iWorld
ZEE5 celebrates creating yourself, one story at a time
Mumbai: ZEE5, one of India’s largest home-grown video streaming platforms, today unveiled its content brand manifesto through a thought-provoking film that reflects the underlying change in the mindset of today’s viewers. As opposed to a linear quest for a singular goalpost of ‘settling down’, the film captures and celebrates the fluidity with which people have begun to make life choices; unravelling new dimensions within themselves and exploring uncharted territories as they journey through life.
The campaign film, ‘Roz Kuch Naya Bante Raho’ uses the device of a sculptor to showcase this philosophy. In the course of the film, we see him mould, shape, chisel and recreate a piece of art using different materials, styles and textures. We see him create an array of busts which are inherently the same, yet strikingly different. This visually powerful metaphor represents the multiplicity within each of us and the constant evolution of a work-in-progress generation. Viewers are urged to embrace this fluidity through inspiring lines like “Behte Raho, Aakaar Lete Raho, Roz Kuch Naya Bante Raho”. The film ends with a poignant question – “Aaj Kya Banoge?”
The visual metaphor is further enhanced by actor Manoj Bajpayee’s evocative narration. His delivery adds character to the film as he truly embodies the spirit of multiplicity. From being a theatre actor to taking on diverse film roles that explore his sheer range as an artiste and now his latest turn as a producer, he has transcended the confines of familiarity and pushed the boundaries of creative expression. Strengthening the connection with the artist further, the film opens with the manifesto line penned in Manoj’s very own handwriting.
Bajpayee said, “As a platform that has its finger on the pulse of the viewer, ZEE5 is sending out a very relevant and critical message through its new content brand manifesto. At a time when people don’t want to be bound by labels and wish to stay unfinished rather than settling down, ZEE5 endeavours to tell stories that will serve as a springboard to its viewers’ aspirations, fuelling their path of self-discovery. As an artiste, the diverse roles I’ve had the opportunity to play have helped me explore the different facets of my personality. As someone who has been a part of some of the platform’s finest content, I was more than pleased to be the voice that delivers such a pertinent message.”
ZEE5 India CBO Manish Kalra said, “We, at ZEE5, believe that our customers are our key priority and all our teams focus on delivering to meet their expectations. Be it storytelling, technology or business initiatives, they must stem from a profound understanding of our consumers’ lives, their desires, need-states and beliefs. Our content brand manifesto will serve us as a compass that guides the brand’s journey over the years, aligning all stakeholders, content partners to craft an experience that truly resonates with our audience.”
ZEE CMO – content SBU Kartik Mahadev said, “Today’s youth are seekers, explorers; a work-in-progress generation. As believers and cheerleaders of this new mindset, ZEE5, through its content, invites everyone to explore the countless dimensions and versions of themselves; to keep creating themselves, one story at a time. From immersive dramas to documentaries, from comedies to thrillers, from India and around the world, ZEE5’s rich and varied range of offerings have the potential to unlock, inspire and shape ideas, dreams, beliefs, possibilities and behaviour.”
iWorld
Samay Raina confirms return of India’s Got Latent after controversy
Still Alive mixes humour and reflection as comedian revisits 2025 row
MUMBAI: Samay Raina has signalled a possible return of his controversial show India’s Got Latent, using his latest stand-up special Still Alive to address the past and hint at what lies ahead.
Released on YouTube, the special marks Raina’s most candid take yet on the backlash that forced the show off air in 2025. While much of the performance leans on humour, it also dips into more reflective territory, offering a glimpse into the emotional toll of the controversy.
Recounting the fallout, YouTube comedian samay raina said, “We were both extremely unsettled. How would we navigate this? It was terrifying. We were lost as to what was happening.” He also spoke about a moment involving fellow comedian Balraj Ghai’s family, describing it as overwhelming and difficult to process.
The personal impact of the episode came through most strongly when Raina spoke about his family. He admitted he struggled to even answer a call from his mother during the crisis. YouTube comedian samay raina said, “I hesitated to answer her call and show my tear-streaked face. How would she react? My mom is unaware of anything except how to love.”
Amid the introspection, Raina also dropped a clear hint about the future of his show. While he believes the first season ended on a high note, he confirmed that he intends to revive it. YouTube comedian samay raina said, “I will bring back the show because it used to be fun making it.”
The original run of India’s Got Latent had been pulled down following widespread criticism and legal scrutiny over controversial remarks that went viral, prompting debates around content boundaries in India’s digital entertainment space. Raina later removed episodes and issued an apology, stepping back from major releases for a period.
His return now appears more measured, blending humour with reflection and signalling a creative reset. He also hinted that the next iteration of the show could be more raw and unfiltered, though details remain under wraps.
For fans, the takeaway is simple. The show that sparked both laughter and debate may be gearing up for a second act, with Raina ready to test the limits once again, this time with a sharper sense of where the lines lie.
