ITV

Tag: Govind Shahi

  • ting ropes in industry veteran Govind Shahi to supercharge global expansion

    ting ropes in industry veteran Govind Shahi to supercharge global expansion

    MUMBAI: ting, the India-based advertising agency known for its bold, data-driven marketing, is going global – and it’s bringing in the big guns. The agency has appointed industry veteran Govind Shahi as an advisor and consultant, a strategic move designed to turbocharge its international ambitions in the UK and UAE.

    Govind Shahi, a seasoned leader with a stellar record of scaling businesses worldwide, will steer ting’s global expansion, leveraging his expertise in cross-border growth and strategic alliances. 

    “I’m thrilled to join ting at this pivotal moment,” said Govind. “The agency’s strong foundation in creativity and performance-driven marketing presents an exciting opportunity to introduce its services to global brands. I look forward to working with the talented team at ting to craft expansion strategies that align with market needs and drive sustainable success.”

    Already known for its high-impact campaigns that blend creativity, technology, and data analytics, ting is set to build on its existing international footprint. Business heads Anirudh Ramanathan and Dhawal Shah will lead the UK and UAE markets, while Govind’s strategic guidance is expected to open new doors and deepen ting’s international influence.

    “Govind’s joining marks a bold step forward in our ambition to take ting global. His deep understanding of international markets paired with our creative and performance DNA sets the stage for meaningful global impact,” said ting partner Sudharshan Anandkumar.

    “We’re excited to partner with Govind Shahi to lead ting’s international business across the UK and UAE. With his depth of experience and proven track record, we’re confident he will add considerable value to our growing global ambitions,” added another ting partner Manan Vora.

    Third ting partner Aadil Mehta said, “This is a significant step forward for Ting as we continue to expand into global markets. Mr. Govind, a true veteran in our industry, brings invaluable experience and expertise to the table. We are both delighted and excited about this development, as it marks a new chapter in Ting’s growth and opportunities on the global stage.”

    As ting takes its signature blend of innovation and strategy to the world, brands can expect a bold new player on the global advertising stage.

  • One Life Studios brings in syndication veteran Govind Shahi as strategic advisor to sharpen global playbook

    One Life Studios brings in syndication veteran Govind Shahi as strategic advisor to sharpen global playbook

    MUMBAI: In a plot twist worthy of its own primetime drama, One Life Studios has just cast a syndication superstar in a key behind-the-scenes role. The content licensing and syndication powerhouse has brought on board industry heavyweight Govind Shahi as strategic advisor. And no, this isn’t just another boardroom shuffle—it’s a strategic power move with its eyes on the global prize.

    Announced on 24 March 2025, the appointment comes as One Life Studios doubles down on its mission to take Indian storytelling to far-flung corners of the globe. With a legacy of distributing epic serials like Mahabharat, Porus and RadhaKrishn, the company is already India’s leading ambassador of mythological multiverses.

    Shahi, previously international business head at Viacom18’s Indiacast, knows the international syndication game like the back of his remote control. Under his watch. And now, with Shahi in the driver’s seat, One Life Studios plans to fast-track its global conquest.

    “At One Life Studios, our mission has always been to take powerful Indian stories to the world while curating exceptional global content for Indian audiences. Govind’s deep understanding of international markets and his strategic expertise make him the perfect partner to help us accelerate this vision. We are excited to have him join us as we continue to push boundaries and bring great stories to viewers everywhere,” said One Life Studios CEO & founder Siddharth Kumar Tewary.

    Clearly, the company isn’t looking to paint by numbers. With a robust content library featuring short films, infotainment, movies, digital and television shows, One Life Studios has been building a content arsenal since 2017 that could rival any OTT behemoth.

    Shahi, in his new role, stated: “I am excited to collaborate with the team at One Life Studios. As the company expands its boundaries and enters a further growth phase, my focus will be on leveraging my experience to elevate its global presence and accelerate expansion into emerging markets, forging key partnerships. I look forward to bringing the studio’s creative vision to international audiences and pioneering new standards in the industry.”

    If the strategy pans out, this won’t just be a boost for One Life Studios—it’ll be a win for Indian storytelling across continents. With the global content bazaar more crowded than a Mumbai local, this is a well-timed wicket.

    With Shahi’s appointment, One Life Studios is eyeing expansion with a sharper, savvier playbook. Acquiring, licensing, and distributing premium content isn’t just their business model—it’s their battleground. And now, with a seasoned general on board, they’re ready to win the next global content war.

  • Govind Shahi set to exit Indiacast after a 12 year stint

    Govind Shahi set to exit Indiacast after a 12 year stint

    Mumbai: Highly placed sources have revealed that Govind Shahi, the International Business Head at Indiacast, is stepping down after an impressive 12-year run. Known for his leadership in steering Viacom18’s international channels to major growth, Govind is likely to explore new opportunities. While there was strong speculation about him taking the reins of international operations at Jiostar, it seems that he could be charting a different course.

    With over three decades of experience in media, including top roles at Zee and Colors, as well as various entrepreneurial ventures, Govind has made a mark in global broadcasting. He’s credited with launching key channels and events, such as Zee Russia, Zee Carnival, Zee Cine Awards, Colors Gujarati, and Colors Rishtey along with digital products like Voot, while spearheading a range of successful global initiatives.

    Govind will be leaving Colors at a time when the network is at its peak, dominating several international markets. Under his leadership, Colors became the only Indian broadcaster with a unified FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) presence internationally -an achievement largely driven by his strategic vision and ability to adapt quickly to market needs.

  • Reliance-Disney Star: joint venture to finally fall in place by 18 November

    Reliance-Disney Star: joint venture to finally fall in place by 18 November

    MUMBAI: Here’s more on the Reliance-Viacom18-Disney Star India. Disney Star India distribution and international head Gurjeev Singh Kapoor is moving on. That came across as a shocker to many in the industry as he was known to be close to vice-chairman Uday Shankar and has had a good track record in terms of achieving targets and getting in revenue. Rumours are that he is likely to be headed to Sony Pictures Network India (SPNI) to work closely with CEO Gaurav Banerjee. Others say he is going to be turning entrepreneur.

    Questions are being raised as to the fate of IndiaCast COO Piyush Goyal and international head Govind Shahi as the buzz in the organisation is that a new professional is likely to take Gurjeev’s place. Some fingers are being pointed towards SPNI’s Rajesh Kaul hopping on board. 

    While many have been saying that the new joint venture entity is going to be called JioStar and the email addresses are going to be jiostar.com, others are saying that the merged entity is going to be under Star India and the email addresses will be startv.com. Mails have been zipping around to executives in the two organisations and to clients announcing this, if sources are to be believed.

    Sources indicate that the final announcements of the executives who will be staying or moving on are going to be made by 15 or 16 November with everything finally falling into place by 18 November. 

    Here’s hoping that we, at indiantelevision.com, are not adding to the oodles of speculation being floated around. Only time will tell. 
     

  • IndiaCast lands Fast channel DesiPlay TV on Mena region’s Starz On

    IndiaCast lands Fast channel DesiPlay TV on Mena region’s Starz On

    MUMBAI: It’s making real fast plays (no pun intended) in the middle east and north Africa.

    We are referring to DesiPlay TV,  the Fast channel, from the Mukesh Ambani-owned Viacom18.  

    IndiaCast Media Distribution (IndiaCast), the content asset monetisation arm of Viacom18 and Network18, today announced DesiPlay TV’s launch on Starz On in the middle east & north Africa (Mena), marking the Fast channel’s  availability on two key streaming platforms in the region offering audiences a diverse range of Indian entertainment content and making it accessible to a wider audience of Hindi entertainment enthusiasts across the region. 

    DesiPlay TV, a curated collection of popular Hindi television shows and Indian cinema  films, has garnered popularity among viewers worldwide. With this launch, DesiPlay TV is now available on leading Fast platforms, including Starz On, Shahid, Telus, Pluto TV, Plex, Sling, Rakuten TV, and Yupp TV, providing audiences with easy access to the rich tapestry of Indian storytelling across Mena, Americas and Europe. 

    The Fast channel vertical has witnessed rapid growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for affordable and accessible content.  The middle east, with its diverse population and growing digital penetration, presents a lucrative market for Fast channels. DesiPlay TV’s presence on Starz On, a prominent streaming platform in the region, is expected to further fuel its popularity and reach among Hindi content consuming audiences. 

    Says IndiaCast executive vice-president & head of international business Govind Shahi:  , “We are thrilled to further solidify DesiPlay TV’s presence in the Middle East through our partnership with Starz On. This expansion is a testament to the growing demand for Indian content globally. We believe that DesiPlay TV’s unique blend of entertainment and cultural richness will resonate with viewers in the region.”

    Starz On & evision head of content Sunil Joy adds:  “As part of our ongoing commitment to providing our audience with the best possible content, we are excited to announce the addition of DesiPlay TV to our platform. This partnership aligns with the growing demand for Asian content in the region and allows us to offer our viewers a more diverse and engaging entertainment experience.”   

  • BT Media showcases VMC capability at IBC with Colors

    BT Media showcases VMC capability at IBC with Colors

    AMSTERDAM: London-based IndiaCast executive vice president- head international business Govind Shahi is cock-a-hoop with delight. Reason: Viacom18’s channel Colors was selected by BT Media as part of its channel transport demo during the ongoing IBC exhibition in Amsterdam’s Rai convention centre. And he made a whistle stop visit to the venue for the initiative.

    Says he: “We were the only Indian channel selected by BT Media for this exercise.” 

    A BT Media & Broadcast spokesperson pointed out that the idea was to “showcase how customers can seamlessly integrate their dedicated network infrastructure with our capability of using the internet to deliver live video content securely and reliably to any destination globally, with Virtual Media Connect (VMC).”

    According to the spokesperson, VMC, allows BT Media to provide its customers with access to and from its London switch over its (secure, reliable transport) SRT protocol without needing any fixed infrastructure. She added that the demo exercise was to show how efficiently content can be got from BT Media’s London switch to the Rai using SRT. 

    She explained further: “We can get video wherever it needs to be, whenever it needs to be there with low latency at a cost-effective price. Customers are able to expand the reach of their content with us flexibly.  Using the SRT protocol, we can securely and reliably deliver video content over the internet. VMC enables global customers to enjoy content from India to any destination. One of our sports production customers needed an alternative way to capture video feeds from the international hockey tournament in India for three weeks due to logistical constraints. We provided our VMC occasional use offering, which is easy to deploy, provides 24/7 monitoring by our dedicated IMC and is a cost-effective solution.” 

     

     

  • DesiPlay TV launches on Rakuten TV

    DesiPlay TV launches on Rakuten TV

    Mumbai: DesiPlay TV, Viacom18’s FAST channel featuring premium Hindi content, has announced its exciting launch on Rakuten TV in the United Kingdom and across Europe in Ireland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland.

    IndiaCast Media, the content monetisation arm of TV18 and Viacom18, is expanding DesiPlay TV’s global reach, allowing audiences greater access to popular content from India. DesiPlay TV’s recent launch on Pluto TV in the UK and Europe, followed by its addition to Rakuten TV, highlights IndiaCast Media’s dedication to bringing entertainment to viewers worldwide. DesiPlay TV is now available on major FAST platforms such as Sling, Plex, Pluto TV, Shahid, YuppTV, and Rakuten TV, covering the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

    “We are thrilled to announce the launch of DesiPlay TV on Rakuten TV, further solidifying our position as the number one provider of premium Hindi content for audiences worldwide,” said IndiaCast Media Distribution Pvt Ltd executive vice president and head of international business, Govind Shahi. “This strategic partnership allows us to reach a wider audience across the UK & Europe and cater to the growing demand for high-quality Hindi entertainment. With DesiPlay TV now available on Rakuten TV, more viewers can explore a world of captivating stories and unforgettable characters, that too in HD quality with English subtitles!”

    DesiPlay TV offers a curated collection of Hindi television shows and Bollywood movies, catering to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re interested in the drama of daily soaps like ‘Uttaran,’ ‘Na Aana Is Des Laado,’ ‘Tu Aashiqui,’ ‘Sanskaar: Dharohar Apnon Ki,’ the suspense of crime thrillers like ‘Code Red,’ cooking competitions on ‘Kitchen Champion,’ or Bollywood films featuring actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya Rai, and Katrina Kaif, DesiPlay TV provides a diverse range of content.

  • Viacom18 takes DesiPlayTV to Europe and the UK

    Viacom18 takes DesiPlayTV to Europe and the UK

    Mumbai: IndiaCast Media – part of the Viacom18 group – is playing a big hand in Europe. The syndication and distribution firm has announced the launch of Viacom18’s leading Hindi FAST channel, DesiPlay TV, on Pluto TV in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland and Nordic countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. The channel is being made available in Hindi with English subtitles to enable audiences to enjoy the content.

    Following the channel’s success in Canada, where it has garnered popularity among the South Asian diaspora and local Canadians, DesiPlay TV is set to entertain British and  European audiences with its rich tapestry of Indian entertainment while being the first Hindi FAST channel to be present across Pluto TV’s network in Canada, UK, Ireland and Europe. In addition to Pluto TV, DesiPlay TV is now available on some of the leading networks across the global including Sling, Plex, Shahid, MyCo, and YuppTV.

    DesiPlay TV offers a curated selection of the most beloved and iconic Hindi television shows and Bollywood blockbusters. Viewers can indulge in the drama-packed world of popular and highly rated shows like Uttaran, Na Aana Is Des Laado, Dev, Tu Aashiqui, and Sanskaar: Dharohar Apnon Ki. The channel also boasts an impressive library of Hindi cinema blockbusters featuring legendary stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya Rai, Katrina Kaif, and many more. To cater to a wider audience, DesiPlay TV also presents a diverse range of South Indian films dubbed in Hindi.

    “We are excited to bring DesiPlay TV to Pluto TV’s viewers in the UK, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland and Nordic countries,” said IndiaCast Media executive vice-president & head of international business Govind Shahi. “The strong performance of the channel in Canada, US and Middle East demonstrates the immense appetite for Indian content among the global audiences that inherently appreciate and enjoy Indian content. In our consistent efforts to take good content to our audiences, we have seen considerable success with Desi Play TV and in that our collaboration with Pluto has been very instrumental. With this launch, we are opening up a new avenue for audiences and hoping to entertain and associate with global audiences and not only South Asians. This is truly in line with our intent of taking India to the world.”

  • PLUTO TV in Canada launches VIACOM18’s DesiPlay TV

    PLUTO TV in Canada launches VIACOM18’s DesiPlay TV

    Mumbai: Pluto TV, a global leader in free streaming television (FAST) has announced that a brand-new DesiPlay TV channel is now streaming in Canada.  

    Viacom18’s DesiPlay TV is the first FAST Hindi General Entertainment Channel to launch on Pluto TV in Canada, featuring inspiring Indian stories, hand-picked Hindi shows and blockbuster Bollywood movies. Watch the best Hindi TV serials like Na Aana Iss Des Laado, Comedy Nights with Kapil, Uttaran, Mahakali, Radha Prem Ki Deewani, Mrs. Pammi Pyarelal. and more shows filled with renowned Indian characters. Viewers favourite desi TV shows are also available to watch with English subtitles.

    “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with IndiaCast on the brand-new DesiPlay TV channel, offering an array of diverse content to Pluto TV viewers across Canada,” said Pluto TV, Canada VP content Vanessa Case. “We are part of a diverse country, and our aim is to curate content that resonates with every viewer.”

    IndiaCast Media EVP, and head of international business Govind Shahi, said “DesiPlay TV, being the first Hindi general entertainment channel to launch on Pluto TV in Canada, marks a significant milestone as we bring the best of Hindi TV shows and Bollywood movies to South Asians for free. We are committed to entertain our ever-growing ethnic audience in Canada with a diverse array of quality content, ensuring that they experience the richness of Indian culture and storytelling right at their fingertips.”  

    A few of the amazing series on the Desi Play Channel include:

    Comedy Nights With Kapil

    Genre – Comedy

    In this celebrity talk show, hosted by Kapil Sharma, the biggest Bollywood stars walk in, while Kapil’s entire family and neighbours’ barge in!  This outrageous family has always enthralled and entertained the audiences, with characters including Gutthi, Palak, Bua and Dadi.  

    Mahakaali 
    Genre – Mythology

    If there is one goddess in Hindu mythology who is feared and revered at the same time, it is Kaali – the ultimate destroyer. But her personal life is also a part of this story, including her transformation from a mortal to Mahakaali, the Goddess Parvati and wife to Mahadev.

    Uttaran
    Genre – Drama

    UTTARAN is a popular Hindi show based on a tale of two friends with completely different backgrounds. Tapasya is the spoiled daughter of a rich man, while Ichha, her best friend, is the maid’s daughter. The series takes an interesting turn when Tapasya gets married, and the best friends are locked in a love triangle.  

    Na Aana Iss Des Laado 
    Genre – Drama  

    The critically acclaimed Indian TV show is a social drama that raises a voice against the oppression of women in the Indian hinterlands.  

    Radha Prem Ki Deewani 
    Genre – Drama

    Despite all the differences between them, destiny keeps bringing Radha and Prem together. Will this attraction turn into a love story? One of the best Romantic Hindi shows, only on DesiPlay TV.

    Mrs. Pammi Pyarelal 
    Genre – Comedy

    After moving to Mumbai, Param desperately needs a roof over his head, especially when his best friend, Rahul, also gets kicked out of his rented apartment. The duo learns of a house up for rent, but the landlady has one simple condition – her tenants must be married! With no option left, Param and Rahul spin a web of lies and pose as husband and wife. What follows is a hilarious roller coaster ride, packed with friendship, love and absolute chaos.

  • Colors partners with Diwaili @Times Square In the US; telecast on 26 November

    Colors partners with Diwaili @Times Square In the US; telecast on 26 November

    Mumbai: Times Square, New York is a location almost everyone heads to when visiting the Big Apple. 28 October, this year, visitors were treated to another edition of the grand Diwali festival with the square between 46 and 48 the street being transformed into a colourful tapestry of Indian culture  NYC Mayor Adams, majority leader Chuck Schumer, director for United States domestic policy, Neera Tanden, and assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar lit a diya (lamp) at the famed ball drop tower with family and friends in attendance, symbolising the illumination of the soul and the dispelling of ignorance

    Viacom18’s Aapka Colors channel in the US partnered with Event Guru and sponsor Gopi Dairy came on board to people from various backgrounds in the spirit of love, friendship, and togetherness.

    The celebration culminated in an electrifying concert which started at 8 pm, featuring renowned artists from Bollywood, headlining the event was Mika Singh, the iconic Bollywood singer, and former American Idol contestant, Shuba. Along with, soul-stirring British Indian classical singer, Shivali. Their performances captivated the audience, making 2023’s  Diwali Festival at Times Square an unforgettable experience!

    “As a network dedicated to providing quality entertainment, culture, and connectivity to our diverse audience, being associated with Diwali at Times Square aligns perfectly with our core values. This event is a true celebration of the rich traditions and heritage of India, and we are proud to lend our support to such an extraordinary platform,” said IndiaCast Media executive vice-president & head of international business Govind Shahi.

    “We are delighted to be associated with the magnificent Diwali at Times Square event along with Gopi Dairy. It is a great honor for Colors TV to be a part of this grand celebration, as it provides us with a unique opportunity to connect with audiences every year and spread the spirit of Diwali,’ added  IndiaCast Media senior vice president and business head Americas Sameer Targe.

    “Our collaboration with Diwali at Times Square has successfully spanned for the past three years! This year is exceptionally exciting as our client Gopi Dairy, the title sponsor, increases their focus on the East Coast with our 360 media solution that combines ‘ground’, ‘on air’ and ‘digital elements’, all centered around Diwali. We have elevated our partnership with a multi-level sales and marketing initiative responding to the growing demand for integrated media solutions. Our partnership promises to redefine the media engagement and captivate our audience,” said IndiaCast head of sales & marketing Americas Shalaj Dang.

    “Gopi Dairy is proud to sponsor ‘Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square 2023’, a festival rooted in peace, new beginnings, and the human values of gratitude and humility. At Gopi, we’re honored to have been part of your daily lives for over a decade, delivering pure dairy products from our family to yours. This is an historic moment for us all to celebrate the universal festival of light and joy!” added Karoun Dairies CEO  Rostom Baghdassarian.

    “The annual Diwali festival in Times Square plays a pivotal role in the western hemisphere as the festival’s significance and fostering a peaceful and harmonious world. During Diwali, people decorate their homes and share sweets and gifts with their friends and loved ones. Our title sponsor, Gopi Dairy, aligns perfectly with the tradition of spreading sweetness and joy,” stated Diwali at Times Square founder  Neeta Bhasin.

    The event was livestreamed on 28 October and is to now to be telecast on Aapka Colors on 26 November at 1 pm Eastern time and 10 am Pacific Times.