GECs
Networks like ZEE have successfully upheld linear TV’s relevance by focusing on family-oriented programming: Ashish Sehgal
Mumbai: ZEE Network unveiled its latest campaign, ‘Dilfluencers’, celebrating the connection its beloved TV characters share with audiences across Bharat. Far beyond the fleeting appeal of social media influencers, ZEE’s characters have become steadfast companions to millions, touching hearts and inspiring lives every single day.
The campaign is rooted in the message of #SachTohYehiHai, emphasizing the authenticity and deep emotional resonance these characters have cultivated since ZEE’s inception in 1992.
ZEE’s characters have become symbols of resilience, empowerment, and hope. Today, they stand as a daily presence in the lives of 174 million viewers, shaping conversations and fostering connections that go far beyond the screen.
The ‘Dilfluencers’ campaign also presents a unique opportunity for brands to harness the deep-rooted trust and authenticity these characters command. Unlike transient social media trends, ZEE’s characters are woven into the fabric of everyday life, offering brands an avenue to create meaningful and enduring connections with audiences.
On traditional TV continuing to remain relevant in India despite the digital boom, ZEE chief growth officer, digital & broadcast revenue, Ashish Sehgal said, “Linear TV continues to play a vital role in the modern media landscape, even as digital and connected TV platforms grow in prominence. Its mass reach remains unparalleled, drawing over 100 million viewers daily—a scale that digital platforms often find challenging to replicate for a single piece of content.
One of linear TV’s defining characteristics is its ability to provide a shared experience through appointment viewing. Audiences come together at specific times to watch popular shows, fostering communal moments with family and friends that are less common in the fragmented world of digital media. Additionally, linear TV excels at creating emotional connections with viewers, making it an ideal platform for building impactful brand narratives and delivering memorable advertising campaigns.”
On the question of innovating, he further opined, “To stay competitive, linear TV must continuously innovate and produce high-quality, engaging content that keeps audiences invested. The rise of Smart and connected TVs has further enhanced the traditional viewing experience, offering seamless integration of digital content with linear programming. Rather than replacing linear TV, these advancements complement its offerings, broadening its appeal and strengthening its ability to engage viewers.
Networks like ZEE have successfully upheld linear TV’s relevance by focusing on family-oriented programming that resonates with diverse audiences, fostering loyalty across demographics. While digital platforms continue to evolve, linear TV remains a key medium due to its extensive reach, emotional resonance, and capacity to create shared viewing experiences. The integration of digital features into traditional TV formats underscores its adaptability and enduring importance in the media ecosystem,” he concludes.
GECs
Asianet Television Awards 2026 celebrates women power in Malayalam TV
“She is the Colour” theme honours icons as ceremony airs on March 14 and 15 at 7 PM.
MUMBAI: If television lights up living rooms, this year Asianet decided to let women provide the colour. The Asianet Television Awards 2026 turned the spotlight firmly on women empowerment with the theme “She is the Colour”, celebrating the strength, resilience and achievements of women who continue to shape society and the Malayalam entertainment industry.
The ceremony honoured several distinguished personalities whose journeys have left a lasting cultural imprint. Among them was legendary playback singer Vimala Varma, widely recognised as the first Malayalam playback singer. The evening also paid tribute to Padma Shri awardees Devaki Amma and Vimala Menon for their exceptional contributions in their respective fields.
Leading women from the Malayalam film industry were also recognised during the event, including actor Shweta Menon, who currently serves as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, and National Award winning actor Surabhi Lakshmi.
The awards ceremony brought together a glittering lineup of actors and industry figures, including Jayasurya, Vijay Babu, Asha Sarath, Lena, Esther Anil, Anumol, Akhila Bhargavan, Sarayu Mohan, Prajod Kalabhavan, Gayathri Suresh, Sabumon Abdusamad, Swasika, Tini Tom, Sijoy Varghese, Kailash, Veena Nandakumar, Sabareesh Varma, Ansiba Hassan and Dinesh Prabhakar. Kishan Kumar, executive vice president Malayalam at JioStar, was also present at the event.
Beyond individual recognitions, the awards celebrated excellence across Malayalam television, acknowledging artists and technicians whose work continues to drive the industry forward.
The evening also offered plenty of spectacle, with elaborate dance performances, stunt acts and comedy skits performed by popular television and film personalities, turning the ceremony into a full fledged entertainment showcase.
Viewers will get to watch the celebrations when the Asianet Television Awards 2026 air on Asianet on March 14 and 15, Saturday and Sunday, from 7 pm onwards, bringing the star studded tribute to homes across Kerala and beyond.
