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Sony Pictures Networks India rolls out second Wheel of Fortune brand film with Akshay Kumar
MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India has unveiled the second brand film for Wheel of Fortune, sharpening the buzz around its upcoming marquee property and once again putting Akshay Kumar front and centre.
The latest film builds on the tone of the first campaign, leaning into situational comedy and Kumar’s effortless comic timing. Designed as a family-friendly entertainer, it taps into the star’s mass appeal while underscoring the playful unpredictability at the heart of the format.
Conceptualised, directed and produced by Vikas Bahl under his banner Good Co., the film uses witty misinterpretations and wordplay to familiarise Indian audiences with the show. “The idea was to introduce the show while staying true to its playfulness. With Akshay Kumar, we could naturally explore moments where a single word can change everything,” said Bahl.
Together, the two brand films stitch a cohesive narrative around anticipation and fun, anchored by the campaign line: “अब मैटर करेगा हर एक अक्षर, जब घूमेगा जादू का चक्कर.”
A global television heavyweight, Wheel of Fortune has been named the most-watched entertainment show on American television by Variety, recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s most popular TV game show, and honoured with a Daytime Emmy Award for outstanding game show.
Now, as the iconic format spins into India, Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV are betting big on familiarity, star power and fast-paced fun. The wheel is turning — and the stakes are about to get louder.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
