Balaji-Star turf war heads South
After the dramatic end of the Star-Balaji proposed joint venture to launch regional channels, Indian TV producer Ekta Kapoor-led production house Balaji Telefilms has signed an exclusive content deal with Sun Network. Balaji’s move will set a tough battleground between former allies Star TV and Balaji Telefilms in the southern entertainment broadcasting market, reports said.
Confirming the development, Mumbai-based Balaji Telefilms Chief Executive Officer R. Karthik said, “We have decided not to launch regional channels in partnership with anyone. Instead, we have spoken to the Sun Network and will provide them with exclusive content for their channels. As and when they have the required time slots, they will air our shows.” Sun Network exclusively produces content for channels such as Udaya TV, Sun TV, Gemini TV and Surya TV.
A few days back, the Star Group and Balaji Telefims had decided to terminate their agreement to launch a joint venture in the regional television market. On the other hand, Star TV is believed to be partnering with Kerala-based broadcaster Asianet for its regional foray. Star’s plans with Asianet is the main reason for the Star-Balaji joint venture not taking off.
The proposed joint venture between Star and Asianet will house Asianet’s entertainment channels Asianet Plus in Malayalam and Asianet Suvarna in Kannada. That apart, the partners will also launch a Telugu channel. Star is eyeing at leveraging Asianet’s strong regional presence and its distribution network, which reaches out to around 60 countries across the globe.
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