(15 October 2007 3:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Web 18 has launched a Hindi infotainment portal titled Josh18.com targeted at the youth.

The portal which will provide complete information, news and a platform to express views, has one of the largest library of videos built solely in-house with the support of CNBC Awaaz and IBN7.

Josh18.com has several sections which make for a general infotainment portal. Pehla Panna gives users an insight into the current events of the world while Aaj Ki Baat updates them with the most important news of the day.

Apart from the regular news, Josh18.com has a special feature Nayee Zindagi, which updates readers with the latest trends across the globe, be it fashion, technology or tips to play safe in stock market.

As a tribute to Hindi literature, Josh18.com also has a special section of Kitaabein which captures the essence of some of the best published books and also provides a platform for readers to review the latest released books.

Keeping in mind the needs of the energetic and restless youth waiting to express themselves and join the world with their view point, Josh18.com provides a hot and fresh platform through blogging – Garam Chai encouraging the surfer to wear his thinking cap and brighten up his knowledge.

Unlike a regular blog section, Josh18.com categorizes the blogging feature into various specialized sections like – Hum Kaun Hai? (Retrospective blogging), Bahas (Debates on current issues), Aapki Baat (Express Yourself Blogging), Mitra Mandali (Friends Group) and Global Chai (International topics blog) to name a few.

In addition to the above mentioned exclusive features, readers can also enjoy the regular features like Movie Masala, Astrology, Sports and Weather Updates, Market Updates amongst others.

Web18 CEO Surya Mantha says, "Internet is a medium which is touching the remotest part of the world. In such a competitive scenario, it is very critical to look upto the needs of the Hindi speaking belt, who contribute substantially to the economic growth of the country. Launch of Josh18.com is our effort to help the Hindi speaking audience keep pace with the fastest growing environment and I am confident that audience will accept the portal with open arms."

Web18 marketing head Neeraj Sanan said, "With the launch of Josh18, customized to suit the requirements of Hindi speaking audience, we are confident people to reshape the online space for Hindi portals. The portal has been launched after a great deal of research and dedication and we are confident will answer all the questions a Hindi internet surfer always wanted to ask."