Mumbai: ZEE5 unveiled the #AbHarMardKhatreMain campaign following the successful launch of the recent original horror comedy film “Kakuda”. The film has been running successfully on ZEE5 and has crossed the watch time of over 200 million minutes in just 10 days of its release.
As a part of the campaign, ZEE5 partnered with Swiggy through map integration within the app’s post-order delivery tracking screen. Within the tracking screen, Kakuda is following the delivery partner, blending delivery with entertainment. This collaboration garnered significant attention, prompting the audience to share the unusual Swiggy activity on social media. The two-day campaign generated more than 10 million impressions and sparked organic social media chatter.
ZEE5 #AbHarMardKhatreMein campaign kicked off on social media with people starting to spot warning notes across Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, advising men to open their doors every Tuesday at 7:15 pm to avoid making Kakuda angry. Reels were then created by influencers, generating over 2000 comments and creating a significant social media buzz. The campaign also saw metros making announcements, warning men to beware of opening doors for Kakuda at 7:15 pm, further spreading awareness about Kakuda’s wrath. The overall activity garnered 11 million views and a reach of eight million.
ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “We are delighted with the overwhelming response to our #AbHarMardKhatreMain campaign. The initiative was designed to raise awareness and generate buzz about ‘Kakuda’ in a fun and engaging way. Through this, our aim was not only to highlight the film’s unique storyline but also showcase ZEE5’s commitment to delivering compelling content and experiences that resonate with our audience.”
‘Kakuda’, starring Riteish Deshmukh, Sonakshi Sinha, and Saqib Saleem, is a movie, recently premiered on ZEE5 platform. It is set in the village of Ratodi in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district. The film revolves around a peculiar ritual that demands the opening of the smaller door of each house every Tuesday at 7:15 pm sharp. Failure to comply with this rule invites the wrath of Kakuda, who punishes the man of the house.
Mumbai: The OTT business in India is buzzing with new streamers, niche, and language offerings. However, early players are struggling as heavy content spending isn’t matching revenues, and India-specific low pricing hasn’t spurred subscriptions. Growth has plateaued as consumers return to post-COVID normalcy, preferring to binge occasionally.
Adding to the churn is the shift towards AVOD by giants like JioCinema, offering premium events like cricket for free, with Disney+Hotstar following suit. This has strained streaming bottom lines. The rise of FAST channels is also causing industry jitters. Vidnet explores the future of the streaming ecosystem. This event was held on 19 July 2024, at Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai.
This panel discussed innovative advertising avenues beyond ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) platforms and how businesses could seize those new opportunities to reach their target audience effectively.
The session was chaired by Kurate Digital Consulting’s founding partner Uday Sodhi. It included the following panellists: Amazon minitv business head & director Aruna Daryanani, Sony LIV, SPNI Sr. vice president & head of ad revenue Ranjana Mangla, Zee5, South Asia chief revenue officer Gaurav Kanwal, Marico head – media, digital marketing and Brand PR (India and Global COE) Ankit Desai, CereOne director Deepak Karnani, PubMatic senior director – customer success Harguneet Singh.
The discussion highlighted key industry trends and perspectives on content consumption and advertising priorities. Ranjana Mangla emphasized that different video genres cater to diverse audiences, with broad appeal achieved by shows like KBC or Indian Idol, while most content targets specific niches. Understanding the addressable market and tailoring content and sponsorship strategies to meet specific goals is crucial for advertisers.
Gaurav Kanwal pointed out that the persistent issue of trust in digital advertising necessitates a shift from efficiency to effectiveness in media planning. Advertisers should focus on outcome-based strategies and leverage data to address specific challenges and metrics, making campaigns more relevant.
Harguneet Singh noted that advertisers are primarily focused on acquiring cost-effective impressions to maximize reach and frequency. Targeting strategies can vary from geo-specific to audience segments based on advertiser behaviour.
Anand Makhija discussed the common comparison of YouTube’s rates with other platforms, highlighting that CPMs are often higher elsewhere. It is important to communicate the additional benefits of different platforms. The growth of connected and smart TVs is driving the industry towards hybrid models (combining AVOD and SVOD), which help transition users and enhance platform engagement.
Aruna Daryanani shared that as publishers, we will need to meet the diverse needs of advertisers. There is no one-size fits all approach here and all media plans need to be customised based on objectives. The new brands are looking to build upper-funnel awareness, whereas the established brands are looking to build saliency and mid to lower-funnel impact. Given Amazon miniTV is tightly integrated with Amazon, advertisers benefit from Amazon’s rich content and shopping insights.
Ankit Desai highlighted that advertisers are investing significantly in video platforms, with 50-60 per cent of their budgets allocated to video advertising, and some up to 80 per cent. Despite YouTube’s classification as short-form content, consumers perceive all video content similarly, blurring the lines between digital video and OTT platforms.
Mumbai: ZEE5 announced the world digital premiere of ‘Bhaiyya Ji,’ a high-octane action revenge drama marking Manoj Bajpayee’s 100th film in the industry. Following the immense success of ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai,’ which recently surpassed one billion watch minutes on ZEE5, ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ promises to deliver another gripping tale of revenge and justice that showcases a never-before-seen avatar of the versatile actor. Starting 26 July, viewers can witness Manoj Bajpayee’s portrayal of a larger-than-life character, blending the raw intensity of UP-Bihar’s hinterland with the swaggering charisma of South Indian cinema.
Helmed by the visionary Apoorv Singh Karki and backed by the dynamic team of Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Samiksha Oswal, Shael Oswal, Shabana Raza Bajpayee, and Vikram Khakhar, this nerve-wracking thrill ride of revenge and justice is poised to set screens ablaze. The film comes from the makers of ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai,’ a highly popular ZEE5 original. Mark your calendars for 26 July as ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ will have its world digital premiere exclusively on ZEE5.
Manoj Bajpayee, often hailed as the star of OTT, has a strong presence on ZEE5 with numerous successful projects to his name on the platform, including ‘Silence: Can You Hear It?’, ‘Silence 2: The Night Owl Bar Shootout’, ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’, ‘Dial 100’, ‘Jaago’, ‘Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari’, ‘Chakravyuh’ among others. His versatile performances on ZEE5 have made him a favorite among the audiences, and ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ is set to further cement his legacy in the world of OTT.
‘Bhaiyya Ji’ follows the journey of a retired and feared criminal who seeks vengeance for the brutal murder of his younger brother. When a trivial argument leads to tragedy, Bhaiyya Ji comes back from his peaceful retirement to confront the powerful Gujjar responsible for his loss. Gathering his loyal associates, he ignites a fierce campaign of retribution that threatens to upend the entire criminal underworld. But as the stakes rise and the danger mounts, will Bhaiyya Ji’s quest for justice come at too high a price?
ZEE5 chief business officer Manish Kalra said, “We’re thrilled to bring ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ to ZEE5, reuniting the makers behind ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’. This film not only marks Manoj’s 100th cinematic venture but also showcases him in an unprecedented avatar that blends intensity with grandeur. With ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’ achieving over 1 billion watch minutes, and now ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ continuing this momentum, we are confident in delivering high-impact content, Bhaiyya Ji reinforces ZEE5’s commitment and further solidifies ZEE5’s position as the ultimate destination for cutting-edge entertainment.”
Ahead of the film’s premiere on ZEE5, Bhaiyya Ji a.k.a. Manoj Bajpayee shared, “Bhaiyya Ji marks a significant milestone in my career since it’s my 100th film, and I’m truly honored to bring this compelling character to life. With ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’ achieving over 1 billion watch minutes on ZEE5 and now ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ continuing this momentum, it’s a testament to the audience’s love for storytelling. This role is quite different from my usual portrayals, blending the gritty realism of the UP-Bihar heartland with the grand style. It was a unique opportunity to explore a multifaceted, larger-than-life persona that I believe has and will resonate with audiences across. As we present ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ to the ZEE5 viewers across the globe, I’m excited for them to witness this new avatar and the intense narrative we’ve crafted. Here’s hoping that we get as much love and support from the OTT audience like we did for the theatrical release.”
Director Apoorv Singh Karki mentioned, “Bhaiyya Ji represents a bold leap forward in digital storytelling. We’ve crafted a story that marries the grit of realistic crime drama with the sweep of an epic saga. Working with Manoj sir again has been transformative – his dedication to embodying this multi-layered and complex character is truly inspiring. We’ve explored themes of loyalty, family, and the cyclical nature of violence in ways that I believe will resonate deeply with audiences. This project has pushed our entire team creatively, technically, and emotionally. As Manoj sir’s 100th film, we felt a responsibility to create something truly special, and I’m confident ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ will leave a lasting impact on the digital cinema landscape as well when it premieres on ZEE5.”
Producer Vinod Bhanushali mentioned, “‘Bhaiyya Ji’, a Manoj Bajpayee creation, is a quintessential desi-style action revenge drama that has captured the hearts of theater audiences. Being his 100th film, the film delivers an exhilarating experience for the fans. Now viewers can enjoy the thrills in the comfort of their homes on Zee5 where Bhanushali Studios previous release Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai with Manoj ji and Apoorv crossed 1B plus watch minutes on the platform.”
Shabana Raza Bajpayee shared her thoughts on Bhaiyya Ji, saying, “Bhaiyya Ji is not just another milestone for Manoj; it symbolizes his incredible journey and passion for the craft. As his 100th film, it holds a special place in our hearts. Producing this film under Aurega Studios has been an immensely rewarding experience, and I am thrilled about its world digital premiere on ZEE5. With its powerful action and deep emotional depth, Bhaiyya Ji is a must-watch, and I am confident that the audience will connect with it.”
Producer Samiksha Shael Oswal, “Bringing Manoj Bajpayee’s 100th film to life has been a cinematic experience for his fans. ‘Bhaiyya Ji’ is a thrilling return to action of Manoj Bajpayee, offering fans a gripping experience now right in their homes with ZEE5.”
Don’t miss the digital premiere of ‘Bhaiyya Ji’, on 26 July exclusively on ZEE5.
Mumbai: ZEE5 has announced its partnership with the Calcutta Football League, a historic football competition in West Bengal organised by the Indian Football Association. As a part of the partnership, the fans can now stream all the top matches live on ZEE5. This collaboration aims to captivate audiences, especially the fervent supporters of East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, given their immense passion for the sport.
Kicked off on the 27 June, The Calcutta Football League will continue till the 30 September with ZEE5 featuring 26 teams divided in two groups of 13 teams playing a total of 199 matches. The tournament includes iconic teams such as Mohun Bagan SG, East Bengal FC, Mohammedan Sporting Club, and Diamond Harbour FC, amongst others. To cater to a diverse array of audiences, the matches would be streamed both in Bangla and English commentary, ensuring that fans can enjoy routing for their preferred team in their language of choice. Additionally, ZEE5 will offer video-on-demand (VOD) content, highlighting the best goals and key moments from the matches for fans to get up to speed with the league at their convenience even if they miss a few matches.
ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “We are delighted to partner with the Calcutta Football League to bring our audience an immersive football streaming experience. This partnership not only highlights ZEE5’s commitment to delivering high-quality sports content but also celebrates the rich football culture of Bengal. It exemplifies our dedication to pushing boundaries and ensuring a comprehensive viewing experience for our viewers.”
Indian Football Association secretary Anirban Dutta said, “We are thrilled that this deal has come to fruition, as it marks the first time the Calcutta Football League will be broadcasted on a major platform like ZEE5. This is a significant step forward for the league and its fans.”
Last year, c partnered with Big Bang Media to bring one of the biggest esports tournaments, IESF Big Bang Asia Open 2023. The tournament had over 80,000 participants from across 40 countries in Asia and the Middle East. Following the big success of The DP World International League T20 Season 2, ZEE5 is also set to air the third season of ILT20 starting on 11 January 2025, featuring 34 matches culminating in the final on 9 February 2025.
Mumbai: ZEE5 has announced the launch of ‘Manorathangal,’ a monumental series that heralds a new epoch in Malayalam cinema. Set to premiere on 15 August, this magnum opus, conceived to honor the 90-year legacy of the literary titan Madath Thekkepaattu Vasudevan Nair, affectionately known as M.T., brings together an unparalleled constellation of South’s most illustrious actors and filmmakers. ‘Manorathangal’ is a cinematic tour de force, exploring the intricate duality of human nature against the backdrop of Kerala. Penned by the venerable M.T. Vasudevan Nair himself, the series unites the pinnacle of Malayalam cinema’s acting and directorial talent. Through nine interconnected stories the series spotlights paradoxes of human behavior, showcasing our capacity for both great kindness and base impulses. By probing the interplay between our noble and primal sides, this series offers a rich, nuanced portrayal of humanity that speaks to universal experiences and emotions. For the first time ever, such a huge cast and directors are coming together on ZEE5.
The anthology comprises nine compelling stories introduced by Padma Vibhushan, Dr Kamal Haasan: ‘Ollavum Theeravum’ (Ripples and the River Bank), starring the legendary Mohanlal and directed by the acclaimed Priyadarshan, sets the tone for this extraordinary series. ‘Kadugannava Oru Yathra Kurippu’ (Kadugannava: A Travel Note) features the incomparable Mammootty under the direction of the talented Ranjith. ‘Shilalikhitam’ (Inscriptions) brings together Biju Menon, Shantikrishna, and Joy Mathew in a Priyadarshan-directed segment. ‘Kazhcha’ (Vision) stars Parvathy Thiruvothu and Harish Uthaman, directed by the visionary Shyamaprasad. ‘Vilpana’ (The Sale) features Madhoo and Asif Ali, helmed by the promising Aswathy Nair. ‘Sherlock’ showcases the versatile Fahadh Faasil and Zareena Moidu, directed by the innovative Mahesh Narayanan. ‘Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam’ (When the Doors of Heaven Open) boasts an ensemble cast including Kaillash, Indrans, Nedumudi Venu, Enji Panicker, and Surabhi Lakshmi, under the direction of Jayarajan Nair. ‘Abhyam Theedi Veendum’ (Once Again, In Search of Refuge) stars Siddhique, Ishit Yamini, and Nazir, directed by the renowned Santosh Sivan.
‘Kadalkkaattu’ (Sea Breeze) features Indrajith and Aparna Balamurali, directed by Rathish Ambat.
ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “With ‘Manorathangal’, ZEE5 is bringing together an unprecedented array of Malayalam cinema’s finest talents under one roof. It is a celebration of the reverence and admiration MT Vasudevan Nair commands in the industry. His 90-year legacy as a literary giant and cinematic visionary is unparalleled, and we are deeply honored to have his story on ZEE5. This anthology not only celebrates MT Sir’s brilliance but also showcases the exceptional creativity of Malayalam cinema, which has garnered a devoted following across India and beyond. Recognizing the growing fandom and the universal appeal of these stories, we are dubbing ‘Manorathangal’ in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu languages so the viewers could watch it in their local language. At ZEE5, we are really looking forward to the premiere.”
The director, Priyadarshan, stated, “Dreaming is a part of life, and I had dreamt of making films. It was a dream come true to make a film with MT Vasudevan Nair. This moment is very special to me as I am now making my 97th film. In the past, I had tried to create a film with MT Vasudevan Nair but couldn’t. I had almost given up on that dream, but then this opportunity happened, for which I thank God. I have fulfilled a big dream and have done two films in Manorathangal: ‘Olavum Theeravum’ and ‘Shilalikhithangal’. As Mohanlal mentioned before, my desire to make a film began with reading the script of ‘Olavum Theeravum’. I thank God for making this dream come true and wish MT Vasudevan Nair a very happy birthday.”
Indrajit stated, “Manorathangal is the second film in which I had the opportunity to act as a hero in a script by MT Vasudevan Nair. Before this, I had acted in a full-length film under MT sir’s script, a privilege that might not be common among actors of my generation. I consider this experience the greatest gift I have ever received. MT has a close relationship with my father, and I have done a segment called Kadalkkattu based on MT sir’s short story Bandhanam. Although the stories were different, my father also acted in a film titled Bandhanam written by MT sir, which is one of my favorite films featuring him. I recall visiting MT’s house and speaking with him multiple times, and people close to MT have told me that MT loves me. I extend my best wishes to MT on this occasion.”
Biju Menon stated, “Happy birthday, MT Vasudevan Nair! I have always wanted to act in a film by MT Sir, though I was uncertain if it would ever happen. Fortunately, it did, and the experience was a dream come true. I am happy to see many legends and share the stage with them. Wishing everyone a lot of luck and happiness.”
Mammootty stated, “This evening is unique for Malayalam cinema, as anthology films are rare in our industry. Manorathangal will be an anthology that can be presented with pride, a vision running through the mind of the writer. There could be no other apt name for it. I have a close relationship with MT Vasudevan Nair and admire his youthful spirit. MT’s up-to-date knowledge of contemporary literature, new authors, and books in various languages is remarkable. Although I couldn’t read a book MT recently gave me, my daughter loved it, highlighting MT’s ability to stay relevant with the latest generation’s tastes. Initially, Ranjith and I planned to make the story of Kadugannava into a two-hour feature film. However, for this anthology, we decided to use that story, which I describe as a piece of MT’s soul. The film was shot in Sri Lanka and aims to evoke nostalgia among those who grew up reading MT’s works. Malayalees realised the literary value of scripts through MT’s writings, and I have tried to read all of MT’s stories. We recently agreed to have a short story by MT read in my voice. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to MT on the initiative of Manorathangal and wish him good health and long life as he celebrates his birthday.”
Asif Ali stated, “Happy birthday, MT Vasudevan Nair! I am happy and proud to be present at this event. My first audition in front of MT sir was for the film Neelathamara, but I was told I didn’t have a Malayali look and couldn’t participate. It took thirteen long years before I was finally able to play a character written by MT sir. I acted in the film directed by MT sir’s daughter Aswathy, where I starred alongside Madhubala, and I am very happy about that.”
Nadiya Moidu stated, “Happy birthday, MT Vasudevan Nair! I am proud to be a part of this project. After the film ‘Panchagni’ directed by Hariharan, I got another opportunity to act in an MT sir’s script through the film ‘Sherlock’ in Manorathangal. It was a privilege to work with Mahesh Narayanan and Fahadh Faasil. In addition to Fahadh, a cat was one of the main characters in the film. The script was very enjoyable, and I thank MT sir for making us all a part of history. It is a blessing to be here.”
ZEE5 Original, ‘Manorathangal’ premieres on 15 August, bringing MT Vasudevan Nair’s literary genius to screens worldwide.
Mumbai: Prepare for a jaw-dropping experience as ZEE5, India’s largest home-grown video streaming multilingual storytelling platform and Zee Café are set to elevate the viewing experience with the debut of Zee Café’s first digital series, Loop 11:47. The groundbreaking sci-fi comedy thriller presented in the vibrant Hinglish format blends the genres of science fiction, comedy, and thriller. It will premiere on 5 July on ZEE5 and Zee Café’s YouTube channel. Following its digital debut, the show will also premiere on Zee Café channel on 22 July, providing multiple platforms for audience engagement.
The series follows three disillusioned friends—Varun (Akashdeep Arora), an aspiring musician; Nirvaan (Qabeer Singh), an ambitious corporate executive; and Bhavik (Keshav Sadhna), an optimistic influencer—who embark on a getaway to explore a mysterious lake. What begins as an escape from their daily routines takes a twist when they find themselves trapped in an inexplicable time loop, unfolding a thrilling and captivating adventure.
Loop 11:47 is set to deliver an enthralling journey filled with exhilarating moments and humorous twists, ensuring a captivating experience from beginning to end. Whether viewers are drawn to intense drama, lighthearted humor, or mind-bending plot twists, this series promises something for everyone.
ZEE5 India head, AVOD marketing and YouTube revenue Abhirup Datta stated, “We are delighted to present ‘Loop 11:47’ to our audience, a groundbreaking sci-fi comedy thriller that merges genres to deliver an immersive viewing experience. At ZEE5, our commitment to offering innovative and engaging content that resonates with our viewers is unwavering. This series exemplifies our dedication to push creative boundaries, ensuring an exciting journey for our audience. With its dynamic storyline and Hinglish format, ‘Loop 11:47’ seamlessly blends science fiction, comedy, and thriller elements. This multi-platform release strategy ensures viewers can enjoy the series at their own convenience”.
Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd chief cluster officer – West, North, and premium channels Samrat Ghosh said, “We are delighted to unveil our first fiction series ‘Loop 11:47’ on Zee Café. This innovative blend of sci-fi, comedy, and relatable themes aligns with our ongoing commitment to delivering fresh and engaging content to young Indian audiences. Zee Café, known for its diverse portfolio of popular international series, engaging reality shows, and original programming, continues to cater to the evolving tastes of contemporary viewers. ‘Loop 11:47’ is expected to provoke thought, evoke laughter, and resonate with audiences nationwide.”
Chief channel officer – English cluster and Zest, Rishi Parekh added, “Loop 11:47’ exemplifies Zee Café’s dedication to pushing creative boundaries and exploring novel concepts. With a commitment to connecting with the Gen Z audience through initiatives like Anime Fan Fest and localized programming such as ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul’ in Hindi, we aim to offer content that resonates deeply. The content promises to deliver an engaging, relatable viewing experience that reflects our ethos of bridging cultural divides with globally resonant content infused with local flavour. This distinctive series is poised to captivate a broader audience, reinforcing Zee Café’s stature as a premier entertainment destination nationwide”.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with “Loop 11:47”.
Featuring a compelling storyline, dynamic characters, and an innovative concept, this series is a must-watch. Tune in and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of “Loop 11:47” – soon to your screen!
Mumbai: In line with its continuous endeavour to cater to the growing consumer demands of bringing more entertainment at an affordable price, a leading telecom operator Vi, had launched their content aggregator app i.e Vi Movies & TV in it’s new avatar earlier this year. In addition to existing top players like Disney+ Hotstar, Vi has announced a new partnership with one of the leading OTT players – ZEE5. With this new addition, Vi Movies & TV App now offers access to 17 OTT Apps in one single subscription, at 248 per month. Vi users can binge on their favourite content on top OTT apps such as Disney+ Hotstar, Sony LIV, ZEE5, and others all with a single subscription to Vi Movies and TV, on their Mobile & TV.
Vi users will be able to enjoy a wide range of movies, shows, and popular titles such as the Vidya Balan starrer – Do Aur Do Pyaar, the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, regional blockbusters such as Manjummel Boys, Aranmanai 4 and many more on the Disney+ Hotstar app; UEFA Euro Cup, ‘Gullak Season 4, India Tour of SriLanka Scam 2003, Rocket Boys etc. from Sony LIV and shows like ‘Sunflower’, ‘Broken News’, TAJ and movies such as ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’, ‘Kadak Singh’ ‘Veer Sawarkar’ , ‘Sam Bahadur’, ‘Hanuman’, and more from ZEE5.
Vodafone Idea CMO Avneesh Khosla said “At Vi, we understand that convenience and great value are two critical factors influencing buying decisions in India and we are committed to offering solutions that meet the needs of our customers. Our content aggregator platform, Vi Movies & TV App, offers access to 17 OTT platforms with a single plan. This not only reduces the cost of entertainment consumption but also eliminates the hassle of subscribing to multiple OTT apps separately.”
He further added, “We are confident that Vi Movies & TV App will strike a chord with our consumers for its cost-effectiveness and convenience, opting for a seamless entertainment experience over multiple independent subscriptions. Our aim is to make high-quality entertainment accessible to our users and enhance their overall viewing experience through strategic partnerships with various OTT platforms. We will continue to expand our offerings by bringing the best entertainment experience for our users.”
With the rise in connected devices and diverse content preferences, Vi Movies & TV App in its new avatar offers value for money plans providing an unmatched entertainment experience. Users now have:
1 More content to enjoy with over 17 premium OTT platform subscriptions, including Disney+ Hotstar, Sony LIV, ZEE5, regional content platforms including: Klikk (Bengali), Chaupal (Punjabi), Atrangi (Desi Hindi content), Manorama Max (Malayalam), NammaFlix (Kannada), Playflix for Korean shows dubbed in Hindi. It also enables access to 350 Live TV Channels like Aaj Tak, ABP News, Republic and premium lifestyle channels like Eurosports, TLC etc.
2 One plan, one subscription to access everything seamlessly.
3 Convenience to stream favourite shows and movies anytime, anywhere on any device. Vi Movies & TV App can be paired with connected TVs, smart TVs, mobile – be it Android/Google TV, Android mobile, Samsung TV, iOS mobile, Amazon Firestick TV, and the Web. By subscribing to Vi Movies &TV, users can also get to watch two simultaneous streams on all OTT platforms.
4 Big savings: Vi Movies & TV one subscription plan reduces cost by almost 50 percent compared to subscribing individually to 17 different OTT platforms.
Vi also announced two new subscription plans -Vi Movies & TV Plus and Vi Movies & TV Lite.
1 Vi Movies & TV- Plus: Priced at Rs 248 per month, offers unlimited access to 17 OTT apps, 350 live TV channels, and various content libraries. This plan can be accessed on two devices—TV and mobile—and includes an extra 6GB of data for prepaid users.
2 Vi Movies & TV- Lite: Special plan for prepaid users at Rs. 154 per month, provides easy access to 16 OTT Apps for an array of extensive content catalogue on a single mobile device, with an additional 2GB of data.
These plans are in addition to the Vi Movies & TV Pro plan, which offers 13+ OTT apps at Rs. 202 per month for prepaid users and Rs. 199 per month for postpaid users. This plan can be accessed on two devices—TV and mobile. The Vi Movies & TV Pro prepaid subscription also offers an extra 5GB of data.
With these new offerings, Vi continues to strengthen its position as a leading provider of digital entertainment in India. By leveraging strategic partnerships and distinct subscription models, Vi aims to deliver an enriched viewing experience to its users, ensuring they have access to a vast array of content at their fingertips.
Mumbai: Prepare for a spine-chilling yet hilarious experience as ZEE5, India’s largest home-grown video streaming platform and a multilingual storyteller, announces its foray into the horror-comedy genre with the upcoming original film, ‘Kakuda’. Produced by RSVP and directed by the acclaimed filmmaker of successful titles like ‘Zombivili’ and ‘Munjya’, Aditya Sarpotdar, this film promises to be a laughter riot with a twist of fear. Starring the powerhouse trio of Riteish Deshmukh, Sonakshi Sinha, and Saqib Saleem, ‘Kakuda’ will soon premiere on ZEE5.
‘Kakuda’ is set in the village of Ratodi in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district. While Ratodi seems like any other village, it isn’t because of the curse inflicted upon it for years. Every house in the district has two similar-looking doors, one that is normal size and one which is smaller than the other. The film revolves around a peculiar ritual that demands the opening of the smaller door of each house every Tuesday at 7:15 PM sharp. Failure to comply with this rule invites the wrath of Kakuda, who punishes the man of the house. But who is Kakuda…Why does he punish the men in the village? How will the villagers get rid of the curse? Beware! Ab Mard Khatre Me Hai!
Based in the heartland, Kakuda is a horror comedy that will keep the audience intrigued, entertained and engrossed through its narrative. The movie will soon premiere on ZEE5 in Hindi.
ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra stated, “At ZEE5, we take pride in consistently pushing the envelope and exploring uncharted territories to entertain our viewers. With our original film ‘Kakuda’, we are venturing into the realm of horror-comedy, a genre that resonates positively with the audience and aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering diverse and engaging content. Moreover, we are elated to have phenomenal talents like Sonakshi Sinha, Riteish Deshmukh, and Saqib Saleem leading this film. Known for their impeccable comic timing, this stellar ensemble and the thrilling narrative of ‘Kakuda’ will bring the genre to life. We hope that this movie will be appreciated and enjoyed by audiences across the country, further establishing ZEE5 as the ultimate destination for cutting-edge entertainment.”
Ronnie Screwvala said, “We are thrilled to partner with ZEE5, India’s leading streaming platform, for our unique horror-comedy ‘Kakuda’ starring Ritesh Deshmukh, Sonakshi Sinha and Saqib Saleem. We are confident that ‘Kakuda’ will resonate with Indian audiences, given the exciting genre and our partnership with ZEE5 ensures that this story reaches millions of viewers, from the comfort of their homes.”
“As a filmmaker and a fan of the horror-comedy genre, I find it incredibly fascinating to explore the delicate balance between fear and laughter. It’s a challenging task to make viewers simultaneously scared and amused, but with ‘Kakuda,’ I am confident that we have hit the right chord yet again,” said director Aditya Sarpotdar.
He added, “I am thrilled to have worked with an exceptionally talented cast, including Riteish Deshmukh, Sonakshi Sinha, Saqib Saleem and Aasif Khan who have supported the narrative brilliantly by adding humour and emotions to the story. Their spotless comic timing and the way they portray genuine emotions have made my job as a director much easier. Together, we have crafted a unique and engaging story that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating every twist and turn. ‘Kakuda’ is an experience that will take the audience on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and I am immensely grateful to ZEE5 for believing in my vision and providing me with the platform to bring this story to life. Can’t wait to drop the trailer of this film and see the reactions of the fans.”
Fasten your seat belts and get comfy on your couches as ‘Kakuda’ premieres soon on ZEE5!
Mumbai: The Abby Awards 2024 powered by One Show and supported by Guinness World Records & Cadbury Celebrations in partnership with ZEE5, concluded with a flourish on Day 3, celebrating excellence across a spectrum of categories. Leo Burnett India shone brightly, clinching multiple Grand Prix awards and earning accolades as Creative Agency of the Year, Brand Activation and Promotion Specialist Agency of the Year, and Branded Content & Entertainment Specialist Agency of the Year. Their campaigns, including ‘Feel the Music with Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’ for Spotify India, garnered widespread acclaim.
The agency also amassed an impressive collection of Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, leading the charge in several categories. VML India and FCB Group India have also secured notable victories.
Other standout moments included Famous Innovations’ Grand Prix win for Mumbai Police’s ‘Blockbuster Excuses’ campaign and Maitri Advertising Works’ success with ‘Sex Education – Shakeela’s Driving School’ for Netflix.
Mumbai: Season three of the DP World International League T20 will begin from Saturday, 11 January 2025. The 34-match tournament will run for a month with the final to be played on Sunday, 9 February 2025.
Season two of DP World International League T20 (ILT20) was the second most-watched T20 cricket league globally, with a total of 348 million unique viewers from around the world. Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts in India and around the world can exclusively watch the LIVE action on ZEE’s linear TV channels, OTT platform ZEE5 and on its syndicate partners’ TV and digital networks across the world.
The season three announcement comes at the back of a hugely successful season two (2024) which concluded with the MI Emirates lifting the iconic DP World ILT20 trophy played at Dubai International Stadium on 17 February 2024.
The 34-match event will be played at the three iconic UAE cricket venues – Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah – starting from 11 January 2025 to 9 February, 2025. Fans can watch this action-packed event on Zee’s most widely distributed and viewed linear TV channels and on one of India’s leading OTT platforms – ZEE5.
The franchise-style tournament with six teams and 34 matches will be played across the UAE. The league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global).
Some of the world’s most prominent cricket stars played in Season 2, including David Warner, Nicholas Pooran, Matheesha Pathirana, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sam Billings, David Willey, Sunil Narine, Tim David, Andre Russell, Alex Hales, Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, James Vince, Ambati Rayudu, Corey Anderson, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Trent Boult, Chris Woakes and Martin Guptill.
The deep distribution and disruptive marketing strategy for the third season aims to further enhance the league’s reach and ensure widespread viewership, emphasizing ILT20’s appeal to a broad and diverse audience. In the previous season, the league achieved a remarkable reach of over 221 million across India. The event will be broadcast in Hindi and English commentary. ZEE5 will offer Live free-to-view streaming of the 34 cricket matches, aimed at bolstering cricket viewership in the Indian subcontinent and beyond. This move represents a commitment to making cricket more accessible to a wider audience, thereby democratizing the experience of sports viewing in the region.
ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) chief growth officer – ad sales Ashish Sehgal, “Zee is delighted to present DP World ILT20 3rd season and promises an electrifying experience to cricket fans in India and around the world. With the world’s finest players, iconic stadiums, and infrastructure and six leading sporting franchises, our goal is to build upon the previous year’s success, further solidifying the league’s stature as one of the most-widely followed cricket events in the world. In our pursuit to grow the market, we are continuously exploring innovative ways to enhance the fan experience, making it more interactive, immersive, and engaging. We are collaborating with cutting-edge technologies and creating new avenues for cricket enthusiasts to connect with the sport. As we embark on this exciting new season, our goal is to ensure that this truly-global league becomes more accessible to viewers worldwide.”
DP World ILT20 CEO David White: “We are delighted to confirm the window for DP World International League T20 Season 3. The window has been finalised after discussions with our stakeholders. We have begun our preparations for Season 3 with an aim of making the league even bigger and better. Season 2 was a massive success in terms of all relevant metrics’ and helped further strengthen the league’s reputation, making it one of the most sought after T20 leagues for players, fans and broadcasters from around the world. Having considered all aspects, the January-February window for Season 3 has turned out to be the most suitable.”
