News Headline
Sony Sports Network launches new Tamil Cricket Podcast – ‘Cricket Petta’
Mumbai: Sony Sports Network announced its latest initiative, Cricket Petta, a Tamil podcast dedicated to cricket fans, a first by a sports broadcaster in India. “Cricket Petta” – translating to Cricket Locality, aims to engage Tamil-speaking cricket enthusiasts by providing entertaining and insightful discussions on various aspects of the game with a local touch. Hosted by the versatile Tamil multi-sports commentator, Arun Venugopal, the five-episode podcast offers a refreshing take on cricket’s rich legacy and beyond.
The first episode will be released on 30 October 2024, with new episodes airing every Wednesday until 27 November 2024. The podcast will be available on all leading Podcast platforms including YouTube, JioSaavan, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Gaana, and Hungama.
The inaugural episode, titled “Is Ashwin the Greatest Player from Tamil Nadu to Represent India?”, features a lively discussion with former India Women’s Coach as well as India and Tamil Nadu player W.V. Raman, alongside current Puducherry and Tamil Nadu cricketer Arun Karthik. They share hilarious anecdotes and insider stories from their time with Ashwin, offering fans rare glimpses into dressing room dynamics.
Each episode will spotlight expert discussions on trending cricket topics, bringing the sport’s greatest moments and personalities to life. For instance, L. Sivaramakrishnan will compare the captaincy styles of M.S. Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma in one episode. Another will feature R. Sridhar and Vidyut Sivaramakrishnan debating iconic cricket venues such as Eden Gardens versus Wankhede Stadium.
Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer – distribution & international business and head – sports business, Rajesh Kaul said, “We are proud to launch Cricket Petta, marking our first Tamil- language podcast aimed at bringing the local flavour and rich cricketing narratives to regional audiences. Tamil Nadu has a rich cricketing history and at Sony Sports Networks we are constantly looking to bring out the stories sporting heroes to the Indian sports fans and the five-part series will only serve in fulfilling our objective of bringing communities closer through innovative sports programming. This is the first of many podcasts we intent to roll out, across sports and multiple languages in our ongoing endeavour to bring more stories to sports fans across India and the globe.”
Venugopal said, “With Cricket Petta, we’re offering an authentic look into Tamil Nadu’s cricket culture. Each episode explores unique perspectives, fascinating stories, and deep insights into the game we all love. Whether it’s discussing Ashwin’s remarkable journey or revisiting classic cricket moments, this podcast will resonate with fans who are passionate about the sport. I’m thrilled to be a part of this initiative and bring these conversations to the Tamil-speaking audience.”
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.
