landscape.

    “The OTTplay Awards have always been about acknowledging and appreciating the incredible talent that the OTT platforms have brought to the forefront,” said OTTplay CEO and co-founder Avinash Mudaliar. “This year, our focus remains unwavering, as we celebrate excellence in every genre, reinforcing the idea that content knows no boundaries. We are delighted to be hosting our second edition of the awards, and we look forward to the presence of some of the most iconic names in the industry.”

    As the anticipation builds for the OTTplay Awards 2023, the stage is set for a remarkable evening that will shine a spotlight on the brilliance and innovation of India’s ever-evolving OTT industry. With the promise of iconic guests and a record-breaking number of categories, this event marks a significant milestone in the digital entertainment landscape.

  • OTTplay Premium announces collaboration with Stage

    OTTplay Premium announces collaboration with Stage

    Mumbai: OTTplay Premium, India’s premier AI-powered streaming, recommendation, and content discovery platform, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Stage, the pioneering dialect-based streaming platform. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in delivering diverse and authentic regional content to Indian audiences.

    Stage, the world’s first dialect-based streaming platform, boasts an impressive library of over 250 original films and series spanning various genres. With a focus on Haryanvi and Rajasthani dialects, Stage brings forth a unique entertainment experience that resonates deeply with the rich cultural diversity of India.

    The partnership between OTTplay Premium and Stage is set to enhance the streaming landscape in India by combining cutting-edge technology and localized content. OTTplay Premium, known for its AI-driven recommendations and content discovery capabilities, will seamlessly integrate Stage’s dialect-based content into its platform, making it easily accessible to a wider audience.

    OTTplay CEO & co-founder Avinash Mudaliar commented on the partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to join forces with Stage in our shared mission to bring diverse, regional content to the forefront of India’s streaming industry. This collaboration not only enriches the content offerings on OTTplay Premium but also celebrates the linguistic and cultural diversity of our country. Our AI algorithms will ensure that users discover Stage’s compelling content, creating a personalized and engaging experience for our viewers.”

    Stage co-founder & CEO Vinay Singhal expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Dialects in India changes after every 8 kms or so. Up until now people only had Hindi content at their disposal where the cultural values and milieu are missing. Stage makes content for aspiring Bharat and enables them to take pride in their culture and dialect.  Partnership with OTTPlay will allow Stage to take its content and mission to a wider set of audiences. “Kyonki Boli Mein Apnapan Hai”

    OTTplay Premium and Stage share a common vision of democratizing content access while championing the rich tapestry of regional languages and cultures in India. This partnership aligns perfectly with their shared commitment to offering a diverse and enriching streaming experience for viewers across the country.

    As India’s digital entertainment landscape continues to evolve, OTTplay Premium and Stage are excited to be at the forefront of this transformation. Together, they are poised to revolutionize the way Indian audiences engage with regional content, fostering cultural pride and diversity through the power of streaming.

  • OTTplay and DistroTV announce partnership to stream 180 free live channels in India

    OTTplay and DistroTV announce partnership to stream 180 free live channels in India

    Mumbai: DistroTV, a leading global streaming platform owned by DistroScale, and OTTplay Premium, a OTT content streaming, discovery and recommendation platform, have announced a new partnership that will bring DistroTV’s 170+ free-to-watch, live streaming channels to OTTplay users in India.

    OTTplay Premium, is a popular OTT platform in India that gives you access to 24+ OTT platforms with personalized recommendations of shows, web series and movies based on a user’s preference of language, genre, platform, actor, filmmaker, and more. This partnership with DistroTV will significantly expand the content available to OTTplay Premium users.

    “DistroTV’s mission has always been to bring diverse, global voices to audiences around the world,” said DistroScale CEO Navdeep Saini. “This partnership with OTTplay allows us to further that mission by bringing our extensive lineup of live streaming channels to even more viewers in India.”

    DistroScale India, SEA, and MENA CEO Vikas Khanchandani added, “We are thrilled to partner with OTTplay, a platform that shares our commitment to delivering a wide range of content to viewers. This partnership will allow us to reach even more viewers in India, providing them with access to our diverse lineup of channels.”

    “OTTplay Premium is excited to partner with Distro TV to bring live TV channels to more viewers in India. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to providing our users with the best possible entertainment experience. We are confident that our users will enjoy the wide variety of content that Distro TV has to offer, and we look forward to working with them to make it even more accessible and enjoyable for our viewers,” said OTTplay CEO & co-founder Avinash Mudaliar.

    This partnership reinforces DistroTV’s commitment to bringing diverse, global voices to audiences around the world, and OTTplay’s commitment to helping users discover new and exciting content.