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Sony to air John Cena’s final WWE showdown on 14 December
MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India has set the stage for a nostalgic yet unmissable night as it prepares to broadcast John Cena’s final WWE match on Sunday, 14 December. The bout will headline WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, forming part of a refreshed roster of WWE programming rolling out across India and neighbouring countries.
The multi-year tie-up brings two marquee shows to viewers: Saturday night’s main event, a primetime special packed with headline clashes from WWE Raw and SmackDown, and WWE Evolve, the weekly series spotlighting rising stars from WWE’s training and development pathways. While the former taps into retro flair that recalls the high-voltage specials of the 80s and 90s, the latter offers a ringside look at tomorrow’s talent trying to punch their way into WWE NXT.
Fans across India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan will be able to watch the action on SPNI channels and stream it on Sony LIV, with commentary available in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
All eyes, however, will be on John Cena’s last stand. After more than twenty years at the top of sports entertainment, the 16-time world champion is set for a farewell that marks the end of an era. Known for his grit, crowd-favourite charisma and crossover star power, Cena’s final match promises a moment steeped in history and heart for both loyal fans and casual viewers.
The broadcast will air live on Sony Sports Ten 1, Sony Sports Ten 3 Hindi, Sony Sports Ten 4 Tamil and Sony Sports Ten 4 Telugu, in addition to streaming on Sony LIV.
Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer – distribution and international business and head – sports business Rajesh Kaul, said the partnership strengthens the network’s long relationship with WWE and expands its sports entertainment slate. He added that showcasing Cena’s farewell match is a proud moment for the network and a fitting send-off for one of wrestling’s most iconic figures.
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.
