MUMBAI: Priyanka Chopra?s item number in the film, ?Shootout at Wadala?, has been the talk of the town for several days now. While the film is slated to release on 1st May 2013, the much talked about promotional item number by the sultry Priyanka Chopra will be unveiled tomorrow, i.e. 15th March 2013, exclusively on UTV STARS and bindass.

Both, bindass and UTV STARS, will exclusively air the entire song as a simulcast. The two channels form the youth bucket of the broadcasting arm of Disney UTV and have dedicated Music slots as part of their overall programming content.

Commenting on the unveil of the item song on both the channels, Nikhil Gandhi, Executive Director, Youth Channels, Media Networks, DisneyUTV, said: "Both bindass and UTV STARS have a strong music connect with the youth and have become a destination for big movies to launch their promos, songs etc. We have bands dedicated to Bollywood music, which are the highest rated amongst the youth and music genre. ?Babli Badmaash Hai? has already created a lot of pre- launch buzz and we?re extremely excited to have the premiere exclusively on bindass and UTV STARS."

Mumbai: The second day of the ongoing 14th chapter of Asia?s foremost conclave on Media & Entertainment - FICCI FRAMES 2013, saw a lineup of heavyweight speakers at its annual media trade event. One of the interesting sessions that took place today was a session on the ?Future of TV? by Mr. Andy Kaplan, President, World Wide Networks, Sony Pictures Television. The discussion touched upon varied topics like content development, distribution, web syndication network systems in developing nations and future of television in India.

The first part of the session delved deeply into content development and the challenges broadcasters are facing currently. This is an exciting time to be in the content business; viewers have moved away from loyalty to TV channels to loyalty to individual programmes playing on different channels. It is a free market environment where more and more new players are now in the business of content creation; the revenues are coming from different windows in the value chain. There are several new networks and there is an increased demand for programming content. There are more avenues to sell content and generate revenues and it is very important to get the right license fee for the content. Additionally, there is a need for increased expertise in the distribution network.

The biggest challenge for global entertainment channels in content creation is striking the right balance between global and local content. The content needs to be tailored according to the audience viewing habits and demands that are unique to each market. Mr. Andy Kaplan, President, WWN, Sony Pictures Television said, "Local programming drives higher ratings and global broadcasters like us need to pivot and adjust our content accordingly to survive in a competitive market. Moreover, lot of research is required to push the boundaries and have the latitude to localize but also retain the global flavor. There must be a constant dialogue between the two and one must remember single size cannot fit all."

The second part of the session was a discussion on the potential that Web syndication network systems have in developing nations like India and Latin America. Non- linear television has a huge opportunity for distribution and grabbing eye balls in the BRIC nations due to the robust broadband penetration and growing economy. Moreover advertisers are keen to get into this space and reach out to consumers who do not fall within the purview of linear traditional television. Commenting on this, Mr. Andy Kaplan added, "Crackle is a non- linear network owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment. It consists of Sony?s library of films and television shows. But most importantly it is an outlet for original content. It is doing extremely well in countries like Brazil and Portugal and I hope it will become equally popular in India. However it is important the content of Crackle is significantly designed not to cannibalise on Sony TV content offering."

The session ended with a discussion on the future of television in India. India is a great market for global broadcasters; partly emerging, partly sophisticated. Digitization is expected to double the advancement of the market and will be significant for revenue systems. Non-linear tool is at a nascent stage in the country however there is huge potential in this space that needs to be capitalized. The youth in India are inclined towards social media therefore more and more broadcasters are investing in social media apps as part of their marketing efforts. Mr. Andy Kaplan summed up the way forward to this transitional phase by saying, "It is very important to co-exist. New outlets and networks will crop up in the days to come. We need to be nimble and flexible and open to all outlets and maximize output. India?s regional space is also growing and provides huge opportunity to reach out to newer audiences. In the past 17 years since our presence in the Indian market, India has grown exponentially and it is an ever growing market. Therefore it is very important to adapt to changing times and always remember our job as entertainment broadcasters is to entertain our audience, provide the right content that is tailor made to suit their taste."

The session was moderated by R Sukumar, Editor in Chief, Mint.

MUMBAI: Interbrand, the world?s leading brand consultancy, was this year?s most decorated organization in the 2013 REBRAND 100? Global Awards Showcase. The REBRAND 100? Global Awards, the first of their kind, honor the most successful rebrands worldwide. Six of Interbrand?s offices from around the world won 13 awards, including two Best of Awards for Interbrand Sydney?s work on Alzheimer?s Australia and QAGOMA.

Interbrand?s Global CEO, Jez Frampton, stated, ?At Interbrand, we believe that brands have the power to change the world. The 2013 REBRAND 100? Global Awards prove that we are living up to our vision. We are flattered and deeply honoured by the 13 awards we received this year.?

The 13 awards bestowed upon Interbrand include:

Best of Awards

• Alzheimer?s Australia: Interbrand Sydney tackled the challenge of raising awareness, educating the public and government, and making Alzheimer?s a national health priority for Alzheimer?s Australia, an organization that provides support and advocacy for the 321,600 Australians living with dementia.Interbrand Sydney helped Alzheimer?s Australia achieve its goals by developing a highly effective and heartfelt strategy that painted the disease as the villain and the country as the hero.
• QAGOMA: Interbrand Sydney?s work for QAGOMA, the transformed brand of the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), was also awarded. Interbrand Sydney embraced the unique situation of having two galleries work hand-in-hand to offer richer, more complementary experiences. Interbrand Sydney also created two subtly different personalities that play out across both galleries.

Distinction Award

• CCC: Interbrand San Francisco and Interbrand Toronto collaborated when partnering with Canada Colors and Chemicals (CCC), a chemical, ingredient, and plastics manufacturer and distributor. The two Interbrand offices were acknowledged for taking an unclear, inconsistent brand and developing a striking visual identity system. The two Interbrand offices also developed a more human communications strategy for CCC.
• Ivoo (a Greentech brand) ?Interbrand?s Mexico City office worked with Greentech, one of the largest computer/computer software companies in Venezuela, to create a new retail brand, Ivoo (pronounced "ee-vo"). The brand proposition centers on the idea of the store being an oasis of excellent service and innovative products. In addition to the new name, the Interbrand team also helped in developing the architectural design of the building. Ivoo was a global, collaborative effort between various Interbrand offices and it opened its doors with success in September 2012.
• SeriousFun: Interbrand New York partnered with SeriousFun Children?s Network, a global network of camps that helps children and their families cope with illness. SeriousFun sought to reflect a more agile platform for driving donations and awareness.A new identity system and tagline were developed to communicate the gesture of joy.
• Wrigley:After its acquisition by Mars, Wrigley sought to transcend its perception as a gum manufacturer to become a consumer-oriented confectionery company. The brand had reached ubiquity in developed markets, and was pursuing a strategy of growth in emerging markets like China and India. With a goal of reaching $10 billion USD in sales, Wrigley needed a cohesive, compelling vision for its new corporate strategy. Interbrand New York partnered with the company to create that new vision: "Creating Simple Pleasures to Brighten Everyone?s Day." A cohesive verbal and visual system was developed in conjunction with this vision to capture the vibrancy of Wrigley?s imaginative and optimistic personality.With an engaged global workforce, and a market inspired by the new articulation of the brand, Wrigley?s goals of achieving growth and global ubiquity are now within reach.
• IO: Interbrand New York partnered with IO, the leading provider of modular data center technology and services, to develop a new brand that would allow them to leapfrog competitors and reach new audiences. Following workshops and discussions, the Interbrand New York team developed a strategic positioning, "intelligent control," and a design philosophy "boldly simple," to guide creative development. The new logo represents the bold nature of IO?s paradigm-shifting technology, and the unique experience and intelligent control that IO provides. The identity combines a boldly simple wordmark, a clear and sometimes epic photographic view of technology, a stripped back approach to composition, modern and clean typography, and a new approach to incorporating black and white. The result: a clean, distinct look amid a sea of blue competitors.
• Griffin Theatre Company ?Griffin Theatre Company is a new theater at the forefront of Australian playwriting. It isfamous for producing some of Australia?s most memorable plays. The brand needed to play catch up to the highly acclaimed work it was already well known for producing. Working with Interbrand Sydney, a new brand was developed to convey what made Griffin unique: rawness of performances and a constant drive to innovate the theater experience. This strategic idea shaped the new brand and a vertical logo became the logical representation for the depth of the experience. The mood changes through different combinations of words, color and imagery ? from one production to another, one touchpoint to the next ? and yet the backbeat is always distinctively Griffin.

Merit Award

• Kellogg?s: Over the years, Kellogg?s has grown into the world?s leading producer of breakfast cereal. But with a wide range of products in over 180 countries, the iconic masterbrand had lapsed as a result of an emphasis on its individual products. By refreshing Kellogg?smasterbrand identity and sharpening its storytelling, Interbrand New York succeeded in restoringthe brand?s authenticity. By strengthening Kellogg?s masterbrand presence in all package designs, Interbrand set the stage for a revival. This active transitionwas boosted by Kellogg?s first-ever masterbrand advertising campaign ?as a proud sponsor of the start of the day? on the highly visible stage of the 2012 London Olympics.
• NYSE Euronext: Following the 2007 merger of NYSE and Euronext, the organization needed to signal a game-change to the marketplace in order to stay relevant. To attract clients from competitors, NYSE Euronext needed to realize its vision ofredefining exchange and lead an industry evolution. Interbrand New York fashioned an authentic, differentiating creative platform to position NYSE Euronext as the hub of a global community. A dynamic logo expresses collaboration and growth in a flexible, globally relatable graphic language. The animated logo emanates energy while reflecting diverse elements joining to create a point of interaction and activity. Striking black-and-white imagery conveys heritage and trust. The blue and green color palette communicates growth and optimism, while uncommonly light hues convey commitment to transparency. The global launch took placeon May 14, 2012.

Notable Award

• China Merchants Securities (CMS): Interbrand Shanghai partnered with CMS to provide the financial organization with a more clear visual representation of its business.
• Humana ? Interbrand New York developed the new Humanavisual identity. Since the work was completed, Humana, one of the most prominent health insurance providers in the U.S., has transformed from a traditional healthcare provider into a ?wellbeing? company.
• Vuforia by Qualcomm: Interbrand San Francisco and Interbrand Torontowere recognized for the work they conducted on Vuforia, a new app-development brand for Qualcomm. The two Interbrand offices developed a refreshed visual expression that was inspired by the lens of a camera, the viewers? eye, and the expression of delight that comes when using technology.

In response to the 13 awards Interbrand received, its Global Chief Creative Officer, Andy Payne, said: ?Brands are living assets that create value. Brands, therefore, must evolve in order to remain relevant to consumers around the world. The REBRAND awards celebrate the evolution and adaptation that is necessary to build strong long-lasting brands.?

To learn more about each of Interbrand?s award-winning projects or to see the complete listing of the 2013 REBRAND 100? Global Awards winners please visit: http://www.rebrand.com/2013-showcase.

MUMBAI : Aegis Media?s experiential marketing agency Carat Fresh Integrated recently executed a thematic fashion show for John Miller, India?s leading Men?s wear brand from Indus-League Clothing Ltd. a future group company. The event called as ?The John Miller Trouser Collezione? saw stylish models showcase the new-age corporate look by John Miller at SoBo Central Mall, Mumbai.

John Miller, a revolutionary men?s wear brand is all set to redefine the young corporate fashion icon. The smart corporate look is now defined as a classy mix between conformity and distinctiveness. Substantiating this phenomena, John Miller introduced a range of specialty trousers including auto-adjust, glitz, diet and super crease trousers. Young and stylish city models walked the ramp all geared in the chic John Miller Collection as the crowd looked on.

Commenting on the aptness of the fashion show to launch the new collection, Shibani Mishra, CMO-Indus League Clothing Ltd. says, " John Miller has revolutionized the traditional corporate look for men through its latest trouser collection. Fashion show as a format goes a long way to communicate our brand?s revolutionary outlook, not to forget other communication benefits including huge amount of buzz and content opportunities both online as well as offline."

Commenting on the same, Sidharth Ghosh, Vice President, Carat Fresh Integrated says "Fashion Show as a format creates an aspiration amongst the audience to own a part of the new collection. Besides, mall as a touch-point gives high visibility to the brand and has a huge WOM multiplier effect."

The 2-day event held at SoBo Central mall in the south of the city witnessed young and the class apart; gather in huge numbers to witness a fashion show which showcased a new revolution in the male corporate wear. The new range includes, ?Auto Adjust? - trousers designed with an extendable waist band for added comfort, ?Glitz? - trousers with unmistakable sheen making them an ideal choice for special occasions, ?Diet Trousers? -finely cut designs which gives an accentuated slimmer appearance, ?Super Crease Trousers?? - which have an effortless super crease which lasts all day long. Famous model ?Eijaz Khan? was the show-stopper at the event. Apart from the model walk, the event engaged the audiences by inviting them to take the ramp and showcase their personal style.

About Carat Fresh Integrated: Carat Fresh Integrated is an experiential marketing agency of Aegis Media India group. Other group companies include Carat, Posterscope (OOH), Brandscope, Hyperspace (retail), PSI (airports), Doosra (creative), Vizeum, Isobar and iProspect.

MUMBAI : Movie Bazaar is a film based programme, that gives a foretaste of the flicks taking shape on celluloid in Malayalam, of motion pictures that are in various stages of composition, either about to go on the floors or are being shot on location. The programme takes a tour through cinema mart on the celluloid streets of Mollywood, to gather the latest news on the hottest talkies that are currently under production. It is telecast every Saturday in the prime time slot of 7.30pm.

Movie Bazaar is formatted along the lines of a travelogue in which it first drops in on the pooja ceremony of films which marks the inauguration of the movie, a grand occasion attended by the entire star cast and the technicians from the director to the spot boy, as well as invited guests. The pooja or muhurat that usually includes canning the first shot, involves lighting of the lamp and other religious rites to propitiate the Gods, so that the multimillion rupee collective effort will get off to a smooth start and become a winner all the way.

The next stopover is at a selected film location, abuzz with creative activity, with thecamera pan-scanning over the action on the sets so that the viewer feels that he is actually on the spot: the director deep in discussion with the script-writer, the camera crew lighting up the scene, the make-up man touching up the artistes, the lead actors mouthing their lines as the camera switches on, the assistant director prompting them from the sidelines, re-takes if the actors miss their cue etc. This is followed by the live interaction with the entire unit, the actors on their roles in the movie and the storyline, the director, editor, make-up man, costume designer even the vehicle driver. By quizzing them on different aspects of the film, the viewer is able to piece together the entire picture and is able to get a complete feel of the of the movie, long before it is on the editing table for the final cut.

Movie Bazaar which gives advance information on films that are getting adapted from script to reel is set to reach the milestone of 350 episodes. As Movie Bazaar clapper boards its way to the landmark, new segments will be added on, to give more colour to this shoot ?at- site scene stealer of a show.

MUMBAI: The latest TAM Ratings(TVRs)for Week 9(24 Feb to 2 March 2013) shows that Amrita TV is ranked 3rd among Malayalam channels across key Target Groups (CS 4+).

In the recent past, Amrita TV had revamped its Prime Time Programing based on market feedback, and launched new Shows which has resulted in a surge in viewership.

A Week-on-Week comparison of TVRs (W-9 vs W-8),throws up some remarkable rating trends:
The new edition of "Super Dancer Junior", a dance talent hunt for children(Mon-Thu 7-8 pm),has shown a three-fold increase.

The youth-centric serial "Just Fun-Chumma"(Mon-Thu 8-8.30 pm),where the entire star cast is in their twenties, reveals a five-fold increase in ratings.

Amrita TV?s pioneering Reality Show to discover the Complete Woman,??Vanita Ratnam??(Mon-Thu 8.30- 9.30 pm), has upped its ratings by more than two times.

Likewise, ratings of the real-life social justice show, "Kathayalla Ithu Jeevitham"(Mon-Thu 9.30-10 pm), has jumped by two & half times.

The newly mounted music talent hunt for kids,"Super Star Junior"(Sat & Sun 8-9 pm), shows a near three-fold hike in ratings.

As a General Entertainment-cum-News Broadcaster, Amrita TV has been offering an optimal blend of fiction,non-fiction and news content to its viewers worldwide. This is also reflected in audience response to the channel?s News bulletins.

Amrita TV?s news bulletin,??Top 10 at Ten?? which is aired daily at 10 pm, has been ranked as Kerala Television?s No.1 news bulletin for months together in this time slot (Daily 10-11 pm).

Similarly,the two-minute News Module "Spot News", is a big draw as it broadcasts instant and non-repetitive News,every 30 minutes round the clock, as news unfolds from across the world. "Spot News" has shown a spurt of 150% in ratings.

Another pathbreaking initiative of Amrita TV, not replicated by other channels, is producing Reality Shows in the gulf for the huge Malayali population in Middle East . Amrita TV is the only Indian channel to have completely mounted and shot three gulf-based Reality Shows running into 275 Episodes . The entire works which include designing & erection of stage & sets; conducting auditions of aspirants from UAE,Kuwait,Oman,Qatar,Bahrain and Saudi Arabia; shooting all Episodes; and holding the Grand Finales have been executed from Dubai.

The fourth reality show in the gulf series is "Kasavu Thattam", a 100-episode talent hunt on Muslim/Malabar folk songs to be aired from April 2013(Thu-Sat 9.30- 10 pm UAE Time)

Amrita TV,Middle East ,is also airing a weekly cuisine show "Super Chefs" (Fri 10-10.30 pm UAE Time)which transports viewers to the finest premium hotels in the gulf, with a hands-on chat with the world?s best Chefs, who showcase international cuisines and recipes in their hotel?s dazzling environs.

It is normally presumed that in Television and Cinema, "Awards" and "Audiences" are mutually exclusive. However with 58 State Awards in just 7 years,the highest bagged by any Indian TV channel, Amrita TV has shown that Ratings and Recognitions can co-exist, by taking the road less travelled.