ITV

Tag: Manoj Dobhal

  • Dish TV dives into smart TVs with VZY range

    Dish TV dives into smart TVs with VZY range

    NEW DELHI: Dish TV India has moved beyond broadcasting into the living room device market, unveiling its first integrated smart TV line, branded VZY. The launch marks a decisive pivot for the country’s largest DTH operator, which has been in Indian homes for more than 22 years.

    VZY—short for Vibe, Zone & You—is pitched not as just another television but as an “entertainment universe”. Select models come with a built-in Dish TV set-top box, fusing live TV with OTT streaming.

    “Entering the integrated Smart TV segment is a bold step into a future where content, technology, and convenience converge. This is more than a television. It is a universe where live TV, OTT, smart features and design converge,” said chief executive and executive director Manoj Dobhal. 

    Added chief revenue officer Sukhpreet Singh: “The modern Indian family is digital-first and experience-driven, seeking a screen that transforms everyday viewing into a curated, immersive experience—one that goes beyond being just a television. VZY delivers exactly that: a integrated entertainment universe that puts choice, convenience, and quality in the consumer’s hands.” 

    The VZY range spans 32-inch HD screens to 55-inch 4K UHD QLEDs, with Dolby Vision, HDR10 and up to 350 nits brightness. All sets run on Google TV 5 (Android 14), with built-in Chromecast, AirPlay, voice remotes and Dolby Audio, with premium models adding Dolby Atmos. Storage goes up to 32GB with 2GB RAM.

    Prices are pitched across segments with sweeteners such as Rs 0 down payment and 0 per cent EMI. 

    Distribution will cover metros as well as tier-2 and tier-3 markets, through both retail and online platforms.
    With VZY, Dish TV is betting on India’s hunger for convergence: a single screen that marries satellite reliability with the streaming age.

  • Content India 2026 confirms dates and opens registrations

    Content India 2026 confirms dates and opens registrations

    MUMBAI: Following the success of the Content India Summit in April 2025, registrations are now open for its first three-day edition, set to take place from 16-18 March, 2026, at Taj Lands End, Mumbai.

    Content India 2026 aims to connect India’s domestic market with international partners to unlock billions in untapped value. Building on the momentum from earlier this year, Content India 2026 is set to be a dynamic platform for cross-border partnerships in the content space. The three-day event will feature panel discussions, a marketplace for domestic and international content, special screenings, curated networking sessions, and more. It aligns with insights from The Future of the Indian Entertainment Business report, which highlights major growth potential in content sales, acquisitions, co-productions, and services in this new era of collaboration.

    The announcement coincides with a major geopolitical milestone: the signing of a landmark trade agreement between India and the UK, expected to boost bilateral trade by an additional £25.5 billion annually by 2040. This lends even greater relevance to Content India 2026’s broader ambition of strengthening India’s position as a global content hub through strategic international collaboration.

    Content India 2026 is anchored around twelve strategic goals designed to transform India’s entertainment economy. These include creating globally resonant hybrid content, attracting international productions, and showcasing India’s capabilities in AI and post-production. The event will connect the creator economy with legacy media and explore new funding models such as venture capital. It also aims to enable co-productions through a trusted partner network, boost format exports and imports, drive brand partnerships, and highlight global content trends.

    By placing a strategic lens on international collaboration and creative synergy, Content India 2026 positions itself as a marquee industry event for stakeholders looking to be part of the next wave of growth and innovation in India’s content economy.

    Announcing the dates, C21’s editor-in-chief & managing director David Jenkinson said, “The Content India Summit in April 2025 consolidated the fact that there is real opportunity for the Indian and international market to create new partnerships in a fresh way. Content India 2026 will focus on how to build successful content partnerships which benefit all, and lead to new formats of content that can work locally, but also be a hit on the world stage. Now is the time.”

    Dish TV India CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal added, “India is entering a pivotal phase where content goes beyond entertainment—it represents influence, identity, and economic strength. Content India Summit 2025 offered deep insight into the industry’s evolving aspirations and reaffirmed India’s readiness to lead the next wave of global content innovation. With Content India 2026, we aim to build a purpose-driven platform that champions bold storytelling, connects emerging talent with real opportunity, and turns ambition into impact. Our goal is to foster an inclusive, globally competitive eco-system that empowers both seasoned professionals and the next generation of creators. The potential is immense, and this platform will help unlock it through meaningful collaboration. We welcome all who share this vision for India’s entertainment future to join us.”
     

  • Dish Tv elevates Dobhal to chairman role in power play at the top

    Dish Tv elevates Dobhal to chairman role in power play at the top

    MUMBAI: Dish Tv has just switched to a new leadership signal Manoj Dobhal has been appointed chairman of the board, doubling up on his current role as executive director and CEO.

    Known for his knack for tuning into business growth across telecom, DTH, FMCG, broadband and consumer durables, Dobhal now takes the reins of the boardroom at a crucial phase for the company. The decision was announced via an exchange filing on Wednesday.

    Armed with over 24 years of experience, Dobhal’s resume covers strategic planning, business margin amplification, long-term growth initiatives, and business process automation. He’s played across all fields sales, customer marketing, experience management, and field services and is seen as an enterprising leader well-versed in cross-functional orchestration.

    Dobhal holds an MBA in Marketing from Apeejay Institute of Management, Delhi, and a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Electronics from the University of Delhi.

    With his elevation, Dish TV signals a new phase of continuity and consolidation placing trust in a leader who’s already been steering the ship from the C-suite. As Dobhal moves into the Chairman’s seat, all eyes will be on how he reshapes the boardroom frequency to amplify Dish Tv’s presence in a fast-evolving media landscape.

  • Remote control redefined as Dish TV dials up its Smart+ experience

    Remote control redefined as Dish TV dials up its Smart+ experience

    Mumbai: No more juggling remotes or input sources, Dish TV just changed the channel on home entertainment. The company has launched its new Smart+ device, an all-in-one upgrade that turns regular Android and Google TVs into smart content hubs, uniting live TV and OTT apps under a single roof.

    After the success of its flagship Smart product last year, Dish TV’s latest launch is a smarter sequel that simplifies how viewers consume content. With Smart+, your existing TV morphs into a full-fledged entertainment command centre no new remote required. Want to flip from a TV news channel to a web series on an OTT app? Just press a button on your regular TV remote.

    Built for seamless integration, Smart+ eliminates the need to switch devices or inputs. The intuitive interface not only brings your favourite TV channels and streaming services together, but also lets you set reminders, add shows to favourites, and even keep the kids in check with built-in parental controls.

    Need a quick glance at what’s coming up next? The preview banners and thumbnails offer a visual sneak peek, so you’re never lost in the scroll. Whether you’re a live sports enthusiast, a serial binge-watcher or a casual viewer, Smart+ tailors the experience to suit every screen personality.

    Compact, sleek, and feather-light, the device fits right into any living room aesthetic. And it’s portable too perfect for modern homes that love a little less cable clutter.

    Dish TV India Ltd. CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal said, “As part of our ongoing commitment to drive innovation in the entertainment industry, we are proud to introduce the Smart+ Device. This product marks a significant advancement in the seamless integration of traditional television and OTT services, catering to the evolving needs of today’s digital consumer. We are confident that this integration represents the future of entertainment. With the launch of the Smart+ Device, we are enhancing both convenience and accessibility while reinforcing our leadership in delivering integrated, next-generation solutions for our customers.”

    The Smart+ device is now available via Dish TV’s official website, Flipkart, and major retail outlets ready to slide into your setup and stream your screen life into something a whole lot smarter.

  • Dish TV hits play button on creator-led OTT with Watcho Fliqs

    Dish TV hits play button on creator-led OTT with Watcho Fliqs

    MUMBAI: Dish TV India, the country’s first direct-to-home (DTH) trailblazer, is now gunning for a front-row seat in India’s creator economy. After kickstarting the conversation with Content India 2025 Summit earlier this year, the company has now pulled back the curtain on Watcho Fliqs —a content segment within its Watcho app that could give every professional creator their own OTT stage.

    Unveiled at Waves  2025, Fliqs promises to be more than just another tile on the crowded streaming screen. It’s Dish TV’s answer to a shifting digital appetite—where creators want control, consumers want choice, and no one wants to pay Rs 499 a month to find out they’ve seen it all.

    “With Fliqs, we are taking a big and bold leap towards redefining what an OTT service can be. This isn’t just another content launch—it’s a statement of intent,” said  Dish TV India CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal.  “Fliqs represents a new generation of curated, exclusive digital storytelling that aligns with the evolving consumer demand for distinct, high-value content. While the industry has seen a proliferation of platforms, very few offer something truly differentiated. Fliqs fills that gap by bringing untold stories, original productions, and exclusive titles into a highly personalized, affordable ecosystem. 

    “It supports India’s growing community of independent storytellers by providing a premium platform to showcase their work, reach wider audiences, and unlock monetization opportunities—strengthening Dish TV’s commitment to digital-first creative entrepreneurship.”

    Fliqs serves up award-winning originals, regional marvels, cult international titles, and short-format snacks—all in a tightly curated, multi-lingual menu. With rates starting from as low as Rs 9 per title and a buffet of free content to boot, the platform is wooing value hunters and taste seekers alike.

    But it’s not just the catalogue doing the heavy lifting. A sleek UI, AI-powered recommendation engine, and multi-screen features offer users a hyper-personalised ride through a universe of fresh entertainment.

    Watcho CTO & business head V.K. Gupta added: “Fliqs  is our solution to evolving consumer demands for uniqueness, exclusivity, and control over their entertainment. It’s not just an add-on, but a transformational layer within Watcho, offering a smarter, more relevant experience. With Fliqs,  Watcho strengthens its position in the OTT market, marking the start of a larger content evolution.” 

    Going forward, Watcho’s Fliqs  will continue to scale up with exclusive dubbed English content, regional blockbusters, and classic gems you won’t find on rival platforms. The real twist? It puts India’s storytellers in the director’s seat—creatively and commercially.

    As the digital content ecosystem matures, Dish TV seems determined to rewrite the playbook—from content carrier to creator catalyst.

  • Content India summit sets stage for global romp

    Content India summit sets stage for global romp

    MUMBAI: India’s entertainment moguls have their sights set on world domination—and they’re not being coy about it. The inaugural Content India Summit 2025 wrapped up two days ago with grand ambitions and plenty of showbiz swagger, positioning itself as the launching pad for Indian content’s international conquest.

    The summit, a partnership between DTH platform Dish TV India and C21 Media, brought together industry heavyweights to tackle the thorny question of how to make Indian entertainment as globally irresistible as its cuisine. Conversations probed everything from audience consumption patterns (binge-watching included) to the commercial scalability of Bollywood’s finest exports.

    Dish TV’s chief executive Manoj Dobhal didn’t mince words about the company’s ambitions: ” Our vision with Content India is to build a dynamic content eco-system that connects each and every constituent of Content creation in India with global opportunities. The Content India Summit 2025 marks the beginning of a transformative journey—one that fosters long-term collaborations, drives industry innovation, and expands market potential. With Indian storytelling gaining global acclaim, this is the moment to amplify international partnerships and position India as a content powerhouse.”

    C21Media’s managing director David Jenkinson chimed in with his own dose of enthusiasm, trumpeting India’s “undeniable influence” on the global content market. Said he: “Content India Summit is a crucial step toward shaping the future of Indian entertainment in a globally connected landscape. This event has brought together the brightest minds in the industry to address key challenges and unlock new opportunities for collaboration. India’s influence on the global content market is undeniable, and this summit lays the foundation for meaningful partnerships that will drive the industry forward.As we look ahead to the full Content India conference in 2026, our mission remains clear—to create a platform where ideas, talent, and business come together to define the next chapter of entertainment. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey for India on the world stage.”

    The gathering wasn’t all champagne and canapés, though. Sessions delved into India’s creative advantages—its talent pool, technical prowess, and budget-friendly production costs—while also wrestling with the delicate balance of preserving cultural authenticity while making content palatable for international viewers.

    Simon Mirren of Case Closed offered perhaps the most sobering advice: “Understanding the local culture is key to success in the Indian market. Many creators try to make TV for the West, which is a mistake. The focus should be on telling great stories that resonate here.”

    For those eagerly awaiting the industry’s new playbook, a report titled The Future of the Indian Entertainment Business Debate is set to drop within four weeks, promising to reveal how Bollywood and beyond plan to seduce global audiences.

    With streaming platforms hungry for fresh content and international viewers increasingly open to subtitles, India’s entertainment industry appears ready for its close-up—and Content India seems determined to direct the scene.

  • DishTV looks forward to better Q4 2025

    DishTV looks forward to better Q4 2025

    MUMBAI: The good news for DTH major Dish TV India is that it maintained its EBITDA margin at 32.9 per cent in Q3FY25.  This despite, the drop in the topline, in EBITDA, subscription revenues, number of subscribers, and an increase in losses. 

    The other piece of good news is that the company is optimistic of things turning around the coming quarter thanks to finance minister lifting the taxable income levels for the general Indian public. .

    Dish TV India CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal said that Dish TV is venturing into B2B e-commerce through its newly incorporated subsidiary, Dish Bharat Ventures Pvt  Ltd, established in October 2024.

    “As an organisation, Dish TV India has come a long way and has, in this eventful journey, positively touched the lives of millions of stakeholders be it our ever valued past or present subscribers, shareholders, trade partners, suppliers or employees. We are indebted to all of them and would like to assure all our stakeholders that we would continue to do our best to make the business scale new heights all over again,” he said.” The company remains committed to a turnaround and believes that the convergence of digital content with linear television will help television maintain its mass appeal as it continues to provide value-for-money offerings to its subscribers.”

    Preparing a content pipeline that adds a flavor of uniqueness and differentiates the OTT aggregation app of Dish TV India from similar products, the company conceived and launched the ‘Watcho Storytellers Conclave’ in Kolkata during the quarter. The trademark event aimed to foster creativity and innovation in content creation within the regional entertainment space while providing a platform for emerging storytellers to showcase their talent. More than three hundred established as well as budding content related professionals participated in the daylong event sharing their vision about the changing content ecosystem. More such ‘Watcho Storytellers Conclave’ are in the pipeline in the coming quarters and should give Dish TV India access to a unique and creative talent pool of content.

    Doubling down on its content innovation strategy and to expand monetization opportunities, Dish TV India during the third quarter of the current fiscal partnered with C21 Media to launch Content India 2025. The collaboration is aimed at positioning India as a global leader in content creation.

    The upcoming Content India 2025 would bring together industry leaders to discuss trends, challenges and opportunities in the media landscape helping support the growth of Indian content and its distribution across international platforms.

    To combat pressure from online streaming platforms, Dish TV has also enhanced its offering by bundling complimentary access to six over-the-top (OTT) apps with DTH subscriptions. The company’s OTT aggregation app ‘Watcho’ has crossed 7.6 million paid subscriptions, with its premium plan ‘Watcho Max’ now featuring 18 popular OTT apps.

    On the financial front, Dish reported a net loss of Rs 465 million for the quarter ended 31 December 2024, compared to a loss of Rs 28 million in the corresponding quarter last fiscal. The direct-to-home operator’s operating revenues declined by 20.7 per cent year-on-year to Rs 3,730 million.

    Subscription revenues saw a sharp decline of 33.5 per cent to Rs 2,472 million, while EBITDA fell by 31.9 per cent to Rs 1,227 million compared to the same quarter last year. 

    The company attributed the continued revenue pressure to increasing online content consumption and weak consumer discretionary spending, with cost-conscious viewers shifting towards the free DTH platform.

  • Dish TV India-C21Media launch Content India 2025 to elevate Indian content

    Dish TV India-C21Media launch Content India 2025 to elevate Indian content

    MUMBAI: In the chaos of India’s vibrant yet often disorganised digital landscape lies a reservoir of untapped potential—a creative powerhouse waiting to command global attention. With content exploding across platforms and talent overflowing, the challenge has been bridging local brilliance with international collaborations. Now, a groundbreaking initiative promises to declutter this overwhelming abundance and spotlight India’s creative strength on the world map.

    Content India 2025—a landmark partnership between Dish TV India and UK-based C21Media. Designed to harness India’s innovation and storytelling capabilities, this initiative aims to position the country as a global content hub, showcasing its prowess in production, post-production, and creative collaboration.

    At a time when India’s digital content creation market is projected to surge from $1,538.8 million in 2023 to $4,403.5 million by 2030, according to a report by Grand View Research, this platform arrives as a much-needed catalyst to organise, streamline, and celebrate India’s boundless entertainment talent.

    By fostering global partnerships and promoting fresh narratives, Content India 2025 stands poised to redefine India’s creative footprint—transforming it into the content epicenter it deserves to be.

    Scheduled for 1-3 April 2025, Content India will blend a marketplace, conferences, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for creators, producers, distributors, platforms, and channels to connect. The summit will set the stage for a larger Content India 2026 event, modelled on the success of C21Media’s Content London and Content Americas.

    Dish TV India, CEO & executive director, Manoj Dobhal highlighted the initiative’s significance, “The Indian entertainment industry is at a critical juncture, with its content resonating like never before across international audiences. Content India 2025 is our effort to empower Indian creators and bring global opportunities closer to home. By fostering innovation and collaboration, we aim to position India as a global content powerhouse and pave the way for sustainable growth in the industry.”

    With a robust ecosystem comprising 582+ channels, 21 OTT platforms, and advanced technological capabilities, Dish TV India is well-placed to drive this initiative. Content India 2025 will provide a comprehensive platform to expand markets, equip Indian creators to meet global demand, and propel Indian entertainment to the forefront of the international content landscape.

    C21Media editor-in-chief & MD, David Jenkinson emphasised the partnership’s value, “India’s entertainment industry holds immense potential to lead the global content landscape with its creativity and innovation. Partnering with Dish TV India for Content India allows us to bring together the best minds in the industry, fostering collaborations that drive meaningful growth and unlock new opportunities for content creators on an international scale.”

    This collaboration underscores Dish TV India’s commitment to enabling sustainable growth and innovation, ensuring Indian content achieves global recognition.

  • Dish TV India offers creators and filmmakers Watcho Stories Conclave

    Dish TV India offers creators and filmmakers Watcho Stories Conclave

    MUMBAI:  Film makers and creators watch out, Watcho is coming your way. Dish TV India’s OTT aggregation platform has launched the Watcho Storytellers Conclave,  an innovative platform dedicated to empowering filmmakers and content creators across India. The  initiative addresses the need for a level playing field for film makers and content creators, also, creating and opening up new avenues for both emerging and established talent to connect with audiences and share their unique narratives., says a press release issued by Dish TV India.

    Watcho is being positioned as a game-changer for emerging filmmakers and creators, offering numerous benefits with even more breakthrough features and opportunities to come. On offer is the 10 million plus household  audience available through Watcho and Dish TV, along with promotional opportunities across multiple channels for maximum visibility and impact. For viewers, the platform promises a carefully curated selection of diverse content that enriches their experience with fresh, hand-picked programming, making quality entertainment accessible to all.

    To commemorate the launch, Watcho organized a  Watcho Storyteller Conclave in Kolkata featuring filmmakers and creators, including Prosenjit Chatterjee, Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, Prasun Chatterjee, and Indranil Roy Chowdhury. The event included three sessions, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the content creation landscape, while also expressing enthusiasm for the possibilities that the platform will bring to the industry.

    Said Prosenjit Chatterjee: “DishTV  Watcho is a game-changer for emerging filmmakers and creators. It levels the playing field, making it easier than ever to share your vision with the world. It’s going to be a one-stop hub where creativity meets opportunity, and I’m excited to see the future of film and content unfold here. I’m eagerly thrilled for the Watcho Storytellers Conclave.”

    The next editions  of Watcho Storytellers Conclave are planned for Hyderabad and Mumbai.

    Dish TV CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal said: “In a vibrant and diverse nation like India, the creative voices of our filmmakers and artists often remain unheard due to limited avenues and opportunities. With this event, we are pioneering a movement that empowers creators to transcend traditional constraints and connect directly with audiences. Our vision is to cultivate an inclusive platform where every creator can share their unique stories, enhancing visibility and enriching the cultural fabric of our entertainment industry. As we embrace the digital-first era, we foresee a future where every narrative, no matter how unconventional, can resonate with its audience. With Watcho Storytellers Conclave, we are committed to nurturing an ecosystem that celebrates creativity and transforms the entertainment experience for all.”

    Added Dish TV corporate marketing head Sukhpreet Singh: “The Watcho Storytellers Conclave in Kolkata marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. With this event, we are not just providing a platform; we are cultivating a vibrant community where creativity thrives. Today’s viewers demand content that resonates with their diverse experiences, and Watcho enables creators to step into the spotlight and share their unique voices.”
     

  • Dish TV collaborates with ARC

    Dish TV collaborates with ARC

    Mumbai: In a significant step toward promoting environmental awareness and responsible e-waste management, Dish TV partnered with ARC, an educational social impact startup. This collaboration addresses the urgent issue of e-waste and encourages communities to adopt sustainable practices. As a brand committed to sustainability, Dish TV focuses on initiatives that positively impact the social and economic development of the communities it serves, further strengthening its mission to uplift these communities.

    Dish TV and ARC launched their first e-waste drive at DPS Greater Faridabad, engaging over 700 students, teachers, and the school principal in a community effort to combat e-waste. This drive is part of a larger vision to equip future generations with the knowledge to make environmentally sound decisions.

    The initiative aims to educate students on the harmful impacts of e-waste on health and the environment. Through interactive workshops and hands-on activities, the program encourages critical thinking about their actions’ effects on the planet. It focuses on responsible disposal methods for discarded electronics, helping students recognize their roles in creating a sustainable future.

    A highlight of the campaign is ‘Diwali Defenders,’ a creative comic featuring young superheroes called the E-waste Warriors. This engaging concept promotes a ‘waste-free Diwali,’ encouraging students to bring old e-waste to school for responsible disposal. These young ‘defenders’ serve as role models, inspiring peers to lead environmental change in a fun way. The comic illustrates Dish TV’s commitment to making complex issues like e-waste management relatable for students.

    Dish TV India Ltd. CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal said, “At Dish TV, we are committed to fostering sustainable practices that benefit our communities and the environment. This initiative to raise awareness about e-waste goes beyond responsible disposal; it empowers our youth to become proactive stewards of the environment. By educating students on the harmful effects of e-waste and promoting actionable solutions, we’re igniting a movement that inspires the next generation to lead the charge for a cleaner, greener planet. Together, we can transform our commitment into meaningful change and create a sustainable future for all.”

    “At ARC, we believe that sustainability thrives on collaboration, not competition,” said ARC founders Ritu Malhotra & Anit Gupta. “Our partnership with Dish TV marks an important step in raising awareness about responsible e-waste disposal. Educating children about the environmental and health impacts of e-waste empowers them to become proactive change-makers. The ‘Diwali Defenders’ campaign by Dish TV has resonated strongly with students, inspiring them to make a tangible difference at home and in their communities. This initiative is poised to divert significant amounts of e-waste from the informal sector, creating a ripple effect that benefits all stakeholders. Schools enrich their curriculum with vital waste management education, while ARC and Dish TV advance their social impact goals together.”