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Tag: Dilip Tirkey

  • Hockey’s hot comeback: Hero HIL scores big with Indian viewers

    Hockey’s hot comeback: Hero HIL scores big with Indian viewers

    MUMBAI: The Hero Hockey India League (HIL) has roared back to life after a seven-year hiatus, smashing viewership records and breathing fresh life into the sport. The 2024-25 edition didn’t merely return—it revolutionised the game by introducing the first-ever women’s league alongside the men’s competition, coinciding rather neatly with Indian hockey’s centenary celebrations.

    The numbers tell a cracking tale: a whopping 40.8 million viewers tuned in overall, rocketing 48 per cent above the 2017 figures. The men’s competition captivated 32.9 million fans, while the women’s matches—despite featuring fewer games—pulled in an impressive 15.1 million viewers.

    In a sporting landscape where women’s events typically draw a fraction of male viewership, the HIL has pulled off something of a miracle. At times, the ladies nearly matched their male counterparts in audience figures, with the most-watched women’s match drawing 2.92 million viewers against the men’s final peak of 3.07 million.

    Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey remarked, “The success of Hero HIL 2024–25 is a testament to India’s deep-rooted love for hockey. The overwhelming response from fans, brands, and broadcasters reflects the league’s immense potential. As we move forward, our commitment remains steadfast in elevating Indian hockey to new heights, ensuring that the sport gets the recognition and support it truly deserves.”
     
    The digital realm proved equally fruitful, with social media engagement hitting the roof—over a billion views across platforms, turning hockey chat into the hottest ticket in town.

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh stated, “The revival of Hero HIL has been a monumental success, not only in terms of numbers but also in the enthusiasm it has reignited among fans and players alike. This season has proven that hockey continues to hold a special place in India’s sporting culture. The addition of the women’s league is a crucial step towards greater inclusivity and empowerment in sports.”

    The triumphant return builds on hockey’s Olympic momentum, where it accounted for a juicy 15.2 per cent of early Tokyo Games viewership. With these stellar numbers, it seems the stick-and-ball game isn’t just back—it’s positively sizzling.

  • National women’s hockey league final round tees off with Coca-Cola India

    National women’s hockey league final round tees off with Coca-Cola India

    MUMBAI: The final showdown of India’s premier women’s hockey competition kicked off yesterday in Ranchi, as eight elite teams clash in a battle for national supremacy. The National Women’s Hockey League 2024-25, now in its climactic phase, runs until 28 March with backing from soft-drink behemoth Coca-Cola India and its charitable arm Anandana.

    Following a rollicking first phase last spring, the tournament continues to serve as both talent showcase and potential national team audition. The cream of Indian hockey—drawn from Hockey Haryana, Hockey Maharashtra, Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey Madhya Pradesh, Hockey Bengal, Hockey Mizoram, Manipur Hockey, and Hockey Association of Odisha—are slugging it out on the turf after qualifying through the 14th Senior Women National Championship.

    For Coca-Cola, the league forms part of its #SheTheDifference campaign, which aims to boost women’s participation in sports. The partnership delivers more than just fizzy drinks, providing specialized coaching, training kit, nutritional advice and tournament organization.

    “We are thrilled to host the final phase of the National Women’s Hockey League,” said Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, barely containing his excitement. “This partnership is instrumental in elevating women’s hockey in India, providing young athletes with the resources and opportunities needed to excel.”

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh, , struck a similar tone, praising the “steadfast commitment” from Coca-Cola that has “created a strong foundation for female athletes.”

    The initiative represents more than mere corporate box-ticking for the beverage giant. “The National Women’s Hockey League is not just a tournament—it’s a platform that nurtures the next generation of women athletes,” explained Coca-Cola India Foundation  director Rajiv Gupta, waxing lyrical about the power of sport.

    Through their #SheTheDifference campaign—a name that would make even the most hardened marketing executive wince—Coca-Cola aims to inspire “more young women to break barriers and pursue their passion in sports.”

    Whether this corporate largesse helps India’s women hockey players match the gold-medal-winning exploits of their cinematic counterparts in “Chak De! India” remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on Ranchi, where sticks are swinging, balls are flying, and dreams of national glory hang in the balance.

  • Sony Sports to go regional with Hockey India League telecast deal

    Sony Sports to go regional with Hockey India League telecast deal

    MUMBAI: The Hockey India League (HIL) has got an additional live telecast partner for the next three years  – the Sony Sports Network (SSN). The league has signed a contract with the broadcast network.  Mid-last week, DD had announced that it was coming on board for the whole tournament’s telecast. 

    What’s special about the SSN deal is that it will be airing the matches with Telugu and Tamil commentary as well as Hindi and English in a bid to broad base the appeal of the sport. The tournament can be viewed on Sony Sports Ten 1 (English), Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi), and Sony Sports Ten 4 (Tamil and Telugu) channels in both standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD). The league, featuring domestic and international players, is to take place in Ranchi and Rourkela for both  men and women and will be flagged off on 28 December. 

    Said Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer & head sports business Rajesh Kaul : “Hockey has gained significant popularity in India with the Indian team’s success in consecutive Olympics contributing to the resurgence. At SSN, we have always been committed to serving Indian fans with a diverse sports portfolio. The inclusion of one of the world’s premier franchise-based hockey leagues will undoubtedly bring fans closer to the game. We see our partnership with it as a key step toward establishing ourselves as the home of hockey, just as we have done with other major sports in our portfolio.”

    Highlighted  HIL governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey: “Sony Sports’ expansive coverage across multiple channels and languages will ensure that fans from all corners of the country can enjoy the league. This season is poised to be bigger, better, bolder, and we are confident that Sony’s unmatched telecast capabilities will help take the excitement of Indian hockey to new heights.”

    Added HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh: “Our focus has always been on promoting hockey to a wider audience, and this partnership with SSN allows us to do just that. With their multilingual telecast plan, we are making the sport accessible to a larger audience, bringing them closer to the game. We believe this season will set a new benchmark in terms of viewership and fan engagement.”

    (Picture courtesy Hockey India League)

  • Hero MotorCorp rides away with Hockey India League title sponsorship.

    Hero MotorCorp rides away with Hockey India League title sponsorship.

    MUMBAI: Wish a lot many more sports had this kind of support. Strengthening its commitment to the growth and development of hockey, the world’s largest maker of bikes and scooters Hero MotoCorp  has signed on as the title sponsor of the Hockey India League (HIL) for the next three seasons, starting from 2024-25.  Specific sponsorship amounts were not disclosed, but guesstimate are that it is in the double digit crore territory.Coal India was the previous title sponsor.

    This  alliance between Hero MotoCorp and the HIL  aims to rejuvenate one of India’s most cherished sports, expanding its reach and fostering a vibrant platform for emerging talent.

    The tournament, set to begin on  28  December will feature eight men’s teams and, for the first time, four women’s teams. The introduction of the Women’s HIL  marks a historic milestone in Indian hockey, underscoring a significant step forward for the inclusion and empowerment of women in sports.

     Hero MotoCorp executive vice-president Sanjay Bhan said, “Hero MotoCorp is deeply committed to nurturing and supporting sports globally, with a special emphasis on India. Hockey holds a unique place in our hearts, reflecting our nation’s rich sporting heritage. The Hero Hockey India League is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of our shared passion for the sport, an inspiration for future athletes, and a unifier for communities.”

    HIL  governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey  said:  “Hero MotoCorp has always been a pioneer in supporting Indian sports, and their association with the Hero Hockey India League will elevate the tournament’s stature. With their title sponsorship, we are confident that the Hero Hockey India League will reach greater heights, inspiring players and fans alike. Together, we aim to make this league a true celebration of hockey as IndiaKaGame.”

    HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh added, “Hero MotoCorp’s partnership is a testament to the growing popularity of the HIL.Their support will not only enhance the league’s visibility but also strengthen the narrative of hockey as a unifying force in India.”

    The Hero HIL can be watched  through a wide array of platforms, including television, digital channels, and radio, ensuring that audiences remain connected to every thrilling match and moment. With Hero MotoCorp’s support, the league aims to nurture the sport, inspire future generations of players, and spotlight India’s hockey talent on the global stage.

    (Picture courtesy Hockey India League website)

  • DD scoops Hockey India League live telecast rights for next three years

    DD scoops Hockey India League live telecast rights for next three years

    MUMBAI: There’s nothing more exciting that seeing a player with a hockey stick in his hand dribbling past the mid-field, swerving and dodging past the defending backs and reverse flicking the ball into the goal, leaving the goal keeper  stranded and flat on his back on the turf. 

    Many more such moments will be available to field hockey lovers  courtesy pubcaster Doordarshan, It has pocketed the rights to live  telecast the sixth edition of the Hockey India League (HIL), which will begin from 28 December 2024, thanks to an agreement it has signed with Hockey India (HI).( Reports are that the contract between the two is actually for the next three years.) What’s special with the new agreement is that DD will also be bringing the women’s HIL matches live to viewers apart from the fast-paced men’s. tournament.  

    Sports lovers may recall that the Indian national men’s team has been gradually getting back its mojo and won the bronze medal at this year’s Paris Olympics as well as in Tokyo. 

    HIL will have eight men’s teams and four women’s teams participating in Rourkela and Ranchi, showcasing outstanding talent from India and around the world.

    Said Prasar Bharati chairman Navneet Sehgal: “We are privileged to partner with the HIL, a platform that celebrates our national sports and aligns people across different categories. Through our comprehensive coverage, we aim to bring the electrifying spirit of hockey, including the historic debut of Women HIL, to viewers everywhere, bridging the urban and rural divide and amplifying the league’s impact.”

    Prasar Bharati CEO Gaurav Dwivedi added: “Indian sports lovers are confident that the golden era of Indian hockey is being brought back. Doordarshan as the public broadcaster is looking forward to contributing to this broader vision through this partnership. The idea is to elevate hockey production and broadcast to global sporting standards. The sports lovers across the world can now watch the HIL, both men and women on DD Sports and Waves- the recently launched OTT platform of Prasar Bharati.”

    HIL  governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey said, “We are thrilled to partner with Doordarshan as the official broadcaster of the HIL. This year is particularly special with the launch of the Women’s HIL, a landmark step in promoting women’s hockey. Doordarshan’s unparalleled reach and commitment to sports perfectly align with our vision of taking hockey to every corner of the nation. Together, we aim to inspire millions and elevate the HIL to unprecedented heights.”

    HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh commented, “Hockey is more than just a sport for us – it’s a symbol of our unity and pride. The addition of the Women’s HIL this season is a giant leap forward in ensuring equality and recognition for women athletes. With Doordarshan as our partner, we’re ready to present a spectacular season of HIL. ‘Hockey connects us, and this partnership strengthens that bond’.”

    As part of its partnership with HI,  Doordarshan says it will also broadcast all HI  national championships and tournaments in India.

    (Picture courtesy Hockey India League)

     

  • DD Sports, Fancode to broadcast two-match bilateral series between India and Germany

    DD Sports, Fancode to broadcast two-match bilateral series between India and Germany

    Mumbai: DD Sports, the key public sports broadcaster in the country, along with FanCode will broadcast the highly anticipated two-match bilateral hockey series between the Indian Men’s Hockey Team and the Germany Men’s Hockey Team, scheduled to take place on 23 and 24 October 2024 at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.

    FanCode and DD Sports’ combined reach will mean that hockey action will be accessible to fans in every corner of the country, with interest around the game at an all-time high after India’s successful Olympic campaign where the men’s team finished with a bronze medal. Germany ended their campaign with a silver medal.

    Hockey India president Dr Dilip Tirkey enthusiastically said, “We have had a fruitful partnership with FanCode through the Hockey India National Championships. They have played a vital role in making hockey more accessible to sports fans nationwide. With India vs. Germany Test Series set to be streamed on their platform alongside telecast on DD Sports, one of the largest sports channels in India, this partnership will provide a significant boost to our mission of reaching a wider audience.”

    Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “We are thrilled to associate with FanCode and DD Sports for the two-match bilateral series. We are confident that this will enhance the viewing experience for passionate hockey fans in India and contribute significantly to our larger vision of making the sport accessible and visible across India.”

    FanCode co-founder Yannick Colaco said, “We are proud to extend our partnership with Hockey India with the bilateral series between India and Germany. The series showcases the best of international hockey, and we’re excited to bring the action to hockey enthusiasts in India.”

    As part of Hockey India’s vision to promote the sport across the country, this series marks the return of men’s international hockey to the national capital after a decade, with the last match played in January 2014 during the Hero Hockey World League Final – Men’s Round 4.

    Having successfully hosted the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, and the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifier in Ranchi, Hockey India has expanded its efforts beyond Odisha to grow hockey’s presence in India. The organization is also gearing up to host the upcoming Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in Rajgir, Bihar, in November 2024.

  • Jay Jagannath Padayatra – An exclusive initiative by News18 Odia to celebrate the unveiling of Puri Heritage Corridor

    Jay Jagannath Padayatra – An exclusive initiative by News18 Odia to celebrate the unveiling of Puri Heritage Corridor

    Mumbai: Lord Shree Jagannath, revered by the people of Odisha, holds a special place in their hearts—a symbol of divine spirituality and cultural heritage. As January 17, 2024, approaches, excitement surges across the state. This auspicious day marks the grand unveiling of the Puri Heritage Corridor by the Government of Odisha, a momentous occasion that will captivate the gaze of millions of Jagannath devotees globally.

    The News18 Network has consistently played a pivotal role in capturing the true spirit and vibrancy of festivals, delivering innovative programs with high-quality content. In alignment with this commitment, News18 Odia is set to organize a spectacular rally on January 16th, serving as a curtain-raiser for the inauguration ceremony.

    This rally is not merely an event; it is a unique and unparalleled experience that promises to be etched in the memories of all attendees. The rally will feature a grand convoy of several vehicles, each meticulously decorated with models representing the redeveloped Shree Jagannath Temple and the divine trinity, cultural performances, and an open-air studio for dynamic discussions. Culminating in a spectacular on-stage closing ceremony in Puri, the event will feature eminen, who will actively participate in the rally.

    t personalities who have contributed significantly to their respective fields. Distinguished personalities, including CP-Bhubaneswar Soumendra Priyadarshi, cine actor Sabyasachi, cine actress Archita, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, sprinter Dutee Chand, Odishi dancer Aruna Mohanty, music director Manmath Mishra, and international sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik.