News & Gossip

Indian OTT platforms are changing their content. They are adding short microdramas for mobile users. Korean dramas are also becoming popular. Platforms like MX Player and Netflix are investing in these formats. This helps them keep viewers interested. The goal is to offer diverse entertainment. Platforms are adapting to changing audience tastes. They are also expanding their content libraries.

Zee Entertainment and Star India are embroiled in arbitration over a terminated sub-licensing agreement for ICC broadcast rights, with Star seeking $940 million in damages. Zee is contesting the claims, asserting no default and demanding a refund of $8 million.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has directed all OTT platforms and digital streaming services in India to immediately remove any media content originating from Pakistan. This advisory, issued on Thursday, is based on national security concerns. It encompasses web series, films, songs, podcasts, and all other streaming media, regardless of whether they are subscription-based or free.

Tata Play Binge has partnered with BBC Player, bringing a wide array of British entertainment to Indian viewers. The collaboration enhances Tata Play Binge's content library with dramas, comedies, documentaries, and family-friendly shows. This addition strengthens Tata Play Binge's position as a leading platform for accessing multiple OTT services through a single subscription.

Shekhar Kapur has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Board of AI Ethics & Creative Stewardship at Studio Blo. He will guide the studio's work at the intersection of AI, storytelling, and ethical content creation. Kapur's experience will help Studio Blo use AI responsibly and explore new approaches to filmmaking, potentially creating a new genre of AI films.

Online gaming companies challenge the retrospective application of 28% GST, arguing that games of skill shouldn't be equated with gambling. They contest the tax levy on actionable claims, citing established legal precedents. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against show-cause notices totaling ₹1.12 lakh crore issued to online gaming firms and casinos for alleged tax evasion.

Disney reported a $103 million equity loss in Q2 FY25 from its India JV, JioStar, with Reliance and Bodhi Tree Systems, contributing to a $300 million loss over six months due to accounting adjustments.

Dish TV's Watcho introduces Fliqs, an OTT platform designed to empower professional content creators with tools for production, distribution, and monetization. Fliqs offers resources from concept development to diverse monetization models, enabling creators to retain content ownership and access transparent revenue sharing.

JioStar introduces JioStarverse, a data-driven platform designed to enhance influencer marketing with over 500 talents. It offers brands and agencies valuable insights, audience engagement data, and content performance analysis for targeted collaborations. The platform, powered by Qoruz, aims to provide smarter, scalable, and accountable influencer solutions through AI-driven insights and precise targeting.

Virtual inventory technology is transforming cricket advertising, with Cricket Australia and the ECB partnering with Rise Worldwide to offer digitally inserted brand elements during live broadcasts to target Indian audiences. This approach provides a less cluttered space for brands like BKT and Hero MotoCorp, allowing focused engagement and reducing reliance on traditional sponsorships.

India is nearing the commercial launch of Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology, pending final regulatory approvals. This technology, utilizing terrestrial broadcast infrastructure, aims to deliver content directly to mobile devices without a SIM, reducing data costs and network congestion. With successful pilot projects and the development of compatible devices like the SL3000 chip, the rollout awaits policy clearance, expected sometime next year.

Dream Sports and Microsoft have partnered to enhance India's gaming market, leveraging Dream Sports' extensive user base and Microsoft's AI expertise. The collaboration, announced at WAVES 2025, aims to publish Microsoft's gaming titles locally and develop AI-driven gaming experiences tailored for Indian gamers. This initiative taps into India's booming $3.8 billion gaming market, which boasts 600 million gamers.

Donald Trump's tariff proposal may impact Indian films. The move could double import costs. It may reduce Indian cinema's presence in the US. This could affect revenue and cultural influence. The industry anticipates a shift to streaming releases. Discussions between India and the US are crucial. The tariff aims to address Hollywood's decline and China's film import policies.

IPL franchises are evolving beyond seasonal cricket teams, aiming for year-round engagement through licensing, merchandising, and original content. Teams are focusing on active fan participation, loyalty programs, and digital-first approaches to attract younger audiences. This shift is driven by rising franchise valuations, robust media rights, and evolving sponsorship models, transforming IPL into a media-tech-sport hybrid.

Donald Trump's tariff threat looms over Indian cinema. A 100% tariff on foreign films entering the US could drastically affect the Indian film industry's earnings. Ticket prices may surge, impacting viewership in America. Producers fear reduced revenue from theatrical releases and digital deals. Some believe the impact will be minimal, with alternative markets available.

India's burgeoning online video sector faces a significant threat from digital piracy, potentially leading to billions in losses and hindering growth. A recent report highlights the urgent need for effective anti-piracy measures to recover revenue, boost content creation, and generate jobs. Industry leaders are advocating for proactive strategies, technological tools, and stronger enforcement to combat this growing issue.

India's media and entertainment sector is experiencing substantial growth, driven by content creation and digital media services, contributing significantly to the economy and employment. However, online video piracy poses a major threat, causing significant revenue losses. Implementing robust anti-piracy measures could recover substantial revenue and create numerous jobs within the video ecosystem.

India is emerging as a key battleground for streaming giants like Netflix, Prime Video, and JioHotstar, attracting significant investment due to its rapidly growing digital audience. These platforms are doubling down on original content and innovation to capture viewer attention. JioHotstar has challenged market perceptions by achieving 280 million paid subscribers, driven by affordability and accessibility.

WAVES Bazaar, as part of WAVES 2025 in Mumbai, concluded with over Rs 1,328 crore in business transactions and 3,000 B2B meetings. The Maharashtra government signed MoUs worth Rs 8,000 crore to boost the M&E sector. WAVEX also selected 30 M&E startups for investment opportunities, fostering innovation and growth within the industry.

India's organised live events sector witnessed a 15 per cent expansion in 2024, generating an additional Rs 13 billion in revenue. The surge was fueled by successful global icon performances and a rise in event tourism, with nearly half a million fans traveling between cities for live music.

India is rapidly becoming a global creative powerhouse, fueled by its talent pool, cultural richness, and technological advancements. The country's media infrastructure is expanding, supporting global programming with cost-effective VFX and animation. Indian studios are increasingly adopting AI and virtual production, creating immersive content and earning international recognition through films and music.

Indian film, television, and online content sectors boosted the economy by Rs 5.14 lakh crore in FY24. Deloitte and MPA report projects growth to Rs 6.88 lakh crore by FY29. Television led with Rs 3.18 lakh crore. The sector created over 27 lakh jobs. Growth factors include internet access and OTT subscriptions.

JioStar's Uday Shankar has warned that a one-size-fits-all regulatory approach could harm both sectors. TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti, however, has advocated for regulatory parity, highlighting disparities in content regulation, consumer protection, and fairness, prompting calls for a unified framework.

Prime Video and CJ ENM have partnered to distribute Korean content globally, excluding Korea and China. Starting in late June with 'Head Over Heels,' Prime Video will launch exclusive titles through 2026, enhancing its Korean content with subtitles in 28 languages and dubbing in 11.

Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos announced at WAVES 2025 that the platform's investments in India generated a $2 billion economic impact from 2021-2024. Indian content is gaining global traction, accounting for 15% of Netflix's Top 10 non-English titles in 2024. Sarandos highlighted India's fan-centric approach to film and its potential for a global breakout, similar to Korea's success.

JioStar is set to invest $10 billion in Indian content over three years, according to Vice Chairman Uday Shankar. Speaking at the WAVES summit, Shankar emphasized the need for more content tailored to Indian audiences. He highlighted the industry's growth potential, projecting continued expansion over the next 15 years, driven by deeper distribution and customized content creation.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said Indian productions created a USD 2 billion economic impact. These projects generated over 20,000 jobs since 2021. Globally, Indian content saw three billion viewing hours last year. Sarandos spoke at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit. Saif Ali Khan discussed the creative freedom streaming provides.

India’s creator economy is reshaping the digital and consumer space, with creators now influencing over $350 billion in annual spending—a figure expected to cross $1 trillion by 2030, according to a Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report titled ‘From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy’.

At the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai, 77 countries adopted the 13-point WAVES Declaration, committing to preserving cultural heritage and promoting creative collaboration in the digital age.

WAVES Bazaar 2025, a market initiative, has generated over Rs 250 crore in its initial 36 hours, with projections exceeding Rs 400 crore. The event, featuring participants from 22 countries, facilitated key deals and partnerships, including agreements for post-production, co-production of animated films, and development of a series exploring India's colonial past.

Prime Focus Group, in collaboration with the Maharashtra government, is set to develop a global entertainment destination in Mumbai with a proposed investment of Rs 3000 crore. This ambitious project aims to establish a technologically advanced content creation ecosystem, positioning Mumbai as a hub for content creators and boosting tourism.

At the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai, tech leaders emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful ally for human creativity rather than a threat. Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen highlighted AI’s role in enhancing Indian creators’ capabilities, noting its impact on media, design, and regional language storytelling.

India is becoming a global hub for creative industries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (Waves). He highlighted the potential of India's creative economy. The government will launch Waves Awards. Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) in Mumbai. Several tech companies are partnering with IICT for training programs.

Mukesh Ambani, at WAVES 2025, envisioned India's media and entertainment sector growing to $100 billion within a decade with strategic investments in infrastructure, talent, and technology. He emphasized India's potential to become a global entertainment hub, leveraging its rich storytelling tradition, young population, and technological advancements. Ambani urged for incentivizing IP creation and fostering a globally-minded approach among content creators.

India's media and entertainment industry is set for a boost with the WAVES 2025 summit, inaugurated by PM Modi, attracting global participation and a $1 billion fund for the creator economy. The event aims to empower digital content creators through funding, skill development, and global market access.

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan declared India a "Creator Nation" at the WAVES summit, highlighting the platform's significant impact. Over 100 million Indian channels uploaded content, with 15,000+ exceeding one million subscribers.

Mukesh Ambani envisions a bright future for India's media sector. He predicts its value will exceed $100 billion soon. Ambani spoke at the WAVE Summit 2025. He highlighted the sector's potential for job creation and economic growth. He praised the government's digital initiatives. Ambani sees India as a leader in global entertainment.

India's live events industry, valued at ₹12,000 crore, aims for ₹20,200 crore by 2027, surpassing the film sector's growth. Industry leaders are urging for single-window clearances, tax reforms, and public-private partnerships to facilitate expansion. The sector faces challenges like delayed approvals and high GST, hindering its potential despite growing demand and a young population eager for live experiences.

A new report suggests India's entertainment industry has potential for growth. It could unlock $6 billion by 2030. This growth depends on global collaboration and technology. The report highlights the need for strategic changes. It emphasizes content creation and audience alignment. The Content India 2026 event will further explore these findings. The industry aims to become a global entertainment hub.

JetSynthesys has introduced JetAlive, a new division dedicated to creating phygital live experiences aimed at GenZ. JetAlive will focus on culture festivals, edutainment, tech showcases, and gatherings, blending digital and physical elements to enhance audience participation. The initial lineup includes events like the Lucky Ali India Tour, K-Town, and JetFest, with Kumar Razdan leading the initiative.

A Coldplay concert in Ahmedabad generated a Rs 641 crore economic impact, including Rs 392 crore direct infusion, showcasing the potential of India's concert economy. The event drew attendees from across India, boosting tourism and reshaping perceptions of Ahmedabad as a cultural destination. The report highlights the need for Public-Private Partnerships to streamline event approvals and infrastructure development.

Bodhitree Multimedia, Madlab Films, and Universe of Ideas have launched Madlab Alpha, investing Rs 250 crore in disruptive content for cinema and streaming. Aiming to replicate A24's success, the studio will focus on original stories in Hindi, regional languages, and global projects, utilizing AI to enhance storytelling.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) marks its 18th year with record-breaking ad spends, viewership, and subscribers, despite recent financial challenges faced by media rights holders. Its success is attributed to top cricket talent, Bollywood glamour, fan loyalty, and robust marketing.

Irelia Sports India, owner of Gujarat Titans, secured shareholder approval to borrow up to ₹1,200 crore, coinciding with Torrent Group's acquisition of a majority stake. These funds will cover financial obligations, including the ₹562 crore franchise fee to the BCCI. Despite losses, the franchise's revenue more than doubled, making it the highest-earning IPL team.

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is set to launch Sony MAX 1 on May 1, 2025, expanding its Hindi movie broadcast presence. The channel aims to enhance the linear TV movie experience with a curated mix of Bollywood, regional, and dubbed Hollywood films.

Telecom carriers are urging the government to regulate over-the-top (OTT) communication platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram under India's cybersecurity rules, similar to telecom service providers. The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) highlights the risk of unchecked spam and scam calls if OTT apps aren't closely linked to SIM cards.

PVR Inox plans to transform its cinemas. The company will convert them into social hubs. These hubs will include cafes and co-working spaces. This change addresses declining footfalls. PVR Inox is also expanding into smaller cities. They are using a franchisee model. This model reduces their debt. Real estate investors are showing interest in this new approach.

The Supreme Court has addressed a petition concerning objectionable content on OTT platforms and social media, issuing notices to the Centre and major tech companies. The petition seeks government action, potentially including a panel to oversee content certification, similar to the Central Board of Film Certification, until specific regulations are enacted.

The Supreme Court on Monday issued a notice to the Centre and various streaming and social media platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Ullu, ALTT, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, regarding a PIL.

India's music industry faces significant revenue loss, estimated at ₹8,000-10,000 crore annually, due to copyright infringements in branded content on social media. Corporations often neglect royalty payments to music labels and independent artists for using their music in promotional videos. The misconception that social media content is primarily user-generated further exacerbates the issue, leading brands to overlook licensing requirements.