Movies
Zee Biskope brings the world TV premiere of ‘Khoon Bhari Humaar Maang’
MUMBAI: Giving its ardent and movie-crazy fans across the region not one but two reasons to celebrate, Zee Biskope brings the feeling of joy and jubilation to every doorstep on the occasion of the birthday of one of the biggest superstars of the region, Khesari Lal Yadav. An actor and singer above par, Khesari has bagged several accolades across film award platforms. He also made his appearance beyond Bhojiwood in popular reality shows at a national level.
The superstar initiated his journey with Zee Biskope as one of the channel’s launch brand ambassadors post which the brand has celebrated Bhojiwood’s most romantic idol through various initiatives including showcasing some of his biggest blockbusters. On Khesari Lal Yadav’s birthday this year, Zee Biskope is all set to mesmerise viewers with a special world television premiere of his blockbuster Khoon Bhari Humaar Maang on 15 March at 6 PM. With Khesari holding a special place in the heart of audiences, the movie will treat his ardent fans to one of his career’s best performances on his big day.
The movie stars Khesari along with a power-packed women brigade featuring leading actresses like Smriti Sinha, Pakkhi Hegde, Monalisa, Anjana Singh and Subhi Sharma in prominent roles. This beautiful story showcases how three friends find strength in each other and decide to take a stand for their rights. Khesari dons the pivotal role of the person who helps the women brigade in their fight against all wrongdoings.
The fun doesn’t end there – two more blockbusters starring the superstar will air in the afternoon bands. Deewanapan featuring Khesari and Kajal Raghwani will be telecast at noon, followed by Sajan Chale Sasural 2 featuring Khesari, Akshara Singh and Smriti Sinha at 3 pm.
ZeeL cluster head east Samrat Ghosh said, “Our viewers are our big extended family and we take immense pride in being a consumer centric brand that brings them hyperlocal entertainment that is close to their hearts. High viewership WTPs especially with a starcast like Khesari Lal Yadav, serve as a great opportunity for brands as well as our viewers.”
Zee Biskope & Big Ganga business head Amarpreet Singh Saini said, “Khesari Lal Yadav being a superstar in the region has been ruling the audience's hearts for years. Presenting one of his best performances, a cult film for cinephiles, on his birthday is the grandest way to celebrate his big day. It’s a film that will not just entertain the viewers but will also give them a sense of celebrating their superstar’s birthday.”
Hollywood
Paramount seeks FCC nod for foreign-backed $110 billion WBD deal
Gulf funds back merger as foreign stake nears 50 per cent, control stays with Ellison
NEW YORK: Paramount Global has approached the Federal Communications Commission seeking approval for foreign investments tied to its proposed $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, marking another key step in one of the biggest media deals in recent years.
According to regulatory filings made public this week, the investment backing the deal includes major Gulf sovereign funds such as the Public Investment Fund, the Qatar Investment Authority and L’imad Holding Company. Together, foreign investors are expected to hold just under 50 per cent of Paramount’s equity once the transaction is complete.
Despite the sizeable international backing, Paramount has made it clear that voting control will remain with the family of chief executive David Ellison, ensuring the company stays firmly under US control as required by broadcasting rules.
A company spokesperson described the FCC filing as routine for transactions involving foreign capital and stressed that it does not impact the closing of the deal. Under US law, any significant foreign ownership in broadcast licence holders must undergo regulatory review.
The merger itself has already cleared a major hurdle, with Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders approving the deal on 23 April. The transaction values the company at $31 per share, a 147 per cent premium to its earlier trading price, reflecting strong strategic intent behind the tie-up.
If completed, the combined entity will bring together a vast portfolio including Warner Bros. film studios, HBO Max, and networks such as CNN, TNT and Discovery Channel. The deal is currently expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.
However, scrutiny is intensifying. The US Department of Justice has issued subpoenas seeking details on the merger’s potential impact on cinema competition, streaming services and content licensing. Reviews are also anticipated in international markets, including the United Kingdom.
There is also a financial safety net built into the agreement. If regulators ultimately block the deal, Paramount would face a $7 billion break-up fee. Additionally, the company has taken on $2.8 billion in obligations previously owed by Warner Bros. Discovery to Netflix following an earlier terminated arrangement.
Paramount maintains that easing foreign ownership barriers will unlock fresh capital and strengthen its ability to compete in a rapidly evolving media landscape. For now, the spotlight remains on regulators, whose decision will determine whether this global media consolidation moves from script to screen.
