MxMIndia

Tag: Zee

  • To enhance the Company’s technological capabilities

    Zee appoints Shiva Chinnasamy as Chief Technology & Product Officer

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has appointd Shiva Chinnasamy as Chief Technology & Product Officer. In this new role, Chinnasamy will be based at the company’s Technology & Innovation Centre (TIC) in Bengaluru, and will report into Amit Goenka, President – Digital Business, International Linear Business, Enterprise Technology and Broadcast Operations & Engineering.

    Speaking on the appointment, Goenka said: “As the company moves forward in line with its strategic objectives to drive robust growth, certain action-oriented steps are being implemented to enhance the capabilities of the businesses. Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall customer journey across all our platforms, and our Technology and Innovation Centre is steadily working towards gaining a deeper understanding of our vast audience base in order to deliver successful business outcomes.”

  • Leo Burnett, FCB, Zee shine on Day 2

    Leo Burnett, FCB, Zee shine on Day 2

    Photograph: Bossman Dheeraj Sinha with Team FCB bagging the Grand Prix in the Technology category

     

    On the second day of the Abby Awards held at Goafest 2024, Leo Burnett India was awarded the Specialist Agency of the Year title in four categories namely Technology, Direct, Mobile and Digital. FCB was declared the Public Relations and Design Specialist Agency of the Year and Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) bagged the Broadcaster of the Year.

     

    FCB Group India won the two Grand Prix. One for the #Lulumelon campaign for HDFC Bank in the Technology category for use of AI, and the other in Direct for for social awareness or charity causes for Stir Design Magazine’s Untangling The Politics Of Hair campaign.

     

    In the Technology category, Leo Burnett India topped with won two silver and five bronze metals. While LBI got 36 points, FCB was second with 26 which included a Grand Prix. Hardcastle was third with 10 points.

     

    In Direct , Leo Burnett bagged 26 points with two silver and three bronze metals. Although FCB was awarded the Grand Prix in Direct, it was second with 20 points. Star India was in the third place with 8 points.

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    In Mobile category, Leo Burnett topped with 18 points – a gold, silver and a bronze, followed by Redbus. This was followed by Flipkart and Hardcastle – both at third place with 8 points each.

     

    In Digital category, Leo Burnett India topped the tally with 54 points – two golds, four silvers and two bronze metals. FCB Group India was second in this category at 32 points, and Redbus was third with 21 points.

     

    FCB topped in Design with two bronzes that earned them 10 points. Brave was second with 9 points and Creative Land Asia and Ebbxflo were a joint third with 6 points each.

     

    In Public Relations , as it happens internationally, more than PR agencies, it was creative agencies topping the tally. FCB Group India topped the category with one gold and three silvers at 27 points. Leo Burnett was second with 21, followed by Tribes Communication at third with 10 points.

     

    Zee Entertainment was Broadcaster of the Year with two golds, 10 silvers and six bronze metals at 100 points. Interestingly, Zee Kannada had entered separately and it grabbed the second place with 66 points. Would’ve been a tad tricky if it was on top, and ZEEL was second. TV18 secured the third place with 8.

  • Live on TV & OTT platform ZEE5

    Zee to broadcast DP World ILT20 Season 3

    Zee Entertainment is getting set to broadcast DP World ILT20 Season 3. Season 3 of the DP World International League T20 that is scheduled to begin from Saturday, January 11, 2025.

    The 34-match event will be played at the three UAE cricket venues – Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah – starting from January 11, 2025 to February 9, 2025. It will be aired on Zee TV channels and on Zee5.

    The franchise-style tournament will see six teams playing 34 matches. The league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global).

    Said Ashish Sehgal, Chief Growth Officer – Ad Sales, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL): “Zee is delighted to present DP World ILT20 third season and promises an electrifying experience to cricket fans in India and around the world. With the world’s finest players, iconic stadiums, and infrastructure and six leading sporting franchises, our goal is to build upon the previous year’s success, further solidifying the league’s stature as one of the most-widely followed cricket events in the world. In our pursuit to grow the market, we are continuously exploring innovative ways to enhance the fan experience, making it more interactive, immersive, and engaging. We are collaborating with cutting-edge technologies and creating new avenues for cricket enthusiasts to connect with the sport. As we embark on this exciting new season, our goal is to ensure that this truly-global league becomes more accessible to viewers worldwide.”

    Added CEO DP World ILT20 David White: “We are delighted to confirm the window for DP World International League T20 Season 3. The window has been finalised after discussions with our stakeholders. We have begun our preparations for Season 3 with an aim of making the league even bigger and better.”

  • To give back 50% of entry fees at the Kyoorius Creative Awards 2024

    Kyoorius & Zee together again for KCA 2024

    Kyoorius has announced the twelfth edition of the Kyoorius Creative Awards and is going to be presented by Zee. Notes a communique: “The directive for 2024, is to galvanize the community to GiveBack to the industry that has given them so much. To kickstart the initiative, Kyoorius GivesBack, for every entry that does not make it into the first list (that is, beyond the first round of judging), Kyoorius will pay back 50% of the entry fee to the entrant.

    “A deep dive into the global awards ecosystem revealed that over 75% of all entries in any award show go unrewarded or are literally, rejected in the first round of judging itself.”

    Rajesh Kejriwal
    Rajesh Kejriwal

    Said Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder and CEO of Kyoorius: “Beyond recognising excellence, Kyoorius also stands to recognise obstacles,” adding: “Addressing the pain points of our entrants and the award ecosystem has always been our mission.”

    Punit Goenka

    Added Punit Goenka, MD and CEO, Zee: “We’re proud to continue our support for the Kyoorius Creative Awards and its newly launched ‘GiveBack’ initiative, building upon our longstanding commitment to fostering creativity and supporting the advertising fraternity.”

    The deadline for entries to the Kyoorius Creative Awards 2024 is April 19, 2024.

    Details at: kca.kyoorius.com.

  • To support Generative AI startups

    Zee & Nasscom forge partnership

    By Our Staff

     

    Nitin Mittal, President – Technology & Data, ZEE and Ankit Bose, Head of Nasscom AI

    Entertainment conglomerate Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has partnered with software and services companies apex body National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom*) for its recently-launched Generative AI Foundry programme, that aims to foster innovation and growth in the start-up ecosystem. Through the strategic partnership, Zee’s Technology and Innovation Centre will primarily focus on enabling and supporting co-piloted generative AI solutions for India’s media and entertainment ecosystem.

     

    Said Nitin Mittal, President – Technology and Data, Zee: “We are delighted to embark upon this exciting journey in collaboration with Nasscom, aiming to shape the future of India’s AI community. The synergy between our endeavours, Nasscom’s commitment to nurturing tech startups, and Zee’s leadership in media innovation signifies more than just a convergence of minds—it represents a fusion of futuristic visions poised to define the industry’s next chapter. As a frontrunner in India’s M&E ecosystem, this partnership stands as a testament to our commitment towards elevating consumer experience by leveraging digital technologies. At Zee, we believe that collaborations of this nature are instrumental in propelling the growth of startups and fostering innovation in the India’s AI landscape.”

     

    Added Ankit Bose, Head of Nasscom AI: “The partnership between both organisations is a significant one for the Generative AI startups. It is heartening to witness excellent initiatives from the industry to collaborate with these startups. The innovative solutions possess the potential to transform various sectors including media and entertainment (M&E).”

     

    *Ed: Since December 2022, Nasscom writes its name entirely in lower case. Hence: nasscom

     

  • Includes 2 Golds and 1 Silver

    Zee wins at the TISS LeapVault CLO Awards

    By Our Staff

     

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) bagged three awards at the prestigious Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) LeapVault CLO Awards, which included two Golds and one Silver. The awards recognised the company’s ‘Arise’ programme with a ‘Gold’ in the ‘Best Skill Development Initiative’ category; ‘Digicademy’ program with a ‘Gold’ in the ‘Best Digital Transformation Initiative’ category and its ‘Aspire’ programme with a ‘Silver’ in the ‘Best Leadership Development Initiative’ category.

     

    Said Animesh Kumar, President – HR & Transformation, Zeel: “The recognition of our capability development initiatives as the best in the business, reaffirms our commitment towards creating a culture of continuous transformation at the Company. Our learning and development efforts have been the cornerstone of our robust people – centric strategy, and we are proud to have the initiatives acknowledged at such a prestigious forum for the second consecutive year. The appreciation will encourage us to further cultivate a disruptive mindset in our workforce through our upskilling and leadership development initiatives.”

     

    Speaking at the award ceremony, Dheeraj Jaggi, Head – Enterprise Culture and Capability Development and Head HR, Content SBU, Zeel said: “At Zee, we have been consistently embracing a digital first approach to harness new opportunities and drive innovation in India’s M&E sector. We prioritize our employees’ growth and professional development, placing the learner at the heart of our unique initiatives. Our culture that over indexes on experiences, observations, and coaching for employee growth, alongside the organizational leaders as the steering captains, has let us enjoy continued recognition at the TISS LeapVault CLO Awards. We are committed to continuing our ingenuous efforts towards creating path-breaking employee interventions and fuelling business outcomes.”

     

  • Exclusive digital partner ZEE5 to offer free-to-view streaming

    Zee to present DP World ILT20 2nd season

    By Our Staff

     

    Zee’s 10 linear TV channels, OTT platform ZEE5 and on its syndicate partners’ TV and digital networks across the world will exclusively broadcast live DP World ILT20 Season 2, beginning January 19, 2024

     

    Said Rahul Johri, President – Business, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL): “Zee is delighted to present DP World ILT20 2nd season and promises an electrifying experience to cricket fans in India and around the world. With the world’s finest players, iconic stadiums and infrastructure and six leading sporting franchises, our goal is to build upon the previous year’s success, further solidifying the league’s stature as one of the most-widely followed cricket events in the world.”

     

    Added David White CEO DP World ILT20: “We are excited to announce the DP World ILT20 Season 2 schedule. Just like the opening season, we are set to deliver 34 action-packed matches at three fantastic cricket venues. The event begins on 19 January and will finish with the final in Dubai on 17 February. Season 2 will be launched with riveting on-field action and entertainment for the entire family on the opening weekend in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.”

     

  • In a 94-page order, SAT has advised Goenka to cooperate with SEBI's probe into the matter

    With SAT reinstating Punit Goenka, Zee-Sony merger a certainty. In this quarter?

    By Our Staff

     

    Over the last few months, there has been a cloud on the much-awaited merger of the Zee and Sony entertainment television conglomerates. In August, stockmarket regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) had barred Zee managing director and CEO Punit Goenka from holding key managerial positions in Zee and and other group firms. The order was ex-parte, and an investigation was ordered.

     

    In the meantime, there was some discussion about a restlessness on the part of Sony, and that it was considering allying with other entertainment networks (read Disney-Star). But with Goenka back at the helm at Zee, there is an expectation that the merger process will be expedited and may even see the light of the day by December 2023, if not earlier.

     

    On Monday, the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) decided to set aside a Sebi interim order against Zee Entertainment Limited chief and promoter Punit Goenka. This, according to investment analysts, paves the way for the organisation’s merger with Sony Pictures Networks India. Earlier, Goenka had made a plea to set aside the SEBI order.

     

    In a 94-page order, SAT has advised Goenka to cooperate with SEBI’s probe into the matter.

     

  • For brand collaboration

    Eveready & Zee join hands

    By Our Staff

     

    Eveready has partnered with Zee to promote its new range of batteries. As part of the brand collaboration, Eveready Ultima will feature prominently on Zee’s popular reality shows including Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, Dance Bangla Dance, Dance Karnataka Dance and Mr & Mrs Local.

     

    Anirban Banerjee

    Commenting on this announcement, Anirban Banerjee, Senior Vice President and SBU Head (Batteries and Flashlights), Eveready Industries said: “We have recently unveiled our new and improved Ultima range of batteries supported by a 360 campaign ‘Khelenge Toh Sikhenge’. The campaign highlights that children in any family can learn valuable life lessons like caring, sharing, love and equality when playing in daily life with battery operated toys. Thus to keep the child’s play ongoing effortlessly, our new 400% longer lasting Ultima batteries are just perfect. Our collaboration with Zee seamlessly aligns with the campaign’s objective and values, as majority of Zee’s shows are packed with energy, fostering a blend of entertainment while actively nurturing the young talents. Eveready is committed towards its mission to empower the youth with the essential support they require for a brighter and more promising future, and our partnership with Zee amplifies our ability to achieve this noble endeavour.”

     

    Niti Kumar
    Niti Kumar

    Added Niti Kumar, COO – Starcom India: “At Starcom, we believe that a successful product launch requires a powerful platform that maximises consumer engagement and brand visibility. Such a key communication pillar was vital to drive home Eveready’s new message. Zee’s reality shows enjoy immense popularity among Indians, which makes it a strong channel for brand collaboration. Accordingly, we forged this first-of-its-kind strategic partnership, which not only introduces Eveready’s robust product offerings but also harnesses Zee’s expansive reach across diverse regions, languages, and content formats.”

     

  • Unveils new design interface

    Zee Tamil celebrates 15-yr milestone

    By Our Staff

     

    Tamil GEC Zee Tamil is celebrating its 15-year milestone with an all-new design interface that “captures the heart and soul of Tamil Nadu”.

     

    Commenting on the development, Kartik Mahadev, Chief Marketing Officer – Content SBU, Zee said: “Zee engages the many Bharaths and its aspirations through content brands that are rooted in culture. The refreshed Zee Tamil brand design is an ode to the strength and dynamism of the Tamizh viewer. The “marigold” inspired design is a vibrant expression of the auspicious new beginning that the channel seeks to provide through its inspiring content, nudging positive actions and inspiring outcomes. Zee Tamil’s transformative endeavour will further strengthen the Zee network commitment to consistently design and deliver extraordinary experiences to our viewers.”

     

    Speaking on the channel’s business strategy, Ramanagirivasan, Chief Channel Officer –  Zee Tamil added: “Over the past 15 years, Zee Tamil has built a robust audience connection through content crafted with a profound understanding of consumer sentiments. This bond is a testament to the deep emotional resonance we share with our viewers.  In the last 1 year, the strategic overhaul of our prime-time fiction programming has resulted in a substantial surge in viewership share in Tamil Nadu (U+R), from 17% to an impressive 23%. We aspire to carry forward this momentum by not just delivering engaging content but also enhancing consumer experience through our innovative tech-forward approach.”

     

  • No Black Elephant awarded

    Kyoorius Creative Awards held

    By Our Staff

     

    Kyoorius announced the winners of the 2023 Kyoorius Creative Awards held last Friday in Mumbai.

     

    Post a two-week virtual jury session, and a two-day in-person judging offsite in Alibag, off Mumbai, that brought the entire 45+ member jury together, 290 entries were shortlisted as winners of a Baby Elephant.

     

    Of these Baby Elephant winners, 81 entries were awarded Blue Elephants, while one entry was awarded a Brass Elephant for the Creativity for Good category. There were no Black Elephant winners at the 2023 Kyoorius Creative Awards.

     

    Five entries were awarded Purple Elephants for the ZEE Equality Award presented by Indian Creative Women.

     

    Over 3200 entries were submitted this year to the Kyoorius Creative Awards. The entries come from 381 entrants from 286 companies, including brands, network agencies, independent agencies, creative hotshops, media agencies, production houses, PR firms, event and activation agencies, and even freelancers.

     

    Said Rajesh Kejriwal, founder and CEO, Kyoorius: “My heartfelt congratulations to all the winners this year. The jury debated, deliberated and discussed each entry before them through our comprehensive four-round judging process. While it’s disappointing that there was no Black Elephant winner this year, I do hope this acts as a catalyst for truly disruptive creative work in the future.”

     

    The tenth edition of the Kyoorius Creative Awards also commemorated Padma Bhushan music composer, record producer, singer, songwriter, musician, multi-instrumentalist and philanthropist, AR Rahman, with the Master of Creativity award. Instituted in 2018, the Master of Creativity award recognises a stalwart who has continuously contributed to make the marketing and communication industry more creative in whatever they do.

     

    Presented by Zee, the 2023 Kyoorius Creative Awards Night brought together an audience spanning the advertising, broadcast, communications, digital, marketing, media and pub*lishing industries from across India to celebrate the best of Indian creativity.

     

  • To create high-value content strategies for 'Born to Shine' brand

    Big Buzz to boost CSR initiative of Zee

    By Our Staff

     

    Born to Shine, a CSR initiative of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL), in association with Give, a donation and crowdfunding platform, will embark on its digital and content marketing journey with Blue Buzz, a Mumbai based marketing agency.

     

    As part of the mandate, Blue Buzz will come up with and put into action plans to build a stature for Born To Shine that reflects its core vision and ideas. The crux of the content strategy will be the celebration of Indian art and culture and nurturing of prodigious talents.

     

    Speaking on this opportunity with Born To Shine, Blue Buzz founder and CEO Neha K Bisht said: “It is indeed a great opportunity for us, at Blue Buzz, to work with Give and ZEEL, two pioneers in their respective areas. With a mission to bring stories of girl champions to the world, Born To Shine is a brilliant initiative that will have a significant impact in the world of art and artists. Keeping in mind the programme’s vision and objectives, we aim to offer our expertise with a distinctive and aggressive approach that will help achieve impactful results that Born To Shine aspires for. We look forward to this amazing journey.”