GECs
Viacom18-SPN merger deal likely to happen by mid-August: reports
MUMBAI: A merger of Sony Pictures Networks and Viacom18 Media is likely to be formally announced by mid-August, according to a Hindustan Times’ report.
The leading daily also mentioned that the merged entity is expected to start operations only by the end of 2021.
Viacom18 is a 51:49 joint venture between Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL)-owned Network18 and US-based Viacom Inc.
The merger has been in the process for almost a year and a half and it will see Sony take a majority stake of 74 per cent in Viacom while the latter will own the remaining 26 per cent.
The above said deal is aimed at providing RIL a greater control over the entertainment industry. It will eventually help it maintain the content pipeline for distribution on its cable service provider DEN and Hathway. Also, it will help its broadband and Internet service JioFiber.
“It gives a lot more muscle to Reliance as a distribution-oriented company with this dedicated content pipeline behind them,” mentioned Hindustan Times based on a source.
The proposed merger with Viacom18 will help Sony to expand its footprint in the overall entertainment sector. Because apart from its Hindi general entertainment channel, Viacom18 has regional language and children channels as well where Sony is lacking.
GECs
Sony PAL to air Sankat Mochan Hanuman from May 4 at 9 PM
Mythological series brings Lord Hanuman’s tale of devotion and courage back to TV
MUMBAI: Sony PAL is set to bring back the timeless mythological series Sankat Mochan Hanuman, with its premiere scheduled for May 4 at 9 PM. The show revisits the legendary journey of Lord Hanuman, offering viewers a chance to reconnect with one of Indian mythology’s most revered figures.
Centred on themes of devotion, courage and righteousness, the series traces Hanuman’s unwavering loyalty to Lord Ram and his fearless stand against evil. With its mix of dramatic storytelling and visually rich sequences, the show aims to deliver both entertainment and spiritual resonance, appealing to audiences across age groups.
The narrative unfolds as a larger-than-life saga, positioning Hanuman as the ultimate protector and a symbol of strength and selfless service. His journey, rooted in faith and duty, continues to strike a chord with viewers, making the series as relevant today as ever.
The cast features Gagan Malik as Lord Ram, Debalina Chatterjee as Sita, Nirbhay Wadhwa in the titular role, and Saurav Gurjar as Raavan. Their performances bring depth and authenticity to characters deeply embedded in Indian cultural memory.
With its return to television, the show is positioned as more than just a rerun. It taps into a renewed appetite for mythological storytelling, blending nostalgia with timeless values.
As audiences increasingly seek content that resonates beyond entertainment, ‘Sankat Mochan Hanuman’ offers a familiar yet powerful narrative, reminding viewers that stories of faith and courage never really go out of style.
