Factual
Pay channels not to go FTA post-CAS: IBF
MUMBAI: The Indian Broadcasting Foundation (IBF) may be riven by opposing viewpoints regarding the issue of the four-metro rollout of conditional access in India post the 14 July deadline announced by the government, but on one point there appears to be unity.
The IBF is reportedly set to issue a statement tomorrow that post-CAS the pay driven channels would not go free-to-air (FTA). A top broadcast company executive confirmed the same to indiantelevision.com.
He could however offer no clarity on a reported demand by Zee Group CMD Subhash Chandra that the statement should also include a line that the IBF would abide by the government stipulated deadline, as too the rollout in the four main metros of Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai.
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IBF united to thrash out differences on CAS
MUMBAI: India’s most famous hot seat is about to welcome an unlikely first-timer. For the first time on Hindi general entertainment television, industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla will appear on Kaun Banega Crorepati, the iconic quiz show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan.
The special episode marks a rare meeting point of boardroom heft and prime-time television, bringing one of India’s most influential business leaders face to face with the country’s most enduring screen legend. It is a crossover that blends intellect, leadership and popular culture, all under KBC’s familiar spotlight.
Birla’s appearance dovetails neatly with the show’s current theme, Jahaan Akal Hai, Wahan Akad Hai, which celebrates the confidence that comes from clarity of thought and knowledge. His presence lends weight to the idea that sharp thinking and conviction are as vital in life as they are in the quiz chair.
In a thoughtful conversation with Bachchan, Birla shared an upbeat view of India’s economic journey, pointing to the nation’s rapid growth and the scale of opportunity opening up across industries and communities. He spoke of momentum, ambition and a future shaped by enterprise and ideas.
The episode is not all serious talk. In lighter moments, Birla confessed his long-standing admiration for Bachchan, calling him his favourite actor and admitting to a touch of nervousness at answering questions in front of the Shahenshah himself. The candour adds a human touch to a man more often seen in headlines than on television sets.
The special episode airs on Monday, 29 December at 9.00 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.
