Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has recently announced a new lineup of content, emphasizing the integration of its television and streaming services into a more unified operation.
Today’s announcements included the launch of the 18th season of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), India’s adaptation of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?. The show, hosted by Amitabh Bachchan, will premiere tonight on Sony Entertainment Television in India and on the Sony LIV streaming service, available globally. This season is notable for introducing AI technology into the show.
In addition, Indian cricket legend Rohit Sharma will star in his own series on an SPNI channel, and actor Ajay Devgn will present the true-crime series Crime Patrol 2026. The network will also introduce Indian Game Show, a comedy series focused on celebrity challenges, hosted by Bharti Singh and Harssh Limbachiyaa.
SPNI confirmed that Hansal Mehta’s Scam 2010 is set to go into production despite previous legal challenges. This series was first announced in 2024.
On the regional front, Madhuri Dixit will host Kon Honar Crorepati, the Marathi version of KBC. Sony LIV is also set to introduce Tamil versions of MasterChef and Idol, with acclaimed musician A.R. Rahman searching for Tamil Nadu’s top singing talent.
Additionally, the Sony Sports Networks will host the Festival of Sports from August 15 to December 1, showcasing events like India’s cricket tour of Sri Lanka, the Women’s T20 Asia Cup, the Asian Games, and India’s comprehensive tour of New Zealand.
Gaurav Banerjee, Managing Director and CEO of SPNI, stated, “The Indian entertainment sector is evolving with audiences who explore content across different languages, genres, and platforms. Our strategy focuses on developing strong intellectual properties and narratives that resonate with viewers, regardless of how they choose to watch. This new lineup reflects our commitment to delivering diverse and compelling content, combining established franchises with innovative new formats and a rich calendar of live sports.”
“With everything from Kaun Banega Crorepati to our latest Hindi shows and regional offerings, we are diversifying and expanding our portfolio, ensuring our television and digital platforms work synergistically to reach audiences throughout India,” he added.
Year of Transformation
It’s been a transformative year for SPNI, previously known as Culver Max Entertainment. A shift in management earlier this year marked a strategic realignment to bring its streaming services in closer alignment with its established television segment.
At a recent roundtable, Banerjee explained the new operational model, noting that the previous organizational structure was designed when the TV sector was the primary business driver, with digital operations considered a nascent side project. “Now, digital has matured and become integral to our core business, spurring significant growth. The restructured organization enhances our focus on content creation and monetization, merging these crucial functions,” he said.
He noted that the reorganization has enhanced the network’s ability to secure more comprehensive subscription and advertising agreements. “There are abundant opportunities when we adopt a holistic, network-wide view,” Banerjee commented.
He further mentioned that recent outcomes have been very positive, attributing success to the harmonious collaboration among the teams. “The last six months have been promising, and we have high expectations for the coming years,” he added.
Global Ambitions
Banerjee also discussed SPNI’s international strategy, particularly for Sony LIV and its linear channels, targeting the global Indian diaspora as a primary audience. He highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance distribution and marketing in regions like the UK and North America, where there are significant Indian communities.
“Our core content resonates strongly with premium audiences, just as it does in India. We are focused on intensifying our marketing and branding strategies in these key markets, with more details to be revealed soon,” he concluded.
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
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