iWorld
ZEE5 returns as the exclusive OTT partner for MumbaiCha Raja
Mumbai: ZEE5, India and Bharat’s largest home-grown video streaming platform and multilingual storyteller for multiple entertainment seekers, is proud to announce its continued partnership with the iconic MumbaiCha Raja for the second consecutive year. From 19 – 28 September, ZEE5 will be live streaming Bappa’s darshan and aarti straight from the pandal on the platform, bringing the divine festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi directly to the screens of millions of viewers across India, at zero cost.
Adding to the fervor of Ganpati celebration, ZEE5 launched a festive campaign, ‘Manoranjana Cha Raja’ (or ‘Manoranjan Ka Raja’) featuring a compilation of Ganpati celebrations from the top shows on ZEE5.
ZEE5 India chief business officer Manish Kalra, said on the collaboration, “We are elated to embark on another year of festive celebrations, graced by the blessings of MumbaiCha Raja at ZEE5. As a leading OTT platform with a significant presence in the regional markets, our endeavor is to take the iconic celebration of Ganpati at MumbaiCha Raja to millions of households across the nation. I extend my warmest wishes to all our audiences and welcome them to indulge in the joyous celebrations from the comfort of their homes with ZEE5.”
ZEE5 head of AVOD marketing Abhirup Datta said, “The celebration of Ganpati holds a special place in the hearts of people all across India and MumbaiCha Raja is iconic for the devotees. By livestreaming the darshan directly, we offer our audiences an opportunity to experience these auspicious moments in real time. Last year we received an encouraging response from our audiences, and we are going bigger and grander with the celebration this year. I hope that our viewers will join us in celebrating this festive occasion, as we promise/continue to provide them with high-quality and engaging content throughout the festive season.”
ZEE5 offers a diverse range of high-quality content catering to its viewers, showcasing popular titles and a selection of thoughtfully crafted narratives, including premium Marathi titles such as Dharmaveer: Mukkam Post Thane, Mulshi Pattern, Fatteshikast, Zombivli, Timepass 3, Gulabjaam, Timepass, Chi Va Chi Sau Ka, Ventilator, Anandi Gopal, among others.
To watch the Bappa darshan, download the ZEE5 app now or click on the link below.
iWorld
Bill Ackman’s Pershing Square makes $64 billion bid to acquire Universal Music Group
Ackman pitches NYSE relisting plan as UMG board weighs unsolicited offer
The hedge fund has proposed a business combination that values UMG at €30.40 per share, representing a hefty 78 per cent premium to its current trading price. The offer includes €9.4 billion in cash alongside stock in a newly formed entity, with shareholders set to receive €5.05 per share in cash and 0.77 shares in the new company for each UMG share they hold.
Under the proposal, UMG would merge with Pershing Square SPARC Holdings Ltd and re-emerge as a Nevada-based entity listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The move is designed to boost investor visibility and potentially secure inclusion in major indices such as the S&P 500.
Pershing Square Capital Management ceo Bill Ackman argued that while UMG’s operational performance remains strong, its market valuation has lagged due to external factors. “UMG’s stock price has languished due to a combination of issues that are unrelated to the performance of its music business,” Ackman said, pointing to concerns ranging from shareholder overhang to delayed US listing plans.
Ackman also flagged what he sees as untapped potential in UMG’s balance sheet and a lack of clear capital allocation strategy. He added that the market has not fully recognised the value of UMG’s €2.7 billion stake in Spotify, alongside gaps in investor communication.
The proposed transaction would also result in the cancellation of around 17 per cent of UMG’s outstanding shares, while maintaining its investment-grade balance sheet. Pershing Square has said it will fully backstop the equity financing, with debt commitments secured at signing. The deal is targeted for completion by the end of the year.
UMG, however, has struck a measured tone. The company confirmed that its board has received the non-binding proposal and will review it with advisers. It reiterated confidence in its current strategy and leadership under Lucian Grainge, signalling no immediate shift in stance.
The proposal comes at a time when global music companies are navigating evolving investor expectations, streaming economics and capital allocation pressures. For Pershing Square, the bet is clear: sharpen the financial story, relist in the US, and let the music play louder in the markets.
Whether UMG’s board is ready to change the tune remains to be seen, but the spotlight on its valuation just got a lot brighter.
