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Balaji doubles down on digital as it reboots legacy storytelling for the OTT generation
MUMBAI: Balaji Telefilms is throwing open the gates to a new era—one where saas, bahu and binge culture collide. The legacy studio, which helped script India’s television saga for over two decades, is rewriting the plot with a digital-first approach that spans OTT behemoths, Youtube Originals, and a mix of formats for India’s multi-screen audience.
Announced in May 2025, the company’s roadmap reveals a sharp shift toward platform-driven storytelling, tapping into newer demographics without leaving behind its loyal viewer base. Armed with genre-spanning originals and marquee talent, Balaji aims to straddle every screen—from phones in Patna to smart TVs in Pune.
“At Balaji, storytelling is in our DNA. For decades, we’ve created content that mirrors the aspirations, emotions, and realities of Indian audiences. Today, we’re embracing the digital era with the same passion, but through a renewed lens”, said GCRO Nitin Burman.
Burman added, “Balaji has always been at the forefront of innovation, and as we embark on this new phase of digital-first storytelling, our goal is to create content that resonates deeply, sparking emotional connections and cultural relevance”.
The proof lies in Balaji Digital’s slate. Early hits like Power of Paanch and Dus June Ki Raat on JioHotstar signalled intent. But it was Kull – The Legacy of the Raisingghs, featuring Nimrat Kaur and Ridhi Dogra, that cemented the studio’s OTT credibility. Balaji then made its Youtube Originals debut with The Great Indian Cricket Fan, a series celebrating cricket obsession with equal parts charm and chaos.
As for what’s next: the studio is cooking up more digital exclusives—both long and short-form—for OTT and Youtube, alongside a steady dose of television content (Bade Achhe Lagte Hain) and cinema (upcoming titles include Bhoot Bangla and VVAN – Force of the Forrest). With murmurs of a Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi comeback, Balaji isn’t just revisiting nostalgia—it’s remixing it for the scroll-happy generation.
From emotional depth to mass appeal, Balaji’s playbook is broadening while its roots stay firm. With this digital pivot, the studio is making one thing clear: it’s not chasing trends. It’s setting them.
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.
