In its first step towards launching an entertainment channel, NDTV has inked a partnership with Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar’s production company, Dharma Productions.
Johar will be on the board of NDTV’s entertainment company and Dharma Productions will hold an equity stake in it.
Johar and Dharma Productions will work exclusively with NDTV to achieve new levels of excellence in entertainment programming. Johar will help originate concepts and new programming ideas for the channel and will be an ambassador for the NDTV entertainment brand.
Dharma Productions will produce shows for NDTV’s entertainment channel. The channel will have first right of refusal on any programmes that Dharma produces for television. Johar and Dharma productions have produced major blockbusters such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gum, Kal Ho Na Ho and Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna.
Speaking on the new alliance, NDTV chairman Prannoy Roy said, “We have enormous respect for Karan’s brilliance and creativity. He is constantly breaking new ground in quality and transforming Indian movies to world class standards. We know he will now help us to redefine and set new benchmarks in entertainment television.”
Johar added, “For me this partnership between NDTV and Dharma Productions is not just a professional association… it’s a family bonding and I believe in the power of the family! What a family can do together no individual can do on his own. This family is going to be at a TV screen near you, creating all the celebration possible. So please watch NDTV emerge as the leading entertainment channel of the country and this is not just a projection … this is a guarantee.”
The NDTV entertainment channel is being launched as part of NDTV’s expansion beyond the news.
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