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Vijay TV’s Pongal lineup breaks records with stellar viewership
MUMBAI: Festive entertainment doesn’t get better than this. Vijay TV delivered a Pongal lineup for the ages, smashing viewership records and proving once again why it reigns supreme as Tamil Nadu’s leading satellite channel. From blockbuster premieres to its iconic reality shows, the channel left no stone unturned in ensuring that audiences had a Pongal to remember.
Vijay TV’s Pongal offerings were anchored by the sensational world television premiere of Amaran, starring Sivakarthikeyan and Sai Pallavi. This biographical action-drama captivated audiences with an impressive 8.5 TVR, reaching a jaw-dropping two crore viewers and generating 1.2 billion minutes of watch time.
Joining the fray, the nostalgic family drama Meiazhagan, featuring Karthi and Arvind Swamy, became another viewer favourite. With a heartfelt storyline, the movie garnered a stellar 7.4 TVR, cementing its place in Tamil Nadu’s festive tradition.
The Pongal movie lineup didn’t stop there. Vijay TV also premiered Vaazhai and the supernatural thriller Aranmanai 4, further bolstering its reputation for curating cinematic spectacles.
Vijay TV’s ability to merge cinematic brilliance with its signature reality shows, mega-serials, and game shows continues to set it apart from competitors. This Pongal, the channel didn’t just entertain—it dominated.
From securing high-profile premieres to delivering diverse content, Vijay TV consistently raises the bar for festive entertainment. As it continues to push boundaries and set new industry benchmarks, audiences know where to tune in for premium entertainment during Tamil Nadu’s most cherished occasions.
This year’s Pongal programming wasn’t just about numbers; it was about creating shared moments of joy across households. With record-breaking ratings, overwhelming audience appreciation, and unforgettable stories, Vijay TV ensured that Pongal 2025 was a cinematic celebration like no other.
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.
