News Headline
Star Sports garners 28 per cent viewership growth in first 24 PKL matches
Mumbai: Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the Pro Kabaddi League, has notched up significant viewership figures building on a strong start at the opening weekend, solidifying its status as the second most popular sport in the country. According to BARC, Star Sports reached an astounding 158 million viewers in the first 24 matches of the tournament, marking an impressive growth of 20 per cent compared to the previous season. The watch time during this period increased by 25% to 12.8 billion minutes compared to the last edition. The broadcaster also witnessed a remarkable growth of 28 per cent in TVR compared to season 9, reflecting the growing interest and enthusiasm among fans for the high-octane action that Pro Kabaddi League delivers.
A Star Sports spokesperson said, “We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming response and would like to thank fans for their continued love for the sport. Pro Kabaddi League holds a special place in the hearts of millions, and the increasing viewership numbers are a testament to the league’s popularity. The fast-paced matches and nail-biting endings have kept fans on the edge of their seats.”
The Pro Kabaddi League has become a cultural phenomenon in India, showcasing the indigenous sport at its best and providing a platform for athletes to shine on the national stage. Star Sports Network remains committed to delivering unparalleled sports entertainment, and these remarkable viewership figures demonstrate the unwavering support and passion of the Indian audience for Pro Kabaddi.
Reach and Watch-time Data for 2+U+R (TV + OOH)
Ratings on India Urban M15+ AB
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.
