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Tag: Deepak Dhar

  • Banijay Asia brings NBCUniversal’s ‘Monk’ to India on Disney+ Hotstar

    Banijay Asia brings NBCUniversal’s ‘Monk’ to India on Disney+ Hotstar

    Mumbai : Banijay Asia announced the Indian adaptation of NBCUniversal’s iconic detective series Monk.

    The adaptation will revolve around Adrian Monk, a detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder and his assistants Sharona Fleming and Natalie Teeger. Monk works with the San Francisco Police Department in solving unconventional cases while investigating his wife’s unsolved murder. The plot also explores the main characters’ personal lives and struggles.

    The Indian adaptation of the series is already in production and will stream exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar and Hulu. This marks the first Asian adaptation of the format and the second worldwide, following the Turkish version. Monk originally aired on USA Network in the United States and is licensed globally by NBCUniversal Formats, which is part of Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group.

    Banijay Asia & Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar said “We are incredibly excited to partner with NBCUniversal Formats to adapt Monk for the Indian audiences. The original series has set a new benchmark for character-driven mysteries, and we believe our adaptation will resonate similarly. With a stellar cast in place, we are confident about doing justice to the iconic characters. The production has been progressing seamlessly, and we look forward to showcasing this exciting project on Disney+ Hotstar, thus taking our long and fruitful association one step ahead, as we continue to bring high-quality and engaging content to Indian audiences together.”

    Disney+ Hotstar (Hindi) business head HSM and content head, Sumanta Bose shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Banijay Asia and NBCUniversal Formats to bring this award-winning series to the Indian audience. Monk is an exciting fit for our platform, with its captivating mix of humor, mystery, and emotional depth. We have attempted to make this adaptation feel rooted and Indian, and thus uniquely fresh for our audiences including those who may have seen the original.”

    NBCUniversal Formats SVP, Format sales & production, Ana Langenberg added, “It’s wonderful to see Monk finding a home with Indian audiences. The show’s charm has connected with viewers around the world, and with trusted partners like Banijay Asia & Disney+ Hotstar, we know this adaptation will capture the heart of the original while embracing a new cultural backdrop. We’re eager to see this beloved series brought to life in India.

  • COLORS transforms ‘Bigg Boss Chahte Hain’ to ‘Bigg Boss Jaante Hain’ for new season

    COLORS transforms ‘Bigg Boss Chahte Hain’ to ‘Bigg Boss Jaante Hain’ for new season

    Mumbai: Get ready for a new season of ‘Bigg Boss’ with the tagline transformation from “Bigg Boss Chahte Hain” to “Bigg Boss Jaante Hain.” This year, COLORS is launching the 18th season of its iconic reality show with a fresh theme: “Time Ka Tandav.” The show will not only entertain but also provide insights into contestants’ futures, as ‘Bigg Boss’ himself predicts their every move.

    Salman Khan returns as the host, promising tough questions and reality checks during Weekend Ka Vaar. Produced by Endemol Shine India and Banijay Group, the show premieres on October 6 at 9 PM, airing Monday to Friday at 10 PM on COLORS and live on Jio Cinema for premium subscribers.

    Viacom18’s Alok Jain stated, “At COLORS, we take pride in consistently innovating and delivering content that resonates with our audiences. Bigg Boss is a testament to this, with each season pushing the boundaries of innovation and entertainment.” He added that the theme of “Time Ka Tandav” reflects their commitment to fresh content and innovative integrations.

    Salman Khan expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “When the format of Bigg Boss 18 was narrated to me, I was quite intrigued. After hosting the show for 14 years, it’s exciting to see how it is bringing a whole new twist to the format… This is a welcome change, and I think it’s going to take both the contestants and viewers on an unpredictable ride full of surprises.”

    Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar emphasised the show’s legacy: “The legacy of entertainment created by Bigg Boss is a matter of immense pride for all of us at Endemol Shine India. With each season, Bigg Boss has not only captured the imagination of audiences but redefined the very nature of reality television… the stage is set for an entertainment extravaganza like no other.”

    This season’s promotional campaign features ex-contestants and COLORS actors receiving cryptic notes about the show’s theme, while digital initiatives will include behind-the-scenes content, Snapchat lenses, and Instagram filters. Unique global spectacles will employ CGI technology to project the iconic Bigg Boss eye on clock towers worldwide, representing the show’s influence.

    JioCinema will provide 24-hour Live coverage, boosting interactivity with programs like Hype and Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan, where viewers can answer trivia questions for prizes, including an iPhone 16. Voting remains crucial, allowing fans to save their favourite contestants from nominations, along with engaging content segments throughout the season.

  • Bigg Boss Kannada 11 to premiere on 29 September

    Bigg Boss Kannada 11 to premiere on 29 September

    Mumbai: Colors Kannada is launching season 11 of Bigg Boss, one of India’s biggest reality shows. The premiere will air on 29 September at 6 pm, with daily episodes following at 9:30 pm and on Jio Cinema. This season features a ‘Hell and Heaven’ theme, where contestants are divided into two groups—one enjoying luxury and the other facing challenges without basic amenities.

    For the first time, contestants will be revealed before the show’s launch during the Raja Rani Reloaded Grand Finale on 28 September, where viewers will decide who goes to hell and who enters heaven. Kiccha Sudeep will return as host, bringing his experience and leadership to the show. This season will feature a diverse mix of celebrities and influencers, with a larger Bigg Boss house designed for elaborate games and tasks, promising drama and unexpected moments.

    Kiccha Sudeep said, “Ten seasons has been an incredible journey. Stepping into the 11th season is altogether an additional responsibility. With a refreshed format and a new concept, this season is not just another chapter—it’s a legacy we’re all building together. I’m excited for the newer lot.”

    Viacom18 president- general entertainment Alok Jain said, “Bigg Boss has always been a trailblazing property in the media and entertainment landscape, consistently breaking through the clutter with its dynamic, engaging content that resonates across languages and regions. As one of the most impactful franchises on television, it captivates millions with its high-voltage entertainment and unmatched viewer connection. Our aim is to always delight audiences and keep our promise of bringing new and exciting content to our viewers in Karnataka. This season of Bigg Boss Kannada introduces the exciting ‘Hell and Heaven’ theme, foretelling a thrilling experience for our audiences. We’re also thankful to our brand partners for being part of journey. Their association is a testament to the show’s reach and success across the region.”

    Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India founder and group CEO Deepak Dhar said, “We are excited to bring the 11th season of Bigg Boss Kannada to our viewers, packed with high-energy entertainment and drama, with the iconic Kiccha Sudeep returning as host. The overwhelming love and support from our audience year after year has driven us to raise the bar for the show once again. Our continued partnership with Colors Kannada and JioCinema promises another successful season to our beloved audiences in India & beyond. At EndemolShine India, our focus is to tailor engaging formats like Bigg Boss to resonate with linguistic & cultural preferences across regions. We are confident that this season will not only entertain but engage and thrill viewers, as Bigg Boss Kannada continues to grow stronger each year.”

    Bigg Boss Kannada Season 11 is co-powered by Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil, with special partners Sadguru Ayurveda Gram Flour Soap, Sudarshan Silks, Haier, Nirantara Divine Puja Oil, India Gate Basmati Rice, A23 Rummy, associate partner Hangyo Ice Cream and Amrutanjan, along with prize partner Confident Group and digital partner Vimal Elaichi and Sharief Bhai Biryani.

    Viewers can enjoy Bigg Boss Kannada episodes for free on Jio Cinema the day after they air, catching all the action free of cost.

  • Banijay Asia & SERA team up to send one Indian to space on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket

    Banijay Asia & SERA team up to send one Indian to space on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket

    Mumbai:  Banijay Asia, part of Banijay Entertainment, the independent content producer, has announced its collaboration with Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) to produce an innovative format show that will showcase the nationwide hunt for one ordinary Indian citizen who will journey into space on a future Blue Origin New Shepard mission. The format will capture the drama, disappointment, and joy as the shortlisted individuals participate in various challenges that test their mettle and readiness for space travel. The show will culminate in the selection of a final winner who will have the opportunity to become one of the first Indian citizens to travel into space.

    This announcement builds on SERA’s recent news announcing India as a partner nation for their human spaceflight program aimed at allowing citizens from countries with few or no astronauts to travel into space. SERA’s mission is to democratize space travel by opening up opportunities for ordinary citizens to experience the wonders of space exploration.

    “At Banijay Asia, our mission has always been to explore new horizons in storytelling. We’re embarking on an unprecedented journey with SERA to create a reality format that transcends the ordinary. It’s a privilege to document this journey of an ordinary Indian space traveller and show how this program will not only transform their life but also democratize space travel more broadly. We’re excited to entertain and inspire our audiences as we pave a new path in the world of competitive reality television, and spark a new wave of interest in space exploration,” said Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar.  

    Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India Group chief development officer Mrinalini Jain expressed her enthusiasm saying: “Partnering with SERA is a testament to Banijay Asia’s quest to find inspiring stories to narrate in the most innovative formats. We will pioneer an innovative and inspirational format by blending the thrill of reality television with the awe of space exploration. This will be a game-changing format showing every step of the journey from selection to space.”

    SERA co-founder Joshua Skurla shared his excitement for the collaboration: “SERA is founded on the principle of making space accessible to all. Our mission is to inspire and enable individuals from all backgrounds to explore the cosmos, fostering a new era of discovery and understanding. This partnership with Banijay Asia will bring space- and science-related content to a diverse audience. We look forward to their innovative approach to transform this historic endeavour into a movement that will not only inspire millions but also cultivate a global dialogue on the future of space exploration.”

    SERA’s spaceflight program will offer citizens from across the world six seats on a future mission of New Shepard, Blue Origin’s reusable suborbital rocket. The mission will fly the selected astronauts on an 11-minute journey past the Kármán line (100 km), the internationally recognised boundary of space.

  • Nadiadwala Grandson & Banijay Asia team up for series and films

    Nadiadwala Grandson & Banijay Asia team up for series and films

    Mumbai: In a major development for the Indian entertainment industry, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment (NGE), led by the visionary filmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala, and Banijay Asia (part of Banijay Entertainment), the production powerhouse led by Deepak Dhar, have created a strategic collaboration to create original series and films as well as adaptations of popular international hits, to usher in a new era of premium content for Indian audiences.

    Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment founder Sajid Nadiadwala expressed his excitement saying, “At NGE, we have` always strived to deliver top-notch entertainment to the Indian audiences and partnering with Banijay Asia to create cutting edge content across genres and formats is a thrilling venture for us. Our vision has always been to push the boundaries of entertainment, and this partnership is a significant step towards achieving that goal. This is just the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership with Banijay Asia, and we look forward to this creative synergy”.”

    Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India founder & Group CEO Deepak Dhar commented: “We are excited to partner with Sajid Nadiadwala, a visionary whose contributions to Indian cinema are unparalleled. He has given audiences hit franchises like Housefull, Baaghi, and Kick, as well as content-driven films like Chhichhore and Super 30. His dedication to filmmaking and his ability to connect with the Indian & global audiences makes this partnership an interesting one. This collaboration further reinforces our commitment to produce high-quality content that resonates with audiences across the globe. With Sajid’s creative vision and our expertise in content creation, we are poised to set new benchmarks in the world of entertainment”.”

    Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India group chief development officer Mrinalini Jain said, “Partnering with Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment offers a unique opportunity to blend our strengths in content development with Sajid Nadiadwala’s cinematic vision. His unparalleled expertise and creative vision are invaluable assets in this collaboration which represents a shared commitment to creativity, innovation, and storytelling excellence. Together, we aim to push the boundaries of entertainment by delivering compelling originals and adaptations that captivate audiences in India and worldwide”.” 

  • COLORS returns with ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’

    COLORS returns with ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’

    Mumbai: Get ready to redefine your notion of a ‘tourist trap’ as COLORS presents the 14th edition of stunt-based show ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’, rewriting the script of vacationing by taking its troop of phobia fighters to Romania for the first time. With the theme ‘Darr ki Nayi Kahaniyaan in Romania…’, this fearsome getaway is sure to shake even the most daring preparations of its contestants. Amid all the novelty of this edition, one aspect of the show remains constant with filmmaker and award-winning TV host, Rohit Shetty making a comeback and mentoring the daredevils with his legendary experience. Produced by Endemol Shine India, Hyundai presents ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’, special partners Indica Easy Hair Color and Vicks, associate partners Smith & Jones Pasta Masala and Ambuja Cement, premieres on 27 July and thereafter will air every Saturday – Sunday at 9:30 pm only COLORS.

    At the outset, viewers will be treated to a grand entrance as Rohit Shetty descends from the skies in a chopper, only to land in a high-octane car chase that leads him to board the iconic European open-air red bus. That’s not all, the daredevil contestants will hop on this bus from the popular Romanian landmarks. Little do they know; their sightseeing tour is about to become an adrenaline-packed adventure! This season’s itinerary of thrills will stamp spine-chilling moments and panic on the contestants’ passports with a new theme every week. After all, variety is the spice of fright! From planes to trains, buses to cable cars – no mode of transport is safe from its devious challenges. And in a hair-raising first, these bravehearts will come face-to-face with Romania’s fierce bears, making it an epic showdown of the khiladis vs. bears!

    Viacom18 president – general entertainment Alok Jain said, “For 13 thrilling years, Khatron Ke Khiladi has been at the fore of courage-testing entertainment, reserving its place in the hearts of millions. Going from strength to strength, the flagship show has created a legacy of fearless adventures, and this upcoming season will redefine it with new themes each week. The show will be taking its tradition of fear-conquering to new heights as it touches down in Romania for the first time. Its legacy, records of high viewership, strong social media presence, and loyal audience make it an ideal platform for advertisers seeking exceptional impact and reach within their intended demographic. This season, we’re revving up the excitement with a groundbreaking partnership, welcoming Hyundai as our presenting sponsor for the first time. Together, we’ll be shifting gears, making the most of this thrilling ride of adventures. We are delighted to have Rohit Shetty mark a decade of hosting this show, bringing his signature style and blockbuster energy to inspire and guide the contestants through their adrenaline-pumping challenges.”

    Host Rohit Shetty said, “Facing fears head-on has been the very essence of Khatron Ke Khiladi and as we gear up for our 14th season in Romania, we’re not just changing locations – we’re rewriting the rulebook. This season, our contestants are in for the ride of their lives as we’re cranking up the heat with challenges that will push their absolute limits. I am looking forward for viewers to experience the season’s grand premiere.”

    Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar said, “We at Endemol Shine India are proud to watch Khatron Ke Khiladi become the epitome of action & adventure- packed entertainment in India. Bringing the international format of Fear Factor to India in itself was an exciting stunt for us, which we have been successfully performing for 14 years now. This year, Romania’s stunning landscapes will serve as the backdrop for the most innovative challenges of its our most loved television faces. We thank our host, Rohit Shetty, who has been the backbone of this show for a decade, bringing his massive experience in action to the course of performing stunts. The stage is set for a season that will captivate and thrill like never before. Besides, we believe that our strong association with COLORS is what catapults this show to new heights every year.”

    This year, an all-star lineup of 12 contestants is set to bring their unique brand of bravery to Romania. The roster includes ‘Bigg Boss’ alumni Shilpa Shinde, Abhishek Kumar, Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia, Shalin Bhanot, and Asim Riaz; Marathi superstar Gashmeer Mahajani, actress Sumona Chakravarti; fitness enthusiast Krishna Shroff making her TV debut; and fiction actors Karan Veer Mehra, Kedar Aashish Mehrotraa, Niyati Fatnani, and Aditi Sharma transitioning to reality TV. In the new season, viewers can expect entertaining dynamics, with Abhishek and Shalin tagged as “Chote Miyaan Bade Miyaan” for their newfound friendship, and Karan and Shilpa dubbed “ShiKaar” for their playful pranks. Abhishek’s attempts to charm Romanian girls with his tooti-footi English and Sumona’s surprising transition from comedy queen to stunt performer will be a treat to watch. With this explosive mix of charisma and courage, ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi 14’ promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, offering the only haven amid heart-racing action.

  • Colors Marathi announces new season of ‘Bigg Boss Marathi’

    Colors Marathi announces new season of ‘Bigg Boss Marathi’

    Mumbai: The much-anticipated new season of Bigg Boss Marathi will premiere on 28 July 2024, bringing back the excitement and drama that fans love. The Bigg Boss house is ready to welcome its new housemates, with over 100 cameras capturing their every move. For 100 days, viewers will witness the intriguing, often unexpected, sides of the contestants, all under the watchful eye of superstar Riteish Deshmukh. Adding his unique style and charisma, Riteish promises a season full of masti and high-octane entertainment as he hosts the show this season. Produced by Banijay and Endemol Shine India, special partners Santoor, PN Gadgil and Sons, the new season of ‘Bigg Boss Marathi’ will air every night from next Sunday at 9 pm on Colors Marathi.

    This season, Bigg Boss Marathi will feature contestants from diverse fields, creating a dynamic mix that will be revealed soon. The promos have already given viewers a glimpse of Riteish’s engaging style and a hint of what they can expect from him on the show. So, it will be interesting to watch how he welcomes the contestants. Will he be a friend or a guide? Will he do Grand Masti with contestants, or be their Lai Bhaari companion? What happens when something goes wrong, or someone crosses the line? All this will unfold soon in Riteish’s style.

    Riteish Deshmukh while expressing his excitement about the new season of ‘Bigg Boss Marathi’ said, “I am excited bringing the new season of ‘Bigg Boss Marathi’ to you. I have been following this show closely all these years, and now I am thrilled to be associated with Colors Marathi as the new host of Bigg Boss Marathi. It’s our responsibility to present this show in a new style and new form. The new season of Bigg Boss Marathi will be full of excitement, drama, and a lot of fun.”

    Viacom18 president (general entertainment) Alok Jain said, “At Viacom18, we prioritize innovation, consistently introducing diverse themes across our channels to ensure every family member finds a story they connect with. Bigg Boss franchise exemplifies this commitment by evolving with fresh content and engaging formats. This season, with Riteish Deshmukh hosting Bigg Boss Marathi, we are redefining the viewing experience, bringing unexpected twists and dynamic interactions. By blending universal storytelling with local flavors, we are creating compelling narratives that resonate across different audiences. As we continue to set new benchmarks in entertainment, viewers can look forward to a season filled with unparalleled excitement.”

    Viacom18 cluster head, Colors Marathi, Colors Kannada, and Color Tamil, Sushma Rajesh said, “Colors Marathi has always been at the forefront of groundbreaking storytelling, and we are delighted to unveil the new season of Bigg Boss Marathi. After a period of eager anticipation, we are thrilled to bring back Bigg Boss Marathi with renewed energy and excitement, with Riteish Deshmukh as the new host. This season is set to offer a remarkable fusion of drama and intrigue, elevating the viewer experience and reinforcing our focus on varied and exceptional entertainment. We are confident this season will not only entertain but also resonate deeply with our audience, making it a truly unforgettable experience.”

    Colors Marathi programming head Kedar Shinde added, “Bigg Boss Marathi is Colors Marathi’s big ticket show and it’s returning after 2 years. This marks the beginning of a new era for Colors Marathi where novelty will be the buzzword to take the channel to newer heights. We have given Riteish Deshmukh, who is Bollywood and Maharashtra’s favorite superstar, the hosting responsibility of the show. Rest assured, this new season will be grander and more vibrant. It takes guts to be part of the game. This season will see contestants from different fields, different parts of the state. Their talent and popularity will take this season to newer heights for sure.”

    Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar said, “We are excited to launch this season of Bigg Boss Marathi which promises a fresh wave of drama & entertainment with the charismatic Riteish Deshmukh as our new host.  The overwhelming response from our audience season after season has inspired us to come together once more to create the 5th season of Bigg Boss Marathi, while also taking our association with Colors Marathi one step ahead. At Endemol Shine India, we want to make sure that interesting formats like Bigg Boss are tailored to connect with every household and resonate with the diverse linguistic and cultural tastes of our audiences. We are confident that this season will continue to captivate & engage our viewers while taking the Bigg Boss experience to new heights.”

    Bigg Boss is known for its intriguing, unpredictable, and humorous aspects, along with its compelling contestants. Beyond entertainment, Bigg Boss has been a launchpad for many, fulfilling dreams and establishing individual identities. As the doors to the Bigg Boss Marathi house open this time, viewers eagerly anticipate the new participants, their gameplay, and who will capture hearts and entertain with their antics.

    Bigg Boss Marathi’s new season premieres on 28 July and will air every day at 9 pm on Colors Marathi. Viewers can also catch the show anytime on JioCinema.
     

  • South India Film Festival (SIFF) set to illuminate the cinema landscape with its inaugural edition

    South India Film Festival (SIFF) set to illuminate the cinema landscape with its inaugural edition

    Mumbai: The South India Film Festival (SIFF), heralded as a celebration of cinematic excellence and cultural diversity, proudly announces its inaugural edition set to unfold on 22 March 2024 in Hyderabad.

    This year, the festival takes immense pride in presenting a stellar line-up of luminaries from the South Indian film industry, embodying the essence of regional storytelling and artistic brilliance. Among the distinguished guests gracing the event are renowned actors, directors, producers, and industry experts, promising an unforgettable showcase of South Indian cinema.

    The festival serves as a testament to the rich heritage and creative ingenuity of South Indian cinema, bringing together visionaries from various corners of the industry to share their insights, experiences, and expertise with audiences eager to delve into the world of cinema.

    Leading the line-up is megastar Chiranjeevi, who have been awarded with The Padma Vibhushan the second-highest civilian award given in the country, whose presence promises to infuse the festival with star power and cinematic excellence. Alongside Allu Arvind, Vishwa Prasad, Shailesh R Singh, Deepak Dhar, Sujay Ray, and Shetanshu Dixit among others, audiences can look forward to engaging with a diverse array of talents, including Mayank Shekhar, Rajeev Masand…, each bringing their unique perspective and contribution to the festival.

    Check out the list of esteemed guests:

    https://southindiafilmfestival.com/

    Attendees can anticipate a captivating blend of screenings, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, offering a holistic immersion into the world of South Indian cinema. From thought-provoking debates on industry trends to insightful conversations on the future of regional cinema, the festival promises to be a dynamic platform for dialogue and exchange.

    The presence of these esteemed guests underscores the significance of the South India Film Festival as a cornerstone of the regional film industry. Their collective talent, experience, and passion for cinema will undoubtedly elevate the festival to new heights, enriching the cultural tapestry of South Indian cinema.

    Register yourself for the South India Film Festival here:

    Register yourself for the South India Film Festival here: https://in.bookmyshow.com/events/south-india-film-festival/ET00377474

    Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as we embark on this exhilarating journey of celebrating the magic of South Indian cinema at the inaugural South India Film Festival.

  • EndemolShine India’s Bigg Boss Kannada season-ten delivers record ratings

    EndemolShine India’s Bigg Boss Kannada season-ten delivers record ratings

    Mumbai: The tenth season of Bigg Boss Kannada, aired on Colors Kannada, streamed on Voot, and hosted by Superstar Sudeep Kiccha, has outperformed all expectations, marking a milestone decade for the franchise in Karnataka, with the finale episode breaking all records with an 11.5 ratings, the highest of all seasons. Produced by EndemolShine India, the innovative promotion and positioning of the season paid off, with reality weekly ratings soaring to 7 and 8, the highest for any season of Bigg Boss Kannada. The launch episode itself garnered a 7.1 rating, becoming the second-highest-rated episode in the history of the show. As the season progressed, Bigg Boss Kannada became the number 1 show in Karnataka, leading the 9:30 to 11:00 slot.

    Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar expressed his excitement about the season’s performance, stating, “Bigg Boss Kannada Season 10 has been a remarkable journey, not just for us but for the entire Kannada-speaking audience. Celebrating a decade of Bigg Boss in Karnataka, we aimed to make this season extraordinary with ‘Happy Bigg Boss,’ and the response has been overwhelming. We are proud to lead the entertainment slot in Karnataka, and this success reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, engaging content, year after year.”

    This season was introduced as ‘Happy Bigg Boss’, transforming the show into a 100-day festival for Karnataka. The innovative launch strategy involved 100 dedicated Bigg Boss fans using live voting pads on stage, rating contestants, and thus, determining team divisions and immediate eliminations right from the start. This unique approach, along with engaging weekly tasks and creative content, kept the audiences truly engaged.

    Bigg Boss, an adaptation of Big Brother, continues to be a global entertainment phenomenon, airing in over 45 territories annually. In India, the franchise extends across multiple languages and geographies, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, showcasing the wide appeal and versatility of the format.

  • Deepak Dhar launches CreAsia Studio and appoints Jessica Kam-Engle

    Deepak Dhar launches CreAsia Studio and appoints Jessica Kam-Engle

    Mumbai: Banijay Asia and EndemolShine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar today announced Banijay Asia’s strategic expansion into South East Asia, with the formation of a new entity – CreAsia Studio. With a focus on local collaborations to create local originals and produce local Banijay IP adaptations, he announced the appointment of CreAsia Studio as the EVP & business head Jessica Kam-Engle. She will report to Deepak Dhar, and be responsible for driving business strategy and growth in the key markets of South East Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. An established Film/TV producer and studio executive, Jessica has more than 20 years of experience working in the region, with brands like Disney+, HBO Asia, Warner Media Entertainment Networks, MTV Networks/Viacom, MGM Gold Network, Dow Jones Newswires, Celestial Pictures

    Talking about the development, Deepak said, “Given Jessica’s unparalleled experience in the Asian market, Banijay’s global IPs and marquee concepts, exciting local collaborations and a focus on India as a production hub for the region, CreAsia Studio is our next growth engine.” He further added, “We’re confident of Jessica’s leadership to steer us towards a leading presence in the region. Her appointment is also a testament to our commitment to tapping into newer markets and diversifying our portfolio in the vibrant South East Asian entertainment sector.”

    Talking about her new innings, Jessica Kam-Engle said, “It’s my privilege to join the  Banijay family, and I am excited to lead the strategic expansion in South East Asia. There are vast opportunities to develop local and global IPs with the pool of creative talent from this region, leveraging Banijay’s world-class content production expertise and its global distribution clout.  I am looking forward to exciting collaborations with key players in the region.”

    Jessica was most recently head of content and development for Disney+ in APAC, during which she commissioned more than 60 scripted and non-scripted original series across the region with notable commercial hits including Korean dramas Moving, Big Bet, and Connect; Japanese live-action Gannibal; Chinese series Taiwan Crime Stories, Delicacies Destiny; and Bahasa series Wedding Agreement, Mendua, Call My Agent, Teluh Darah. In 2017-2021 Jessica was Head of Original Production for HBO Asia overseeing its original productions across Asia in 10 languages, including TV series like Workers, Invisible Stories, The Talwars: Behind Closed Doors, Folklore, Food Lore, Grisse, The Teenage Psychic 2, and feature film The Garden Of Evening Mists. Prior to HBO, she was an independent film producer, based out of Beijing and Hong Kong from 2008 to 2016, during which time she produced 10 feature films including the critically acclaimed The Piano in a factory.

    This latest move complements Banijay’s existing activity and presence in the region driven by its global distribution operation, Banijay Rights, which continues to handle format licensing across the region in collaboration with Dhar and the team.