Movies
PVR INOX & AAJ TAK to livestream the historic Ram Mandir inauguration
Mumbai: PVR INOX Ltd has announced that it will bring the live screening of historic Ram Mandir inauguration during the consecration ceremony to its cinema screens on 22 January 2024. The momentous event marks a significant cultural milestone in India, and is hugely anticipated across the country. PVR INOX will be broadcasting this significant ceremony live with AAJ TAK across 160 plus cinemas across 70 plus cities of India. The live screening of the ceremony will take place from 11 am till 3 pm. Tickets can be booked through the PVR INOX app or website and other platforms at a flat price of Rs 100 which includes a beverage and popcorn combo making it accessible to a wide audience eager to witness the historic event on the big screens.
PVR INOX Ltd co-CEO Gautam Dutta expressing his excitement on this momentous occasion said, “Grand and historic occasion like this have to be experienced in an equally grand manner. The cinema screens will bring to life the emotions of a collective celebration across the country. It will be a privilege for us to be able to connect the devotees with this celebration in a truly unique manner. We hope that we will be able to recreate the buzz of the temple, the auspicious chants and the breath-taking visuals and bring alive the magic of the most awaited moments in India’s contemporary history. Our commitment to providing a memorable and immersive cinematic experience extends beyond entertainment, and we look forward to sharing this historic moment with our patrons”
PVR INOX invites its patrons to witness this historic occasion on the grand screens of PVR INOX, offering an immersive experience that captures the splendour and significance of the Ram Mandir’s inauguration. This unique opportunity allows audiences to come together and celebrate this cultural landmark on a scale befitting its historical importance.
India Today Group CEO Dinesh Bhatia added, “At AAJ TAK, our commitment to being at the forefront of historic moments remains unwavering. With unparalleled clarity and depth, we deliver news that matters, seen by all as the permanent choice for credibility and trust. The collaboration with PVR INOX takes our mission to new heights, connecting millions in India during significant events like this. Whether it’s the Pran Pratistha in Ayodhya or other crucial moments, Aaj Tak continues to be the beacon for those seeking reliable coverage and a sense of togetherness.”
Hollywood
Paramount seeks FCC nod for foreign-backed $110 billion WBD deal
Gulf funds back merger as foreign stake nears 50 per cent, control stays with Ellison
NEW YORK: Paramount Global has approached the Federal Communications Commission seeking approval for foreign investments tied to its proposed $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, marking another key step in one of the biggest media deals in recent years.
According to regulatory filings made public this week, the investment backing the deal includes major Gulf sovereign funds such as the Public Investment Fund, the Qatar Investment Authority and L’imad Holding Company. Together, foreign investors are expected to hold just under 50 per cent of Paramount’s equity once the transaction is complete.
Despite the sizeable international backing, Paramount has made it clear that voting control will remain with the family of chief executive David Ellison, ensuring the company stays firmly under US control as required by broadcasting rules.
A company spokesperson described the FCC filing as routine for transactions involving foreign capital and stressed that it does not impact the closing of the deal. Under US law, any significant foreign ownership in broadcast licence holders must undergo regulatory review.
The merger itself has already cleared a major hurdle, with Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders approving the deal on 23 April. The transaction values the company at $31 per share, a 147 per cent premium to its earlier trading price, reflecting strong strategic intent behind the tie-up.
If completed, the combined entity will bring together a vast portfolio including Warner Bros. film studios, HBO Max, and networks such as CNN, TNT and Discovery Channel. The deal is currently expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.
However, scrutiny is intensifying. The US Department of Justice has issued subpoenas seeking details on the merger’s potential impact on cinema competition, streaming services and content licensing. Reviews are also anticipated in international markets, including the United Kingdom.
There is also a financial safety net built into the agreement. If regulators ultimately block the deal, Paramount would face a $7 billion break-up fee. Additionally, the company has taken on $2.8 billion in obligations previously owed by Warner Bros. Discovery to Netflix following an earlier terminated arrangement.
Paramount maintains that easing foreign ownership barriers will unlock fresh capital and strengthen its ability to compete in a rapidly evolving media landscape. For now, the spotlight remains on regulators, whose decision will determine whether this global media consolidation moves from script to screen.
