Reality
Akshay Kumar’s fragrant face-off on Wheel of Fortune
Perfumer contestant’s sweet answer sparks laughter and lighthearted banter
MUMBAI: A simple question about someone’s day job turned into a scent-sational moment on Wheel of Fortune, when host Akshay Kumar found himself at the centre of an unexpectedly aromatic exchange.
While chatting with contestant Nikita, Akshay learned that she works as a professional perfumer, crafting fragrances and studying scents for a living. Intrigued, he decided to test her nose on the spot. Stepping closer, he asked if she could identify the perfume he was wearing.
As Nikita leaned in, the studio briefly shifted from quiz show to fan moment, the kind that blends admiration with a dash of nerves. After a thoughtful pause, she delivered her verdict: the fragrance smelt like “pyaar” or love.
The answer drew instant laughter. Akshay quipped that he was relieved she said “pyaar” and not “pyaaz”, turning the air sweet with humour rather than onions.
He then shared a personal anecdote about a family trip to Morocco, where they learnt how perfumes are made. According to him, the art of blending fragrances is far more intricate than most people imagine, layered, delicate and surprisingly complex.
What began as casual conversation became one of those unscripted television gems, where expertise met wit and a whiff of curiosity created pure entertainment. It was a reminder that sometimes the most memorable moments are sparked by everyday passions.
Catch Wheel of Fortune from Monday to Friday at 9 pm on Sony Entertainment Television, and stream it on Sony LIV.
Reality
SPNI honours distribution partners with special Wheel of Fortune episode
Trade partners step into spotlight as contestants in unique TV tribute
MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India has rolled out a special episode of Wheel of Fortune dedicated to its distribution partners, turning the spotlight on the very network that keeps its channels running across millions of homes.
The episode, part of the show’s debut season in India, saw trade and distribution partners invited to the set not just as spectators but as participants. Some even stepped up as contestants, swapping control rooms for the studio floor in a rare behind-the-scenes experience.
Hosted by Akshay Kumar, the show offered partners a first-hand look at the scale and mechanics of a large-format television production. The actor also acknowledged their often unseen role in ensuring content reaches audiences nationwide.
This marks the first time in India that a broadcaster has dedicated an entire non-fiction television episode to its trade fraternity, highlighting the importance of collaboration in the broadcasting ecosystem.
Speaking about the initiative, Sony Pictures Networks India head linear distribution Makarand Palekar said, “Distribution has always been a critical pillar in SPNI’s growth story. Our partners are not just enablers of reach, but key collaborators in building the television ecosystem. This initiative was our way of celebrating the business together in a unique way, acknowledging the trust and long-standing relationships that power our network.”
Industry partners echoed the sentiment. GTPL managing director Anirudhsinh Jadeja noted that such initiatives make partners feel genuinely included, while GTPL chief business officer Paramveer Jadeja highlighted the scale and attention to detail behind the production.
Adding to the chorus, ICNCL partner Suresh Sethiya described the experience as memorable, offering a deeper appreciation of the craft behind television content. Fastway director Sarabjit Singh said the initiative underlined the importance of strong industry relationships.
The move aligns with SPNI’s broader focus on non-fiction programming, with a portfolio that includes popular titles such as Indian Idol, Kaun Banega Crorepati, MasterChef India and Shark Tank India.
By turning the camera towards its own ecosystem, SPNI has served up a simple reminder that behind every successful show is a network of partners who help bring the picture home.
