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Artist International group & Creativeland Studios create joint venture in India
Mumbai: In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionise the Indian entertainment industry, Artist International Group (AIG), led by industry veteran David Unger, and Creativeland Studios, spearheaded by renowned creative entrepreneur Sajan Raj Kurup, have announced the formation of a joint venture, bringing AIG to India. This strategic partnership aims to merge AIG’s global expertise with India’s burgeoning creative talent, fostering a new era of creativity and cultural exchange.
The new talent and production company, AIG India, is set to focus on identifying, nurturing, and promoting Indian talent across various artistic disciplines, both in India and globally. By leveraging AIG’s extensive network and Hollywood know-how, combined with Creativeland Studio’s deep understanding of the Indian market and creative landscape, the collaboration aims to create a robust platform that supports Indian artists in reaching international audiences and achieving global recognition, while also orchestrating collaborations for international talent in the Indian subcontinent.
Calling the partnership a game-changing move for the Indian creative industry, Creativeland Studios founder Sajan Raj Kurup said “I am a firm believer that content and talent are geography agnostic. Partnering with David and launching AIG India allows us to extend our creative horizons and provide our talent with the global exposure they deserve and vice versa. This joint venture is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity and fostering a vibrant cultural exchange. Especially now more than ever, with Indian talent proving its mettle on the international stage.”
“We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Raj and Creativeland Studios. India is a treasure trove of talent with a third of the content coming from India. Through this joint venture, we aim to unlock new avenues for Indian artists to showcase their work globally. We hope to bring Hollywood and global talents to India, fostering true collaborations. I am confident that our united strengths will provide unparalleled opportunities and spearhead the next wave of cultural innovation in India and globally, ” said David Unger, CEO of Artist International Group. This joint venture is set not only to elevate Indian talent but also represent international and Hollywood talent in the Indian subcontinent, enriching the global entertainment industry with fresh, innovative perspectives.
AIG International boasts an impressive roster of artists, including Michelle Yeoh, Anil Kapoor, Fan Bingbing, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, and Gong Li among others. With this partnership, AIG India is also set to announce a strong Indian talent roster.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
