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Z shines as DP World ILT20 Season 4 wraps in thrilling finale
MUMBAI: Z has once again hit a six with its sports coverage, bringing fans a nail-biting conclusion to DP World ILT20 Season 4. The Desert Vipers claimed their first-ever title in a thrilling showdown against MI Emirates, capping off a tournament that kept cricket lovers glued to screens across India.
The competition, broadcast exclusively on Z, combined top-tier cricket with compelling storylines, ensuring fans stayed hooked from the league stages to the grand finale. Viewers could catch the action live on Z’s TV channels or stream it free on Zee 5 Hindi, making the excitement accessible to all.
Zee Entertainment head of advertisement revenue, broadcast and digital Laxmi Shetty said, “This season of DP World ILT20 has been nothing short of spectacular. From edge-of-the-seat finishes to historic victories, it’s been a celebration of cricket and fan passion. Z is committed to being India’s go-to destination for sports, and we are excited to expand into more thrilling properties in 2026, from regional favourites like Kabaddi to emerging sports such as Baseball, Padel, Pickleball, Handball, and Taekwondo.”
Fans at Dubai International Stadium were treated to more than cricket, with a dazzling fireworks display and drone show adding carnival-like flair to the final. The festival atmosphere reflected the energy and entertainment that Z brings to every sporting event.
With Season 4 wrapped, Z is poised to strengthen its sports portfolio and offer viewers even more world-class action in 2026, proving that when it comes to sports, the network is always in play.
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.
