iWorld
EPIC ON premieres #BLUETICK starring Parul Gulati and Siddharth Nigam
Mumbai: EPIC ON, the OTT platform from IN10 Media Network, celebrated for its diverse original content, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated series, #BLUETICK (verified). This captivating drama, featuring acclaimed actors Parul Gulati and Siddharth Nigam in the lead roles, is set to premiere on July 19, 2024.
The series introduces Pallavi (played by Parul Gulati), an influencer whose viral video propels her to instant fame. As she navigates the glittering corridors of the industry, the series delves into the complex interplay between her online persona and real-life struggles. Amidst this journey, she meets Viraj (portrayed by Siddharth Nigam), a charming B-town celebrity. Their chance encounter in a small town near Delhi kickstarts a thrilling story of ambition, love, and deep self-discovery.
Parul Gulati, who portrays the character of Pallavi, added, “This series is a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. My character’s journey from an ordinary individual to a social media icon and then to navigating the cutthroat film industry is both inspiring and cautionary. It’s a reflection of how quickly life can change and the importance of staying grounded. I believe viewers will find a part of themselves in this story.”
Siddharth Nigam, who plays a pivotal role in the series as Viraj, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “Being part of #BLUETICK (verified) has been an extraordinary experience. The storyline is incredibly relevant in today’s digital age where social media is omnipresent. It’s a thought-provoking tale that will resonate with audiences who understand the power and pitfalls of social media. I’m thrilled to bring this character to life and to be part of such a compelling narrative.”
EPIC ON chief operating officer Sourjya Mohanty commented, “At EPIC ON, our mission is to deliver diverse and captivating content that connects with our viewers. We are thrilled to introduce #BLUETICK (verified), a series that mirrors our social media-driven world. Featuring outstanding performances by Parul Gulati and Siddharth Nigam, we believe this show will deeply resonate with audiences.”
#BLUETICK (verified) will be available for streaming exclusively on EPIC ON starting July 19, 2024.
iWorld
Anirudh Ravichander and Universal Music India join forces to take South India’s sound to the world
The composer behind 13 billion streams launches Albuquerque Records with UMI as its exclusive global partner
MUMBAI: Universal Music India has struck an exclusive partnership with Albuquerque Records, the freshly minted independent label of singer-composer Anirudh Ravichander, in a deal that bets big on South India’s booming pop and hip-hop scene going global.
The arrangement, announced on 17 March, will see Universal Music India handle future pop and hip-hop releases by Anirudh himself, as well as artists signed to the new label. A first release is already in the pipeline for April, featuring Anirudh.
The numbers behind the man are hard to ignore. Debuting in 2012 with the viral sensation “Why This Kolaveri Di”, Anirudh has since clocked over 13 billion audio streams across more than 770 tracks, cementing his position as the No.1 South Indian artist on Spotify by total streams. His fingerprints are all over some of the Tamil film industry’s biggest musical moments, from Hukum and Vaathi Coming to Arabic Kuthu and the A23 Theme.
But Albuquerque Records is a different beast. Built for the non-film space, it is designed to nurture independent talent and champion the next wave of Indian pop voices. “Universal Music India’s leadership in pop and hip-hop made them the natural partner,” said Anirudh. “I’m excited to take independent voices to audiences around the world.”
Universal Music India’s chairman and CEO Devraj Sanyal was equally effusive. “Anirudh represents the future of Indian music, bold, original, and with enormous potential,” he said. “Identifying transformative talent is our superpower, and this partnership reflects that belief.”
Sanujeet Bhujabal, managing director of Universal Music India, framed the deal as more than a distribution play. “Albuquerque Records represents Anirudh’s bold artistic vision in the world of pop and hip-hop,” he said. “True to his legacy of innovation, this partnership is set to establish yet another landmark creative space, this time for the emerging world of iPop and beyond.”
For Universal Music India, the deal deepens a long-running push into South India’s four key language markets: Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Telugu. The label already has regional imprints, film partnerships with Maddock Films and Excel Entertainment, and a growing non-film roster. Landing Anirudh, arguably the south’s most bankable music brand, is a statement of intent. South Indian music has the streams. Now it is coming for the world.
