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Digikore seeks a stake in 2D animation TV series
NEW DELHI: Pune-based 2D animation studio Digikore Studios Limited is on the lookout for acquiring an equity stake in 2D animated television series.
The studio, which earlier this year had entered into a co-production agreement with New Zealand’s Gtoyz Management Co. for production of two projects – 2D animation television series and a 95-minute feature film, will sign a deal with local producers depending upon the pre-sales of the series and credibility of the production house.
“We are already in talks with some producers and are looking at investing in three to four projects starting in 2004 / 2005. Producer’s history, potential of the project and pre-sales are the three most important factors. Based on these factors Digikore will decide whether to take up the complete cost of animation or a part of the animation,” says Digikore Studios director-operations Abhishek More. The studio will also assist the co-producer in selling the particular series in the international markets.
Other than co-producing, Digikore is also offering interest free credit facilities for producers who want to work on a pure service basis. A part of the payment can be made before production begins and the balance after completion and delivery. “This is a great option for producers, since they do not lose out on precious equity in their project and also have a long credit facility at no interest cost,” said More.
Digikore, which will get US$5 million for its work apart from 15 per cent commission of the television sales and 20 per cent of the theatrical revenue as per agreement with Gtoyz, is into in-house production apart from sub-contracting of work from other studios.
Apart from its project with Gtoyz, Digikore is currently working with a South Korean producer and a German Producer on television series and features.
“The project with South Korean producer is a long-term project, which has been on for last two years, and the project with German client is into its second month and we have deadline of 13 months,” added More.
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.
