GECs
Raj TV Network plans to raise Rs 1 bn through IPO
MUMBAI: Raj Television Network plans to raise Rs 1 billion through its initial public offering (IPO). The issue proceeds will be used for launching a niche youth channel, producing telefilms, distribution of TV channels in overseas markets, creating a studio facility, strengthening existing content, and exporting films.
Post-IPO, the promoters’ holding will drop from 100 per cent to 72.5 per cent. The IPO will consist of a fresh issue of 22,70,700 shares (15 per cent) and an offer for sale of 12,97,550 shares (10 per cent). Raj TV Network is also reserving 2.5 per cent as ESOPs.
“We expect to raise Rs 1 billion. The final value will, however, be determined through the book building process,” Raj TV Network senior vice president, corporate planning and strategy Sathya Prakash tells Indiantelevision.com.
The company has earmarked Rs 106 million for launching a niche channel aimed at the youth while Rs 71.5 million will be for the studio and Rs 62.5 million towards telefilms. For beefing up content, Raj TV plans to spend Rs 90 million, Rs 50 million for export of films and Rs 37.5 million for distribution of TV channels in overseas markets.
“We plan to produce five telefilms a year which could also be released on multiplexes. We will be launching our channels internationally. These channels will have a component of local content in each of the markets,” says Prakash.
Raj Television Network has already filed the draft red herring prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to enter the capital market with an offer of 35,68,250 equity shares of face value of Rs 10 each. The book running lead manager to the issue is Vivro Financial Services (p).
The company, which operates Tamil channels Raj TV and Raj Digital Plus, posted a revenue of Rs 320 million during 2005-06 fiscal and Rs 92 million for the first quarter ended 30 June 2006. Pay-TV revenue accounts for 30-35 per cent of the company’s total earnings, says Prakash.
GECs
Sony PAL to air Sankat Mochan Hanuman from May 4 at 9 PM
Mythological series brings Lord Hanuman’s tale of devotion and courage back to TV
MUMBAI: Sony PAL is set to bring back the timeless mythological series Sankat Mochan Hanuman, with its premiere scheduled for May 4 at 9 PM. The show revisits the legendary journey of Lord Hanuman, offering viewers a chance to reconnect with one of Indian mythology’s most revered figures.
Centred on themes of devotion, courage and righteousness, the series traces Hanuman’s unwavering loyalty to Lord Ram and his fearless stand against evil. With its mix of dramatic storytelling and visually rich sequences, the show aims to deliver both entertainment and spiritual resonance, appealing to audiences across age groups.
The narrative unfolds as a larger-than-life saga, positioning Hanuman as the ultimate protector and a symbol of strength and selfless service. His journey, rooted in faith and duty, continues to strike a chord with viewers, making the series as relevant today as ever.
The cast features Gagan Malik as Lord Ram, Debalina Chatterjee as Sita, Nirbhay Wadhwa in the titular role, and Saurav Gurjar as Raavan. Their performances bring depth and authenticity to characters deeply embedded in Indian cultural memory.
With its return to television, the show is positioned as more than just a rerun. It taps into a renewed appetite for mythological storytelling, blending nostalgia with timeless values.
As audiences increasingly seek content that resonates beyond entertainment, ‘Sankat Mochan Hanuman’ offers a familiar yet powerful narrative, reminding viewers that stories of faith and courage never really go out of style.
