Kids
Disney Channel to launch in Russia
MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Co has formed a joint venture with Media-One Holdings, which owns and operates 30 TV stations across Russia, to launch a free-to-air television channel in the country in 2009.
Apart from showcasing popular Disney shows like Hannah Montana” and “Wizards of Waverly Place dubbed in Russian, the channel will also be anchored by original Russian programming.
As a part of the deal, Disney, which holds a 49 per cent stake in the channel, will supply cash and programming along with expertise in content acquisition and marketing to kids and families.
Presently, the deal must receive regulatory approval from Russia, which requires foreign investors to have Russian partners.
According to Walt Disney International chairman Andy Bird, since the cable and satellite television audience is limited in Russia, the new channel will be broadcast over the airwaves for free in most of the country. However, in cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg the channel will be delivered by cable. Thus, the channel could reach approximately 75 per cent of Russian television viewers.
Earlier, Disney had formed a joint venture with Sony Pictures Releasing International to distribute films in Russia.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!







