iWorld
Saare Jahan Se Achha web show hosted by Prakash Jha
Prakash Jha is all set to host a web show titled Saare Jahan Se Achha. The series will showcase the lives of ordinary individuals who try to create a change in the lives of many through their efforts.
“I am full of gratitude after interacting with the common people who went out of their way to make a change in the lives of other people around them without any expectations in return. Sometimes small contributions make a big impact and it is essential that the story of these people is told; so that the positivity spreads.” Said Prakash Jha speaking on the occasion.
Debutant Director Prakash Bhardwaj commenting on the occasion said; “In an atmosphere when there is so much negativity floating around us in Social Media and News, we were in dire need of something that will make us proud of our fellow citizens and their efforts that help us lead a better life. When the concept was narrated, Prakash sir readily agreed to host it.”
Mzee Singh who was the CEO of the production house; which last produced Sanjay Dutt’s comeback film Bhoomi is producing the web show. “It’s a pleasure and honor to work with a veteran like Prakash Prakash Jha. Digital is the medium of the future. We are looking at creating a series of 52 such inspiring films, once this is released.”
iWorld
Bill Ackman’s Pershing Square makes $64 billion bid to acquire Universal Music Group
Ackman pitches NYSE relisting plan as UMG board weighs unsolicited offer
The hedge fund has proposed a business combination that values UMG at €30.40 per share, representing a hefty 78 per cent premium to its current trading price. The offer includes €9.4 billion in cash alongside stock in a newly formed entity, with shareholders set to receive €5.05 per share in cash and 0.77 shares in the new company for each UMG share they hold.
Under the proposal, UMG would merge with Pershing Square SPARC Holdings Ltd and re-emerge as a Nevada-based entity listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The move is designed to boost investor visibility and potentially secure inclusion in major indices such as the S&P 500.
Pershing Square Capital Management ceo Bill Ackman argued that while UMG’s operational performance remains strong, its market valuation has lagged due to external factors. “UMG’s stock price has languished due to a combination of issues that are unrelated to the performance of its music business,” Ackman said, pointing to concerns ranging from shareholder overhang to delayed US listing plans.
Ackman also flagged what he sees as untapped potential in UMG’s balance sheet and a lack of clear capital allocation strategy. He added that the market has not fully recognised the value of UMG’s €2.7 billion stake in Spotify, alongside gaps in investor communication.
The proposed transaction would also result in the cancellation of around 17 per cent of UMG’s outstanding shares, while maintaining its investment-grade balance sheet. Pershing Square has said it will fully backstop the equity financing, with debt commitments secured at signing. The deal is targeted for completion by the end of the year.
UMG, however, has struck a measured tone. The company confirmed that its board has received the non-binding proposal and will review it with advisers. It reiterated confidence in its current strategy and leadership under Lucian Grainge, signalling no immediate shift in stance.
The proposal comes at a time when global music companies are navigating evolving investor expectations, streaming economics and capital allocation pressures. For Pershing Square, the bet is clear: sharpen the financial story, relist in the US, and let the music play louder in the markets.
Whether UMG’s board is ready to change the tune remains to be seen, but the spotlight on its valuation just got a lot brighter.
