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Tag: Zee TV

  • Zee TV’s Mini-Series: Binge-worthy stories in just a week!

    Zee TV’s Mini-Series: Binge-worthy stories in just a week!

    MUMBAI: Let’s be honest: who has the time for endless episodes anymore?

    Zee TV gets it and has launched the game-changing ‘Zee Mini Series’, a first in the Hindi general entertainment space. These seven episode gems pack the punch of long-format storytelling into a week, making them the perfect dose of entertainment for modern, time-crunched viewers.

    The mini-series blend the heart of traditional television with the snappy pace of today’s content trends. Think you can’t fall in love with characters in seven episodes? Zee TV begs to differ!

    Why did Zee TV bet big on snackable stories?

    “As audience preferences evolve, so must our storytelling,” said Zee TV chief channel officer, Mangesh Kulkarni. “This mini-series format is part of our endeavor to address the increasing demand for engaging yet snackable content that spans across diverse genres, bringing stories to Indian television touching upon a spectrum of subjects not explored on Hindi general entertainment channels so far. Each of these mini-series offers a unique mix of relevance, relatability, and excitement with a promise of finite story telling.”

    Meanwhile, Zee chief marketing officer Kartik Mahadev added, “The weekly finite-series format is a category-first in the Hindi GEC space, offering audiences a refreshing way to enjoy entertaining stories. The curated series enable us to delve into diverse worlds and explore unconventional themes, delivering the satisfaction of a finite yet fulfilling storytelling experience. While television continues to witness robust viewer engagement and increased time spent per viewers, this innovative short-story format aligns with evolving audience preferences and the growing demand for bite-sized content, reaffirming Zee’s position as a pioneer in building content repertoire that push boundaries within the entertainment landscape.”

    Ready to dive into some thrilling, heartwarming, and laugh-out-loud tales? Here’s the stellar line-up:

    . Paithani: A celebration of the rich heritage of the Paithani saree, intertwined with a touching mother-daughter story.

    . Virtomates: A poignant exploration of friendship and resilience among women facing fertility challenges.

    . Beintehan Chahtein: A gripping family drama about materialism and redemption.

    . Divorce Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega: An undercover rom-com that’s equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.

    . Pyaar Testing: Modern love takes the spotlight as a couple tests their compatibility in a live-in relationship.

    . Khoj: A psychological thriller that dives deep into identity and betrayal.

    . Maeri: A mother’s emotionally charged battle for justice against systemic oppression.

    Here’s why these mini-series are worth your precious screen time:

    1. Compact storytelling: Forget endless cliffhangers—these narratives wrap up in just seven episodes, giving you closure faster than your last binge-watch.

    2. Relatable themes: From age-old traditions to modern dilemmas, the stories mirror your life in ways that are both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

    3. Diverse genres: Drama, comedy, romance, thrillers—you name it, they’ve got it.

    Will snackable stories redefine TV?

    Zee TV’s Zee Mini Series are set to premiere with the goal of creating appointment viewing, encouraging audiences to tune in daily and savour a complete story in just a week. The narratives, developed with some of the industry’s most creative minds, promise to push the boundaries of what Hindi general entertainment can offer.

    What’s your pick? Are you a drama addict? A mystery junkie? Or maybe a rom-com enthusiast? With its diverse genres and relatable stories, Zee Mini Series has something for everyone. Which one will you dive into first?

  • JioStar, Zee and Sony release new channel and bouquet pricing

    JioStar, Zee and Sony release new channel and bouquet pricing

    MUMBAI: It’s that time of the year when broadcasters disclose how much the distribution platform operators will have to pay for the channels they pipe into Indian TV homes. The three major networks JioStar, Zee and Sony Pictures Networks India have rolled out their reference interconnect orders  (Rios) regarding the broadcast tariffs that cable ops, DTH ops and IPTV players have to cough up for 2025. At first glance, it appears s if broadcasters have been reasonable in their rate increases by hiking channel prices between five and 15 per cent on the higher side. And quite a few channel prices have been maintained as well. The rates become effective 1 February 2025.

    Let’s begin with JioStar.Its 134 channel offering after the merger of Star and Jio definitely looks impressive. As do the number of packs its distribution team has come up with: 83 in all packs, which includes 85 standard definition channels, 44 HD channels, five FTA channels. The bouquets also include 19 news channels from Network 18, infotainment channels from both National Geographic and AETN18, general entertainment channels in various languages from both Star and Colors, kids channels (including Disney), music channels (MTV and Maa Music), regional language channels and of course above all sports channels in various languages.

    On an a la carte basis, JioStar’s channels in various languages in standard definition have been priced at between Rs 25 (for Maa TV and Colors Kannada respectively)  and 10 paise (all its news channels).

    Its HD channels are priced between Rs 25 a(Maa HD, Star Plus HD, Vijay HD, Colors Kannada and Asianet) and 10 paise(VH1 HD, MTV Beats HD and MTV HD). .

    On the bundle side, its cheapest pack, apart from the free to air channels, is at     Rs 17 for the Disney Kids SD pack with the most expensive one being the Star Premium Pack Marathi Lite Hindi HD at Rs 240.

    The  Star Value Pack  SD Hindi pack,  priced at Rs 110 has 30 channels including both Star Plus and Colors, a chunk of news channels, movie channels, infotainment channels, kids channels – but no Disney – the sports channels Star Sports 1 Hindi, Sports 18, and Star Sports 3. The Star Premium Pack Lite Hindi HD which is priced at Rs 210 has 43 channels, including seven sports channels, Colors HD but no Star Plus.

    The broadcaster has built clever packs which are a mix of regional language channels only and it has also mixed regional languages to create special packs and regional language channels with its  Hindi channels to create even more niche packs to meet the requirement of nomadic domestic Indians.

    Network Status Action
     JioStar if you already have an agreement  click here  
      if you are new to Jiostar and want one click here
    Zee TV To get the Zee updated RIO form  click here
    Sony Pictures Networks India to get the a la carte pricing  click here
      to get the Happy India bouquet pricing  click here
    Source: networks and Indiantelevision.com 

    Let’s now take a look at Zee. Zee has kept the number of packs limited to 30 and it’s a la carte rates are also pretty much simpler. It’s mainline general entertainment channels in every language apart from Malayalam have been kept at a price of Rs 19 (Zee TV Hindi, Zee TV Marathi, Zee Bangla, Zee Sarthak, Zee Telugu and Zee Kannada). Zee Keralam, however, has been priced at Rs 10 on a la carte basis. Its movie channels have been kept between a band of Rs 19 (Zee Cinema) and 10 paise (Zee Classic). It has priced most of its HD channels at Rs 19 with the lowest one priced at Rs 3 (& prive HD).

    Zee TV has bundled its regional language channel packs at a higher price than its Hindi ones. For instance, the Zee all-in-one pack Hindi HD has a sticker price of Rs 89 while its all-in-one Telugu and Tamil packs are priced at Rs 120.It has also thrown in penetration incentives if the distribution platform operators place the channels in the preferred LCN number that are agreed upon between Zee and the DPO.

    Now on to Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI). SPNI has increased the a la carte pricing for some of its  channels, while keeping them steady for others. For example, Sony Wah  which was priced at Rs 0.1, is now priced at Rs 1. Similarly, Sony Max 2 has increased to Rs 2 from Rs 1, and Sony Sports Ten 4 is now priced at Rs 19, up from Rs 17. Additionally, the pricing for bouquets has been revised which has gone up  between four per cent and 12 per cent. The Happy India Smart – Hindi pack is now priced at Rs 54 (previously Rs 48), while the Happy India Smart – Marathi pack is now priced at Rs 56 (previously Rs 51). The Happy Smart Bangla too has risen from 51 to Rs 56 but with the channel Max 1 being added to it.

    Hopefully, these marginal price revisions don’t start a battle between the  cable TV and DTH fraternity and broadcasters like they did the last time in 2023 when broadcasters had to resort to switch offs because cable TV operators resisted. The DPOs must remember the price of almost everything has gone up: the rupee is at Rs 85, potatoes are at Rs 60 and even petrol is at a high.

    Already, consumers are turning away from cable TV and DTH as is evident in the drop in the number of subscribers in the past six months. For the sake of the entire cable and satellite TV industry, the entire trade must work together and not battle against each other. Otherwise, the number of cord cutters and cord-nevers will only increase. And along with it, the tribe of streamers. 

  • Audiences are increasingly turning to big screens for rich & lengthy content: India TV’s Ritu Dhawan

    Audiences are increasingly turning to big screens for rich & lengthy content: India TV’s Ritu Dhawan

    She has always carved a distinct path for herself. From her early stints at British Sky Broadcasting and Zee TV to co-founding Independent News Service in 1997, Ritu Dhawan broke new ground by seamlessly introducing news programming into what was then a predominantly fiction-focused satellite television space in India.

    Her achievement in producing & directing the iconic talk show Aap Ki Adalat, has captivated audiences since its debut in 1993. Building on this success, she reached the pinnacle of her career by establishing India TV along with Rajat Sharma. Her leadership at India TV has not only propelled the channel into millions of households but has also positioned it as a pioneer in embracing new-age digital platforms.

    Indiantelevision.com’s Rohin Ramesh caught up with Dhawan, where she discussed the evolution of digital-first news platforms, Connected TV’s (CTV) evolution & impact in news streaming  and much more.

    Edited excerpt

    On the rise of digital-first news platforms & India TV adapting to this trend

    Today, staying relevant means embracing new ways to connect with our audience where they are most active. At India TV, we are deeply committed to a digital-first approach, transforming how we create, distribute, and engage with content online. Our flagship digital initiative “Speed News” exemplifies our commitment to delivering rapid and high-quality updates. We have also launched different dedicated segments to offer tailored content that resonates with our viewers’ interests, ensuring that our content aligns with their viewing habits and expectations.

    Using advanced analytics, we closely monitor audience feedback to refine our approach and deliver more engaging and shareable content. On platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X we focus on dynamic video content that can quickly capture attention while providing deeper coverage on our digital channels. This approach ensures that India TV remains at the forefront of the digital age, meeting the evolving needs of a modern, online-first audience.

    On audience consumption pattern changing over the years, especially with the rise of mobile and internet news consumption

    Audiences are increasingly turning to big screens, particularly for rich & lengthy content. CTV is reshaping how people consume news, with many preferring the comprehensive experience of watching on larger screens. Understanding these shifts, we adapt our content to meet viewers where they are. For instance, video content, including short-form updates and interactive segments, performs well on social media, while traditional articles continue to engage readers on websites and discovery platforms like Google. By recognising these distinct preferences, we offer a range of formats tailored to the needs of our audience, whether they are scrolling on mobile or watching on CTV. This approach keeps our content accessible, adaptable, and relevant across all platforms.

    On seeing the relationship between traditional TV news and social media evolving

    At India TV, we are using social media not only as an extension of our TV broadcasts but as an active engagement tool. Real-time updates, short video snippets, and highlights help us reach younger audiences who prefer quicker, on-the-go content. At the same time, our longer TV segments continue to offer in-depth reporting and analysis.

    With new formats like video-on-demand (VOD), short reels, and real-time updates, we can deliver news faster than ever, engaging viewers instantly. Social media allows us to provide early insights and instant access, and our viewers can tune into live broadcasts for a comprehensive perspective.

    That said, the rise of social media has introduced unique challenges, particularly around credibility, as these platforms can sometimes contribute to the spread of misinformation. To address this, we prioritise fact-checking and sourcing to maintain the trust and credibility that define our brand. This dynamic integration enables us to stay relevant and maintain the credibility and trust associated with our brand.

    On CTV emerging as a significant platform for streaming content & being a dinner table conversation for the media industry

    CTV is setting a new standard for the broadcasting industry, driven by the principles of content, connectivity & convenience—the three Cs that define the future of viewing. India TV’s commitment to delivering quality content stands at the heart of our CTV strategy. With a focus on producing high-caliber news stories that retain depth and integrity, we’re shaping an experience that resonates with today’s viewers seeking credible journalism.

    Connectivity is another pillar of our approach. By developing apps optimised for smart TVs, tablets and smartphones, we’re ensuring adaptability across all devices. This allows viewers to stay informed and engaged on any platform they choose, whether they’re watching from home or on the go.

    Convenience completes the trifecta, offering a tailored, on-demand viewing experience that puts control in the hands of the audience. With interactive features like live chats, personalised recommendations, and seamless streaming, our CTV platform meets viewers wherever they are and whenever they’re ready to tune in.

    India TV is combining traditional news depth with the immediacy and flexibility of CTV, positioning us to engage a generation that values trusted journalism as much as the freedom to watch on their terms.

    On striking a balance between delivering hard news & incorporating lighter, more engaging content to appeal viewers

    Our strategy at India TV is to provide a mix of hard-hitting news and lighter, more engaging content. We ensure credibility and depth with hard news segments covering politics, international events, and investigative journalism, while appealing to younger viewers through segments that explore lifestyle, entertainment, and trending topics.

    Our Speed News segments, such as Speed 50, Speed 100, Duniya 20, Mausam 20 & Sports 20, provide quick, impactful updates, allowing us to deliver a broad range of topics in digestible formats.

    During the Covid-19 pandemic, we introduced two uplifting shows—Yoga News & Jeetega India, Harega Corona—to bring positivity to our viewers. These programs showcased our ability to balance hard and soft news, offering both reassurance and reliable information during challenging times. This dual approach lets us stay true to our journalistic roots while embracing the variety that today’s diverse audience values. By offering both serious reporting and lighter fare, we cater to the wide-ranging interests of our viewers, keeping them informed and engaged.

    On gen Z audience turning increasingly towards digital platforms for news rather than traditional TV

    While digital platforms have become the primary source of news for younger generations, traditional TV news continues to hold a strong reputation for credibility among them. Take “Coffee Par Kurukshetra,” for example, a segment that resonates deeply with younger viewers, with 40 per cent of its audience under the age of 35. We see similar engagement across other segments, such as Speed News on YouTube, where half of the viewers are under 35, as well as our yoga channel and “Aap Ki Adalat,” with 56 per cent and 47 per cent of their respective viewership also within this younger demographic.

    This demonstrates that younger audiences value trusted journalism but prefer to access it in formats suited to their digital habits. By tailoring our content for digital platforms, we ensure that these viewers stay connected to trusted journalism while engaging with us on their terms.

    On India TV ensuring credibility and trust with its viewers

    In today’s climate of misinformation, India TV stands firmly for credibility and trust. Our fact-checking team rigorously verifies content before it reaches the public, ensuring that our viewers receive only accurate, well-vetted information.

    We also proactively monitor the spread of fake news, maintaining vigilance to protect our viewers from misinformation. This commitment to authenticity has allowed us to build lasting trust, making India TV a reliable source in an age of unreliable information.

    On working behind the scenes for years, shaping the channel’s growth, your personal motivation & guiding philosophy throughout this journey

    A deep sense of purpose and responsibility toward our viewers has always driven my journey with India TV. I approach each decision as a meaningful step toward building a stronger connection with our audience. Guided by an audience-centric philosophy, I focus on understanding diverse viewer needs and aligning our content to serve those needs.

    As a certified content producer, adapting to technological shifts and staying ahead of media trends have been integral to my role. This focus on innovation and audience engagement has allowed me to contribute to India TV’s growth in a way that is both impactful.

  • Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 attracts 23 brand partners on Zee TV & Zee5

    Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 attracts 23 brand partners on Zee TV & Zee5

    Mumbai: Celebrating nearly three decades, Zee TV’s music reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has made a grand return with a new season, featuring mentors Sachin-Jigar, Sachet-Parampara, and Guru Randhawa alongside hosts Vipul Roy and Salman Ali. Contestants’ performances have captivated audiences and received praise from visiting celebrities, including Kartik Aaryan, Vidya Balan, Tripti Dimri, Shilpa Shetty, Annu Kapoor, and Kumar Sanu.

    Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 has attracted 23 sponsors across various industries, making it a key platform for advertisers. This season’s title sponsor is Birla Opus Paints, with Chocolate Horlicks and Cadbury Celebrations as co-presenting sponsors, and Smith & Jones Pasta Masala, Catch Masale, and Clinic Plus Shampoo as co-powered by sponsors. Additional sponsors include Vicks Double Power, Garnier Super UV Sunscreen, India Gate Basmati Rice, Dish TV, BKT Tires, Yamaha Racing, Mastercard, Voltas Beko, and Merino Laminates.

    On Zee5, the show has partnered with Birla Opus Paints, Catch Masale, Dish TV, Manyavar Mohey, Lux Lyra, Luxor Writing, Airtel, and Saudi Arabia Tourism, featuring brand integrations during festive showcases. The show’s 360-degree media strategy ensures high visibility across television, digital, and social media:

    ●    Television: Sponsors are featured in live performances, judging segments, and contestant stories.

    ●    ZEE5: Interactive ads and branded content connect with younger, digital audiences.

    ●    Social Media: Campaigns on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube drive engagement with viewers, enabling sponsors like HUL, Capital Foods, Yamaha, and BKT Tyres to reach targeted demographics effectively.

    Zee Entertainment Enterprise chief growth officer – digital & broadcast revenue Ashish Sehgal said,  ‘We are proud to have driven the return of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa with an impressive lineup of 23 esteemed sponsors this season. Our innovative approach to integrating brand partnerships across television, digital, and social media platforms enables us to create meaningful connections between brands and audiences. By strategically aligning our sponsors with the emotional journeys of the contestants, we not only amplify viewer engagement but also provide our partners with standout opportunities in a competitive marketplace. Securing such a diverse range of sponsors underscores our team’s commitment and ability to deliver impactful solutions. We are glad that the new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is reigniting musical passion among millions of viewers while delivering significant value to our partners.”

    Zee TV chief channel officer Mangesh Kulkarni added, “The 2024 season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has truly struck a chord with audiences, thanks to the fresh panel of mentors who bring their unique musical styles, and the exceptional caliber of talent that graces our stage week after week. The format has evolved with thoughtful content innovations, ensuring that each performance resonates deeply with viewers. This captivating blend of music, emotion, and storytelling has not only delighted our viewers but also attracted a strong lineup of advertisers who recognize the power of our platform. I’d like to thank both our viewers as well as sponsors for their continued faith and support towards Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Going forward, it will remain our constant endeavour to create significant value for our partners through creative brand integration strategies.”

    With a powerful combination of musical brilliance, content innovation, and a robust 360-degree media strategy, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa continues to set the bar higher for music reality shows in India. 

  • Ambesh Tiwari to succeed Leena Lele Dutta as Sony Yay! business head

    Ambesh Tiwari to succeed Leena Lele Dutta as Sony Yay! business head

    Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has announced a major leadership change within its kids and animation division. Leena Lele Dutta, who mothered and nurtured the portfolio, including the Sony Yay! channel since its launch in 2017, will step down as business head by the end of this fiscal year. Under her leadership, Sony Yay! became a top destination for children’s entertainment, known for its animated series, original content, and ventures into animation production and ancillary businesses.

    Ambesh Tiwari, the newly appointed business operations head, will take over her role. He brings significant experience from roles at Star India, Zee Entertainment, and Life Ok, where he was instrumental in launching channels like Zee Keralam and Zee Punjabi. His academic background includes an MBA from the University of Oxford, Young India Fellowship from Ashoka University, and a diploma in media law and public policy from Nalsar University.

    Leena will collaborate with Ambesh in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition. 

    SPNI acknowledged her significant contributions in a press release issued earlier today and wished her well for the future while expressing confidence in Ambesh’s ability to lead Sony Yay! to continued growth and success in delivering quality children’s content, 

  • Zee TV presents ‘Hamara Parivar’ show

    Zee TV presents ‘Hamara Parivar’ show

    Mumbai: Over the past three months, Zee TV’s first-of-its-kind audience feedback mechanism ‘Hamara Parivar’ reached nearly 50 crore individuals across the country, gathering candid suggestions on its shows and characters. With an overwhelming response from viewers through calls and messages, Zee TV is now taking this engagement to the next level by transforming the audience’s feedback into a daily interactive show. Starting 3 October at 6:30 PM, ‘Hamara Parivar’ will give viewers a unique opportunity to see their opinions shape the very stories they watch, making them an integral part of the creative process.

    This series introduces an all-new genre of television, where a family called ‘Hamara Parivar’ conveys the audience’s thoughts directly to the channel’s kutumb of actors and show-makers. But the new show goes beyond just entertainment feedback—it will also touch upon everyday concerns and pain points faced by Indian families. Through candid conversations among its members, the show will explore home truths, impart family values, and emphasize positivity through practices like meditation. Fans will witness their favourite stars responding to real-time feedback, bringing them closer than ever to the content they love!

    The Hamara Parivar family, led by the warm and ever-engaging Sakshi, includes her husband Vijay, kids Vedika and Veeru, sister Mandy, and brother-in-law Abhay. Together, they will share their views on Zee TV’s shows and characters, speaking on behalf of viewers and discussing relatable family challenges. “Being chosen as the sutradhar between the audience and Zee TV has been an incredible opportunity,” says Sakshi. “Voicing the audience’s sentiments, whether it’s suggestions, critique, or praise, is something my family and I are passionate about. It’s inspiring to see how committed Zee TV is to listening and evolving with its viewers.”

    ZEE chief growth officer – digital and broadcast revenue Ashish Sehgal said, “At ZEE, we’ve always strived to innovate and create content that resonates with our audience’s evolving preferences. With Hamara Parivar, we’re opening up an entirely new genre of entertainment that brings viewers closer to the heart of our stories, not just as spectators, but as active contributors. This daily show goes beyond traditional formats, addressing real concerns and values that matter to Indian families. It offers a one-of-a-kind engagement experience for direct, real-time interactions between our viewers, actors, and creators. For brands, this is a phenomenal opportunity to strike meaningful conversations with their target audiences. The show’s ability to connect deeply with viewers over shared values, family-centric themes, and life lessons provides a rich canvas for brands to build long-term relationships with their consumers in a context that truly resonates”

    In each episode, apart from reading letters and messages from fans across India, Hamara Parivar will offer audiences a glimpse of upcoming high points and plot twists lined up for that evening’s primetime shows across Zee TV, keeping viewers engaged and hooked. In an initial episode, Sakshi and her family will visit the set of ‘Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye’ to convey the audience’s pulse directly to the actors. In other episodes, viewers will witness actors like Yesha Rughani and Seerat Kapoor, seen as Ibaadat and Mannat from ‘Rabb Se Hai Dua,’ visiting the Hamara Parivar residence to hear firsthand what their fans think of their performances and storylines. Fans will also have the opportunity to visit the Hamara Parivar family at their home, and at other times, even host Sakshi and her family at their own homes.

    Sriti Jha, known for her role as Amruta in Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye, expressed her gratitude for the initiative: “It’s refreshing to hear real-time feedback on our work. ‘Hamara Parivar’ allows us to reflect on the audience’s perspectives and evolve accordingly.”

    Yesha Rughani, who plays Ibaadat in Rabb Se Hai Dua, shared her excitement: “To hear directly from the audience through Hamara Parivar is both empowering and humbling. Sometimes, it’s easy to get caught up in our characters, but when you hear firsthand how your role affects viewers emotionally, it grounds you and makes you appreciate the impact of what we do. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with them more deeply.”

    Zee TV’s ‘Hamara Parivar’ isn’t just lip service but a genuine, ongoing effort to ensure that viewer feedback actively shapes future stories and episodes. This daily show stands testament to Zee TV’s unwavering commitment to listening, evolving, and honouring the voices of its viewers.

  • Zee TV launches three distinct shows in September

    Zee TV launches three distinct shows in September

    Mumbai: Zee TV has launched three distinct shows in September— Sa Re Ga Ma Pa on 14 September followed by Vasudha and Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah on 16 September. Each show taps into fresh, innovative marketing strategies, creating multiple touchpoints for viewers to engage with. Whether through influencer-driven digital content, on-ground activations, or clever tech integrations, Zee TV is once again setting the benchmark for audience engagement across platforms.

    Innovative Collaboration with Orry for Vasudha

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Orhan Awatramani (@orry)

    For the launch of Vasudha, Zee TV partnered with popular influencer Orry to introduce Vasu, the lively, spontaneous and very desi lead character in a light-hearted, engaging video. The spunky interaction of these two very contrasting prototypes, shared on Orry’s and Zee TV’s Instagram handles, perfectly captures Vasu’s essence— lovable, rooted, full of heart but far from disciplined. The video, packed with charming moments, ends with Vasu declaring her mission to win over the boss lady, the  formidable matriarch – Chandrika Singh Chauhan. Orry’s vibrant personality, paired with Vasu’s innocence, has created a shareable moment that’s already generating buzz online.

    Enlisting public support for Jagriti’s movement via #JagritiSeBadlaav 

    For Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah, Zee TV has launched a multi-layered grassroots campaign designed to spark conversations on social change and raise awareness around the plight of marginalized communities. Live performances of a nukkad natak have been organized across five cities—Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra, and Patna based on an evocative poem that encapsulates the show’s core theme of fighting social injustice. The poem, recorded in Shweta Tripathi’s voice with visuals created using AI technology, captures the spirit of Jagriti’s struggle. Zee TV has also enlisted inspiring personalities like Mirabai Chanu, Hima Das, and Sumit Antil, who will share their personal journeys of overcoming societal barriers, reflecting the same spark of resilience seen in Jagriti’s character. Along with Shweta Tripathi, they are joining the movement under the hashtag #JagritiSeBadlaav. Additionally, 100 influencers will amplify the campaign on social media by sharing their own #JagritiSeBadlaav stories, ensuring the message resonates both online and offline.

    Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Teams Up with PhonePe for a Creative Digital Push

    In the lead-up to its launch, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has introduced several innovations to engage audiences in fresh and creative ways. During the auditions phase, the show partnered with Bobble AI to leverage AI and intent-based marketing, serving anyone discussing singing or auditions with details of its auditions. Additionally, the channel roped in Jaggu Dada (Jackie Shroff) to playfully nudge viewers into channelling their judgments into constructive action—helping Sa Re Ga Ma Pa select the best talent from over 50 videos posted on the show’s Instagram page. In its latest push, through a collaboration with PhonePe, Zee TV has seamlessly integrated the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa logo into the circular ‘wait’ button that appears during online payment processing. This high-attention moment ensures that users engage with the show’s campaign just as their transaction completes, creating a smart and non-intrusive way to stay top-of-mind with viewers.

    Zee TV chief channel officer Mangesh Kulkarni said, “Our marketing innovations for the new show line-up are customized to bring alive the essence of each show. For Vasudha, the quirky influencer collaboration perfectly captures the fun, impulsive spirit of the lead character. With Jagriti, we’ve taken a more socially conscious route by blending powerful on-ground activations and evocative poetry with AI-led visuals. For Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, we’ve integrated tech in a smart, seamless way that keeps the show top of mind for viewers. With Hamara Parivar, our audience feedback initiative, we continue to drive consumer centricity, ensuring our content aligns with their evolving expectations. These new launches are a result of actively listening to their preferences and delivering stories that resonate”

    ZEEL CMO, Content – SBU, Kartik Mahadev said, “At ZEE, we are obsessed with the customer in a platform-agnostic manner and we’re always exploring innovative ways to connect with our viewers—whether through their digital devices or phygital experiences. The Sa Re Ga Ma Pa integration with PhonePe leveraged a behavioural insight to create a meaningful brand interaction. Our collaboration with Orry developed organically, as Vasudha’s character is in a fun and charming contrast to Orry’s persona. Jagriti as a character needed to convey purpose, and #JagritiSeBadlaav became an expression of solidarity, serving as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities within the Zee TV digital community”

     

  • Zee TV’s Birla Opus Paints Sa Re Ga Ma Pa embarks on a new journey with fresh voices

    Zee TV’s Birla Opus Paints Sa Re Ga Ma Pa embarks on a new journey with fresh voices

    Mumbai: India’s iconic singing reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has been a launchpad for emerging talent, helping aspiring singers release singles on Zee Music Co week-by-week in the previous season. Over nearly three decades, the show has discovered and nurtured notable voices. Now, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa returns with a fresh format titled “Nayi Aawaaz, Naye Andaaz,” premiering on 14 September 2024, and airing Saturdays and Sundays at 9 pm. This season features mentors Guru Randhawa, Sachin-Jigar, and Sachet-Parampara Tandon, with Vipul Roy as the host.

    The new season, Birla Opus Paints Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, promises engaging performances and powerful renditions of popular songs. Contestants will be mentored closely by experts, who are dedicated to shaping their musical journeys. With top music composers competing, audiences can expect significant musical moments as mentors guide their protégés towards excellence.

    At a media event in Mumbai, Zee TV unveiled the upcoming season in the presence of prominent music stars. The evening featured a sneak peek of the talent and musical performances by the mentors. The music fraternity’s consensus was clear, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2024 is poised to make a significant impact with its new talent and mentor panel.

    Zee TV chief channel officer Mangesh Kulkarni said, “For nearly three decades, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has been one of Zee TV’s most beloved and enduring properties, a testament to our unwavering commitment to discovering India’s finest singing talent. This season, the idea is to take the show to new heights with a stellar panel of mentors whose melodies have captured every emotion of India and some incredible new voices that have the power to touch your soul. What makes this season truly special is our deeper connection with the audience—earlier this year, we launched ‘Hamara Parivar’, a direct line to our viewers, allowing us to listen to their feedback and preferences. Our new season is a product of this active listening. The audition process itself saw our viewers participating directly via social media, choosing talent that they believe in. With this approach, we’ve crafted a season that is more interactive and engaging than ever.”

    Zee Entertainment Enterprise Ltd chief growth officer – digital & broadcast revenue, Ashish Sehgal expressed his excitement about the new season, “The remarkable legacy of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa lies not just in its ability to discover exceptional musical talent, but also in the deep-rooted trust it has cultivated over the past 3 decades with its audience and partners alike. This purity and authenticity associated with the show have been instrumental in attracting top-tier brands such as Birla Opus Paints, Chocolate Horlicks, Smith & Jones Pasta Masala, Clinic Plus Shampoo, Garnier and Vicks Double Power to the new season, for whom we have curated some remarkably innovative solutions. The overwhelming advertiser interest we’re witnessing is a testament to the platform’s consistent ability to reinvent itself and stay relevant in an ever-evolving landscape. We look forward to creating memorable partnerships this season and deliver a power-packed season that resonates with our viewers and advertisers alike.”

    Birla Opus Paints CMO Inderpreet Singh spoke on the strategic importance of this partnership, “Birla Opus Paints wants to add Beauty & Colour to life of every Indian. ZEE Network, with its unmatched reach and content innovation is a perfect partner to create meaningful connections with our consumers.”

  • Zee TV returns with the new season of ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’

    Zee TV returns with the new season of ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’

    Mumbai: In today’s fast-paced world, staying relevant means embracing change. India’s iconic singing reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is launching its latest season with a new format, featuring a fresh panel of mentors and distinguished voices from across the country. Zee TV has released a brand film highlighting the season’s theme ‘Nayi Aawaaz, Naya Andaaz,’ showcasing the musical expertise of the mentors, whose melodies have resonated with audiences across India.  

    The brand film captures a gamut of emotions that are a part of our daily lives. It opens with a young girl sobbing in her bedroom after a heartbreak. The voice-over (VO) whispers, “Jab dil tootta hai toh hum hai.” From beneath the bed, mentor Sachet Tandon gently sings the iconic lines of his soul-scorching melody “Bekhayali mein bhi tera hi khayaal aaye”. Cut to a boy staring into the mirror, his eyes reflecting the same sorrow. Behind the bathroom door, Parampara Thakur picks up the same melody she and Sachet have composed together with love, completing the heartfelt duet.

    The story takes a joyous turn as the same couple’s ring ceremony brings their families together. The VO continues, “Aur jab wahi toota dil judta hai toh hum hai,” as Sachin-Jigar emerge from behind with a lively rendition of their romantic hit “Apna bana le piya.” The celebration then peaks with a vibrant wedding party and the VO concludes, “Judte hue dil ke jashn mein toh main he suit karta hoon na,” with Guru Randhawa lighting up the scene, dancing and singing to his popular track “Tenu Suit Suit Karda.” The mentors then introduce themselves before joyously exclaiming together, “India ke har emotion mein hai hum. Aur ussi India ke liye laa rahe hum, nayi aawaaz, naye andaaz mein!”

    Zee TV chief channel officer Mangesh Kulkarni said, “As India’s longest-running singing reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has consistently reinvented itself, setting trends across the industry. This season, we’re infusing freshness by introducing a new set of mentors who have their finger on the nation’s musical pulse, alongside diverse voices and a contemporary vibe that resonates with our evolving audience. Our brand film beautifully captures the emotional connection people have with music, and we promise to celebrate those emotions with performances that touch hearts across India.”

    ZEE CMO, content SBU Kartik Mahadev added, “Earlier this year, we launched ‘Hamara Parivar’, a direct line to our viewers, allowing us to listen to their preferences and craft content that truly resonates. The upcoming season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is a reflection of this initiative, offering a refreshed experience with Nayi Aawaaz, Naya Andaaz—new voices will be shaped by new mentors whose music captures the full spectrum of emotions across India. With a fan-first mindset, we empowered our viewers to decide the best talent from over 50 audition videos posted on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s Instagram page. With our integrated marketing campaign creating even more digital touchpoints for engagement, we’re confident this season will connect deeply with our viewers.”

    With its rich legacy and commitment to constant reinvention, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa is all set to embark on a new chapter. From chart-topping hits to captivating performances, the show promises to bring viewers on a musical journey like never before. Be prepared to witness musical excellence, emotional stories, and fresh talent as Sa Re Ga Ma Pa returns at 9 pm on 14 September, exclusively on Zee TV.

  • Zee TV presents unique new show ‘Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah’

    Zee TV presents unique new show ‘Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah’

    Mumbai: Picture this: a newborn baby, just a day old, with tiny fingers dipped in ink, their prints recorded as criminal before they’ve even spoken. This is the harsh reality for the Chitta community, where a child’s fate is decided before they begin life.

    Zee TV’s innovative audience feedback initiative, Hamara Parivar, offers a fresh perspective by highlighting an often-ignored issue. The show ‘Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah,’ set in the fictional town of Mokshgarh in Jharkhand’s Jamtara district, explores the systemic injustice faced by the Chitta community. Children in this community are labeled criminals from birth, denied education, forced into hunting, and exploited by feudal lords who dominate the region.

    Produced by Guroudev Bhalla Productions, Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah follows the journey of seven-year-old Jagriti, a determined girl from the Chitta community who rejects the fate imposed on her. Intelligent and hopeful, Jagriti questions the unfair labeling of her people as criminals. Her curiosity and sense of justice often get her into trouble, but she remains committed to challenging the unjust system. Asmi Deo, who plays Jagriti, has gained attention since the show’s promo aired.

    Aarya Babbar returns to television after an eight-year break, playing Kalikant Thakur, the wealthiest and most powerful man in the village. Kalikant is corrupt and misogynistic, bribing local officials to protect his illegal activities. When his smuggling operations are disrupted, he frames innocent members of the Chitta community. Kalikant’s rule highlights the harsh world that Jagriti is determined to fight against.

    Zee TV chief channel officer Mangesh Kulkarni said, “Having actively listened to our viewers via our innovative audience feedback mechanism – ‘Hamara Parivar’, we are taking them into a very different world rarely seen on television with our upcoming show Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah. The story strikes at the heart of systemic injustice through the lens of a young child belonging to an oppressed community branded as criminals at birth. Her innocent questions demanding only her basic rights will tug at viewers’ heartstrings, making them root for her. As Jagriti gradually evolves into a powerful voice of resistance, the show invites viewers to join her on a journey of hope, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. With a gripping storyline and standout performances, the show adds an interesting new flavour to Zee TV’s vibrant content mix.”

    Producer Guroudev Bhalla said, “I’m thrilled to team up with the team at Zee TV yet again on Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah. This gripping narrative delves into a world where a community is unjustly labeled as criminals from birth. Deprived of education and oppressed under Kalikant Thakur’s tyranny, the Chitta people face systemic discrimination. To bring their plight to light, we have some really strong actors on board and they’re packing in impressive performances. If the show sparks conversations about social inequality and its lasting impact on real lives, we will feel truly validated.”

    Aarya Babbar said, “I’m excited to return to television with Jagriti: Ek Nayi Subah after an eight-year break. Working with this talented team has been a joy. I deeply immersed myself in my role, perfecting the dialect and body language. Playing Kalikant Thakur has been my most complex and compelling negative role yet. I’m eager for audiences to experience our powerful story.”

    Asmi Deo said, “Playing Jagriti has been a dream come true. This show stands out, and working with such a talented team has been a rewarding challenge. Jagriti is a girl of my age, but to see her being deprived of all the rights that I enjoy; makes me understand the unfortunate social discrimination in our society. It makes me value the opportunities that education provides. I’ve poured my heart into my character and can’t wait for everyone to see the magic we’ve created.”

    Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah premieres on 16 September, airing every day at 8:30 pm on Zee TV.