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
Pocket FM partners with Indian Open Pickleball 2026
Audio platform joins forces with major tournament to engage young fans.
MUMBAI: Pocket FM just served up a perfect partnership because when audio storytelling meets pickleball’s fast-paced rallies, even the sidelines start listening. Pocket FM, the world’s largest audio series platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Indian Open 2026, one of India’s biggest pickleball tournaments organised by Global Sports in Hyderabad in association with Pickl’Out and Crosscourts Sports Club.
The collaboration brings Pocket FM’s immersive storytelling to one of the fastest-growing emerging sports in India. Pickleball, known for its accessibility, energy and strong community appeal, is rapidly attracting younger, digitally savvy audiences making it an ideal platform for Pocket FM to deepen its cultural relevance.
Under the partnership, Pocket FM will enjoy extensive on-ground and digital visibility throughout the tournament, which begins on 1 April 2026. This includes centre court branding, venue-wide presence, presenting rights for select matches, player lounge branding, team jersey integration, and strong integration across live streaming and social media.
Pocket FM, SVP and global head for brand marketing and partnerships Vineet Singh said, “Pickleball is building a strong connection with young and engaged audiences in India. This partnership allows us to connect with people in a meaningful way through strong on-ground presence and digital visibility.”
Global Sports and Indian Open 2026, founder Hemal Jain added, “Partnering with Pocket FM adds an exciting new dimension to the experience. As a brand that has built deep resonance with young audiences, Pocket FM is a strong fit for the energy and ambition of this tournament.”
The move reflects Pocket FM’s continued strategy of aligning with emerging passion points and building deeper engagement with communities driven by competition and shared experiences.
In a country where sports and stories often collide, Pocket FM isn’t just sponsoring a tournament, it’s turning every rally into a narrative, proving that the best audio moments sometimes happen when the paddle meets the ball.
