Tag: Sony Pictures Networks

  • Nishant Tannwarr steps up as general manager at TV Today

    Nishant Tannwarr steps up as general manager at TV Today

    NEW DELHI: Nishant Tannwarr has been appointed general manager at TV Today, home to leading news brands like Aaj Tak and India Today. A media industry stalwart with over two decades of experience, Tannwarr brings deep expertise across regional revenue, key account management, and broadcast sales.

    Tannwarr has been with TV Today since 2022, previously serving as north head of Aaj Tak HD, where he spearheaded monetisation efforts across the premium Hindi news offering. His elevation signals the group’s intent to double down on integrated sales strategies and agency partnerships.

    Prior to joining TV Today, Tannwarr held senior sales and leadership roles at Sony Pictures Networks, where he served as region head for SAB TV, and earlier as vice president handling national revenue mandates. His media career includes stints at Star India, Zee Telefilms, Eenadu TV and Daewoo Motors—cutting his teeth across both regional and national markets.

    Known for building scalable revenue engines and high-performing sales teams, Tannwarr is expected to steer TV Today’s commercial agenda in a volatile media landscape increasingly shaped by digital shifts and advertiser fragmentation.

  • PAL in demand Sony’s free channel strikes gold with GRP and reach gains

    PAL in demand Sony’s free channel strikes gold with GRP and reach gains

    MUMBAI: Sony PAL is no longer flying under the radar, it’s soaring. The Free-to-Air Hindi GEC from Sony Pictures Networks India has emerged as the fastest growing player in the Hindi-speaking markets, making its mark with a potent mix of classic crowd-pullers and strategic programming.

    According to BARC data (NCCS 15 plus, HSM U+R, Week 14 to 17, 2025), Sony PAL clocked a record 15.6 per cent weekly reach in Week 17 more than any other FTA Hindi general entertainment channel. If that wasn’t enough to raise industry eyebrows, the channel also posted a 51 per cent jump in GRPs over just four weeks, securing its place in the country’s living rooms and lounge-time routines.

    So, what’s fuelling this prime-time leap? The answer lies in a nostalgic but effective playbook: shows like Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah and The Kapil Sharma Show television’s equivalent of comfort food now offered on the FTA platter for the first time. These fan-favourite titles have become PAL’s not-so-secret sauce for drawing multi-generational audiences.

    While other networks chase trends, Sony PAL is doubling down on familiarity and family-friendly fare, positioning itself as the channel of choice for all-day, every-age entertainment. With its strategic shift to unlock premium legacy content for free access, the channel is not only expanding reach but also reasserting relevance in a saturated GEC space.

    In a rapidly changing TV landscape, Sony PAL’s performance proves that good old storytelling when delivered smartly still has the power to win hearts, TRPs, and market share.

     

  • SpiceJet crew dances up a storm as Holi takes flight

    SpiceJet crew dances up a storm as Holi takes flight

    MUMBAI: SpiceJet has once again livened up the skies with a vibrant Holi celebration that has set social media abuzz. The budget airline’s crew members, decked out in matching blue denim jeans, white kurtas and black shades, performed a choreographed dance to the popular song Balam Pichkari for passengers travelling on Holi.

    The performance, which featured crew members dancing with unbridled energy in the aircraft aisle, is part of the airline’s tradition of celebrating the festival of colours in style.

    “A signature festival, a signature song, and a celebration like no other! Our crew brought Holi to life with an energetic dance, proving that traditions take flight with us!” SpiceJet posted on their social media handle, clarifying that the “video was filmed on ground with all safety standards in place.”

    SpiceJet chief customer officer Kamal Hingorani coloured his comments with enthusiasm: “Holi isn’t just about colours—it’s about energy, togetherness, and a splash of fun! At SpiceJet, we bring the same vibrancy to our work, fostering a culture of teamwork and positivity.”

    Spicejet Holi

    Added SpiceJet chief business officer Debojo Maharshi: “Holi is a festival that paints the world with happiness, and at SpiceJet, we are thrilled to kick off the celebrations with our signature Balam Pichkari performance. Our incredible crew turned the aircraft into a stage of joy, blending music, dance, and tradition to create an unforgettable experience for our passengers. We are proud to celebrate India’s vibrant culture with this burst of festive cheer – wishing everyone a Holi filled with colour, love, and safe travels!” 

    The in-flight festivities have received plaudits from marketing experts. Sony Pictures Networks vice president sales Vikram Vijay Chandan described the campaign as “a masterclass in experiential marketing” that “worked like wildfire” by generating buzz and encouraging social media sharing.

    “It humanised the brand by showcasing their crew’s enthusiasm, allowing the airline to differentiate itself and in the process helped foster brand loyalty,” Chandan remarked.

    To watch the video click here: SpiceJet crew Holi dance

    This isn’t the first time the budget carrier has painted outside the lines with its Holi celebrations. Previous performances include flash mob dances at Delhi airport in 2015 and 2017.

    While some naysayers might cry foul over such airline antics, the colourful initiative certainly seems to have helped SpiceJet’s marketing efforts soar to new heights

  • Sony Pictures Networks taps Hitesh Sood to spearhead B2B partnerships

    Sony Pictures Networks taps Hitesh Sood to spearhead B2B partnerships

    MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has made a strategic move by appointing Hitesh Sood as vice president & head of B2B subscription and partnerships (digital business). Effective February 2025, Sood has already rolled up his sleeves to drive global expansion for Sonyliv and forge partnerships that will redefine digital content distribution.

    With a resume that reads like a thriller, Sood brings two decades of experience spanning telecom, media, and digital services. He has honed his expertise across continents, cracking tough negotiations and spearheading revenue-driven partnerships. From launching industry-first telco content bundles to scaling up OTT distribution, his track record is as impressive as a blockbuster’s opening weekend.

    In his new role, Sood will focus on taking Sonyliv beyond borders—literally. He aims to propel its reach to global audiences while working with telcos, banks, and content aggregators to make digital entertainment more engaging. With streaming services in an all-out war for eyeballs, this move signals Sony’s intent to stay ahead of the game.

    Before joining Sony, Sood made his mark at Renna Mobile, Grameenphone, Vodafone Idea, and Globacom, where he led marketing, partnerships, and product strategies. He played a key role in expanding digital content services and optimising customer engagement strategies. At Grameenphone, for instance, he quadrupled monthly active users (MAUs) in just two years—no small feat in a competitive streaming market.

    Sony Pictures Networks is banking on Sood’s knack for innovation to boost its B2B partnerships and subscriptions. With digital entertainment evolving at breakneck speed, Sony’s latest hire suggests the company is gearing up for a bigger, bolder future in the streaming industry.

  • Sony’s Ravi Ahuja, Gaurav Banerjee  and the art of winning

    Sony’s Ravi Ahuja, Gaurav Banerjee and the art of winning

    MUMBAI: That Sony Pictures Networks (SPN) president & chief operating officer Ravi Ahuja would come a-visiting Mumbai  and the broadcast major’s Malad office was known to those in the trade because of a story that broke in the media. But what is not known to most is what transpired during the dapper executive’s whistle stop tour . 

    GB, Ravi Ahuja and Manu Wadhwa

    One of the activities conducted was a town hall, in which he and the SPN  India managing director & CEO Guarav Banerjee  (GB)  sat down with SPN India  chief human resources officer Manu Wadhwa for a fireside chat. The topic of discussion: Sony’s content first approach and SPN India’s pivotal role in SPN’s global strategy.

    The key message GB sent out was that SPNI is a content-focused company with a goal to create hits that resonate with its audience.

    And Ahuja had only one major message to give out: “Exceed expectations, take on new challenges, and build your skills and network – that’s the path to leadership!”

    With that kind of a mandate, the rest of the  GECs and sports channels had better watch out. For not only does GB have youth on his side, he also has a point to prove. Which he is known to do. Whilst, SPNI has been a profitable venture in India, it has lacked leadership in fiction. 

    The townhall meet during the fireside chat

    Its non-fiction shows like Shark Tank India, KBC, Indian Idol have set new benchmarks with targeted audiences. But what has been missing is top rung family dramas, telenovellas, and thriller shows which have gathered viewers time and mindspace. Something the creative teams under GB have been working on silently and stealthily. 

    Expect some real action in this space, especially when leaders at rivals such as Colors and Star Plus are absorbed with the merger and Zee is just about gearing up with its new slate of productions. 

  • Braun Strowman Wraps India tour with Sony Sports Network

    Braun Strowman Wraps India tour with Sony Sports Network

    Mumbai: WWE Superstar Braun Strowman, known as the ‘Monster of all Monsters’, completed a successful four-day promotional tour in India starting with a meet and greet with Rajesh Kaul, chief revenue officer of distribution and International business and head of sports Business. The meeting was followed by interactive sessions with the employees of Sony Pictures Networks India as well as the filming of a special episode of Sony Sports Network’s flagship studio show, WWE Super Dhamaal in Mumbai.

    WWE Superstar Braun Strowman also visited four key distributors in the industry – DEN, HATHWAY, AIRTEL, and DISH TV during his four-day India tour. The WWE Superstar met over 1500 employees across the trade distribution engagements that helped to forge deeper connections with the attendees.

    During his time in Mumbai, Braun Strowman also met popular Indian cricketer Venkatesh Iyer, who has been a fan of WWE since his childhood. The destructive batting all-rounder and the WWE Superstar who is known for his destruction in the ring, bonded well as they discussed catchphrases and lingos from their respective fields followed by a small cricket session. Furthermore, Strowman also met with India’s Got Talent Season 9 winner Divyansh Kacholia aka DVK who performed a special beatbox segment which left the ‘Monster’ amazed.

    Comments:

    Sony Networks India Chief Revenue Officer – Distribution & International Business and head Sports Business Rajesh Kaul:  

    “We were delighted to host WWE Superstar Braun Strowman in India. Sony Sports Network’s broadcast of WWE enjoys a tremendous following and it is evident with the overwhelming response we received since we announced Braun Strowman’s visit to India. Sony Sports Network will continue to work with WWE to not only showcase the best WWE has to offer to viewers but to also curate experiences that builds a deeper connect with our audiences.”

    WWE Superstar Braun Strowman:

    “It has been great to be back in India and be given the opportunity to see our loyal fans in person. India is an amazing country and I always look forward to returning.”

    WWE sports entertainment properties in India and continues to captivate fans with regular promotional tours and live events in the country. Earlier this year, Sony Sports Network partnered with WWE to organise the WWE Superstar Spectacle in Hyderabad featuring one of the most iconic WWE Superstars of all time, John Cena. The mega event at Gachibowli Indoor Stadium received a tremendous response as fans from across the country travelled to witness the biggest WWE Superstars live in action.  

    Watch the LIVE coverage of WWE RAW every Tuesday, WWE NXT every Wednesday and WWE SmackDown every Saturday on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi) & Sony Sports Ten 4 (Tamil & Telugu) channels at 6:30 am IST.

  • Player draft for Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 with 275 contenders on 21 November

    Player draft for Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 with 275 contenders on 21 November

    Mumbai: The stakes are soaring high as the six Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK) franchisees gear up for the season 2 player draft in Bhubaneswar on 21 November. The inaugural season ignited a sporting frenzy, thrusting it to claim the title of India’s third-largest non-cricketing league in audience outreach.

    Armed with Rs. 3.90 crore in the purse, the six franchisees will battle it out to secure a formidable lineup from the 275 players available in the pool. The draft promises a fierce battleground, with Maharashtra dominating the forefront with 18 players, that emerged triumphant in the recently concluded National Games held in Goa.

    Promoted by Amit Burman in partnership with the Kho Kho Federation of India, UKK remains steadfast in its mission to reimagine the growth of indigenous sport with greater dynamism and engagement.

    With minimum of 20 and a maximum of 35 players, each franchise will have 35 draft rounds to complete their team combinations for the second edition. While 18 players have been retained by the teams; the remaining players have been put under four categories, A, B, C and D. Category A players are priced at Rs. five lac, Category B will get Rs. three lac each and C and D are categorised at Rs. 1.5 lac and Rs. one lac respectively.  Franchisees will have the option to select players based on their respective draft sequence and purse capacity.

    In all, 293 players are in the pool have been divided into three segments. The 18 players retained by the franchisees fall in the ‘Power Players’ category. Players who were part of Season 1 but have not been retained are known as ‘Pole Players’. While the new set of players recommended either by the franchisees or the Kho Kho Federation of India will be called ‘Dream Players’.

    Defending champions Odisha Juggernauts have retained four players from the last season, while Chennai Quick Guns three, including Player of the Tournament Ramji Kashyap and Young Player of the Tournament Madan. Gujarat Giants showed faith in Defender of the Tournament Abhinandan Patil besides two others. Mumbai Khiladis retained two of the players Gajanan Shengal and Sreejesh S from the previous season. Meanwhile Rajasthan Warriors and Telugu Yoddhas have retained three players each.

    The thrilling action from Season 2 will be broadcast live on Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI)’s sports channels as well as livestream on Sony LIV.

  • Sony BBC Earth celebrated Science Film Festival at Mumbai’s Nehru Science Centre

    Sony BBC Earth celebrated Science Film Festival at Mumbai’s Nehru Science Centre

    Mumbai: Staying true to its promise of feel alive, Sony BBC Earth, the most loved infotainment channel mesmerised young minds with an unprecedented cinematic experience with its Science Movie Festival. Spread across three days, the festival reached out to over 1000 students at the illustrious Nehru Science Centre. This groundbreaking event fused the magic of movies with an enriching educational journey, creating an atmosphere of awe and inspiration for school children across the city.

    The Science Movie Festival, an initiative by Sony BBC Earth in association with Nehru Science Centre aimed at transforming the way children perceive and engage with science. Through a carefully curated selection of films, the event ignited a passion for science, propelling young learners into the vast expanse of space. James Webb: The $10 Billion Space Telescope took students into the cosmos with the potential to revolutionise the understanding of the universe, spectacular Earth (Aurora) portrayed the mesmerising northern and southern lights, offering a glimpse into the Earth’s magnetic beauty, and spectacular Earth (Volcano) unveiled the raw power and astonishing landscapes shaped by this natural phenomenon. The festival transcended the boundaries of conventional education, offering young audiences a front-row seat to the marvels of the universe.

    Over the course of three days, students from a multitude of schools across Mumbai converged at Nehru Science Centre, becoming part of an educational odyssey. The screening sessions saw active participation from a diverse array of schools. After each screening, an interactive Q&A session followed, offering exciting goodies for the eager participants.

    Sony AATH business operations head and Sony Pictures Networks head – marketing & insights, English cluster Rohan Jain said, “We have always believed in catering to young and curious minds through our content and initiatives. The Science Movie Festival is not just an event; it’s an experience that has the potential to ignite a lifelong passion for science in the hearts of young learners. Through the power of visual storytelling, we aim to nurture a new generation of explorers and thinkers.”
     

  • Sony Pictures Networks bags India-Bangladesh tour rights 

    Sony Pictures Networks bags India-Bangladesh tour rights 

    Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks (SPN) has secured exclusive television rights to broadcast the India-Bangladesh tour. Sports fans can watch the inning live on Sony Sports Ten 5, Sony Sports Ten 3, and Sony Sports Ten 4, which are exclusive to the Indian territory.

    The Indian cricket team will visit Bangladesh beginning 4 December led by Rohit Sharma and vice captain KL Rahul. Star players such as Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, and Mohammed Shami will also be part of team India’s lineup.

    Fans will be hoping for an all-round performance from Ravindra Jadeja as he prepares to return to the field after a knee injury. This series will be India’s final before facing Sri Lanka in January 2023, consisting of three one-day internationals and two tests.

    The series will add to Sony Sports Network’s nonstop cricket coverage, and the broadcaster will be hoping for India to continue its international success.

    Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer & distribution and head of sports business Rajesh Kaul said, “It gives us immense pleasure to present fans with Team India’s final series before ending a successful year of cricket. India’s overseas record under the leadership of Rohit Sharma has been remarkable, and we hope to witness the same success in Bangladesh. We hope to continue providing fans with nonstop cricket action with this series.”

    Bangladesh Cricket Board chief executive officer Nizam Uddin Chowdhury added, “We are happy to note that Sony Sports Network has acquired the broadcast rights for India’s tour of Bangladesh in 2022. Sony Sports Network is among the industry leaders, and I am sure the broadcast quality and standards will be befitting of a much-anticipated series like this one.”

  • DD Free Dish announces Sony Pal & Colors Rishtey to go live effective 1 December

    DD Free Dish announces Sony Pal & Colors Rishtey to go live effective 1 December

    Mumbai: Prasar Bharti’s free direct-to-home (DTH) platform announced the return of two general entertainment channels, Sony Pal and Colors Rishtey, effective from 1 December. The free-to-air platform has unveiled the comeback news of big media giants via a tweet shared on 21 November.

     

     

    Colors Rishtey and Sony Pal won the 63rd e-auction process, which was conducted on 18 November 2022.

    Recently, the public broadcaster has invited applications for allotment of vacant MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 slots of DD Free Dish platform on a pro-rata basis for the period from 1 December 2022 to 31 March 2023.

    In April 2022, four big broadcasters—Zee Entertainment Enterprises, Viacom18 Network, Sony Pictures Networks, and Disney Star India—withdrew their flagship channels from bouquets. The decision came in January 2020, when the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) announced NTO 2.0, which capped a bouquet channel price at Rs 12 instead of Rs 19 (as per the first NTO).

    In order to increase their advertising revenue and gross rating points (GRPs), the broadcasters decided to rejoin the DD Free Dish platform, as it has a lesser number (176+) of TV channels to compete with than private DTH (500+) services.

    Earlier, when the big players decided to quit the platform, they were completely aware that they had taken on the risk of losing subscribers and ad revenue through that move. Broadcasters knew that if they did not bring back their channels on the platform, then they may have to shut down these channels, as at present, free users are shifting to DD Free Dish for free entertainment and paid DTHs are moving towards OTT streaming apps.