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Tag: BBC Player

  • Stripes on Screen as BBC Player Roars with Tiger Day Special

    Stripes on Screen as BBC Player Roars with Tiger Day Special

    MUMBAI: From Ranthambore with roar. This World Tiger Day, BBC Player is sinking its claws into the untamed heart of India with Legendary Tigers of India, a gripping documentary that prowls onto screens this Independence Day, 15 August . Narrated by the late, legendary conservationist Valmik Thapar, the film is more than just stripes and stares. It’s a moving chronicle of survival, strength, and the shifting story of India’s national animal. Thapar, one of the world’s foremost tiger experts, spent a full monsoon-to-monsoon year tracking a new generation of Bengal tigers deep within Ranthambore, one of India’s most iconic tiger reserves.

    With intimate access and five decades of experience behind the lens and in the wild, Thapar offers rare glimpses of tigers not just as apex predators, but as emotionally complex, intuitive creatures navigating shrinking habitats and growing human presence.

    The film roars to life from Thapar’s own jungle home at the forest’s edge, blending dramatic visuals with a deeply personal narrative. From mother cub dynamics to solitary alpha males, the documentary captures the instinctual ballet of survival, mating, territoriality and raw jungle drama woven through the lens of ecological urgency and reverence.

    Premiering exclusively on BBC Player in India via Tata Play Binge and Prime Video (add-on subscription required), this special release is BBC’s tribute to India’s tiger legacy. With India currently home to more than 70 per cent of the world’s wild tigers 3,682, as per the 2023 census the documentary feels both timely and timeless.

    In an age of noisy content, Legendary Tigers of India invites audiences to pause, listen, and marvel. Not just at the majesty of the tiger, but at a conservation journey that began with 1,411 tigers in 2006 and roared back in triumph. This isn’t just a documentary. It’s a call to protect what still prowls.

  • Tata Play Binge adds BBC Player to its streaming menu, bringing British classics to Indian screens

    Tata Play Binge adds BBC Player to its streaming menu, bringing British classics to Indian screens

    MUMBAI: Tata Play Binge has inked a fresh deal with BBC Player, injecting its content library with a world of British brilliance. Subscribers are now in for a treat with a treasure trove of critically acclaimed BBC titles—Luther, Doctor Who, Top Gear, Planet Earth III, and more—joining the platform’s extensive streaming lineup.

    The partnership aims to offer a mix of iconic dramas, sharp-witted comedies, genre-defining documentaries, and engaging family-friendly content—all under one roof. From the legendary Mr. Bean to the culinary magic of Nigella Lawson and Jamie Oliver, there’s something for everyone. Even the kids can dive into animated favourites like Andy’s Aquatic Adventures and Junior Bake Off.

    Tata Play chief commercial and content officer Pallavi Puri said, “This partnership underscores our commitment to bringing the best of global content to our viewers, all in one place. BBC Studio’s premium storytelling and rich library of highly celebrated shows perfectly complement our growing content roster, and we are confident that our users will love this addition.” 

    BBC Studios  vice-president distribution Stanley Fernandes added, “, “We’re excited to bring BBC Player to more homes across India with Tata Play Binge, offering the best of British entertainment—from acclaimed dramas to inspiring lifestyle shows and kids’ favourites—all in one place. This marks a new chapter in our partnership with Tata Play as we expand into their OTT aggregation space, building on our strong collaboration.”

    BBC Player joins a star-studded lineup of over 30 streaming apps already available on Tata Play Binge, including Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, SonyLIV, and Zee5, making it a one-stop shop for diverse content. With this latest addition, Tata Play Binge continues its mission to be the ultimate hub for premium streaming.

  • BBC Studios considers shuttering Indian operations: Economic Times report

    BBC Studios considers shuttering Indian operations: Economic Times report

    MUMBAI: Is BBC Studios set to exit India?

    If a report in The Economic Times is to be believed it is strongly considering the possibility. Recently, its general manager Sameer Gogate quit the content production arm. 

    It is also considering other options like zooming in on a strategic investor who will share some of the challenges that have emerged in the severely  tested media and entertainment industry. Another option being toyed with is doing co-productions with Indian producers – something which has not been a huge hit in the Indian scenario as yet. 

    Sources indicate that consolidation and shrinking budgets from television broadcasters and OTT platforms have intensified competition for limited projects, significantly squeezing producers’ profit margins.

    Known for popular shows like Criminal Justice, The Office, Out of Love, and Nach Baliye BBC Studios, produces approximately 2,000 hours of content annually and operates in over 20 countries. It  also maintains a robust content licensing business in India, licensing British formats such as Dancing with the Stars* and Luther.

    Faced with a more selective landscape of OTT platforms and broadcasters, the pressure to maximize output under reduced budgets is prompting a re-evaluation of BBC Studios’ production strategy in India. A company spokesperson confirmed to The Economic Times that the management in the UK  is currently reviewing its  production operating model to enhance efficiency.

    The Indian M&E sector has experienced significant consolidation, with recent major mergers like the Star India and Viacom18 deal and discussions involving the acquisition of Tata Play by Bharti Airtel’s DTH arm, Airtel DTH.

    Experts suggest that BBC Studios’ production arm could be among the first casualties of this trend as margin pressures continue to mount.

    This potential shift comes as the BBC Group maintains its presence in India through various digital news platforms and joint ventures, including Sony BBC Earth and the recently launched BBC Player and BBC Kids on Prime Video.

    Additionally, BBC itself in the UK is under pressure. An audit report of the BBC  by the National Audit Office  expressed  this in no less words when it said: In 2023-24, BBC Studios’ income fell by £253 million (12 per cent) to £1,837 million and profits fell by £50 million (20 per cent ) to £202 million. This was partly due to challenging market conditions, including a reduction in spend by commissioners, including the BBC and global streamers, on the production of programmes and the ending of some high-value contracts which generated significant income in 2022-23. In addition its profits were reduced by higher costs as BBC Studios invested in its digital services such as BBC.com and BritBox International to support its future growth

    The audit report was also critical of BBC Studios and its inability to generate too many new IPs and for being dependent on BBC’s catalogue of shows before the production arm was set up in 2016. The report said: “In our 2020 report, we identified that BBC Studios had been less successful than planned in winning new commissions and generating IP.
    Since then, although generation of new IP has grown, BBC Studios has not met its targets in this area and remains reliant on the IP from BBC programmes created before it was first established in 2016. In 2023-24, of the 10 titles from its production business which provided the most profit to the BBC, only one was from new IP
    generated by BBC Studios.”

    Additionally, the Beeb is  on track to lay off close to 500 staff by March 2026 and generate savings of 200 million pounds sterling, according to reports.

  • Five BBC Player edutainment shows for your watchlist

    Five BBC Player edutainment shows for your watchlist

    Mumbai: As we celebrate Teachers’ Day, it’s the time to celebrate the wonders of learning with an exceptional lineup of shows that blend excitement with education, only on BBC Player on Prime Video Channel. Check out these five standout shows this Teacher’s Day.

    Horrible Histories

    If you think history is boring, think again! Horrible Histories takes you on a wild ride through the most outrageous and hilarious moments of history. Based on the bestselling book series of the same name by Terry Deary, this children’s live-action historical and musical sketch comedy series brings history’s most gruesome, unpleasant, yet hilarious moments to life. From the savage stone age to the groovy Greeks and vile Vikings, it explores the naughty and irreverent sides of history. Through energetic sketches and humour, Horrible Histories provides children a glimpse into the different historical events in an engaging and educational format.

    JoJo & Gran Gran

    JoJo & Gran Gran isn’t just a delightful, animated show; it’s a heartwarming glance into family life and cultural heritage. Follow JoJo and her lively grandmother as they explore their London neighbourhood and explore Saint Lucian traditions. The series provides valuable lessons about community, diversity, and the joy of spending time with loved ones. Catch the new season on BBC Player on Prime Video Channels starting 27 September.

    Andy’s Global Adventures

    Get ready to travel the world with Andy’s Global Adventures. Join Andy, Jen, and their AI buddy Scout as they explore every corner of the globe, meeting amazing animals and solving natural history mysteries. From chameleons in Sri Lanka to penguins in Antarctica, this exploration series makes learning about wildlife and conservation an exciting journey. The next set of episodes arrive on BBC Player on Prime Video Channels from 25 October onwards.

    Planet Earth III

    The legendary Sir David Attenborough’s planet journey continues with Planet Earth III showcasing breathtaking visuals and deep dives into the natural world. The much-loved documentary series takes you through diverse habitats and showcases the incredible adaptations of animals. It also addresses current environmental challenges, offering insights into how climate change and human activities impact wildlife. The series helps viewers understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of preserving our planet. Available on BBC Player on Prime Video Channels from 13 September.

    Steve and Aneeshwar Go Wild

    Join Steve Backshall and young conservationist Aneeshwar Kunchala on Steve and Aneeshwar Go Wild as they visit zoos and safari parks to meet some of the most fascinating animals. From the world’s biggest land animal to unique underwater creatures, this show highlights how all creatures, big and small, are connected. The show highlights how even the most unusual animals are connected, offering an engaging look at wildlife and the importance of conservation.

    Celebrate Teachers’ Day with these fantastic shows that blend fun and learning seamlessly. BBC Player on Prime Video Channels has the perfect mix of educational content and entertainment to inspire and engage viewers of all ages.

  • Experience India’s hospitality in the ‘Grand Indian Hotel’ series on BBC Player

    Experience India’s hospitality in the ‘Grand Indian Hotel’ series on BBC Player

    Mumbai: BBC Player, a BBC Studios streaming service available on Prime Video Channels, is excited to present Grand Indian Hotel, which offers a fascinating insight into the majestic traditions of Indian hospitality by the prestigious Oberoi Hotel & Resorts group, renowned for its exemplary service at some of the most stunning and regal locations across India.

     

     

    Available from Friday 14 June, the three-part series provides an unprecedented look inside one of the world’s most luxurious hotel groups, revealing the behind-the-scenes of providing world-class hospitality and painstaking care that its takes to deliver the most unforgettable experience. Grand Indian Hotel chronicles the 90-year history and hallmark of the Oberoi Hotel & Resorts’ “guest obsession” philosophy.

    Series highlights include a peek into the world of:

    1   The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur preparing lavish Maharaja banquets for guests, along with a peek into the most significant event of the year.

    2   The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur painstakingly orchestrating a secret marriage proposal and delivering a royal welcome for VIP guests with seamless luxury at the Oberoi group’s flagship lakeside hotel.

    3   The Oberoi, New Delhi navigating the busiest period in the social calendar, catering to demanding guests during the India Art Fair, along with the unveiling of a new restaurant concept by Chef Vineet Bhatia.

    Talking about the debut of Grand India Hotel on BBC Player, Stanley Fernandes, Vice President of Distribution, South Asia, BBC Studios said “We continuously seek stories that resonate with our audience’s curiosity and desire for content that travels boundaries, so this series is perfect for BBC Player. ‘Grand Indian Hotel’ is a first-hand account depicting India’s vibrant culture of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ through the lens of legendary Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, and reflects the great story-telling that is synonymous with BBC Studios.”

    Developed by Voltage and distributed by BBC Studios, Grand Indian Hotel is set to premiere on Prime Video Channels on BBC Player on Friday, 14 June. Don’t miss the opportunity to be dazzled by the grandeur of India’s finest hotels and meet the dedicated individuals diligently working to deliver the best experience for travellers.

    Prime members can purchase an add-on subscription to BBC Player at INR 599 annually, which also provides access to BBC Kids, or they can purchase a standalone add-on subscription to BBC Kids at Rs 199 annually.

  • BBC Player’s Christmas bounty: delightful binge-worthy treats with an incredible line-up of shows

    BBC Player’s Christmas bounty: delightful binge-worthy treats with an incredible line-up of shows

    Mumbai: As the merry-making season beckons, prepare yourselves for a sumptuous treat by BBC Player on Prime Video channels which brings goodies for everyone this Christmas season. A content line-up that’s a sizzling treat for your senses with plenty of drama, comedy, suspense, travel, and adventure, which is sure to keep you engrossed and enthralled.

    Beginning with an unmissable show for all crime drama lovers is DCI Banks. Featuring the tenacious and stubborn Chief Inspector Alan Banks and the feisty and headstrong Detective Sergeant Annie Cabbot, the thrilling crime stories are sure to keep you on the edge. Feed your mystery-loving mind, as the two unravel baffling mysteries.  

    There’s more drama to unravel with Blue Lights featuring three rookie police officers in Northern Ireland who have to survive their probation period. The team finds themselves fighting drug gangs, paramilitaries, undercover operatives, the local community and even their colleagues in a battle for justice. Thrill, humour and suspense, you name it, it has it all! If police drama is your game, then this is not missing this season.

    Fulfil your love for the ethereal with Ghosts, which will jostle the mind and tickle your funny bone! Enter the crumbling country mansion Button House, which is home to eccentric spirits who have died over different periods of history. With its human occupants, Alison and Mike, you will surely fall in love with the show as the episodes unravel into a comedy chaos of sorts!

    For all you food aficionados, Season 14 of The Great British Bake Off is here! Bringing yet another exciting baking battle with a dozen new contestants and a new host! Settle into your couches as you gorge into this multi-award-winning series. Replete with challenging rounds, the competition gets tougher with each elimination of the contestants. Make sure to devour this show to know who the new bake-off champion will be and who knows, you might just learn a few recipes for this jolly season!

    To know more about the late talented multi-award-winning singer Amy Winehouse, watch Reclaiming Amy, which marks her tenth death anniversary. In an endeavour to celebrate her legacy, Amy’s friends and family members reveal the truth about the music icon and the impact that her loss has had on them. This personal and powerful account shows never-seen-before musical performances, and family archives revealing sides of her personality not known to many. To know more about Amy Winehouse, make sure to watch this new interpretation of her life and her legacy.

    Tune in to One Cup, A Thousand Stories, an explorative documentary on tea and its impact on various civilizations. Feed your brains with this stunning series, which recounts beautiful stories of this drink, which is not just another hot beverage, but creates an emotional connection as well. An immersive experience that takes you through revelations of extraordinary tea estate landscapes, from high mountains to wild coasts and stories of men and women whose lives revolve around this nectar. Sit back, relax and sip away!

    Young parents and children, fret not! The live feed of CBeebies on BBC Player and BBC Kids has a lot in store for you as well. Catch the fourth season of Hey Duggee for a fun and energetic time. Duggee is a big lovable dog, who runs a club for pre-schoolers and keeps them engaged in exciting activities.

    Then there is Bluey season 1, where Bluey follows the adventures of a lovable and inexhaustible six-year-old Heeler puppy who lives with her dad, mum and four-year-old little sister, Bingo.

    Next is Season 1 of Supertato, a slapstick comedy animation series which showcases the good battles against evil among the aisles of the world’s greatest potato supermarket. With these three exciting shows, the little ones are sure to remain amused and excited!

    So, cosy up with your loved ones and make sure to watch these incredible shows on BBC Player on Prime Video Channels and add them to your must-watch list to fill your days with thrill and joy!

  • Binge-worthy shows on BBC Player are here to light up the festive season

    Binge-worthy shows on BBC Player are here to light up the festive season

    Mumbai: BBC Player on Prime Video Channels will deliver a delight of content for its audience this festive season, including an array of engaging and power-packed shows to binge-watch and a special selection of Doctor Who programs spanning from classic episodes to recent specials.

    Whovians across India can now immerse themselves in iconic moments from the beloved sci-fi series Doctor Who, featuring episodes from various seasons and thrilling specials. Join the Doctors on their adventures exploring the universe in specials such as The Power of the Doctor -Centenary special, Eve of the Daleks – New Year’s Day, Legend of the Sea Devils, The End of Time – Christmas Special, Planet of the Dead, The Waters of Mars, The Next Doctor – Christmas Special, Voyage of the Damned – Christmas Special, The Runaway Bride -Christmas Special.  Fun fact! Doctor Who is listed in the Guinness World Records as the longest-running science fiction series in the world, as well as the ‘most successful’ science fiction series of all time.

    Beyond Doctor Who, BBC Player brings a range of other incredible shows that will make the festivities even brighter. The Chelsea Detective Season 2 delivers an intricate world of investigative drama set amidst the enigmatic streets of Chelsea. Additionally, culinary enthusiasts can savor the delectable treats featured in Rachel Allen Cake Diaries, while comedy lovers can revel in the laughter of Black Ops and The Cleaner, both promising sidesplitting moments in their chaotic and humorous scenarios. Completing the roster of special programming for Diwali, Wonders Of The World I Can’t See invites viewers on an exciting exploration of unseen marvels, providing insights into the hidden wonders that exist beyond the real world. These shows collectively ensure an eclectic mix of entertainment, catering to a wide spectrum of interests and moods.

    So, what are you waiting for? Subscribe to BBC Player today at an annual subscription of Rs 599, and let the magic begin!