GECs
Sony Entertainment Television’s exclusive linear TV airing of Shrimad Ramayan
Mumbai: Sony Entertainment Television (SET) celebrated the New Year by connecting with Indian television viewers through its exclusive linear TV airing of Shrimad Ramayan. Recognising the enduring allure of linear TV, the channel chose to launch the divine epic exclusively on cable TV and DTH platforms.
Shrimad Ramayan resonates deeply with millions, portraying essential relationships amid inherent conflicts. The narrative of Lord Ram, the ‘Ideal Man,’ embodies timeless values such as integrity, loyalty, courage, love, and resilience. In an endeavour to echo the relevancy of the value that this timeless epic is known for, SET has created compelling short videos promoting the essence of relationships and essential life lessons
Beyond the familiar story, Shrimad Ramayan will also showcase multiple untold stories, offering a nuanced understanding of the saga’s depth and eternal beauty. By exclusively releasing it on cable TV and DTH, Sony Entertainment Television aims to play a vital role in revitalizing family viewing.
SPNI’s distribution marketing and sales head Makarand Palekar emphasises, “In my experience, while streaming services have become increasingly popular, linear TV remains a resilient and relevant part of the media landscape. It is not only coexisting with on- demand platforms but also adapting to evolving viewer habits, ensuring its continued presence in the foreseeable future.”
Sony Entertainment Networks was amongst the earliest movers to make the bold, industry-first step of discontinuing all its Live TV channels on Sony LIV. This move along with exclusive Linear TV only releases like Srimad Ramayan will help create differentiated content, both in the linear & the OTT offerings of the network, thus helping drive viewership and revenues for both the mediums.
The network, known for its novel and popular shows, features progressive storylines in existing shows like ‘Kavya – Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon,’ ‘Sapnon Ki Chhalaang,’ ‘Mere Dad ki Dulhan,’ and ‘Aangan.’ Upcoming shows such as ‘Mehndi Wala Ghar,’ ‘Kuch Reet Jagat Ki Aisi Hai,’ and ‘Nivedita Maajhi Tai’ promise a rich and diverse content mix.
Undoubtedly these shows are a huge draw for viewers and also provide advertisers with distinct opportunities for targeted engagement and strategic product placements. Company anticipates that exclusive content like Shrimad Ramayan marks the beginning of a pivotal moment in the continued vitality of television entertainment. The distinctive allure of such shows, with their unique narratives and exclusive platform specific airing, is poised to significantly elevate viewership and reaffirm the enduring appeal of linear television.
GECs
Samsung TV Plus launches Kings of Comedy channel
New free FAST channel brings iconic Hindi comedy shows to millions of Samsung Smart TV owners.
MUMBAI: Samsung TV Plus has just turned up the laughter volume and it’s completely free. The leading free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service in India has launched Kings of Comedy, a premium comedy channel featuring some of the country’s most beloved primetime shows. Available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, the channel delivers back-to-back hits including Comedy Nights with Kapil, Khatra Khatra Khatra, and Comedy Nights Bachao, with no login or subscription required.
The launch marks a milestone for free streaming in India, offering audiences a dedicated comedy destination directly from their Samsung TV home screen. It arrives as Samsung TV Plus India celebrates its 5th anniversary, during which the service has grown its monthly active users by 42 per cent and more than doubled its total viewing hours. The platform now offers over 180 free channels across 14 languages.
Samsung TV Plus India general manager and head of business development Kunal Mehta said, “Comedy is the heartbeat of Hindi entertainment, and Kings of Comedy brings together the shows Indians already love, completely free on their Samsung TV. Our focus remains the same take the content people know and make it effortless to access.”
Globally, Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users across more than 4,500 channels, solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading free streaming services.
Kings of Comedy is now available on all compatible Samsung Smart TVs. For viewers seeking non-stop laughter without any cost, this new channel delivers a royal treat proving that sometimes the best entertainment really does come with no strings (or subscriptions) attached.
