News Broadcasting
Zee TV brings big relief to the middle class this monsoon
MUMBAI: The Indian middle-class family runs on the unshakeable values of bachat, budget, ration, EMIs, and month-end jugaad. Every rupee matters; whether it’s choosing a sim recharge over a snack or holding back on a purchase to save for the future. In this world, ₹2 may seem trivial to some, but for a middle-class person, it holds real weight.
Zee TV, through its renewed brand philosophy Aapka Apna Zee TV, resonates deeply with these lived experiences. And through its recently launched fiction show Tumm Se Tumm Tak, it brought to life a character like Anu — a girl rooted in practicality, self-respect, and middle-class sensibilities. In a moment that struck a chord with viewers, Anu argued with a rickshaw driver over ₹2 change, firmly saying: “Agar ek crore mein do rupaye kam ho gaye, toh woh ek crore nahi hota.” This moment stayed with Aryavardhan, the male lead, and changed his outlook — leading him to launch a product with a ₹2 discount on mobile recharge, which ultimately transformed his telecommunication business.
An extension to this thought, Zee TV’s latest initiative brings a heartfelt gesture to the streets of Mumbai, Delhi, and Lucknow, distributing raincoats for just ₹2 to women and daily-wage earners who brave the rains every day. For many, especially women, walking around in drenched clothes can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing. More than a distribution drive, this is about empathy, making a necessity accessible while preserving dignity and a sense of ownership. That ₹2 isn’t just symbolic; it’s a powerful nod to the reality that ₹2 bhi bohot badi cheez hoti hai.
Adding authenticity to the campaign, actor Niharika Chouksey, who plays Anu in Tumm Se Tumm Tak, joined the initiative in Mumbai. Her character and her iconic line mirrors the philosophy behind this entire drive.
Zee TV chief channel officer, Mangesh Kulkarni said, “At Zee TV, we believe entertainment is only one part of our connection with the audience. The real bond is built on shared experiences, emotions, and mutual care. With our brand philosophy ‘Aapka Apna Zee TV’, we wanted to step into the lives of our viewers in a more tangible way. The ₹2 raincoat drive is a heartfelt gesture that brings our care for the audience to life. With this, we’re not just telling stories; we’re living our values.”
Niharika Chouksey, aka Anu from Tumm Se Tumm Tak, shared: “I am honoured to be a part of this initiative by Zee TV. As Anu, and even in real life, I’ve seen how small things can make a big difference. For many women working through the rains, a simple raincoat isn’t just protection; it’s a layer of comfort and dignity. And when it comes at just ₹2, it becomes a powerful reminder that even the smallest amount can make a big difference — because ₹2 bhi bohot badi cheez hoti hai.”
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
