GECs
Colors to showcase darkest stories through ‘Code Red’
MUMBAI: After a year of successful non-fiction properties in 2014, Colors is back with some more action in 2015.
Taking the premise of showcasing meaningful entertainment and shows that are a reflection of our society, the channel is all set to launch a new show titled Code Red, which is a beacon of hope addressing issues of human frailty. It will depict the inner conflict a human being goes through when faced with a crisis of conscience.
Each week, six episodes featuring stories based on various human frailties, will be presented through three prominent themes under the brand umbrella of Code Red.
1) ‘Umeed’ – focusing on stories who are on the verge of ending their lives.
2) ‘Awaaz’ – focusing on violence against women and children.
3) ‘Chakravyuh’ – focusing on various forms of entrapment – physical and psychological.
Each theme will be brought to life by a different production house and the stories will be presented by Sakshi Tanwar who will embody the inner voice and be the voice of reason. The episodes will be produced by FremantleMedia India, Sun Shine Rise Productions and Optimystix India.
Actors Manish Chaudhari, in the role of an NGO representative, and Yash Sinha, as a crime reporter, will take the viewers through various instances where circumstances and conditions pushed a person to the wall. The series will attempt, not only to showcase these stories but to make people believe that there is hope, only if they choose to break the silence.
Colors CEO Raj Nayak believes that it’s not just a show but a movement to get people to believe that hope can be found, even in the darkest of times, if only one reaches out and breaks the silence. “At Colors, we have always emphasised on creating shows that are meaningful and which can bring about some kind of a conceivable change in the society. With Code Red, we are going a step further by showcasing stories of human frailties and urging people to break their silence on issues that are disturbing them and the people around them. In order to drive home this message, it gives me immense pleasure to announce that we have a prominent face from the world of TV – Sakshi Tanwar – who I believe has the right blend of empathy and sensitivity that is required for a show such as Code Red. I hope we are able to make a positive difference to peoples’ lives through this humble effort of ours,” Nayak said.
Colors programming head Manisha Sharma added, “This is a genre on television that needs to be explored a lot more where stories inspired by real instances are mounted to create a show relatable to audiences. As human beings we all face dilemmas in life while choosing between right and wrong. Code Red is a show that explores these dilemmas and gives voice to the conscience of the people facing them. It’s a journey through their mind and their decisions and how their choices affect their lives. I hope our audiences find the show and these stories riveting.”
The show will air from 19 January every Monday to Saturday at 10.30 pm.
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.
