Rishtey Cineplex set for launch on Freeview
Rishtey Cineplex is set to become the first Bollywood movie channel to launch on Freeview.
The recently launched service, will be expanding its reach from being exclusively on Sky, to Freeview channel number 88, on Tuesday 17th January 2017.
A formidable mass entertainment offering as a part of the Rishtey brand proposition, Rishtey Cineplex has, since its launch in 2016, captured the heart of viewers to become the brand of choice for Indian film lovers. The channel’s library of films includes a variety of genres and powerhouse movies that have not only won audiences’ hearts across the world, but also contributed towards putting Indian cinema on the global map. With the added availability of Rishtey Cineplex on Freeview, the network now features two of Viacom18’s offerings, including Rishtey Europe, providing wholesome entertainment options to the South Asian diaspora residing in the country.
Explained Sudhanshu Vats, Group CEO, Viacom18 said, “IndiaCast has been at the forefront of helping us increase our broadcast footprint across the world. The addition of Freeview as a carrier platform for Rishtey Cineplex will not only enhance the reach of the channel but it also strengthens our bouquet offering in the UK. Given that movies form a significant culture bridge for the Indian community living abroad, I believe this move will enhance the ‘home-connect’ that our network has built for our UK viewers.”
Speaking about the expansion, Raj Nayak, CEO – Hindi Mass Entertainment, Viacom18 said, “Indian films have always been a powerful form of entertainment for film enthusiasts across the world. Since its launch, Rishtey Cineplex has grown from strength to strength, and it continues to showcase world-class films across genres including comedy, drama, romance, action, etc. which reflect different nuances of human emotions. We are excited to expand the channel’s footprint in international waters and bring an entertainment extravaganza to the audiences’ television screens.”
Commenting on this, Anuj Gandhi – Group CEO IndiaCast said, “UK houses a large population from the Indian sub-continent – people who are always looking to connect with a slice of home while abroad – and nothing spells home like the movies! In the few months since its launch, Rishtey Cineplex has constantly provided global audiences with a wide spectrum of films that showcase various nuances of Indian culture and traditions. By expanding our footprint and making Rishtey Cineplex available to Freeview subscribers, we are not only strengthening our partnership with the platform, but also reaching out to a larger audience base eager to connect with us.”
Rishtey Cineplex is a free-to- air channel distributed in the UK by Indiacast. The channel already provides mass entertainment propositions through blockbuster movies on Sky. Starting Tuesday 17 January 2017, the channel will also be available to Freeview in the region.
