GECs
Kalyan Sundaram returns to Sahara One as programming head
MUMBAI: SaharaOne has appointed Kalyan Sundaram to head programming for the channel.
Sundaram was roped into the network in 2004 when the new team structure was being set in place as the non-fiction programming head.
A year later Sundaram moved onto Zee Arabia, a division of Zee International as the creative head.
Speaking to Indiantelevision.com, Kalyan Sundaram said, “I was with channel for a year before I moved on to Zee Arabia Dubai. But I have always shared a special bond with Sahara and now I am back to head our programming plans for the channel.”
With prior experience at MTV and B4U Music, Sundaram returns to SaharaOne as the network plans to spruce up its programming line up with six new shows, two being Solhar Singaarr and Kuch Apne Kuch Paraye. Two more additions being Zaara Pyaar Ki Saugat and Ghar Ek Sapna were officially announced today.
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.
