GECs
Chetak Screen Awards 2026 Goes live on SET & Sony Liv on April 5
Star-studded ceremony returns with multi-platform broadcast on 5 April.
MUMBAI: Chetak Screen Awards just turned the red carpet into a red-hot live event because when cinema’s biggest night goes live across TV and streaming, even the popcorn starts feeling star-struck. Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is reviving the culture of live awards on screen with the Chetak Screen Awards 2026, set to broadcast live on Sony Entertainment Television (SET) and stream on Sony LIV on 5 April 2026 at 8:00 PM IST. The ceremony will also be available live on the Screen Awards’ YouTube channel, with a repeat telecast on SET’s YouTube channel on 7 April.
Recognised as one of India’s most credible honours for cinematic excellence, the awards celebrate outstanding performances and creative contributions across Indian filmmaking. This year’s edition promises a star-studded evening hosted by a powerhouse lineup including Alia Bhatt, Farah Khan, Sunil Grover and Zakir Khan, blending cinema, music, comedy and pop culture on one stage.
Sony Pictures Networks India chief content officer Nachiket Pantvaidya said, “At Sony Pictures Networks India, we are delighted to reintroduce the strong culture of LIVE awards back to our screens. This star-studded showcase is designed not just as an awards ceremony but also as a high-impact entertainment property with moments that will keep viewers engaged throughout.”
Indian Express Group executive director Anant Goenka added, “The Chetak Screen Awards 2026 represents the scale at which we want to engage our audiences today. With a strong multi-platform distribution strategy and trusted partners like Sony Pictures Networks India, we are ensuring that this celebration of cinema reaches millions in a meaningful way.”
Adani Airports has come on board as the OOH partner, while The Award Gallery joins as the Trophy Partner.
In an era where awards shows often feel distant and delayed, Sony is bringing the glamour straight into living rooms and onto smartphones, proving that the magic of cinema shines brightest when it happens live. Tune in to the Chetak Ssreen Awards 2026 on 5 April at 8:00 PM IST on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony Liv.
GECs
Pocket FM partners with Indian Open Pickleball 2026
Audio platform joins forces with major tournament to engage young fans.
MUMBAI: Pocket FM just served up a perfect partnership because when audio storytelling meets pickleball’s fast-paced rallies, even the sidelines start listening. Pocket FM, the world’s largest audio series platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Indian Open 2026, one of India’s biggest pickleball tournaments organised by Global Sports in Hyderabad in association with Pickl’Out and Crosscourts Sports Club.
The collaboration brings Pocket FM’s immersive storytelling to one of the fastest-growing emerging sports in India. Pickleball, known for its accessibility, energy and strong community appeal, is rapidly attracting younger, digitally savvy audiences making it an ideal platform for Pocket FM to deepen its cultural relevance.
Under the partnership, Pocket FM will enjoy extensive on-ground and digital visibility throughout the tournament, which begins on 1 April 2026. This includes centre court branding, venue-wide presence, presenting rights for select matches, player lounge branding, team jersey integration, and strong integration across live streaming and social media.
Pocket FM, SVP and global head for brand marketing and partnerships Vineet Singh said, “Pickleball is building a strong connection with young and engaged audiences in India. This partnership allows us to connect with people in a meaningful way through strong on-ground presence and digital visibility.”
Global Sports and Indian Open 2026, founder Hemal Jain added, “Partnering with Pocket FM adds an exciting new dimension to the experience. As a brand that has built deep resonance with young audiences, Pocket FM is a strong fit for the energy and ambition of this tournament.”
The move reflects Pocket FM’s continued strategy of aligning with emerging passion points and building deeper engagement with communities driven by competition and shared experiences.
In a country where sports and stories often collide, Pocket FM isn’t just sponsoring a tournament, it’s turning every rally into a narrative, proving that the best audio moments sometimes happen when the paddle meets the ball.
