Reality
Indian Idol goes global with first-ever international edition at Yas Island
Sony Pictures Networks India takes the hit singing show abroad, featuring Madhubanti Bagchi and star-studded performances
MUMBAI: Indian Idol is stepping onto the global stage. Sony Pictures Networks India announced its maiden international edition, set to film at Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, marking a historic first for the iconic singing competition.
Renowned playback singer and composer Madhubanti Bagchi will join the extravaganza as a special guest, lending her voice and star power. Bagchi, known for hits like Aaj Ki Raat from Stree 2, Peelings from Pushpa 2: The Rule, Shararat from Dhurandhar, and Bengali favourites such as Sesher Isharay and Bhalo Lege Jaay, promises to elevate the ‘Yaadon Ki Playlist’ experience.
Indian Idol has long been a launchpad for remarkable talent. This Yas Island special amplifies the show’s scale and spectacle, bringing contestants to one of the world’s top entertainment destinations, home to award-winning theme parks, world-class attractions, and international live events.
Vishal Dadlani said, “Moments like these are defining for young emerging artists as they inspire confidence, sharpen ambition, and truly spotlight the scale at which Indian Idol operates. Given how widely Indian music today is being consumed, shared, and celebrated across the world, this special episode at Yas Island further exposes contestants to a larger stage, preparing them for the global music industry.”
Badshah added, “This special episode brings a whole new level of excitement for everyone. Indian music and talent are celebrated and followed across the globe and shooting the episodes in Yas Island will further boost the contestants’ confidence to new heights. Performing on a global stage will surely push them to raise their game.”
Aditya Narayan said, “Indian Idol has continued to set new benchmarks in identifying and nurturing talent. The show has always celebrated dreams, and this international episode reflects how the show continues to grow in scale and ambition.”
Catch Indian Idol’s Yas Island special exclusively on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV on 21st and 22nd February, 2026, at 8:00 pm — where ambition meets spectacle on a truly global stage.
Reality
SPNI honours distribution partners with special Wheel of Fortune episode
Trade partners step into spotlight as contestants in unique TV tribute
MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India has rolled out a special episode of Wheel of Fortune dedicated to its distribution partners, turning the spotlight on the very network that keeps its channels running across millions of homes.
The episode, part of the show’s debut season in India, saw trade and distribution partners invited to the set not just as spectators but as participants. Some even stepped up as contestants, swapping control rooms for the studio floor in a rare behind-the-scenes experience.
Hosted by Akshay Kumar, the show offered partners a first-hand look at the scale and mechanics of a large-format television production. The actor also acknowledged their often unseen role in ensuring content reaches audiences nationwide.
This marks the first time in India that a broadcaster has dedicated an entire non-fiction television episode to its trade fraternity, highlighting the importance of collaboration in the broadcasting ecosystem.
Speaking about the initiative, Sony Pictures Networks India head linear distribution Makarand Palekar said, “Distribution has always been a critical pillar in SPNI’s growth story. Our partners are not just enablers of reach, but key collaborators in building the television ecosystem. This initiative was our way of celebrating the business together in a unique way, acknowledging the trust and long-standing relationships that power our network.”
Industry partners echoed the sentiment. GTPL managing director Anirudhsinh Jadeja noted that such initiatives make partners feel genuinely included, while GTPL chief business officer Paramveer Jadeja highlighted the scale and attention to detail behind the production.
Adding to the chorus, ICNCL partner Suresh Sethiya described the experience as memorable, offering a deeper appreciation of the craft behind television content. Fastway director Sarabjit Singh said the initiative underlined the importance of strong industry relationships.
The move aligns with SPNI’s broader focus on non-fiction programming, with a portfolio that includes popular titles such as Indian Idol, Kaun Banega Crorepati, MasterChef India and Shark Tank India.
By turning the camera towards its own ecosystem, SPNI has served up a simple reminder that behind every successful show is a network of partners who help bring the picture home.
