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‘Video Call a Friend’? Kaun Banega Crorepati dials Xiaomi India
Mumbai: Xiaomi India, the country’s most trusted smartphone X AIoT brand has joined hands with one of India’s most iconic television shows – Kaun Banega Crorepati, which airs on Sony Entertainment Television. Bringing in technology integration that enhances the show’s technology quotient, this collaboration will introduce a new way for contestants to seek the “Video Call a Friend” lifeline.
In the newest season of Kaun Banega Crorepati, the ‘Video Call a Friend’ lifeline will be powered by Xiaomi’s 5G devices including the latest Redmi 12 5G. This lifeline enables contestants to connect with their friends through video calls, helping them make an informed decision during the game.
Commenting on the partnership, Xiaomi India chief marketing officer Anuj Sharma stated, “Kaun Banega Crorepati has been an integral part of Indian households for years. Like the show, Xiaomi India has been touching millions of hearts in its 9 years of journey in India. Both are rooted in authenticity and dedicated to connecting with the masses. Through this collaboration, we are delighted to introduce a fresh dimension to the ‘Video Call a Friend’ lifeline through our 5G technology.”
Xiaomi India head- marketing partnership & alliance Prateik Das said, “A robust partnership is the driving force behind a brand’s progress and ingenuity. This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration that resonates deeply with audiences, creating an impact that goes beyond boundaries.”
SET, Sony SAB and Sony MAX movies cluster head – marketing & communications Vaishali Sharma said, “Kaun Banega Crorepati is one of the most loved formats in the reality TV shows segment. Demonstrating the power of knowledge and mirroring the spirit of change in the country, this season will see the introduction of a host of fresh elements that make the gameplay more intriguing. In this updated and upgraded version, the 5G technology of Xiaomi smartphones will play a pivotal role in enhancing the critical ‘Video Call a Friend’ lifeline experience for our contestants.”
Kaun Banega Crorepati, hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, has been a cultural phenomenon since its inception, captivating audiences with its blend of knowledge and entertainment. This initiative aligns seamlessly with Xiaomi’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of technology to enhance everyday lives.
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.
