GECs
Zee Smile set for a revamp; Shailja Kejriwal to head
MUMBAI: Zee Network’s dead channel, Zee Smile is all set to ‘smile’ again. After more than a decade of its launch (September 2004), the network aims to get the channel up and running again.
According to sources close to the development, Zee Smile is set for a revamp in the coming months and Zeel chief creative head – special projects Shailja Kejriwal will head the project. She can also be credited for launching general entertainment channel (GEC), Zindagi last year for the Indian diaspora.
With the revamp, the channel is trying to move away from tear jerkers. It aims to bring the fraternity of television and theatre together. Sources from the industry say, “The channel, with the revamp, aims to grab attention of niche audience. Owing to that fact, Zee Smile will be televising plays.”
Shot like a TV series, the channel will have plays across languages dubbed in Hindi. A source within the network further confirms the development and reveals that the planning for the channel’s revamp had begun in December 2014.
Moreover, the theatre groups are also planning to travel across states like Punjab and Orissa amongst others to bring in visibility. “The artists have been rehearsing for close to three months before going on-floors. The shoot is likely to take place in the month of April. Research has also taken place parallely,” reveals a media planner.
“It is a good initiative taken by the network. Additionally, it aims to tap into the international markets, which is a plus point for theatre artists. They will get a good platform to showcase their talent across which they otherwise fail to get,” says a senior executive from a production house.
Kejriwal was unavailable for comment when contacted.
At present, the channel has no original shows in its baskets. It only airs reruns of popular drama series of its sister channel Zee TV such as Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli, Hitler Didi, Tumhari Disha, Woh, Pavitra Rishta and Hum Paanch.
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.
