ZEE UK announces launch of &TV at London event

ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) has officially announced the launch of its new channel, &TV in the UK market.

As revealed exclusively by BizAsia earlier this month, &TV will launch on Sky Digital and Virgin Media on Monday 6th April at 19:00.

With multi-dimensional content and a strong line-up of fiction and non-fiction shows &TV will come to life at 19:30 with a visual spectacle ‘Razia Sultan’, the story of the first woman emperor of the Delhi Sultanate way back in the 13th century; followed by ‘Bhaghyalakshmi’ at 20:00, a simple story of an ambitious young girl who aspires to chase her dreams and at the same time strike a balance with the family; get ready to be charmed by a feisty little girl ‘Gangaa’ who is sure to make way into your hearts with her innocence, enthusiasm and the zest to live life to the fullest at 20:30.

Taking centre stage at 21:00 is one of the most talked about gameshow – ‘India Poochega Sabse Shaana Kaun?’ hosted by none other than the Badshah of Bollywood – Shah Rukh Khan. Next in line at 22:00 is ‘Begusarai’ – a quirky town that has a powerful story to tell – of Thakurs, outlaws of the land. A larger than life canvas with characters full of quirks, ‘Begusarai’ is television’s biggest blockbuster with a whole lot of drama, refreshing dialect and peek into real, rustic India! Laugh out loud at the follies of two Kanpur couples for whom the grass is greener on the other side as far as their respective spouses are concerned at 22:30 with a sitcom ‘Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai’.

The channel also has two superlative weekend shows – ‘Killerr Karaoke – Atka Toh Latkah’ and ‘Tujhse Naaraz Nahi Zindagi’ at 21:00 and 22:00 respectively.

Commenting on the launch, Punit Goenka, MD & CEO, ZEE, said, “&TV will offer a more substantial viewing experience to an audience that is always seeking fresh and relevant content. The channel extends our Hindi entertainment portfolio under the ‘&’ bouquet and will add to the consolidation of our leading position in the entertainment industry. We are certain that with the launch of &TV, we will capitalize on further such opportunities to build a robust entertainment bouquet and march ahead towards achieving the global ambitions set for the Company.”

Rajesh Iyer, Business Head, &TV said, “& is a symbol of revaluation and the channel has been conceptualized to depict change, stay contextual and contemporary. While the spirit of &TV is young, it is deep rooted in values. We intend to be a power house of Entertainment, by tapping into and harnessing the powerful changes in the thinking, mindset and belief sweeping through this country of billions. As a new channel we will lead with innovation, try new things and new ways to meet the challenges of an increasingly competitive environment. We are thrilled to have Shah Rukh Khan as the host of our flagship non-fiction property and we are certain that the audience will enjoy a different side of their superstar!”

Shah Rukh Khan said, “I am very excited to be a part of &TV’s game show India Poochega – Sabse Shaana Kaun? It is a unique game show that gives merit to the street smart ones. You might not be a scholar or a master in any field but if you are smart then this game show is for you. The channel has decided to bring on board innovative content that hopefully will personify the spirit of New Age India.”

With production standards par excellence &TV intends to leave no stone unturned making television viewing a cohesive experience for every household. The brand comes to life with the soulful rendition of “Jashn Jeene Ka” conceptualized and created by one of Bollywood’s most talented duo and the current musical sensations – Sachin-Jigar.