Core Viewpoint - JioStar, owned by Reliance Industries, is challenging the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) investigation into alleged abuse of dominance and discriminatory pricing in Kerala's television distribution market [1][9]. Legal Proceedings - A Supreme Court hearing is scheduled for JioStar's appeal against a Kerala High Court ruling that upheld the CCI's investigation order [2]. - The case originated from a complaint by Asianet Digital Network, which accused JioStar of dominating the market by controlling popular Malayalam channels and exclusive rights to major sporting events [2][3]. Allegations of Discriminatory Pricing - Asianet claims that JioStar provided preferential discounts to Kerala Communicators Cable Ltd (KCCL), while denying similar terms to other distributors, violating the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (Trai) rules [3][4]. - It is alleged that JioStar effectively offered KCCL discounts exceeding 50% through marketing agreements, which Asianet argues were a facade to lower effective channel prices for KCCL [4][5]. Regulatory Context - The CCI initiated an investigation in February 2022 after finding a prima facie case against JioStar, clarifying that this step did not imply guilt [6]. - JioStar contends that the dispute falls under the jurisdiction of Trai and the 2017 Broadcasting Regulations, arguing that the CCI should not have intervened [7]. - The CCI maintains that its authority under the Competition Act applies even in regulated sectors, and its role in examining market power abuse is not excluded by the presence of another regulator [8]. Court Rulings - The Kerala High Court upheld the CCI's investigation, stating that competition law can coexist with sectoral regulation [8]. - JioStar's appeal was dismissed by a division bench of the Kerala High Court, allowing the CCI's investigation to proceed [9]. Company Background - JioStar was established in November 2024 following the merger of Reliance's media business with Disney's India operations, valued at approximately $8.5 billion [10]. - Reliance holds a controlling stake of around 63% in the joint venture, while Disney owns about 36.84% [10]. Market Position - As of the April-June quarter of 2025, JioStar's streaming platform JioHotstar led India's subscription video-on-demand market with a 25% share, followed by Amazon Prime Video at 23% and Netflix at 19% [11].

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) announced a major leadership reorganisation on Friday, shifting to a content-first, platform-agnostic operating model that consolidates control across its television and digital businesses.The restructuring grants content cluster heads end-to-end ownership over programming, marketing, and promotions for both linear TV and digital platforms. Nachiket Pantvaidya will oversee Sony Entertainment Television, Sony Marathi, and movie production. Ajay Bhalwankar takes charge of S ...

Core Insights - The film "Kalamkaval" is set to make its digital debut on Sony LIV on January 16, following a successful 40-day theatrical run [1][6][7] - The film has grossed over Rs 83 crore worldwide, indicating strong box office performance [6] Film Performance - Mammootty's portrayal of the antagonist Stanley Das has received significant acclaim, being described as one of his most disturbing performances in recent years [2][7] - The film opened to positive reviews, praised for its screenplay and unsettling atmosphere, contributing to its commercial success [6] Storyline and Production - "Kalamkaval" is set in Kottayikonam and follows a police investigation that uncovers a series of murders linked by manipulation and cunning strategies [3][7] - The supporting cast includes notable actors such as Rajisha Vijayan and Gayathri Arun, enhancing the film's narrative [4][7] - The screenplay was co-written by Jishnu Sreekumar and director Jithin K. Josh, ensuring a cohesive and engaging flow [4][7] Digital Release and Accessibility - The film will be available in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, broadening its reach to a pan-Indian audience [7]

Core Insights - Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is launching the Indian edition of the entertainment franchise Wheel of Fortune, hosted by Akshay Kumar [1] - The show aims to leverage the combined strengths of television and digital platforms for advertisers, providing a unique brand-building opportunity [2][3] Company Overview - SPNI has licensed the Wheel of Fortune format from Highgate Entertainment, LLC, with Frames Production Company producing the Indian version [1] - The show will be integrated into the Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV ecosystem, enhancing its reach and engagement [2] Industry Impact - The introduction of Wheel of Fortune is part of SPNI's strategy to expand its portfolio of globally successful IPs, enhancing audience engagement in the reality format space [3] - The show is expected to create a significant platform for advertisers, offering extensive reach across both television and digital channels [2][3]

Danish Khan, Business Head – Sony LIV and Studio NEXT, will be stepping down from his position by March-end. He is transitioning from Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) to pursue new opportunities, an official statement said. Khan has spent over 20 years with the broadcasting company across two stints. “His creative instinct and strategic clarity have helped build enduring media brands over two decades in broadcasting and content. In his current stint, he joined SPNI , ten years ago as Business Head – Sony ...

Core Insights - The series "Kuttram Purindhavan" is directed by Selvamani and features a strong cast including National Award-winner Lakshmi Priyaa Chandramouli and actor Vidaarth [1][10] - The show promises a complex narrative filled with secrets, moral dilemmas, and high-stakes tension [2][12] - "Kuttram Purindhavan" will be available for streaming on Sony LIV starting December 5, 2024 [3][9] Storyline and Themes - The series explores the delicate balance between guilt, innocence, loyalty, and the law [6][12] - It poses a significant question regarding the lengths one might go to when faced with moral choices and the desire to protect loved ones [7][12] - Each episode is designed to build suspense as hidden truths come to light [7][12] Production and Cast - The series is produced by Happy Unicorn / Aqubulls, promising raw emotions and unexpected twists [8][12] - The cast includes notable performances from Pasupathy, Lakshmi Priyaa Chandramouli, and Vidaarth, contributing to the show's depth [10][12] Viewing Experience - "Kuttram Purindhavan" will be available in multiple languages to cater to a broader audience [9][12] - The series is positioned as a standout release for December, particularly for fans of crime thrillers with emotional depth [12][14]

Core Insights - The film "Mirage" is set to premiere on Sony LIV on October 20, 2025, with multiple language options available for viewers [1][6] - The narrative follows Abhirami, whose fiancé mysteriously disappears, leading her to team up with a digital investigative journalist to uncover the truth [2][6] - The film features classic thriller elements, including suspenseful twists and hidden agendas, although it received mixed reviews from critics [3][4][6] Production and Release - "Mirage" was produced by Naad Studios and E4 Experiments, with support from Seven 1 Seven Productions and Bedtime Stories [4][6] - The film premiered in theaters on September 19, 2025, and has been noted for its performances and thriller elements despite mixed audience reception [4][6] Box Office Performance - The film achieved a total box office collection of Rs 4.08 crore, indicating a modest commercial performance [5][6] - The upcoming digital release is expected to provide an opportunity for a wider audience to engage with the film's story [5][6]

Group 1 - The teaser for Shark Tank India 5 emphasizes a more intense and dynamic format, highlighting "more fire, more founders, more deals" [1][5] - The promotional clip includes satirical commentary on workplace culture, referencing the debate around 70-hour work weeks initiated by billionaire Narayana Murthy [1][5] - The show has established itself as a significant platform for entrepreneurs to present their ideas and secure funding since its debut in December 2021 [2][5] Group 2 - Shark Tank India has aired four seasons, with Season 1 from December 2021 to February 2022, Season 2 from January to March 2023, Season 3 from January to March 2024, and Season 4 from January to March 2025 [2][5] - There is speculation regarding the return of the original panel of investors, including Aman Gupta, Namita Thapar, Anupam Mittal, Vineeta Singh, and Peyush Bansal, while guest investors have included notable figures [3][5] - The fifth season is confirmed to be part of Sony LIV's 2025 content slate, with a potential release towards the end of this year or early 2026 [4][5]

Group 1: Scripted Content Expansion - Sony LIV is expanding its scripted content with notable titles such as "Scam 2010: The Subrata Roy Saga," "Maharani 4," "Gullak 5," and "Undekhi 4" [1][6] - New launches include "Summer of 76," a political drama "Dynasty – Moh Nishtha Satta," and "Real Kashmir Football Club," inspired by the region's first professional team [1][6] - The regional content slate includes originals in Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Malayalam, with significant titles like "Jazz City" and "Sethurajan IPS" [2][6] Group 2: Unscripted Content and Live Sports - Sony LIV continues established unscripted formats such as "Shark Tank India," "MasterChef India," and "Million Dollar Listing India" [3][6] - Live sports remain a crucial component, with streaming rights for major events like the Asia Cup 2025, UEFA Champions League, and the Australian Open [6] Group 3: Strategic Focus - The line-up reflects Sony LIV's dual-track strategy of scaling premium original content while leveraging live sports to enhance subscriber engagement across markets [6]