News & Gossip

The Karnataka government has capped movie ticket prices at Rs 200 across the state, including multiplexes, to enhance cinema accessibility. This initiative, announced in the March budget, aims to support Kannada cinema. Additionally, the state plans to launch a dedicated OTT platform for Kannada films and allocate Rs 3 crore for archiving Kannada films to preserve cultural narratives.

WPP has appointed Baiju Shah, formerly Global Chief Strategy Officer at Accenture Song, as the new Global CEO of AKQA. This move aligns with WPP's strategy to integrate creativity with AI and technology. Shah's expertise will guide AKQA in leveraging AI and cultural shifts to drive growth and innovation, building on AKQA's recent Cannes Lions Grand Prix win.

The Delhi High Court has directed Lava International to deposit Rs 20.81 crore as security or provide a bank guarantee to cover past sales from 2019-2024, following a patent infringement suit filed by Dolby International. Dolby alleges Lava used its audio coding technology without a license.

FanCode will broadcast the Dugasta Properties World Championship of Legends 2025 live in India. The tournament will occur in the UK from July 18 to August 2. Matches are scheduled across Birmingham, Northampton, Leicester, and Leeds. Cricket legends like Yuvaraj Singh and AB de Villiers are expected to participate. This partnership aims to bring exciting cricket action to Indian fans.

A US court has blocked a rule for easy cancellation of streaming subscriptions. The rule aimed to simplify cancellation on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. It also focused on transparency for free trials and promotional pricing. The court said that the FTC did not conduct a proper economic analysis. This decision could impact cancellation processes in India.

Indian consumers are increasingly concerned about deceptive design practices, or dark patterns, on OTT platforms, leading to unexpected charges and subscription issues. Guidelines have been introduced to combat these practices, but some platforms are slow to comply. Regulators are focusing on transparency and consumer rights in the growing streaming market, aiming to hold platforms accountable for misleading tactics.

Netflix and YouTube are now undeniably rivals, fiercely competing for viewers' attention on television screens. While Netflix focuses on traditional, high-quality content, YouTube thrives on user-generated videos and diverse offerings.

The ICC's search for a developer to create a flagship mobile cricket game has garnered significant interest from major gaming companies. Krafton, EA Sports, Dream11, and Nazara Technologies are among the firms vying for the opportunity.

Ram Madhvani, the National Award-winning filmmaker, has announced an ambitious AI-VR venture, Equinox Virtual, to create India’s first spiritual, mythological, and cultural universe in virtual reality. The first short film is an AI adaptation of the Bhagavad Gita, with plans to scale to 100 films by 2028.

Kantar's 2024 study reveals influencer content significantly outperforms traditional ads in engagement and brand salience. FMCG brands are adapting with shorter, regional-focused campaigns, leveraging local culture and platform-native storytelling. This shift emphasizes culturally rooted narratives and benefit-led communication to drive business impact, as demonstrated by winning campaigns from Danone, Hindustan Unilever, Haleon, and Godrej.

Balaji Telefilms is strategically shifting its focus towards movies and digital content to counter challenges in the television sector. The company is prioritizing film production and expanding its digital presence through partnerships with platforms like Netflix and a hybrid SVOD/AVOD model for ALT Balaji. This restructuring aims to drive growth and reduce reliance on traditional television revenues.

Zee Entertainment's proposal to issue convertible warrants to promoter group entities failed to secure shareholder approval at an EGM, highlighting concerns over corporate governance. While 60% voted in favor, it fell short of the required 75%. The plan aimed to raise ₹2,237.44 crore, increasing the promoter stake to 18.39%, but faced opposition from proxy advisory firms and shareholders.

The Delhi High Court has restrained Kuku FM from releasing new episodes of five series. Pocket FM alleges copyright infringement. Pocket FM has filed a civil suit against Mebigo Labs, Kuku FM's parent company. They are claiming repeated intellectual property infringement. Pocket FM seeks damages of Rs 85.7 crore. Pocket FM alleges Kuku FM copied shows over four years.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin intervened to resolve a business dispute between his nephews, Kalanithi and Dayanidhi Maran, concerning Sun TV Network shares. Dayanidhi had issued a legal notice accusing Kalanithi of unfairly acquiring profits, threatening legal escalation. Stalin's mediation led to Dayanidhi withdrawing the notice, averting a public family feud.

Naughty Dog has released a free update for The Last of Us Part II Remastered, introducing Chronological Mode, which reorders the narrative into a continuous timeline. This update, available on PlayStation 5 and PC, allows players to experience Ellie and Abby's journeys in sequence, revealing new emotional arcs. The update also includes 40th-anniversary costumes and performance improvements.

Streaming platforms are experimenting with a variety of formats, from unscripted bootcamp-style shows to fictional dramas. This reflects a shift in OTT programming priorities. While traditional reality shows have focused on singing, dancing, and survival-based formats, platforms are now exploring content centred on gaming, digital creators, and online communities.

Streaming platforms are increasingly pushing web series writers to adopt a 'second screen content' style, characterized by simplistic storytelling and explicit dialogues, to attract price-sensitive audiences in tier-2 and -3 cities. This shift, driven by falling attention spans and data insights, aims to blur the lines between television and streaming content, potentially increasing paid subscriptions from non-metro areas.

PVR Inox is set to screen the Wimbledon Finals live in select luxury cinemas across Mumbai, Gurugram, and Bengaluru on July 12th and 13th. This marks the first time the iconic tennis tournament will be shown in Indian theaters, offering a unique viewing experience. The venues will feature Wimbledon-themed events and a special British-inspired menu.

YouTube Shorts is expanding beyond smartphones in India, finding a new audience on connected TVs. This shift is influencing how brands connect with consumers, especially in smaller cities, with regional creators playing a key role in purchase decisions.

Indian television is experiencing a resurgence of iconic shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, CID, and Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, returning in refreshed formats. Broadcasters aim to re-engage long-time fans and attract younger audiences amidst growing OTT influence. While nostalgia can be effective, success isn't guaranteed, prompting networks to leverage familiar content in a fragmented media landscape.

From comedy capers to high-octane thrillers, 2025 is packed with blockbuster Bollywood sequels like Housefull 5, War 2, Don 3, and more. Here’s a look at the most-awaited returns!

PVR Inox focuses on capturing consumer time amid growing entertainment options. Sanjeev Bijli highlights regional expansion and experience-led engagement. The company plans to open 100 new screens in FY26, with 40% in South India. Investment of Rs 300 crore is planned for new properties and upgrades. PVR Inox emphasizes quality experience and marketing efforts to drive footfalls.

Gamezop, an Indian casual gaming firm, is growing its business. The company is investing $4 million in the Middle East. It is setting up a regional headquarters in Bahrain. This expansion aims to onboard 1,000 apps. Gamezop expects to generate $5–6 million in revenue. The company will focus on the MENA region's growing gaming market.

The auction for 730 FM radio channels across 234 Indian cities is set to commence this month, according to Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju. Over 20 companies have bid under the Private FM Radio Phase III policy. The Union Cabinet approved the e-auctions last year with a reserve price of Rs 784.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is set to overhaul television rating agency norms, proposing the removal of restrictions on board members' ties to media businesses and scrapping cross-holding limits. These amendments aim to broaden industry participation and encourage new entrants into the TV ratings space, while also tightening conflict-of-interest rules to ensure operational independence and legal compliance.

PVR INOX is set to expand its presence. The cinema exhibitor plans to add approximately 200 screens over the next two years. This expansion requires an investment of up to Rs 400 crore. The focus will be on South India and smaller cities. Hyderabad is a key market for PVR INOX.

Good Game Group is launching its gaming reality show, Good Game, in India with a $50 million investment over five years. Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant is the brand ambassador. Premiering in partnership with Spunnge Media, the show aims to tap into India's burgeoning gaming market. The winner of the India edition will receive $100,000 and compete in Good Game APAC.

Hindi film producers are increasingly seeking insurance against piracy-related losses, especially for big-budget films, due to significant financial setbacks. Insurers are hesitant to underwrite this risk because quantifying piracy losses is challenging. While some advocate for stricter anti-piracy laws, others believe insurance could make producers complacent, adding to existing funding challenges within the industry.

Warner Bros Discovery's split into two entities, following similar moves by Comcast and Lionsgate, highlights a shift away from traditional media conglomerates. The industry is prioritizing streaming, separating high-growth digital units from slower legacy businesses to attract investors and compete with Netflix.

India's live entertainment sector is booming, fueled by Gen Z's desire for immersive experiences and a growing middle class. Concerts and comedy shows are selling out across the country, from major cities to emerging cultural hubs like Shillong. This surge is attracting international artists and driving significant economic impact, with projections indicating substantial revenue growth in the coming years.

Reliance Industries' RISE Worldwide partners with Denmark's BLAST ApS. They are creating Jio BLAST eSports. This joint venture will tap into India's growing eSports market. The partnership aims to operate gaming events. It will bring BLAST's global events to India. Events will be hosted on the JioGames platform. The JV will offer tournament management and marketing services.

From romantic dramas like Metro… In Dino and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan to political thrillers like The Hunt and action-packed sequels like Son of Sardaar 2, July 2025 brings a vibrant mix of Bollywood releases across theatres and OTT.

India's evolving media landscape sees a push for co-investment in content creation, as platforms like JioStar seek to balance risk and reward with producers. This shift aims to move away from broadcasters bearing the full financial burden.

Cinépolis India has joined forces with Amazon Pay to provide customers with streamlined and secure digital payment options across its theatres and online platforms. This collaboration offers faster checkout, promotional offers, and rewards for booking tickets and purchasing food and beverages. The partnership aims to enhance the cinema experience through technology-led customer service and digital integration.

Yash Raj Films' War 2, a spy thriller starring Hrithik Roshan and NTR, will debut globally in IMAX on August 14, 2025. As part of the YRF Spy Universe, the film aims to deliver an immersive experience with its large screen and enhanced sound. IMAX is collaborating with Aditya Chopra to bring this action spectacle to audiences worldwide.

JioStar Entertainment leaders, Alok Jain and Krishnan Kutty, speaking at APOS 2025, urged a revamp of India's entertainment business model, emphasizing profitability and youth focus for sustainability. Jain stressed rebuilding the creative ecosystem, advocating collaboration over gatekeeping. Kutty highlighted the need for boldness rooted in Indian values and increased Gen Z programming.

Streaming platforms in India are focusing on ad-supported web series. This shift is due to stagnating subscriber growth and lower margins. Long-format shows are expected to rise on OTT platforms. Binge-watching fatigue and cost-effectiveness are driving this trend. Premium content faces challenges from piracy and actor reluctance. Ad-supported content sees subscriber growth, prompting creative partnerships.

During the 21-month Emergency in India, the government imposed strict censorship on arts and cinema, leading to the banning, stalling, or scrutiny of several films. Movies like "Aandhi," believed to be inspired by Indira Gandhi, and "Kissa Kursi Ka," a political satire, faced severe consequences.

JioStar's report reveals that digital platforms surpassed television in viewership for the 2025 IPL, reaching 652 million viewers compared to TV's 537 million. The tournament attracted 1.19 billion people, driven by digital adoption and innovative features. JioStar focused on personalized experiences, resulting in significant growth in subscribers and viewing time, making it the most monetized IPL edition ever.

Jiohotstar's subscriber base reached 300 million, nearing Netflix's global numbers. The Tata IPL edition aided subscriber addition. Digital viewership crossed television viewership. Jiostar reported high viewership translated into revenues. Digital viewership of the cricket league increased. The final fixture between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings had a reach of 237 million on digital. Telugu IPL viewers grew the fastest.

Assam Tourism Development Corporation has partnered with BookMyShow to bring international concerts to the state, aiming to establish Assam as a global concert destination. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma believes this initiative will boost cultural development, leveraging Assam's unique blend of tradition, youth, and natural beauty.

JetSynthesys' Global Music Junction (GMJ), with Hariprem Films (HPF), has partnered exclusively with folk singer Mame Khan to promote Indian folk music through digital content, brand partnerships, and international performances. HPF will manage Khan's digital presence and live performance bookings for his RockNRoots Project and Folk Orchestra of Rajasthan.

Aamir Khan's 'Sitaare Zameen Par' has made a strong debut. The film collected Rs 11.7 crore on its first day. R S Prasanna directed the movie. Aamir Khan, Aparna Purohit, and Ravi Bhagchandka produced it. The film is a spiritual sequel to 'Taare Zameen Par'. Aamir plays a basketball coach mentoring differently-abled individuals.

India concluded Cannes Lions with 32 medals, BBDO India securing a Silver Lion for Ariel's 'Share The Load' campaign, recognized for promoting equal household chore sharing. FCB India's 'Lucky Yatra' stood out as the most awarded campaign. The festival highlighted a shift towards the 'human' factor, alongside discussions on AI's role and impact-driven creative interventions.

Sun TV Network addresses a 22-year-old stake dispute between Kalanithi Maran and Dayanidhi Maran. Dayanidhi Maran alleges fraudulent seizure of company control. Sun TV denies the claims, asserting legal compliance. The company states the matter is personal and doesn't affect operations. Dayanidhi threatens legal action if his demands aren't met. Sun TV's revenue and net profit have recently declined.

Divya Khossla is set to star in an untitled dark comedy thriller, produced by Prerna Arora and directed by Umesh Shukla. Khossla expressed her excitement for the film, highlighting its blend of dark comedy and thriller elements. With a budget of Rs 15-20 crore, the film is scheduled for release this year.

Sun TV has refuted media reports of a dispute between Dayanidhi Maran and his brother Kalanithi Maran, concerning a 2003 share allotment. Dayanidhi allegedly sent a legal notice accusing Kalanithi of fraudulently seizing control. Sun TV clarified that the matter pertains to when the company was private, asserting all actions were legal and vetted before its public issue.

Dayanidhi Maran accuses Kalanithi Maran of fraudulently seizing control of Sun Group. He alleges a disputed share allotment in 2003. Dayanidhi demands restoration of the original shareholding structure. He plans legal action, including approaching SFIO and BCCI. The dispute involves Sun TV Network and other assets. Allegations include misuse of dividends and illegal share transfers.

Despite box office growth, the Indian film industry faces challenges. Stakeholders express nervousness due to these issues. A decline in elite audience attendance is a major concern. The industry also lacks well-made mass entertainers. Non-Hindi films contribute significantly to box office collections. Experts suggest focusing on mid-budget films with fresh stories.

JioStar's IPL 2025 season reached one billion viewers. The tournament recorded 840 billion minutes of watch-time. Digital views increased by 29%. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings final became the most-watched match. Virat Kohli lifted the trophy for the first time. JioStar introduced new digital features.