You have had a long leadership role in Viacom18. How has it helped in implementing the broadcast learning on Q India ?
The one thing that has been the most exciting part of my career is that I have been fortunate to be part of start-ups which went on to become successful companies. My stint at Viacom18 as one of the founder members of COLORS back in 2008 or be it at Sony TV in 1995, were milestones in my career. And now here at the helm of the new entrant – The Q, we are one team on a joint mission with the same vision of building a brand that is unique and never seen before. Success is a given if you have the right specialists who think like Intrapreneurs and that is the biggest learning from my experience.
How has been The Q India journey in India so far?
The Q has been one of the unique brands to experiment and think differently from its inception by curating & powering content from the internet for Young audiences across platforms. We have been the fastest growing GEC in recent times. It’s something our Founders and teams are very proud of.
There is an increasing affinity in India to local languages? How do you intend to cater to this Indian audience?
We have a successful brand in The Q in Hindi and are keenly looking at all opportunities in the media space. In the near future you will see many more announcements and and true to us, many firsts.
What are the programming strategy and the TG you are targeting and your expansion plans for India?
The Q is the only channel which is powered by Digital Creators & Social Media Influencers and programmed for Young India. Television that is anytime, anywhere & any screen. This will always be in our DNA in whatever content and platforms we get into in the near future.
Could you share your marketing plan or mix for the Indian market?
We are excited about kick starting the marketing campaign for our new Crime Show “Jurm Ka Chehra” in the coming weeks and other comedies & format shows to make The Q a destination for “Zara Hatke” entertainment.
The Best Businesses Are Built Around Passion. What are your views on this?
I would not think any other way. Passion will never ever go out of fashion. Our teams breathe this every moment in everything we do.
On a personal note, what have been the highlights of your career so far? Your key learnings?
Like I mentioned earlier, I am an adventure seeker and love trying out new challenges. I have left organizations at their peak and taken the plunge into newer vistas. You find your tribe and the energy levels of being in it together is another level of thrill.