Dear Readers,

This week, India’s media and entertainment landscape is all about evolution and new narratives. Scam 1992 star Pratik Gandhi takes on a fresh role as the host of a reality TV show celebrating the country’s startup ecosystem, turning entrepreneurial journeys into prime-time stories. Meanwhile, TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti emphasises how agility and innovation are shaping the future of broadcasting, and brands are stepping beyond advertising to actively shape culture.

As creativity, technology, and business intersect, the media landscape is no longer just about entertainment — it’s about influence, impact, and ideas that resonate. Here’s what you need to know this week.

Let’s dive in:

From Scam to Startups: Pratik Gandhi’s Journey from Screen to Reality TV

Known for his portrayal of Harshad Mehta in Scam 1992, Pratik Gandhi is now stepping into a new role — leading a reality show that celebrates entrepreneurship. The actor talks about authenticity, brand choices, and why he believes in stories that mirror the real India.

Read here..

Why you should care: Celebrity-led shows are turning entrepreneurial journeys into mainstream entertainment, blending storytelling with India’s booming startup ecosystem and inspiring audiences beyond just the screen.

Agility and Innovation Key to India’s Broadcasting Growth: Anil Kumar Lahoti

TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti emphasised that the future of broadcasting lies in agility and innovation. He discussed how evolving consumption habits and emerging technologies are shaping a more responsive, tech-driven broadcast ecosystem.

Read here...

Why you should care: With digital convergence accelerating, broadcasters who adapt fastest will set the benchmark for growth — and regulation is poised to support that agility.

Brands as Culture Shapers, Not Just Advertisers

A deep dive into how brands are evolving from product promoters to cultural architects. The piece explores how companies are embedding themselves in conversations around gender, equality, and social progress — using storytelling as a tool for relevance.

Read here..

Why you should care: As audiences demand purpose beyond persuasion, brands that authentically align with culture are emerging as the new media powerhouses.

Stories you missed this week

Add CTV views in audience measurement, BARC told

India’s Madison asks court to quash antitrust probe into the ad agency

Centre releases draft content accessibility guidelines for OTT platforms

India must harness AI’s gains while minimising its risks in creative sector, Sanjay Jaju

TRAI may review plan to allow distributors to break bouquets

We hope you enjoyed this week’s roundup of the key stories shaping India’s media and entertainment landscape.

Your voice matters! Join the conversation, share your perspectives, or tell us which trends are catching your attention. Connect with us on LinkedIn at @ETBrandEquity — we love hearing from our readers.

Stay tuned for next week’s newsletter for more insights, analysis, and stories from the world of media and entertainment.

— Team ETBrandEquity

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