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Tag: Uttam Pal Singh

  • Sai Abishek takes charge of kids content at Warner Bros Discovery India

    Sai Abishek takes charge of kids content at Warner Bros Discovery India

    MUMBAI: It’s official. After weeks of radio silence from Warner Bros Discovery (WBD), the reshuffle at the top of its kids content division in India has finally surfaced — and via LinkedIn, no less.

    Sai Abishek, who already wears a formidable hat as head of content across original commissions, programming strategy, acquisitions and more, has now added factual entertainment, lifestyle & kids, South Asia to his growing remit at WBD.

    The move confirms Indiantelevision.com’s earlier report on the departure of Uttam Pal Singh, the long-serving head of WBD’s kids cluster in South Asia, which includes Cartoon Network, Pogo and Discovery Kids. At the time, WBD kept mum — neither confirming nor denying Singh’s exit. (https://www.indiantelevision.com/television/tv-channels/people/kids-cluster-head-uttam-pal-singh-departs-from-warner-bros-discovery-250605).

    Abishek updated his LinkedIn profile earlier today, cheerfully noting his expanded role. Meanwhile, Singh’s profile still lists him as head of kids cluster, South Asia — though it’s likely just a matter of time before that too changes.

    At Indiantelevision.com, we don’t do guesswork — just verified, on-the-record reportage. Let the other B2B trade portals peddle speculation.

  • Kids cluster head Uttam Pal Singh departs from Warner Bros Discovery

    Kids cluster head Uttam Pal Singh departs from Warner Bros Discovery

    MUMBAI: Live frugally has been the mantra in the world of content creation for quite some time now. Almost every genre has been impacted with large advertisers shaving their ad budgets. The kids genre too has been buffeted by the stormy winds of a shrinking ad universe.

    Kids broadcasters have in turn cut the per episode production allowance given to producers, apart from reducing the number of fresh content hours. Additionally, OTT platforms which have been going through a tough period have slashed their per unit purchase price for animation content.  

    Net outcome: studios are either resorting to massive layoffs or shutting down.

    “The heady days of two or three years ago and the pre-pandemic era when we were producing 200 minutes of animated content have gone, now we are producing just 30 minutes of content,” says a studio owner. “Look at the number of artists who have been without a job with the shutting down of Technicolor, The Mill and MPC and Jellyfish pictures.”

    Broadcasters are tightening their belts on the manpower front as well now in order to stay afloat. The buzz in the market is that Warner Bros Discovery India south Asia kids cluster head Uttam Pal  Singh is no longer working with the company. Apparently his role became redundant with Discovery programming head Sai Abhishek being asked to additionally shepherd the kids portfolio which includes Discovery Kids, Cartoon Network and Pogo channels.  

    Uttam Pal Singh was with Warner Bros Discovery for eight years. He was first hired as head of content of Discovery Kids in 2017, then elevated to head the channel, and finally given charge of the entire kids cluster in 2022.

    Indiantelevision.com reached out to Warner Bros Discovery for a comment but no one was willing to come on record. 

  • Warner Bros. Discovery rolls out summer content storm with 200 new episodes across kids’ channels

    Warner Bros. Discovery rolls out summer content storm with 200 new episodes across kids’ channels

    MUMBAI: This summer, Indian kids won’t need sunscreen—they’ll need a remote and a comfy seat. Warner Bros. Discovery has unleashed an all-out content tsunami across Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids, dropping around 200 half-hours of brand-new programming guaranteed to keep screens lit and parents semi-defeated.

    The summer slate is anything but mild. From high-octane superhero mashups to punchy anime comedies and oddly endearing animated beans, the programming blitz is aimed at charming both gen alpha and the parents pretending they’re just watching “with the kids”.

    “We’re excited to deliver another unforgettable summer for kids and families across India. With fresh stories, beloved characters, and exciting crossovers, our new programming lineup is designed to entertain and inspire. At Warner Bros. Discovery, we’re committed to creating high-quality, engaging, and culturally resonant content — packed with action and humor,” said Warner Bros. Discovery head of kids cluster, south Asia, Uttam Pal Singh.

    Pogo goes full throttle with its flagship trio—Little Singham, Chhota Bheem, and Jay Jagannath—leading the charge in superhero crossovers, new episodes, and weekend movie double-bills. Chhota Bheem even turns 17 this summer, and the celebration includes fresh movies and Big Pictures.

    It’s ‘Jhatpat Action, Khatpat Comedy’ all the way on Cartoon Network. The lineup features new episodes of Teen Titans GO!, Bandbudh Aur Budbak, and Grizzy and the Lemmings, along with a brand-new season of the fan-favourite My Hero Academia. It’s a power-packed punch of slapstick and superpowers—your kids’ sugar rush, minus the calories.

    Discovery Kids dials up the friendship factor with its ‘Katti Batti, Dosti Pakki’ theme. Expect new episodes of Titoo, the ever-awkward antics of Mr. Bean: The Animated Series, as well as Larva and Fukrey Boyzzz. It’s where chaos meets charm, with a whole lot of weird in-between.

    And it’s not just the kids cashing in.

    Brands are muscling in on the action too.

    “Summer is a high-impact season for brands looking to connect with families,” said Warner Bros. Discovery head of advertising revenues, south Asia, Tanaz Mehta. “Our new lineup across Pogo, Cartoon Network and Discovery Kids offers compelling opportunities for co-viewing and brand integrations.”

    And the brand wagon is rolling deep:

    ●    Pogo is co-powered by Candyman Sourzz, Kellogg’s Multigrain Chocos, and Dettol. Associate Sponsors include Pediasure, Frooti and Nycil.

    ●    Cartoon Network is co-presented by Classmate, co-powered by Kellogg’s and Dettol, with Havmor Ice Cream and Complan as associates.

    ●    Discovery Kids teams up with Sunfeast Bounce and Dettol, plus associate tie-ins with Glucon-D, Kellogg’s, and Pediasure.

    With TV, digital, and ground activations in full swing, Warner Bros. Discovery is giving advertisers a triple-scoop sundae of eyeballs, engagement and brand-safe fun.

    Whether you’re eight or thirty-eight, this summer is less about mangoes and more about mayhem—animated, action-packed, and absolutely binge-worthy.

  • Zapak Games & Warner Bros Discovery unveil Ben 10: Alien Run

    Zapak Games & Warner Bros Discovery unveil Ben 10: Alien Run

    Mumbai: Mobile gaming company Zapak Games, in collaboration with Warner Bros Discovery, has launched Ben 10: Alien Run, a mobile game aimed at young gamers. Based on the popular Ben 10 franchise, the game is available for download on iOS and Android platforms.

    In Ben 10: Alien Run, players control Ben Tennyson, unlocking alien forms and battling enemies. The game combines endless runner mechanics with engaging combat that highlights each alien’s unique powers.

    Key features:

    1   Play as iconic aliens: Unlock and play as Ben’s alien forms, each with distinct abilities.

    2   Thrilling levels: Navigate diverse environments inspired by the Ben 10 universe with fast-paced action.

    3   Daily challenges and rewards: Complete daily quests to earn rewards and enhance gameplay.

    4   Engaging power-ups: Use power-ups inspired by the Omnitrix for temporary boosts like speed and invincibility.

    5   Safe and kid-friendly environment: Designed for young players, the game includes age-appropriate content and easy controls to encourage positive gameplay habits.

    “We are incredibly excited to launch the new Ben 10: Alien Run, bringing the iconic adventures of Ben and his alien allies to life for kids. With Ben 10: Alien Run, we’ve worked closely with Warner Bros. Discovery to create an experience that captures the show’s essence while offering engaging and fun gameplay,” said Reliance Entertainment Digital CEO Amit Khanduja. “This collaboration marks a new chapter for our company as we continue to push the boundaries of mobile gaming with beloved franchises like Ben 10.”

    “We are excited to celebrate the legacy of Ben 10 with this new game developed in collaboration with ZAPAK. As part of the Ben 10-10-10 tradition, Ben 10: Alien Run offers fans in India another chance to dive into action-packed adventures. Featuring iconic aliens like Four Arms, Heatblast, and Cannonbolt, this game truly captures the essence of the Ben 10 universe. Fans can enjoy this interactive experience and catch the series exclusively on Cartoon Network,” said Warner Bros Discovery head of kids cluster Uttam Pal Singh.

    To celebrate the launch of Ben 10: Alien Run, fans can participate in a contest on Cartoon Network’s digital and social media platforms over three days. The contest will include trivia questions for a chance to win prizes. Fans can also enjoy themed content like a Ben 10 Bingo card, interactive polls, and challenges such as “Which Alien Are You?” on Cartoon Network’s Instagram and Facebook pages.

  • Seven years of Little Singham: POGO announces new episodes and blockbusters

    Seven years of Little Singham: POGO announces new episodes and blockbusters

    Mumbai: Little Singham, a young supercop, will celebrate his seventh birthday on 15 August. Produced by Rohit Shetty Picturez in collaboration with POGO and Reliance Animation, this action-comedy series continues to captivate young viewers nationwide. To mark the occasion, POGO, India’s kids’ entertainment channel, will host a weeklong event featuring new episodes and movies where Little Singham and his team—Hawaldar Karate, Inspector Kavya, and Chiki—use their skills to protect Mirchi Nagar from dangerous villains and supernatural threats.

    As part of the celebration, POGO will release a new birthday song, inviting fans to join in with Little Singham and his gang. New episodes started airing on 11 August, every day at 3:30 pm, with the excitement culminating in a special Big Picture episode, “Little Singham: Narkasur & Kans – Andhera aur Dhwansh,” airing every Sunday at 12:15 pm. In this storyline, Little Singham must confront Narkasur and Kans, who aim to bring chaos and darkness to Singham City.

    Speaking about the show’s success and popularity, Warner Bros Discovery South Asia head of kids cluster, Uttam Pal Singh said, “Little Singham is a character and universe that instantly climbed the popularity charts on POGO with fans engaging and reciprocating the love and joy of bravery and determination. As we mark this special occasion with exciting new episodes, movies and Big Pictures throughout the week and on Independence Day, POGO remains committed to continue innovating and building the much-loved Little Singham universe that resonates with kids and families.”

    Reliance Animation CEO Tejonidhi Bhandare said, “We are thrilled to continue our journey with POGO, bringing to life the beloved crime-fighting team of Little Singham in various engaging formats in exciting storylines. The success of Little Singham reflects the deep connection audiences feel with the character and its adventures filled with action and comedy. As we celebrate another milestone, we’re reminded of the love and enthusiasm that has fueled this journey, and we’re excited to keep sharing new stories that captivate and inspire our young fans.”

    Little Singham’s birthday celebration will continue with a Sunday lineup of action-packed movies. Viewers experienced the themes of bravery, friendship, and justice in the 2D movie Tanashah se Takkar on 11 August at 1:15 pm. Additionally, fans can watch the 3D telefeature Naagsingham aur Sarpkaaal ka Vaar on 18 August at 1:15 pm, featuring another adventure.

  • Cartoon Network and POGO launches 17th edition of School Contact Program

    Cartoon Network and POGO launches 17th edition of School Contact Program

    Mumbai: Continuing the success of one of India’s largest-ever school outreach programmes, Cartoon Network and POGO, are set to engage with one million children across nearly 1400 schools as part of the 17th edition of the School Contact Program (SCP). With rollout beginning this week, the longstanding tentpole initiative will have kids across 17 cities engaging with their favourite characters as the channels continue to foster imagination and inspiration among young minds.

    The School Contact Program (SCP) will spotlight two celebrated themes this year. Cartoon Network’s multi-award-winning theme ‘Titans of Tomorrow,’ emphasizes crucial virtues such as recycling and energy conservation, encouraging children to take an active role in creating a sustainable future just like the DC’s Teen Titans! POGO with its much-applauded theme ‘Heroes of Kindness’, will continue its focus on fostering a positive, empathetic community by inspiring acts of kindness among young fans. The SCP will be rolled out across Mumbai, Pune, Nasik, Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Nagpur, Kanpur, Lucknow, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, and Indore.

    Warner Bros. Discovery head of kids cluster, South Asia Uttam Pal Singh said, “We are excited to launch the 17th edition of the School Contact Program and continue with our commitment to foster a sustainable and compassionate society. With the 2023 themes ‘Titans of Tomorrow’ and ‘Heroes of Kindness’, SCP became one of our most successful programs and we aim to continue building on the success by inspiring students to embody values that will contribute to a kind and future-forward world. This program has been a cornerstone of our outreach efforts, and we look forward to its continued success in nurturing the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”

    Talking about the 17th Edition of the School Contact Program, Warner Bros. Discovery head of advertising sales, South Asia Tanaz Mehta said, “We are thrilled to reintroduce the 17th Edition of the School Contact Program. For 16 years, this initiative has been a powerful tool for our partner brands, enabling them to connect with children through beloved cartoon characters and make a significant impact with their new launches and initiatives. Thank you to our partners for their ongoing support and collaboration; we look forward to the opportunities ahead and another year of impactful engagement and inspiration.”

    As a key component of this year’s engagement program, each participating school will host a vibrant forty-minute thematic session. These sessions will feature a range of interactive activities designed to engage students, including fun icebreakers, compelling discussions on sustainability, and prompts to encourage acts of kindness in their daily lives. The program will also involve hands-on projects focused on environmental care. The sessions will conclude with a special ceremony where students will pledge to adopt responsible practices for a better planet. To celebrate their active involvement, students will receive delightful goodie bags and certificates from POGO and Cartoon Network, further motivating them to lead and inspire positive change.

    Warner Bros. Discovery head of marketing, South Asia Janhavi Vyas commented, “The School Contact Program has always been about more than just education; it’s about creating memorable experiences that inspire and empower young minds. By building on the success of last year’s themes and expanding our reach, we hope to make a lasting impact on children across India.”

    Cartoon Network’s ‘Titans of Tomorrow’ is co-powered by ITC Classmates and Dettol Handwash, with Kellogg’s Multigrain Chocos and Winkies as associate sponsors. POGO’s ‘Heroes of Kindness’ have Kellogg’s Multigrain Chocos, Exo Antibacterial Dishwash Bar, Tata Soulfull Ragi Bites Choco Stick, and Britannia The Laughing Cow as associate sponsors. This diverse sponsorship lineup highlights Warner Bros. Discovery’s strong appeal and reach among leading brands. 

  • Cartoon Network adds another masterpiece to its anime content lineup

    Cartoon Network adds another masterpiece to its anime content lineup

    Mumbai: The cultural phenomenon and epic pirate adventure story embraced all over the world docks on Cartoon Network in India! Cartoon Network has announced the arrival of globally acclaimed manga series ‘ONE PIECE’ with its “One Piece: Land of Wano Arc” storyline for the first time on Indian Television in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. Adding sparkle to the summer season and to its cache of popular Japanese anime slate, the channel is hosting the adrenaline-pumping, dazzling adventures of Luffy and the rest of the Straw Hats Pirates, starting 5 May every Sunday at 1:00 pm thereafter Monday through Friday at 9:00 pm.

    Produced by the legendary anime studio Toei Animation Inc. and based on the top-selling manga title of all time by creator Eiichiro Oda, ONE PIECE is an epic sea tale chronicling the escapades of unstoppable Monkey D. Luffy, a pirate with unflinching drive to become the pirate king. Together, Luffy and the courageous Straw Hat Pirates forge a path through unimaginable hardships and experiences during their thrilling captivating journey.

    A truly amazing feast is in store for every ride-or-die ONE PIECE fan, as “One Piece: Land of Wano Arc” arrives on Cartoon Network. Sending waves of excitement through the Indian anime community, the plot of Wano Country Arc centers on the Ninja-Pirate-Mink-Samurai Alliance assembling their forces in anticipation of the impending battle with the Beasts Pirates and to save the world from Kaido.

    Talking about the show’s premiere, Warner Bros Discovery head of kids cluster, South Asia Uttam Pal Singh said, “Cartoon Network has always taken the lead in offering its viewers original and widely recognised stories and our anime slate is a true reflection of that. We have received a great deal of love and support from our fans in the last two years, and we are thrilled to bring another gem for all anime aficionados and Cartoon Network fans with the incredible storytelling and experience of “One Piece: Land of Wano Arc” from the sprawling ‘ONE PIECE’ universe. The show’s universal themes of bravery, friendship, and never die attitude perfectly complements Cartoon Network’s guiding principles.”

    “The series with regional dubs in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam will be seen by millions of anime lovers across India while taking fans of Cartoon Network on an exciting and thrilling voyage”, he added.

    Renowned voiceover artists lend their prowess to the show’s main characters in Hindi – Vaibhav Thakkar as Luffy, Kaith Handa as Usopp, Nikita Salaskar as Chopper, Pragti Kothari as Robin and others.

    Cartoon Network extends an invitation to all Straw Hats to explore an anime filled “May Super Sundays” extravaganza. Watch One Piece: Land of Wano Arc starting 5 May at 1:00 pm, with a repeat telecast at 9:00 pm every Sunday, featuring power-packed episodes brimming with sea tales.

  • POGO adds Cocomelon to its programming slate

    POGO adds Cocomelon to its programming slate

    Mumbai: Kickstarting 2024 with a wholesome programming slate, POGO, India’s beloved kids’ entertainment channel announces the debut of the adored cartoon series ‘CoComelon‘ on Indian television for the first time in Hindi and Tamil. Beginning 19 February, every Monday to Friday at 9:30 am, POGO’s new show will engage little fans with the fascinating world of best-in-class animation featuring rhymes and original children’s songs, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and education.

    Announcing the launch of the show, Warner Bros. Discovery head of Kids Cluster, South Asia Uttam Pal Singh said, “POGO has consistently delighted audiences with its industry-leading programming, staying ahead of the curve. In line with our fan-first strategy, we are adding another global sensation in kids’ entertainment to our slate with ‘CoComelon‘ in Hindi and Tamil for the first time on Indian television. Following the success of ‘Baby Little Singham’ and ‘Mighty Little Bheem’ on POGO, ‘Cocomelon’ will surely strengthen our portfolio in delivering engaging and educational content to young viewers while expanding our viewer base.”

    With its mesmerising animation style, globally acclaimed and renowned, ‘CoComelon‘ seamlessly intertwines valuable learning experiences that play a pivotal role in shaping children’s various cognitive and non-cognitive behavioural traits. POGO will elevate the programming landscape, providing young viewers an extraordinary journey into the heartwarming tale of the title character ‘JJ’ and his endearing family and friends.

    ‘CoComelon’, known for its vibrant characters, catchy tunes, and engaging stories, offers a treasure trove of entertainment for kids and young parents. Its arrival on POGO marks a significant moment for Indian television, introducing the globally beloved show to a new audience and promising an epic journey filled with laughter and valuable lessons for children across the country.

    To ensure an immersive experience in the ‘CoComelon’ universe, POGO is going the extra mile by introducing the show in Hindi and Tamil. With engaging and educational content in their language, this bright and colourful cartoon series with kid-friendly music will deliver a joyous ride of fun and entertainment.

  • POGO India’s Chhota Bheem and Little Singham’s crossover ‘Aag Aur Pani Ki Takkar’ breaks records

    POGO India’s Chhota Bheem and Little Singham’s crossover ‘Aag Aur Pani Ki Takkar’ breaks records

    Mumbai: POGO, India’s homegrown kids’ entertainment channel, is kicking off 2024 with an exciting milestone for its flagship production Chhota Bheem and Little Singham’s debut crossover movie ‘Aag Aur Pani Ki Takkar’ that became the ‘No. 1 movie of 2023’. Leading the charts in kids’ entertainment, the epic showdown broke records with its exclusive premiere in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Marathi. The high-stakes saga pegged the dynamic duo against each other for the first time in television history, leaving the world’s fate in the balance.

    Celebrating the success of the movie, Uttam Pal Singh, Head of Kids Cluster – South Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery, said, “2023 has been a landmark year for POGO and its culmination with an exhilarating milestone for us and our partners Green Gold Animation and Reliance Animation has set the stage for a successful 2024. We jointly brought together the mightiest heroes of kids’ entertainment – Chhota Bheem and Little Singham, in a historic cross-over adventure loved abundantly by the fans. With extraordinary teams and talents converging, the visionary concept resulted in the record-breaking viewership phenomenon of ‘Aag Aur Pani Ki Takkar’.”

    “We’re thrilled by the success of our partnership with Green Gold Animation, Rohit Shetty Picturez, and POGO. We had aimed to create a never-seen-before event for our fans with ‘Aag Aur Pani Ki Takkar’ that captivates audiences of kids and families with its thrilling narrative, action sequences, and unexpected twists”. Reliance Animation’s CEO Tejonidhi Bhandare, expressed, “We hope to collaborate again in the future and replicate this success for our loyal fan base.”

    Green Gold Animation CEO & founder Rajiv Chilaka shared his excitement about movie’s success, stating, “‘Aag Aur Pani Ki Takkar’ takes Chhota Bheem fans on a unique journey, leading to a dramatic confrontation with the world of Little Singham. The record-breaking love for this movie is a true testament for creative storytelling and Chhota Bheem’s expanding reach. We are excited to take this unique clash of Titans of the Toonworld forward and continue creating magic for our audience.”

  • POGO’s showdown: Little Singham vs. Chhota Bheem – ‘Aag Aur Paani Ki Takkar’

    POGO’s showdown: Little Singham vs. Chhota Bheem – ‘Aag Aur Paani Ki Takkar’

    Mumbai: Get ready for an electrifying television experience to welcome the new year! POGO, India’s homegrown kids’ entertainment channel is set to bring together two iconic forces, Little Singham and Chhota Bheem, together in the much-anticipated exclusive movie ‘Aag aur Paani ki Takkar’. Premiering on Sunday, December 31 at 1 pm in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Marathi, this blockbuster event promises an exhilarating adventure that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

    The gripping narrative unfolds when the iconic super villains from two universes, Kirmada and Kaal join forces and connive to set a clash between Firey Little Singham and Calm as water, but powerful Chhota Bheem which triggers a monumental chain reaction, plunging the two worlds into peril. The stakes escalate, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance, as the Supercop v/s Superhero face off sets for a clash of Titans of the Toonworld.

    Warner Bros. Discovery head of kids cluster – South Asia Uttam Pal Singh said, “As storytellers, we are thrilled to bring together two beloved icons, Little Singham and Chhota Bheem, in exhilarating crossover movies of the year ‘Aag aur Paani ki Takkar’. This movie is a coming together of best minds and artists from the world of animation with Reliance Animation, Rohit Shetty Picturez and Green Gold Animation along with POGO promising fans a never before experience fronted by iconic Titans of Toonworld and a historic event in the Kids genre.”

    This exclusive movie promises an immersive experience filled with suspense, action, and unanticipated plot twists that will captivate audiences of all ages.

    “We are incredibly happy to be collaborating with the might of the animation industry Green Gold Animation for the first time and are filled with pride to further our long-standing association with Warner Bros. Discovery for another exciting milestone in storytelling. This movie is a blend of thrill, unexpected events and the power of heroism. Integrating the two completely different universes has been a really exciting process of this association which will win the hearts of our young audiences across the country”, shared, Reliance Animation CEO Tejonidhi Bhandare.

    Talking about this epic crossover, Green Gold Animation and Creator of Chhota Bheem founder and CEO Rajiv Chilaka said, “We are extremely excited to take the fans of Chhota Bheem on a first-of-its-kind voyage showcasing the ultimate clash of the animated worlds of Little Singham and the characters of Dholakpur. These adored titans will be seen on the Indian television for the first-time providing fans with an experience full of suspense, action, and unexpected turns as they fight for their beliefs. With POGO and Reliance Animation, we are excited for the young fans to experience Bheem’s newest battle that will redefine sacrifice and heroism.”

    Stay tuned for this thrilling crossover event, ‘Aag aur Paani ki Takkar,’ premiering on Sunday, December 31 at 1 pm only on POGO.

    You can watch the promo of the new Maha Blockbuster Chhota Bheem VS Little Singham here