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Tag: Sony LIV

  • Sony Liv’s 13th cracks open India’s exam-prep grind with MT Sir’s story

    Sony Liv’s 13th cracks open India’s exam-prep grind with MT Sir’s story

    MUMBAI: The toughest test isn’t always on paper, sometimes it’s the year between. Sony Liv is set to premiere its long-awaited original series 13th on 1st October 2025, pulling viewers into the high-pressure universe of India’s competitive exam-prep culture.

    The title itself is a nod to the “drop year” after Class 12, when thousands of students dedicate an extra 12 months solely to cracking the IIT-JEE entrance exam. For many, that 13th year becomes a make-or-break moment filled with sleepless nights, financial strain, and the constant balancing act between ambition and anxiety.

    At the heart of the story stands mentor Mohit Tyagi (MT Sir), a real-life educator whose teaching revolution has reached over 20 lakh students across India. With his Youtube channel followed by more than 2.2 million learners, Tyagi has built an open-access classroom that rivals the mega coaching hubs of Kota but without the lakhs in fees. Over two decades, his consistency and discipline-driven methods have produced Top-100 ranks year after year, proving that resilience and rigour trump hype.

    What makes Tyagi’s story remarkable is his rejection of crore-level salary offers in favour of free, quality education. His vision has reshaped the meaning of mentorship in India, cutting across economic and social divides. Instead of becoming a coaching magnate, he created a movement where students are treated as individuals with dreams, not just roll numbers on a register.

    13th stars Gagan Dev Riar as the mentor, portraying a role steeped in both realism and inspiration. The series doesn’t sugarcoat the grind, it delves into the loneliness of hostel rooms, the sacrifices families make, and the crushing weight of repeated attempts. It also shines a light on the resilience of students who fight through failure, financial strain, and fear, armed with little more than hope and persistence.

    Speaking about the premiere, Tyagi himself reflected on the deeper message: “Teaching has always been about much more than solving equations. It’s about resilience, discipline, and reminding students that they are more than their marks. 13th tells the untold story of lakhs of youth carrying gigantic pressure but also gigantic dreams.”

    For Sony LIV, the series is more than just a drama, it’s a mirror to India’s youth, their aspirations, and the cracks in a system where education can feel like war. By weaving Tyagi’s mission into a scripted narrative, the platform hopes to start conversations in living rooms across the country between parents, students, and society at large.

    With hashtags #My13thStory and #13thOnSonyLiv, the show is already sparking anticipation online. Come October, 13th promises to be more than binge-worthy content; it’s set to become a cultural talking point on what success really means when the journey is tougher than the exam.

  • Sony swings for six with full throttle Asia Cup 2025 broadcast blitz

    Sony swings for six with full throttle Asia Cup 2025 broadcast blitz

    MUMBAI: Cricket’s continental carnival is back, and Sony Sports Network is rolling out the red carpet. Starting 9 September in the UAE, the Asia Cup 2025 returns for its 17th edition with eight teams India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, UAE, Oman, and Hong Kong, all chasing bragging rights before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

    For Indian fans, the excitement begins with India’s opener against hosts UAE on 10 September, followed by a series of high-stakes encounters through the Super Four stage and the grand finale on 28 September. Every ball, boundary, and bouncer will be available live across Sony Sports Network channels and streamed on Sony Liv, with commentary in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu ensuring fans can cheer in their mother tongue.

    And that’s not all. The iconic Extraaa Innings T20 makes a comeback, bringing with it a line-up of cricket royalty and sharp-tongued analysts. Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, Sanjay Manjrekar, Robin Uthappa, Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, Russel Arnold, Simon Doull and more will headline the World Feed in English. Hindi viewers get the firepower of Virender Sehwag, Irfan Pathan, and Ajay Jadeja, while regional fans are not left behind Tamil coverage boasts WV Raman and Bharat Arun, and Telugu commentary features stalwarts like Venkatapathy Raju and Venugopal Rao.

    Sony chief revenue officer Rajesh Kaul underlined the network’s vision: “The Asia Cup represents not just a battle for supremacy but a fusion of history, culture, and aspiration. With our #RagRagMeinBharat campaign, we’re making world-class cricket accessible from the remotest villages to the busiest metros.”

    On the cricketing front, legends are already buzzing about India’s prospects under new captain Surya Kumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill as vice-captain. Sunil Gavaskar hailed the side as a “blend of tenacity and experience” while Ravi Shastri dubbed it the “perfect mix of experience and potential,” spotlighting stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, and Harshit Rana.

    With 8 nations, 1 trophy, 20 days of action, and commentary in 4 languages, Sony’s coverage of the Asia Cup 2025 looks set to bowl over fans before the World Cup even begins.
     

  • KBC’s season 17 draws in marquee sponsors, Sony LIV ramps up play-along push

    KBC’s season 17 draws in marquee sponsors, Sony LIV ramps up play-along push

    MUMBAI: Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) is back for its 17th season, and the big brands are queueing up once again. Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV have rolled out the latest edition of India’s most iconic quiz show, hosted as ever by Amitabh Bachchan, with a line-up of sponsors as weighty as the prize money.

    Maruti has signed on as lead automobile partner, sweetening the stakes by giving away new cars to every Crorepati on the hot seat and to the overall Play Along winner. Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL) has returned to underline its mass-market connect, while UltraTech Cement and Pidilite’s Dr Fixit have doubled down on their aspirational pitches to smaller cities and family households.

    All told, 15 brands from categories spanning automobiles, cement, home-building products, condiments, clothing, payment gateways and mouth fresheners have joined forces with the show this season. Their faith underscores KBC’s ability to deliver reach, recall and resonance across India.

    Sony LIV is once again pushing its “second-screen” play, with the return of KBC Play Along and the hugely popular Har Din Lakhpati feature. The format, which lets viewers answer questions live via the app, has turned KBC from a television property into a nationwide interactive event since debuting in 2018.

    Sony LIV, head of ad sales revenue Ranjana Mangla said KBC “has stood as a bedrock of consistency for advertisers—delivering unmatched reach, deep engagement, and a cultural resonance that few formats can claim.”

    HPCL’s CH srinivas hailed the programme’s “spirit of knowledge and the power of questions,” while UltraTech’s Ajay Dang called the Sony Liv tie-up “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to cement aspirational journeys in tier 2 and 3 towns. Swati Jha of Pidilite added that both KBC and Dr Fixit “have been trusted companions in people’s lives” for more than two decades.

    With Sony LIV reporting over 100m app downloads and pushing an expanding roster of sports rights, films and originals, KBC remains its most bankable franchise—blending nostalgia, mass appeal and advertiser trust in equal measure.

  • Sony bats big with Rag Rag Mein Bharat for Asia Cup 2025 roar

    Sony bats big with Rag Rag Mein Bharat for Asia Cup 2025 roar

    MUMBAI: When Suryakumar Yadav sends the ball sailing for six, India doesn’t just win a match 140 crore hearts leap together. That’s the pulse Sony Sports Network has bottled in its new campaign film, Rag Rag Mein Bharat, unveiled ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. Set in a small-town courtyard, the film captures the quintessential India-Pakistan cricket moment: neighbours huddled around a TV, silence stretching as the bowler runs in, before erupting into dhol beats, tricolour waves and unfiltered joy. And to seal the sentiment, none other than Virender Sehwag delivers the rallying cry: “When it comes to India, 140 crore hearts beat as one.”

    Sony Pictures Networks India, chief revenue officer for distribution & international business and head of ports business Rajesh Kaul called the Asia Cup “one of the most iconic tournaments in world cricket.” He said #RagRagMeinBharat is a reminder of cricket’s power to transcend divides of age, gender, region and religion. “Having Sehwag embody that sentiment makes it even more powerful,” he added.

    For Sehwag himself, the campaign is a throwback to his own Asia Cup days. “Walking into the dressing room, you could feel the buzz even before stepping onto the field,” he recalled. “The chants, the energy fans weren’t just watching; they were living it with you. That’s what this film gets spot on.”

    The 17th edition of the Asia Cup, played in the UAE from 9–28 September 2025, will feature eight teams in a T20 format, with group stages leading into the Super Four and the final. India, the defending champions, enter the fray with a record eight Asia Cup titles under their belt.

    Rolling out in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu across Sony’s broadcast network, Sony Liv and social media, the campaign is less an ad and more a rallying anthem. For a nation where cricket is religion, Rag Rag Mein Bharat might just be the battle cry echoing through every living room, street corner and stadium.

  • Shark Tank India 5 opens the tank with a call to ditch burnout and pitch brilliance

    Shark Tank India 5 opens the tank with a call to ditch burnout and pitch brilliance

    MUMBAI: The sharks are circling again. Shark Tank India is back for a fiery fifth season, opening the floodgates for India’s boldest, brightest business ideas—with registrations now live on Sony Liv. The show, which has quickly evolved from a niche format to a national pitch phenomenon, will once again air across Sony Liv and Sony Entertainment Television, bringing prime-time entrepreneurship to every screen.

    This season’s promo swims upstream with a cheeky jab at hustle culture. In a witty twist on the 70-hour workweek mantra, the new campaign declares: “Breakthroughs aren’t born from burnout—they’re born from brave ideas.” The message? You don’t need exhaustion, you need innovation.

    Since its Indian debut in 2021, the tank has hosted 741 pitches, backed 351 deals, and facilitated over Rs 293 crore in funding. From college dorm rooms to family kitchens, it’s become the holy grail for every dreamer with a deck.

    Got a wild idea, a disruptive product, or a startup that’s just waiting to scale? The tank is open—apply now on Sony Liv. Because the next big thing might just be one pitch away.

    https://sharktank.sonyliv.com/

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

     

  • India’s ‘60 overs of hell’ roar back on screen as Sony Sports cues up docuseries on epic England tour

    India’s ‘60 overs of hell’ roar back on screen as Sony Sports cues up docuseries on epic England tour

    MUMBAI: Sony Sports Network is serving cricket fans a piping hot platter of drama, nostalgia and chin music with Bharat Tum Chale Chalo – Kahani 2021-22 Ki, a gritty three-part docuseries that rewinds to one of India’s most unforgettable Test cricket campaigns — the 2021-22 tour of England. Premiering on Sunday, 15 June at 1pm across Sony Sports Ten 1, 3, 4, and 5 — and streaming on Sony LIV — the series pulls back the curtain on India’s high-octane cricketing crusade on British soil.

    Fresh from their famous Gabba heist Down Under, the Men in Blue marched into England with a searing pace battery and a score to settle. From Lord’s “60 overs of hell” to Rohit’s bat-does-the-talking moment and the leadership shake-up that had fans glued, this is cricketing cinema with sweat, swagger and plenty of sledging.

    The series ropes in a solid bench of voices who lived and breathed the campaign — from former India head coach Ravi Shastri and England’s Michael Vaughan, to bowling coach Bharat Arun, fielding wizard R. Sridhar, and Kohli and Rohit’s childhood coaches. With spicy anecdotes and rare behind-the-scenes footage, this is not just a docuseries — it’s a dressing-room pass.

    Episode guide:

    Episode 1: Pace is pace

    Virat Kohli’s long game — building a ruthless pace attack since 2014 — gets its due. Bumrah, Shami, Siraj and Shardul bowl fire and fury into Lord’s, scripting one of India’s grittiest away glories.

    Episode 2: Let the bat talk

    A redemption arc for the ages: Kohli v Anderson, Rahul’s zen mode, and Rohit’s evolution into a dependable Test opener — capped by that sweet, sweet overseas ton.

    Episode 3: Oh captain, my captain

    When the final Test got postponed, so did destiny. With Kohli stepping down and Bumrah stepping in, England entered the Bazball era. The finale dives into legacy, leadership, and all the ‘what-ifs’ still echoing at Old Trafford.

    Timed to perfection ahead of the upcoming India-England clash, this is Sony Sports Network reminding fans why red-ball cricket still packs the biggest punch.

  • Content India: Indian entertainment’s power play as streaming, AI and regulation collide

    Content India: Indian entertainment’s power play as streaming, AI and regulation collide

    MUMBAI: Move over, primetime television, the new battleground for eyeballs is digital. With smartphones doubling as multiplexes and streaming platforms serving as global entertainment highways, Indian content is having its biggest moment yet. But along with opportunities, the industry faces significant regulatory, technological, and monetisation challenges.

    At Content India 2025’s Perspectives for Change session, leading industry executives, including Gaurav Banerjee (MD & CEO, Sony Pictures/Sony Liv), Jason Hafford (founder, Prototype Content), Kilian Kerwin (president, Jaya Entertainment), Roma Khanna (producer), Tanisha Khanna (lawyer, Nishith Desai Associates), and Shoojit Sircar (CEO, Rising Sun Films), discussed what’s next for Indian entertainment. One thing was clear: the rules of the game are changing, and only the agile will thrive.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept; it’s already shaping how content is produced, consumed, and monetised. AI-powered analytics are refining ad placements and content recommendations, making streaming services more personalised than ever.

    “AI is a game-changer for storytelling,” said Gaurav Banerjee. “We’re now able to understand audiences at an unprecedented level. The way we create, distribute, and monetise content is evolving, and platforms that adapt quickly will dominate.”

    According to industry insights, AI has led to a 15–20 per cent boost in ad revenue and pay-per-view subscriptions, improving monetisation for platforms.

    Banerjee further noted how AI is addressing long-standing biases in content creation. “For years, storytelling was dominated by certain voices. AI-driven insights are now helping us correct that imbalance, ensuring more diverse representation in entertainment.”

    With AI also being used to automatically translate and dub content, regional storytelling is gaining a global reach. “We’re seeing a major shift where a Tamil or Telugu film can be released worldwide with AI-driven localisation. That’s a huge leap forward,” added Kilian Kerwin.

    If AI is supercharging content, regulations are defining the playground. The Indian entertainment industry is increasingly facing scrutiny, particularly in the digital space. The IT Rules and other regulatory frameworks are being challenged in court, with concerns over censorship and content liability.

    This regulatory uncertainty is causing anxiety among streaming platforms. “Creative freedom is crucial,” said Roma Khanna. “At the same time, we understand the need for responsible storytelling. But what we don’t want is ambiguous laws that leave platforms and creators second-guessing what’s acceptable.”

    Banerjee was more direct: “We need clear and predictable regulations. Content creators should not feel like they’re constantly walking on eggshells. Regulation should encourage creativity, not stifle it.”

    While OTT platforms remain largely self-regulated, concerns about political sensitivities and legal repercussions have led to increased caution in content curation. “We have seen instances where content was pulled due to public backlash,” added Tanisha Khanna. “It’s crucial that there’s a structured, fair process in place.”

    While streaming platforms are thriving, making money remains a puzzle. Subscription models have their limits, and ad-supported streaming is still evolving. However, new-age monetisation models like microtransactions, premium ad tiers, virtual goods, and gamified content experiences are gaining traction.

    Banerjee shed light on the shift in viewer spending habits. “Five years ago, people were hesitant to pay for content. Now, we have 62 per cent of Indian households paying for digital entertainment. The audience values good storytelling, and they’re willing to pay for it.”

    The advertising-based video-on-demand (AVOD) model is also witnessing a surge. “We saw a 40 per cent increase in AVOD revenue last year,” Banerjee revealed. “Ad-supported content isn’t just for budget-conscious viewers anymore. Even premium audiences are engaging with it.”

    Interestingly, India’s vast language diversity is proving to be a monetisation goldmine. Viewers are streaming content in multiple languages, increasing the reach of regional cinema and opening new revenue streams for platforms.

    “Regional content is the future,” said Shoojit Sircar. “More than 60 per cent of future content investments are going into non-Hindi programming, and for good reason. The audience is demanding authenticity, and regional storytelling delivers that in a way no other content can.”

    The biggest validation of Indian entertainment’s success? Global audiences can’t get enough of it. Indian shows and films are now regularly trending in the top 10 lists on global platforms.

    Platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix are doubling down on Indian originals, and franchises such as Mirzapur, Panchayat, and Citadel: Honey Bunny are expanding their universes. In 2024 alone, Indian content trended in the top 10 worldwide every single week.

    “India has always had great stories, but now we have the technology and platforms to take them global,” said Jason Hafford. “We’re no longer just exporting films, we’re shaping global content trends.”

    The rise of international collaborations is also a promising sign. “We’re working with global studios, co-producing, and experimenting with formats that have never been tried before in India,” said Kilian Kerwin. “The future is cross-border storytelling.”

    The future of Indian entertainment is a mix of boundless opportunity and complex challenges. AI is set to revolutionise content, but ethical concerns and biases must be addressed. Regulations will shape how platforms operate, but clarity is needed to encourage innovation. And while monetisation strategies evolve, striking the right balance between subscriptions, ads, and new revenue streams will be crucial.

    For Gaurav Banerjee, the most exciting part is yet to come. “We’re only scratching the surface. With 5G rolling out, AI making content discovery seamless, and regional content driving engagement, the OTT revolution in India is far from reaching its season finale, it’s just getting started.”

    With the entertainment landscape evolving faster than ever, one thing is certain – the golden age of Indian content is here, and the best is yet to come.
     

  • Cooking up a storm: Celebrity MasterChef India on Sony LIV drives 2x subscription growth!

    Cooking up a storm: Celebrity MasterChef India on Sony LIV drives 2x subscription growth!

    MUMBAI: Sony LIV is serving up an irresistible culinary treat with the much-celebrated Celebrity MasterChef India, now streaming on the platform. A celebration of creativity, skill, and gastronomic excellence, this season takes the iconic format to new heights by bringing India’s favorite celebrities into the competitive cooking arena. Under the expert guidance of Chef Vikas Khanna, Chef Ranveer Brar, and host Farah Khan, these stars tackle high-stakes challenges to win hearts and claim the coveted title.

    This season of Celebrity MasterChef India has seen remarkable traction, registering a 13% growth in user base and a 26% increase in viewership. With watch time per user and subscriptions doubling, the show has firmly cemented its place as a fan favorite. A significant driver of this success is its high female skew, with 43% of the viewership being driven by female audiences.

    Adding to the grandeur of the show is a stellar lineup of sponsors who share a passion for quality and innovation. Veeba, as the Co-Presenting Sponsor, inspires culinary creativity. Joining the journey are ACKO, GI’s of India and Fortune Chakki Fresh Atta as Co-Powered Sponsors, with BSH Home Appliances stepping in as the exclusive Appliances Partner and Vinod Intelligent Cookware as Partner to elevate the cooking experience on Sony LIV. 

    These partnerships make Celebrity MasterChef India an inspiring journey where celebrities step out of their comfort zones, refine their culinary skills, and compete for glory under expert guidance.

    Comments

    Ranjana Mangla – Head Ad Revenue, Sony LIV

    At Sony LIV, we are dedicated to crafting extraordinary and immersive experiences, and Celebrity MasterChef India exemplifies this commitment. This season, we’ve partnered with visionary brands that share our passion for quality, innovation, and excellence—elevating the iconic MasterChef format to celebrate the love for food while delivering world-class entertainment. Food is more than just ingredients—it’s a cultural cornerstone that connects people across traditions and industries. Celebrity MasterChef India seamlessly integrates brands from diverse sectors, including BFSI, Consumer Durables, and Healthcare, offering a dynamic platform for meaningful collaborations. This season, we welcome an exciting mix of visionary brands driving innovation, thriving homegrown enterprises, and government initiatives that spotlight India’s rich heritage on a global stage. With a highly engaged, digitally savvy audience that values premium experiences and authentic storytelling, Celebrity MasterChef India creates impactful brand narratives that resonate deeply and leave a lasting impression.

    Viraj Bahl, Founder and MD, VRB Consumer Products (Veeba & Wok Wok) 

    We are delighted to collaborate with Celebrity MasterChef India once again. Cooking is an act of love and creativity, and great taste is the reward for that effort. Our endeavor is to empower our consumers to experiment fearlessly and bring their unique flavors to life—because life tastes better with Veeba. 

    Ashish Mishra, CMO – ACKO

    MasterChef India continues to inspire today’s audience to make informed, healthier choices, aligning perfectly with ACKO’s ethos of care, simplicity, and innovation. Our collaboration with MasterChef bridges the gap between healthy cooking and stress-free living, sharing mindful tips that show we genuinely care about our customers’ overall well-being.  With the show airing on Sony LIV, a platform renowned for its engaging and premium content, this partnership provides an excellent opportunity to amplify our message and drive meaningful connections with our audience.

    Shri Karan Thapar, Director – DPIIT

    The DPIIT values its partnership with SonyLIV’s MasterChef India, which aims to promote GI tag products. This collaboration is anticipated to elevate public consciousness regarding the cultural significance and inherent value imbued in these products due to their geographic origins. Furthermore, GI tagging facilitates the preservation of our country’s diverse geography, environmental conditions, and traditional practices – all of which contribute to the distinctiveness of these valued products.

    Celebrity MasterChef India streaming Monday to Friday at 8 PM on Sony LIV!

  • Sony LIV’s divyang special spotlights unique visionaries

    Sony LIV’s divyang special spotlights unique visionaries

    MUMBAI : Sony LIV is pushing boundaries with Gateway to Shark Tank – divyang special, a unique edition of Shark Tank India that champions innovation and entrepreneurship among specially abled individuals and those striving to empower them. This special episode isn’t just about business—it’s about breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and celebrating the bold ideas that drive inclusive progress.

    This special initiative highlights groundbreaking ideas and inclusive solutions, with the backing of Adani Airports director Jeet Adani who also oversees the Adani group’s defence, petrochemicals, and copper businesses while spearheading the group’s digital transformation.

    Entries for Gateway to Shark Tank – divyang special are open until 15 February 2025, after which shortlisted pitches will be featured in an exclusive episode. Through this initiative, Shark Tank India and Jeet Adani aim to mentor and support entrepreneurs driving disability-inclusive innovation, promoting accessibility and progress.

    Commenting on the initiative, Sony LIV head of ad sales revenue Ranjana Mangla, stated: “Shark Tank India has always been a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs. We are committed to inclusivity, supporting specially abled entrepreneurs and businesses catering to their empowerment. It is heartening to see established leaders like Jeet Adani supporting this cause, amplifying its impact and reach.”

    Adani Airports director Jeet Adani, added: “There is immense potential to create disruptive solutions in this space. We need more passionate innovators addressing the challenges faced by specially abled individuals. I am excited to partner with Shark Tank India to support entrepreneurs and drive meaningful change.”

  • Clapstore Toys makes big splash with all shark deal

    Clapstore Toys makes big splash with all shark deal

    MUMBAI: In a world dominated by screens, two young entrepreneurs are redefining playtime! Yash Thombare (22) and Vedang Nalawade (21) from Pune are on a mission to bring the joy of real-world play back to children. With their brainchild, Clapstore Toys, launched in 2020, they’ve created educational toys designed to engage kids aged till six years while fostering essential skills. Already impacting over 50,000 families across India, their success story is gaining momentum.

    In the latest season of Shark Tank India 4,  Thombare and  Nalawade took centre stage with their innovative product – the portable busy boards. A first in India, these boards aim to captivate young minds with hands-on, screen-free learning. The Sharks were initially intrigued but skeptical until they saw the product in action. After a heartwarming live demo with kids, the duo’s pitch gained traction. Seeking Rs 80 lakh for four per cent equity, the founders struck a sweet deal: Rs 1 crore for 10 per cent equity, backed by all five Sharks!

    “The Sharks’ feedback was invaluable,” said Thombare and Nalawade. “Their mentorship will accelerate our growth and help us make our innovative toys more accessible to families across India.” Their victory on Shark Tank is a testament to their unwavering belief in the power of real play and their mission to enrich childhood development through screen-free toys.

    So, what’s next for Clapstore? With the support of the Sharks, this dynamic duo is ready to scale up and take their vision even further.