MAM
Yantra Media, Asianet programming initiative takes on movie piracy
MUMBAI: After unleashing its fight against movie piracy with the launch of a full-fledged digital movie project last month, the Kerala entertainment space is now all set to deliver a second punch on the industry evil, this time through a TV show venture.
In an innovative programming initiative, the Chennai-based production house Yantra Media and the Malayalam entertainment channel Asianet have come together to launch a movie-based game show Super Hit Challenge, which promises to nurture Malayalee’s theatre-viewing habit.
Aspiring contestants will be asked to answer certain questions based on the movie they have recently watched in a theatre, through an Interactive Voice Response Systems (IVRS) system. The binding clause of the ‘rules’ is that, the contestant should submit the movie ticket he had purchased in the theatre to ensure his entry into the contest.
The game show promises bumper prize to the winner of each episode. The ‘challenge factor’ comes in, when the ousted contestants decide to ‘challenge’ the leading scorer, when he prepares to face the bumper prize questions, and the amount both the parties have already won is at stake.
Speaking to indiantelevision.com, Yantra Media head Shyamsundar said, the show would unfold a unique synergy between the television and movie industries. “Today, in television, we get to see a lot of film-based programmes, which are meant to boost the box office fortunes of those films covered. But, none of them really make an attempt to fight the more serious issue of movie piracy, which is actually killing the industry. In this context, Yantra Media, supported by Asianet, has conceptualised this innovative format. This format urges and inspires consumers to watch movies in theatres only”, says Shyamsundar.
Yantra Media has made an initial investment of Rs 4.5 million on the project. “Since we will be spending a lot on the prizes, the actual investment would peak in the long run. We are in the process of signing up leading brands for the prizes,” says Shyamsundar.
Asianet is expected to launch Super Hit Challenge in August and each episode will have a half hour run. The channel is presently working out a slot for the game show.
Anchored by popular Malayalam film actor Mukesh, Super Hit Challenge promises participation from the cream of the film industry. “The whole industry is backing us. Superstars like Mammootty and Mohanlal have already assured us their participation in the show,” says Shyamsundar.
Brands
Mana Projects names Ranbir Kapoor brand ambassador amid rebranding
Bengaluru developer unveils new identity focused on design and nature.
MUMBAI: When real estate meets reel star power, the foundation for a new brand story is often laid brick by brick. Mana Projects, the Bengaluru based real estate developer, has appointed actor Ranbir Kapoor as its brand ambassador while unveiling a refreshed brand identity aimed at aligning the company with the evolving expectations of modern urban homebuyers.
The announcement marks a new phase for the developer, which has spent over two decades building residential communities in Bengaluru, particularly along emerging growth corridors such as Sarjapur Road.
The updated brand identity reflects the company’s emphasis on design led living and environmentally conscious development. According to the developer, the new positioning focuses on creating residential spaces where architecture, nature, engineering and lifestyle planning work together to shape meaningful living experiences.
Mana Projects chairman and managing director D. Kishore Reddy said the rebranding represents a natural progression as the company adapts to the expectations of a new generation of homeowners.
“This rebranding represents the natural evolution of Mana Projects as we align ourselves with the aspirations of a new generation of homeowners, particularly millennials who form the backbone of Bengaluru’s dynamic homebuyer community,” Reddy said.
He added that today’s buyers increasingly look beyond basic housing to spaces that combine design, sustainability and a strong sense of community.
“At Mana, our philosophy centres on creating homes where space is purposeful, design is intelligent, nature is respected and engineering ensures long term sustainability. Our association with Ranbir Kapoor reflects this new chapter as we continue to build communities that enable people to truly live brilliantly,” he said.
Kapoor, who has been associated with several lifestyle and consumer brands, said the partnership resonated with his own understanding of what makes a home meaningful.
“A home is one of the most meaningful investments people make in their lives, and it should reflect comfort, warmth and a sense of belonging,” Kapoor said.
“What impressed me about Mana Projects is the brilliance of their thought, the way design, nature and functionality come together to enhance everyday living. I’m delighted to be associated with Mana Projects as they continue to create homes that inspire modern urban families to truly live brilliantly.”
The collaboration will be introduced through a large scale integrated campaign spanning digital platforms, outdoor media and experiential activations, making it one of the developer’s most prominent branding initiatives in recent years.
Founded in Bengaluru, Mana Projects has built a portfolio of residential developments that emphasise thoughtful architecture, amenity rich neighbourhoods and environmentally sensitive planning. The company’s projects often integrate open spaces, green landscapes and energy efficient engineering to support sustainable urban living.
With Bengaluru continuing to attract young professionals and technology workers, the developer believes the city’s housing market is increasingly being shaped by buyers seeking well planned communities that balance functionality with quality of life.
Looking ahead, Mana Projects plans to expand its presence across the city by developing future ready residential projects designed to accommodate emerging lifestyle trends such as hybrid work culture, community driven living and multigenerational households.
By combining a refreshed brand identity with a high profile ambassador, the company hopes to strengthen its position in Bengaluru’s competitive real estate market while appealing to a new generation of homeowners seeking homes that blend design, nature and modern living.
