Media/Entertainment-Industry-The Economic Times 
When survival is at stake, Bollywood production houses turn to distribution
Bollywood production houses are increasingly entering the film distribution space over the past two years as a structural shift driven by rising production costs and changing revenue models.
Sony Pictures Networks India has appointed Harsh Deep Chhabra as Head of Strategy and New Business, with the executive joining from Godrej Consumer Products Limited.
Delhi HC stays GST appellate tribunal order for Tata Play to deposit Rs 450 crore
The Delhi High Court has stayed an order directing Tata Play to deposit ₹450 crore for alleged profiteering under GST, pending further hearing. The tribunal had held that the company did not pass on the benefit of reduced tax incidence to consumers after GST, despite additional input tax credit, but Tata Play challenged the findings, arguing no such benefit was due.
Times Music acquires Catrack Entertainment, doubles down on Punjabi catalogue strategy
Times Music has acquired Catrack Entertainment, a significant move to boost its regional music collection. This deal brings a valuable Punjabi music catalogue from the 1990s into Times Music's ownership. The company aims to monetize this legacy content through various channels. This acquisition highlights Times Music's strategy to consolidate important regional music assets in India.
Sony Pictures Networks India CHRO Manu Wadhwa transitions to advisor role
Manu Wadhwa will move from Chief Human Resources Officer to Strategy Advisor at Sony Pictures Networks India starting July 1, 2026. She will advise the leadership team on key strategic priorities. The company will search for a new CHRO. Wadhwa has been instrumental in strengthening the company's people and organizational agenda over seven years.
Roblox appoints former AWS senior executive Sunil Rao as MD for India
Roblox has appointed former Amazon Web Services executive Sunil Rao as Managing Director for its India operations. Rao will lead the company's strategy, foster partnerships, and support the creator ecosystem in India. His role will focus on empowering local developers and ensuring child safety and regulatory alignment.
LVL Zero taps Google Play, Xbox, AppsFlyer for gaming incubator cohort
India's gaming incubator LVL Zero has revealed its ecosystem partners for its first 100-day sprint. Ten startups were chosen from over 240 applications. These partners will offer hands-on support in areas like analytics, monetisation, and publishing. LVL Zero aims to bridge gaps in India's gaming sector. The incubator plans to back over 100 startups in the next five years.
IAS launches ‘Total TV’ suite to bring linear-style transparency to CTV advertising
Integral Ad Science has launched a new solution called IAS Total TV. This aims to bring much-needed transparency to connected TV advertising. It offers marketers detailed insights into where their ads appear across major streaming platforms. This development addresses a key challenge as advertisers invest more in streaming. The platform provides a unified view of campaign performance and brand safety.
Ten Jagadguru’s, Acharyas representing major dharmic traditions gather in Athens to support a film franchise on Indian Gods
A new wave of faith-based filmmaking is emerging in India. Religious leaders from various traditions are supporting an eight-film series on Hindu gods. This initiative draws inspiration from successful models like Mel Gibson's 'The Passion of the Christ' and 'Chaar Sahibzaade'. The first film, 'The Chronicles of Devi: Chapter 1 - Mahishasura', has been announced.
Mukesh, Kishore, Rafi, Lata, Asha... the golden greats are gone, their songs play on
The passing of Asha Bhosle at the age of 92 marks the end of an era for Indian music. She was part of an iconic group alongside Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar and Mukesh, creating an unparalleled legacy. Their enchanting melodies still resonate deeply with fans today.
Nervous industry opts for take two, Box Office faces squeeze
Indian cinema anticipates a slowdown in box office earnings for 2026. Major film releases are being pushed back, creating a content gap. This shift impacts projected growth, with revised estimates now showing a 10-15% increase instead of the earlier 25-30%. Producers are rethinking strategies after recent franchise successes, leading to reshoots and a focus on mid-budget films.
I&B ministry advises ZEE5 not to release 'Lawrence of Punjab'
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has advised ZEE5 against releasing the docu-series 'Lawrence of Punjab' due to concerns raised by Punjab Police about public order risks. The Punjab Congress chief had also petitioned the High Court, fearing glorification of gangster culture. The ministry's advisory cited potential negative influence on youth and undermining law enforcement efforts.
IBDF backs MIB TV rating guidelines, seeks extended timelines for rollout
The Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation is requesting an extension to implement new television rating rules. Key provisions regarding board restructuring, panel expansion, and cross-screen measurement require more time. The industry body also raised concerns about the role of distribution platforms and tech firms in audience measurement. These changes impact significant ad spends.
Our aim now is to create Indian games for local use and global exports: Krafton CEO Kim
Makers of popular video game PUBG looks to double down on investments and IP creation. Will invest both from its balance sheet as well as a new tech focussed fund.
MIB reiterates IPTV compliance rules, warns against third-party consultants
The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has rolled out a new directive for IPTV operators, reinforcing the importance of the 2008 policy guidelines. It emphasizes that telecom licensees and cable providers must file a self-attested declaration prior to launching their services. This user-friendly approach eliminates unnecessary third-party involvement, while also advising caution against any unauthorized representatives.