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Sony Pictures Networks launches Sony Kal in the US
Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), in association with Sony Pictures Television (SPT), has launched Sony Kal Hindi, its first free, ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel in the US. Sony Kal is SPNI’s new general entertainment destination featuring celebrated and award-winning drama and comedy television series direct from India.
The channel is now available on Sling TV, LG Channels and Plex, and will be available on additional platforms and services in early 2022, said the statement.
“With Sony Kal, anyone in the US can get free access to more of our rich and vibrant premium programming on a smart TV, computer or phone,” said SVP of international business- head of the Americas Jaideep Janakiram. “As our business continues to evolve, this launch follows the successful integration of SonyLIV on SLING and is part of our ongoing commitment to offer the best family-oriented South Asian content in high quality to viewers across multiple platforms and devices.”
Sony Kal is available on Sling Free and as an addition to Sling international language packages at no extra cost from 26 January. It has iconic shows such as “Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin” and “Bade Achhe Lagte Hai.” The channel’s programming lineup also includes popular shows such as “Mann Mein Vishwaas Hai,” “Dr Bhanumati on Duty,” “Super Sisters,” “Shankar Jai Kishan,” and “Band Baja Bandh Darwaza.”
“Sling and Sony have a long history of partnering to deliver compelling South Asian content to consumers in the US,” said Sling TV – VP of international Liz Riemersma. “The launch of Sony Kal on Sling is another milestone in that partnership. We are excited to provide this engaging new channel as a valuable addition for all Sling Desi customers.”
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.
