GECs
Big Magic launches Chota Birbal targeting children
MUMBAI: Big Magic is set to strengthen its programming line-up with the launch of a two week special mini-series. As broadcasters believe, content is the king, the channel is leaving no stone unturned to engage with the viewers.
It will soon be extending the popularity of its fictional show Har Mushkil Ka Hal – Akbar Birbal, with a special mini-series Chota Birbal. Airing weeknights at 7 pm it will feature three to four children, under nine years of age, in each episode who will be conversing with the character Birbal played by Vishal Kotian. Children will have to give logical and witty answers to his questions, competing with each other in their own unique child like manner for the title of ‘Chota Birbal’ – the wittiest of all kids. The finale week will see two contestants compete to win the title.
Chota Birbal has been conceptualised as an extension to the historical comedy Har Mushkil Ka Hal – Akbar Birbal. Commenting on the launch, Reliance Broadcast Network COO television business Lavneesh Gupta opines: “Abkar-Birbal stories have been the epitome of intelligence and wit. Extending the lineage of the very famous folktales, we present this mini-series as part of our constant endeavor to expand our offerings and providing the best mix of comedy entertainment. The responses of kids to questions posed by Birbal, will ensure it makes for an endearing and hilarious watch, for kids and adults alike, while providing an excellent property for marketers to ride on.”
The launch of the show is supported with an extensive marketing campaign across television, radio, digital, on ground and more, ensuring deeper reach across the markets.
GECs
Vikram and Ajinkya Gandhe win Masterchef India season finale
Chef Sanjeev Kapoor joins judges for emotional MasterChef finale
MUMBAI: The latest season of MasterChef India concluded on a high note, with brothers Vikram Gandhe and Ajinkya Gandhe crowned winners in the grand finale aired on Sony Entertainment Television.
The duo from Nagpur lifted the coveted trophy and donned the show’s signature golden apron after a season that celebrated India’s diverse culinary traditions under the theme “Pride of India”.
This edition of the popular cooking reality show introduced a new jodi format, with 50 pairs from across the country competing in the Masterchef kitchen. Contestants brought personal stories, regional flavours and family bonds to the competition.
The grand finale featured the final three pairs: Vikram and Ajinkya Gandhe (brothers), Saisree and Chanda (mother and daughter), and Anju and Manju (sisters).
The finale was attended by celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, who joined the show’s judging panel comprising Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar and Kunal Kapur.
Kapoor said the show has long served as a platform to celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage and provide passionate home cooks with a national stage. He noted that the current season reflected a confident India that takes pride in its roots while embracing new culinary ideas.
Judge Vikas Khanna said the contestants’ journeys and the memories created during the season would remain with the team long after the show’s conclusion. Ranveer Brar described the show as a family that continues to grow with every season, while Kunal Kapur praised the contestants’ creativity and determination.
With the finale now concluded, the latest season of MasterChef India once again highlighted how food can reflect identity, heritage and storytelling, inspiring home cooks across the country to pursue their culinary ambitions.
