GECs
Sony TV kickstarts campaign for ‘KBC 13’ with a three-part short film
Mumbai: For the thirteenth season of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), the launch communication has evolved from being an advertising campaign to becoming branded entertainment. For the very first time, Sony TV explores a long-format film that will be presented in three installments. The film titled ‘Sammaan’ is conceptualised, written, and directed by Bollywood filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari.
Shot exclusively in Berchha, Madhya Pradesh, the film stars actor Omkar Das Manikpuri best known for his stage and film performances. With local talent adding to the authenticity of the narrative, the film delivers an immersive cinematic experience.
The idea of shooting this film at a real village like Berchha reiterates how KBC resonates with people of the country, even in its most remote corners, the channel said in a statement.
The film opens with a contextual scenario, relatable characters, and the narrative, helmed with a tinge of humor, engages the audience in the most unexpected manner. Nitesh Tiwari brings alive an interesting take on human emotions and aspirations with utmost subtlety.
KBC 13 is expected to on air soon
GECs
Asianet Television Awards 2026 celebrates women power in Malayalam TV
“She is the Colour” theme honours icons as ceremony airs on March 14 and 15 at 7 PM.
MUMBAI: If television lights up living rooms, this year Asianet decided to let women provide the colour. The Asianet Television Awards 2026 turned the spotlight firmly on women empowerment with the theme “She is the Colour”, celebrating the strength, resilience and achievements of women who continue to shape society and the Malayalam entertainment industry.
The ceremony honoured several distinguished personalities whose journeys have left a lasting cultural imprint. Among them was legendary playback singer Vimala Varma, widely recognised as the first Malayalam playback singer. The evening also paid tribute to Padma Shri awardees Devaki Amma and Vimala Menon for their exceptional contributions in their respective fields.
Leading women from the Malayalam film industry were also recognised during the event, including actor Shweta Menon, who currently serves as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, and National Award winning actor Surabhi Lakshmi.
The awards ceremony brought together a glittering lineup of actors and industry figures, including Jayasurya, Vijay Babu, Asha Sarath, Lena, Esther Anil, Anumol, Akhila Bhargavan, Sarayu Mohan, Prajod Kalabhavan, Gayathri Suresh, Sabumon Abdusamad, Swasika, Tini Tom, Sijoy Varghese, Kailash, Veena Nandakumar, Sabareesh Varma, Ansiba Hassan and Dinesh Prabhakar. Kishan Kumar, executive vice president Malayalam at JioStar, was also present at the event.
Beyond individual recognitions, the awards celebrated excellence across Malayalam television, acknowledging artists and technicians whose work continues to drive the industry forward.
The evening also offered plenty of spectacle, with elaborate dance performances, stunt acts and comedy skits performed by popular television and film personalities, turning the ceremony into a full fledged entertainment showcase.
Viewers will get to watch the celebrations when the Asianet Television Awards 2026 air on Asianet on March 14 and 15, Saturday and Sunday, from 7 pm onwards, bringing the star studded tribute to homes across Kerala and beyond.
