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Tag: Zee5

  • Gaurav Kanwal moves on from chief revenue officer post at Zee5

    Gaurav Kanwal moves on from chief revenue officer post at Zee5

    Mumbai: Even the steadiest hands must sometimes release the helm.

    In a surprising turn, Gaurav Kanwal, the chief revenue officer of Zee5, has stepped down, leaving behind a legacy of leadership at one of India’s premier digital entertainment platforms under Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL). While the reasons remain undisclosed, his departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Zee5’s journey, stirring curiosity and reflection across the industry.

    Prior to joining Zee5 in August 2021, Kanwal served as executive vice president of ad sales at Disney+ Hotstar, where he was responsible for identifying new avenues to drive ad revenue.

    Kanwal’s departure from Zee5 comes as the platform continues to strengthen its position in the competitive digital streaming market. His contributions have been pivotal in enhancing Zee5’s digital footprint and revenue streams.

    As the curtains momentarily fall on the CRO position at Zee5, the spotlight now shifts to the anticipation of a successor who will shape the platform’s next chapter. The silence is palpable, but the stage is set for what promises to be a defining announcement. Stay with us as we bring you the unfolding story and the next visionary who will lead Zee5’s journey forward.

  • Arpan launches #ProtectedByPOCSO campaign

    Arpan launches #ProtectedByPOCSO campaign

    Mumbai: An alarming 50 per cent of children in India have experienced sexual abuse (MWCD 2007), with 182 new cases reported every day (NCRB 2022). As the rate of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) continues to escalate across the country, Arpan launched an awareness campaign aimed squarely at child sexual offenders. The campaign seeks to educate the public on what constitutes CSA and highlight that sexual violence against children is neither acceptable nor tolerable. According to the NCRB 2022, 42 per cent of all crimes committed against children are sexual offenses.

    The #ProtectedByPOCSO campaign delivers a powerful, unequivocal message: Child Sexual Abuse is a criminal offense – Stop Now or Face the Consequences. This campaign is a direct call to action, warning offenders that they will face severe legal repercussions under the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses, 2012), along with significant social consequences. Arpan aims to raise widespread awareness of CSA laws and protections, deter offenders, and ensure that they understand that they will be held fully accountable for their actions.

    “We can no longer ignore the root of this grave issue. We must take proactive steps to prevent sexual abuse and protect children from harm,” said Arpan founder & CEO Pooja Taparia. “This campaign is not just about laws; it’s about making offenders understand that their actions will not go unnoticed. They will be caught, they will be isolated, and they will face severe legal consequences. Our children deserve to grow up in a world where they are safe, and the POCSO Act stands as a shield to protect them.”

    Bollywood actress Vidya Balan, Arpan’s goodwill ambassador, expressed her support for the campaign, stating: “It’s time for all of us to come together and speak up for child safety. As an advocate for this cause, I stand with Arpan and the #ProtectedByPOCSO campaign because children deserve to grow up free from the fear of abuse. Offenders may try to manipulate or take advantage of children’s trust, but this campaign ensures that such heinous acts will not go unpunished”

    The #ProtectedByPOCSO campaign was launched during Child Safety Week (14-20 November), with an extensive public outreach effort. In partnership with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), and Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), Arpan is displaying child safety messages across the Maha Mumbai Metro and Public Buses in Mumbai and Thane. Billboards in Vile Parle and Bandra, local trains on the Western Line, and Auto Rickshaws across the city are also showcasing the campaign. The campaign film is being shown in PVR theaters across Mumbai and is available on major OTT platforms, including Jio Cinema, Zee5, and MX Player.

    In addition, schools in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Goa, and Andhra Pradesh have joined the movement by displaying school uniforms on their main gates with the powerful message: All children in India are #ProtectedByPOCSO. Stop Right Now or Get Caught. 

  • Zeel secures landmark ‘Dynamic+’ John Doe order against digital piracy

    Zeel secures landmark ‘Dynamic+’ John Doe order against digital piracy

    MUMBAI: In a groundbreaking move to combat digital piracy, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (Zeel) has secured a comprehensive Dynamic+ John Doe order from the Delhi high court. This landmark decision empowers Zeel to protect its vast content library, including movies, TV shows, and OTT offerings on ZEE5, by enabling swift action against rogue websites without repeated court interventions.

    Unlike traditional John Doe injunctions, this advanced framework allows Zeel to directly notify the department of telecommunications (DoT), ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY), and internet service providers (ISPs) to block infringing websites immediately. The court’s directive ensures fast-tracked enforcement, enhancing Zeel’s ability to safeguard its intellectual property.

    Key Highlights of the Dynamic+ John Doe order:

    ●   Initial Blocking: The court has ordered the blocking of 103 rogue websites involved in unauthorized streaming of Zeel’s content library.

    ●   Dynamic Notification: Zeel can directly notify DoT, MeitY, and ISPs to block new infringing websites without additional court orders.

    ●   Broader Protection: The order extends beyond live sporting events, covering Zeel’s entire entertainment catalogue, ensuring a robust defense against piracy.

    This proactive approach represents a significant evolution in Indian copyright law, combining swift anti-piracy measures with procedural safeguards. By enabling Zeel to act dynamically, the order not only protects Zeel/Zee5’s diverse audience but also strengthens the broader digital content ecosystem.

    With Saikrishna & Associates as legal counsel, Zeel has set a new standard for digital copyright enforcement, reinforcing its leadership in the fight against piracy.

     

  • Zee5 partners with smart TV OS Whale TV

    Zee5 partners with smart TV OS Whale TV

    MUMBAI: Zee5 has got onto another  independent smart TV OS, Whale TV. With this, the streamer will be available on all Whale TV smart TVs, including major brands such as Philips, TCL, and Sharp, across more than 150 countries including India, the Middle East and North Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the US.

    Zee5 offers south Asian content including original shows, franchise hits, and diverse content across 18 languages. Operating in over 190 countries, the platform boasts a catalogue that spans blockbuster movies, acclaimed TV shows, and lifestyle programming. By partnering with Whale TV, Zee5 is making its content accessible to millions of viewers worldwide. 

    On Whale TV models, consumers will now have an easy-to-use smart TV experience with advanced AI powered recommendations, making it easier than ever to discover and enjoy Zee5’s  wide range of premium titles including Oscar winner RRR, Sam Bahadur, Gyaarah Gyaarah, Hanu-Man (Telugu) and more.

    Said Zee5 chief business officer Manish Kalra:  “Smart TVs are an increasingly dominant way for people to consume content. This strategic alliance with Whale TV further strengthens our global reach, enabling entirely new audiences to discover our curated catalogue of premium South Asian content at scale. We are confident that this partnership will accelerate our efforts to bring viewers across the globe seamless access to the best of south Asian content.”

    “With Whale TV we aim to deliver a smart and simple TV experience to consumers, where they can watch their favorite entertainment whether that’s streamed, broadcasted or playing on a connected device. With our global reach it is important that we offer a diverse content selection and we are delighted to add Zee5 Global to our platform,” added Whale TV VP content distribution Lucas Huang. 
     

  • Zee5 partners with Cloud TV

    Zee5 partners with Cloud TV

    Mumbai: Zee5 has announced its partnership with Cloud TV. This integration has given the audience exclusive and easy access to Zee5’s extensive library directly on Cloud TV, a smart TV OS available across four million devices in India. The company is further aiming to reach out to the audience within the age group of 18-45 tuning in during the prime evening hours of 6-10 pm.

    Cloud TV users can now access Zee5’s premium content library, featuring assistant support in multiple Indian languages and universal search for discovering content across various apps. The interface provides direct access to a range of content, including films, TV shows, and originals, reinforcing Zee5 as a one-stop platform for immersive viewing.

    Zee5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “Zee5’s partnership with Cloud TV reflects our dedication to offering a seamless and enjoyable entertainment experience to our audiences at their convenience. This integration gives viewers the flexibility to enjoy their favourite content directly on television, leading to an on-demand, high-quality viewing experience at the click of a button, extending our reach making cutting edge content more accessible than before.”

    Cloud TV COO & co-founder Abhijeet Rajpurohit stated, “We’re excited to welcome Zee5 to the Cloud TV ecosystem. This allows for easy access to Zee5’s fresh and exciting content library being directly available on Cloud TV devices and a seamless viewing experience for our mutual customers. With such partnerships, we aim to make entertainment seamless and diverse to our audience using smart TVs.”

    Cloud TV is a smart TV operating system providing solutions for modern TV devices with features like an app store, content recommendations, live TV, voice assistance, a mobile remote app, and content search. Partnered with over 200 smart TV brands, Cloud TV aims to make entertainment more accessible across India.

  • Zee5 expands Manish Kalra’s role to CBO, global

    Zee5 expands Manish Kalra’s role to CBO, global

    Mumbai: Zee5 has announced the expansion of Manish Kalra’s role, extending his responsibilities to oversee Zee5’s business across global markets. In his new capacity, Kalra will spearhead the strategic growth of Zee5’s global footprint, alongside India, focusing on international audience engagement, partnerships, and market expansion.

    This leadership expansion aligns with Zee5’s vision of strengthening its position in a dynamic digital landscape by providing high-quality, relevant content to a diverse global audience. In his new role, Manish will focus on broadening the platform’s reach, enhancing user experiences, and boosting engagement. By utilizing data-driven insights, he aims to optimize content relevance, advance brand and platform metrics, and bolster both subscription and ad-based video-on-demand segments.

    With more than 20 years of experience in the online business and marketing sectors, Manish has held key leadership roles across prominent organizations. Before joining Zee5 in 2020, he spent the last decade in roles such as chief marketing officer, chief business officer, and CEO at companies like Amazon, MakeMyTrip, HomeShop18, Dell, and Craftsvilla. Manish holds a master’s in business administration from XLRI, Jamshedpur, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh.

    This expansion of Kalra’s role reflects Zee5’s commitment to meeting the growing global demand for high-quality, culturally relevant content.

  • 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. 

  • ZEE5 has announced the ZEE5 Manoranjan Festival

    ZEE5 has announced the ZEE5 Manoranjan Festival

    Mumbai: ZEE5 has announced the ZEE5 Manoranjan Festival, an exclusive Diwali celebration featuring family-friendly and dramatic films for free. Running from 24 October to 3 November 2024, this festival aims to bring the joy of the season to screens, offering entertainment in eight languages.

    Viewers can enjoy a selection of over 75 premium titles across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Bengali, and Punjabi, reflecting themes of joy, tradition, and togetherness. With ZEE5 available on connected TV, audiences can experience these films with cinema-quality visuals at home.

    The 11-day campaign includes notable titles such as Saand Ki Aankh, Uunchai, Chhatriwalli, and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha in Hindi; Paappan and Moothon in Malayalam; Yaar Anmulle Returns, Saas Meri Ne Munda Jameya, and Beautiful Billo in Punjabi; Vimanam, Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava, and Jersey in Telugu; Thothapuri: Chapter 1, Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana, and Kurukshetra in Kannada; Basu Poribar, Mini, and Parineeta in Bengali; Yaanai, DD Returns, and Ayothi in Tamil; and Timepass 2, Timepass 3, and Sairat in Marathi.

    ZEE5 India CBO Manish Kalra said, “At ZEE5, our constant effort has been to make world-class entertainment more accessible to everyone, while continuously providing greater value to our consumers. Our festive campaigns have always been loved by the audience and we are eager to bring them back this year. For this season, our focus is on expanding the offerings on the platform to ensure a wider family viewing experience. This Diwali, our aim is to make every moment count with the ZEE5 Manoranjan Festival as the one stop destination for festive family entertainment.”

  • ZEE5 Original ‘Despatch’ shines at MAMI Film Festival 2024

    ZEE5 Original ‘Despatch’ shines at MAMI Film Festival 2024

    Mumbai: ZEE5 announced the successful showcase of its original movie Despatch, starring Manoj Bajpayee, at the MAMI Film Festival 2024. The Gala Premiere on 19 October received positive feedback, highlighting the film’s exploration of the darker side of journalism and the ethical challenges reporters face. A panel discussion followed the screening, delving into the filmmaking process and themes like truth, power, and responsibility in media.

    Directed by Kanu Behl, Despatch blends suspense with a moral inquiry into media dynamics. Manoj Bajpayee’s portrayal of a crime reporter grappling with professional and personal ethics stands out, supported by performances from Shahana Goswami and Archita Agarwal.

    ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “We are thrilled by the overwhelming response that Despatch received at the MAMI Film Festival. This success highlights ZEE5’s commitment to bringing original content that not only entertains but also sparks meaningful dialogue. Cinema’s power to connect through compelling storytelling is at the heart of what we do, and Despatch is a perfect example. Manoj Bajpayee’s outstanding performance, combined with Kanu Behl’s direction, has made this project one we’re incredibly proud of. We look forward to bringing this impactful film to a wider audience as we continue to push boundaries in content creation.”

    An RSVP spokesperson said, “Despatch is a gripping exploration of the dark side of crime journalism and the moral dilemmas it brings. We are beyond proud of the response it received at the MAMI Festival. Partnering with MAMI has given Despatch the perfect platform to debut, and we are excited for its journey ahead as it reaches a wider audience on ZEE5. We believe this narrative dives deep into the human condition, and we’re thrilled to see it resonate with such a discerning audience.”

    Behl said, “Directing Despatch has been an incredible experience, and I am immensely grateful to have had Manoj Bajpayee bring our vision to life with his remarkable performance. His ability to embody the complexities of the character adds incredible depth to the storytelling, allowing audiences to truly connect with the narrative. Screening at the MAMI Festival has been a wonderful opportunity to share this powerful story, and I can’t wait for viewers to experience the movie in its entirety when it premieres on ZEE5.”

    The screening of Despatch at MAMI reinforces ZEE5’s position as a platform for diverse, high-quality storytelling that tackles important societal issues. As part of ZEE5’s focus on impactful content, *Despatch* has gained attention for its portrayal of power, information, and ethics in journalism. With its suspenseful plot and Manoj Bajpayee’s strong performance, the film adds to ZEE5’s growing slate of socially relevant original content.

  • Archana Anand bids farewell to ZEE5 after a decade of success

    Archana Anand bids farewell to ZEE5 after a decade of success

    MUMBAI: Zee5 Global chief business officer Archana Anand has decided to move on after nearly a decade of significant contributions to the company. During her tenure, she was instrumental in launching ZEE5 in India and expanding it internationally, helping to establish it as the largest platform for South Asian entertainment worldwide.

    Reflecting on her journey, Archana Anand stated, “After an incredible decade at Zee filled with many memorable milestones including launching Zee5 in India and taking it to leadership in the international markets, it’s time to move on! It’s been such a fun ride and alongside some of the brightest and smartest people and across the globe. As I sign off, I’d like to thank the management, our wonderful partners, and my amazing teams over the years who always stepped up with incredible spirit and heart. It has been an absolute honour to work alongside them as we built out Zee5 into the global brand it is today. Zee5 will always hold a very special place in my heart, and I sign off prouder and happier than I could possibly convey. For now, onto some long pending and fun adventures as I relocate and recalibrate!”

    As she moves on, Anand leaves behind a legacy of innovation and growth that has transformed Zee5 into a global entertainment powerhouse.