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Tag: Ultra Media & Entertainment

  • Ultra Soft Toys ensures its toys enrich kids, blending education and entertainment: Sushilkumar Agrawal

    Ultra Soft Toys ensures its toys enrich kids, blending education and entertainment: Sushilkumar Agrawal

    Mumbai: With the advent of technology, kids nowadays are surrounded by a myriad of digital distractions. Despite this, the enduring appeal of toys that seamlessly blend fun and education remains stronger than ever. Ultra Soft Toys, a prominent player in the Indian toy industry, stands at the forefront of this intersection with its diverse array of plush animals and educational toys. It is a distinguished venture of the 40-year-old Ultra Media & Entertainment Pvt Ltd with a strong emphasis on quality and innovation.

    Recently unveiling ambitious plans at Toy Biz 2024 in Delhi, Ultra Soft Toys showcased their commitment to innovation and quality from their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Noida. This strategic move not only bolsters their capacity to meet growing global demand but also underscores their dedication to bringing joy and learning to families worldwide.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Ultra Media & Entertainment MD & CEO Sushilkumar Agrawal to delve deeper into their toy business, their unique strategies to stay at the forefront and much more…

    Edited Excerpts:

    On Ultra Group’s inspiration behind venturing into the toy industry and its differentiating aspect from other giant toy brands

    Ultra Group, with its rich entertainment legacy, has ventured into the toy industry to extend its storytelling prowess and connect with younger audiences. Their unique approach integrates beloved characters and narratives from their entertainment portfolio, fostering deep emotional connections with consumers. Unlike other toy brands, Ultra Group leverages cutting-edge technology and innovative designs, ensuring their toys are not only entertaining but also educational, enhancing creativity and learning in children through interactive experiences.

    On the new manufacturing facility in Noida and its ability to enhance your production capacity

    Our new manufacturing facility in Noida significantly boosts production capacity with advanced machinery. This expansion allows for increased output, improved quality control, and greater efficiency. The facility’s strategic location facilitates better logistics and faster distribution. This investment enables us to meet growing demand, maintain high-quality standards, and innovate rapidly to keep pace with market trends and customer expectations.

    On Ultra Soft Toys maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation in the highly competitive toy industry

    Ultra Soft Toys maintains its commitment to quality and innovation by rigorously selecting premium materials and employing advanced manufacturing techniques. Continuous research and development ensure our products are safe, durable, and engaging. We stay ahead of trends by integrating new technologies and listening to customer feedback. Our dedicated team of designers and engineers constantly innovate, creating unique and educational toys that stand out in the competitive market. The focus on educational toys segment marks a pivotal strategy moving ahead for Ultra Soft Toys to capture a larger market share. The company anticipates significant revenue growth in this segment as parents increasingly prioritise toys that promote foundational learning and development in children. The acquisition of an additional manufacturing facility in Noida, effectively doubling our production capacity, positions us strongly to meet the increasing global demand while upholding our standards of quality and innovation

    On Ultra Soft Toys’ inspiration to focus on educational toys, and the impact you anticipate this segment will have on your growth

    Ultra Soft Toys was inspired to focus on educational toys by recognising the increasing demand for products that combine fun and learning. Parents seek toys that support their children’s development, and we aim to meet this need with innovative, engaging designs. We anticipate this segment will significantly boost our growth by attracting a broader audience, enhancing brand loyalty, and positioning us as a leader in the educational toy market.

    On products that garnered the most attention, showcased at Toy Biz 2024, and the reason for their popularity

    Our stall shone brightly with our latest collection of educational toys, newly designed cushions, export-ready products, and impressive large-scale toys. These products combine our entertainment legacy and offer immersive play experiences. Ultra Soft Toys showcased a diverse range of products, including plush animals, educational toys like themed cube plushies, themed soft toy playbooks, and travel-friendly accessories.

    On Ultra Soft Toys’ expansion targets for both retail and online channels by FY24-25, and the strategies that are in place to address the challenges anticipated in your global expansion

    Ultra Soft Toys aims to expand its retail presence by increasing the number of physical stores by 20 per cent and entering new international markets in FY 24-25. Simultaneously, online sales targets include a 30 per cent growth through enhanced e-commerce platforms and strategic digital marketing. With a strong footprint in over 65 malls and retail stores nationwide, Currently Ultra Soft Toys has a product range of over 100 products with 225 SKUs. We are planning to expand to 200 products with 375 SKUs by end of FY24-25. The company has advanced its omnichannel strategy, with its offline presence which now spreads across 35 cities in 11 states of India. We have consistently achieved a 27 per cent growth YoY. Challenges such as regulatory compliance are addressed through localized marketing strategies, partnerships with local distributors, and rigorous market research to ensure alignment with regional preferences and regulations. Our expanded production capacity and focus on international markets underscores our dedication to delivering exceptional products that resonate with families worldwide. Currently, we export to European and South African countries, with plans to expand into the Middle East and the USA this fiscal year.

  • Dive into a world of Marathi excellence with Ultra Jhakaas

    Dive into a world of Marathi excellence with Ultra Jhakaas

    Mumbai: Ultra Jhakaas” is a new Marathi OTT platform by Ultra Media & Entertainment. It offers a vast library of Marathi and dubbed Hollywood and South Indian content. With user-friendly features, it caters to tech-savvy viewers worldwide. The platform provides a seamless viewing experience on various devices. Subscription plans are cost-effective, ensuring accessibility for all. Whether it’s exclusive premieres or original productions, Ultra Jhakaas promises non-stop entertainment. Downloadable content and personalized profiles enhance the user experience. Embrace a new era of premium Marathi entertainment!

    Indiantelevision.com in an email interaction spoke to Sushilkumar Agrawal, a first-generation entrepreneur,  the CEO of Ultra Media & Entertainment

    Group, a professionally managed entertainment conglomerate which currently provides end-to-end solutions for the film & television industry globally.

    Edited Excerpts

    On the launch of  Ultra Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd

    Ultra Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. was launched on the auspicious occasion of Gudi Padwa in 1982. It Is a professionally managed Indian Entertainment Conglomerate providing end-to-end solutions to the film and television industry globally. Today the company pioneer in the production, acquisition and distribution of various forms of content in terms of Indian and international films, television programs, animation & other forms of content across various languages & genres. They specialise in distributing this in various existing physical, non-physical, digital and emerging formats globally. Ultra currently has an exhaustive library consisting of more than 1,500 titles comprising blockbuster Indian and international films, television serials and other content.

    On the types of content that will be available on “Ultra Jhakaas”

    Ultra Jhakaas is steadfast in its commitment to delivering top-notch content and ensuring a seamless viewing experience for its audience. The platform offers a diverse array of Marathi films, TV series, music, comedy, cookery shows, kids animation, crime, nataks & other engaging content. Currently, the platform is offering 2000 hours of content, with continuous addition of new content regularly. It is India’s first OTT platform to exclusively stream Hollywood Blockbusters & South Indian films across all languages, dubbed in Marathi. We have had one lakh plus downloads to date & are currently enjoying 45,000 to 50,000 monthly active users. Five people in a household can simultaneously watch the entire content slate of Ultra Jhakaas for less than one rupee per year.

    On Ultra Jhakaas’ plan to premiere Marathi films

    On average, we premiere one new Marathi film every two weeks. Every week we stream a new Marathi film which has already had its theatrical release. We provide something for everyone, whether it is a blockbuster critically acclaimed film or a family drama. These premiere films as well as the new films are either extensively produced in-house by Ultra Group or acquired by us from other production houses. Our programming department does the due diligence and ensures that all films that we stream on our platform are spread across various genres at regular intervals hence ensuring that there is no fatigue syndrome for our viewers

    On  the subscription pricing for “Ultra Jhakaas” and the available plans

    Our subscription plan costs less than one rupee per day for the entire family. Currently, we also have a specially discounted plan charging Rs. 299 per year. Additionally, we provide a monthly subscription plan priced at Rs. 59 and also a quarterly subscription plan priced at Rs. 149 allowing viewers to enjoy our premium content at a budget-friendly rate.

    On the number of  accounts that can be created under a single login on “Ultra Jhakaas”

    Our platform offers a unique feature that allows you to create up to five accounts under a single login. Each offers a personalised experience complete with features such as watch lists, continue-watching lists, downloads, and tailored recommendations. Even when you’re offline, you can continue to enjoy our content. By simply downloading your favourite content in your preferred resolution, you also have the freedom to manage your storage and enjoy our offerings at your convenience. For easy access, the Ultra Jhakaas app is now available for download on both the Play Store for Android users and the App Store for Apple users.

    On the genres of content that will be featured on the platform

    We stream content across various genres & subgenres ranging from action, drama, comedy, romance, cookery, kids’, crime & theatres. Additionally, it features exclusive original programming crafted for the audience. We also have kept in mind that accessibility is a priority, hence the platform is designed to be compatible with all major devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

    On the measures that  Ultra Jhakaas has in place for viewers to enjoy content offline

    Our aim is to make Marathi entertainment available to every user, whether he/she is in a semi-urban place, town or a remote place. The users who stay in places where there is poor connectivity and users who travel to low connectivity areas need not worry about missing out on watching their favourite movie, show or series. We have a download feature which allows the users to download their favourite content as per the resolution they want and their network bandwidth. Users can watch any content even when there is no internet.  

    On the key business segments of Ultra Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd

    We specialise in the acquisition and distribution of various media rights, encompassing films, television programs, animation, and more, in Hindi, English, and several regional languages. Our services extend to both the production and distribution of feature films, TV serials, and diverse content. Moreover, we excel in exporting and distributing content to overseas countries. We also offer 2D to 3D stereoscopic conversion services for feature films, animation, television programs, video formats, advertisements, corporate films, and more. Ultra Digital Studio also offers end-to-end facilities with the latest technology and equipment to cater to the post-production requirements of the entertainment industry globally. Additionally, we engage in the creation of 3D lenticulars, soft toys, and various other forms of merchandising.

    On  the hybrid model of Ultra Jhakaas, combining both AVOD and SVOD formats

    The hybrid model is designed with the objective of accommodating a broader audience base by offering flexibility in content consumption. Within this model, some users may be inclined to accept advertisements in return for free access, while others may opt for a premium, ad-free experience and are willing to subscribe for it. Hence, we are offering tailor-made solutions for our discerning viewers.

    On the plans for streaming live events and Marathi theatre plays on the platform

    Our team has dedicated immense effort to craft a platform that provides an outstanding viewing experience to our users. We already have the bandwidth of experienced manpower & latest technology coupled with a state-of-the-art post-production facility. We are well-equipped and will stream interesting live events & plays directly from the venue. It will be shot with multiple cameras & skilled technical manpower. We will provide seamless & high-quality audio & visual quality content of the actual event & which will be streamed live or deferred from our viewers, depending upon the nature of the event.

    On the key features that sets Ultra Jhakaas apart from other OTT platforms

    What truly distinguishes Ultra Jhakaas is its unique set of features. Despite being a regional OTT platform, we offer features that are at par with global and international OTT platforms, setting us apart from other regional OTT platforms. Our other standout feature is continuity, enabling users to seamlessly transition between devices and pick up where they left off, regardless of the device. Lastly, our download feature allows users to download movies and series, ensuring they can enjoy their favourite content without interruption, even in areas with network connectivity challenges. We are majorly being viewed across all the Cities and towns in Maharashtra. Our 30 per cent of Consumption comes from beyond Cities, hence cutting across the Society Strata.

  • Ultra to promote 3D Marathi films

    Ultra to promote 3D Marathi films

    MUMBAI: Ultra Media & Entertainment is all set to promote 3D Marathi films in India. Ultra Studios & Digital Labs – a division of Ultra Media & Entertainment with its state of the art studio will be offering various end-to-end 3D film making solutions for the Marathi filmmakers in subsidized rates globally.

     

    A custom made solutions package will be provided for every 3D filmmaker as per their unique requirements under this vertical. The core idea behind this initiative is to provide specialized, hi-tech 3D content output of global standards for these filmmakers in India.

     

    The various services offered under this vertical will be: 2D to 3D Stereoscopic Conversion using the studio’s in-house indigenous software VFX for 3D films; analytical quality measurement and enhancement software application; providing specialized 3D direct cameras on rental supply made to order 3D camera rigs on rental; and provide technically sound stereographers for film direction and assistance etc.

     

    In the recent past, the Marathi film industry has been churning some interesting 3D films but with a rare frequency. The first 3D film in Marathi Aai Mala Maru Nako was made by Satyaprakash Mangtan and released in 2012. This was followed with Zapatlela 2 by Mahesh Kothare in 2013. Dhyaaas, which released in 2014 was the last 2D to 3D stereoscopic film in Marathi that was released in India. 

     

    Currently young filmmakers are making interesting films on various contemporary and out of the box subjects. This has opened up a new set of viewers who patronize such films. 3D technology can enhance viewing experience especially of films made by these makers in certain genres like sci-fi, action and adventure, horror and thriller etc. 

     

    Ultra, in the recent past, had successfully provided complete 3D solutions to many national and international projects. Especially by providing these 3D solutions package, Ultra particularly wants these experimental filmmakers to experience the “Make in India” phenomenon in its true sense. 

     

    In their endeavor to provide a one-stop shop service for the Marathi film industry from shooting the first scene to the end DPX/ DCP format, Ultra Studios recently also started providing them with their state of the art, in-house post-production facilities in subsidized rates.

     

    Ultra Media & Entertainment MD Sushil Kumar Agrawal said, “We at Ultra have always offered all our services abreast with its latest technology. Currently Marathi cinema is going through a very interesting phase with films made in all genres possible for the global audience. I can foresee many Marathi films being made in 3D in the immediate future and our specialized 3D film solutions will only enhance the story telling and viewing experience for the audience. By offering these exclusive services in subsidized rates we only would like to help these filmmakers. It will actually assist them to completely concentrate in their craft of making interesting 3D films with less commercial burden.”

  • Ultra to provide offline & online solutions to Marathi film industry

    Ultra to provide offline & online solutions to Marathi film industry

    MUMBAI: Ultra Media & Entertainment has ventured into offering end to end turnkey solutions for the Marathi film industry. To cater to the Rs 400 crore industry, growing at the rate of 25 per cent per annum, Ultra has setup a separate SBU to cater to the varied needs of the Marathi filmmakers. This unit will be driven by a core team in Mumbai, which is well versed with the Marathi film industry and will be serviced throughout Maharashtra.

     

    Additionally, the company, which has earlier produced and distributed Marathi films like Gondya Martay Tangada, Lonavala Bypass; Houn Jau De and Saalina Kela Ghotala, is looking at re-entering the space. Ultra Media & Entertainment MD Sushil Kumar Agrawal said, “Ultra has plans to produce Marathi films in the near future.”

     

    Under this vertical, Ultra will provide various offline and online, state of the art services for the Marathi film makers who have the script, finance, star cast and locations ready for their film. The array of offerings provided for the completion of their films will be as follows:

     

    – Cameras on rental

    – Post Production

    –  Media Buying & Planning: Print, Electronic, Digital, Radio, Online etc

    –  Marketing: BTL activities & ground events with star cast across various target centres in association with brands

    –  Promotions: Publicity Design, Branding, In Theatre promotions, Theatrical trailers

    –  Marketing: Branding, Media Tie-ups, Marketing Alliances, Hospitality Partnerships, Public Relation Campaigns

    –  Outdoor Campaign: Billboards, Bus Shelters & Panels, OOH Media

    –  Revenue Generation: In-Film and Co-branding associations

    –  Content Syndication: Music, Satellite, Home Video, Digital & Emerging media rights

    –  Digital & Social Media: Website Designing, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter & Instagram campaigns, Blog Updates, SEO maintenance

    –  Distribution: Domestic & overseas in theatrical and other allied formats

     

    In its endeavour to provide a one stop shop service for the Marathi film industry from shooting the first scene to the end DPX/ DCP format, Ultra Media & Entertainment will also provide them with its in-house post production facilities. The studio based in Mumbai offers a range of services through its indigenous softwares and latest technologies including dubbing, sound recording, mixing, editing, VFX and other related facilities; digital intermediate (DI) and Colour Grading (CG); 2D to 3D Stereoscopic Conversion; Digitisation in various formats; Content scale up from SD to 4K and 6K formats; Frame by frame restoration in various formats; Colorisation from B/W to colour; Editing, Audio and Sound Engineering and technology and manpower to shoot films in the original 3D format.

     

    In the recent past, Ultra has released music rights in audio CDs, mp3 formats and executed social media marketing campaigns for Marathi films like IPL, Samarthya, Ekta Ek Power, Pehli Bhet, Ghungarachya Nadat and Friendship B Alert.

     

    Agrawal added, “Since 1986, we have been in the forefront in producing and distributing various interesting content worldwide. Foraying into offering various turnkey services under one roof for the Marathi film industry makes a logical extension for our business portfolio. This industry is going through a very interesting phase currently and we would like to do our bit for the talented film makers, who are churning some very interesting content for the global audience. Along with the government, which has taken various measures to boost this industry, we also would like to support them in offering our expertise and services in a very cost effective form. Ultra also has plans to produce Marathi films in the near future.”