ZEE launches 24 hr network in Canada

Appoints Ethnic Channels to represent Zee brand in Canada, after deal with ATN ends

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEE) has appointed Ethnic Channels Group (ECG), one of the largest distributor of third language television services in Canada, to launch its flagship entertainment channel Zee TV in Canada as a 24/7 network.

Earlier, Zee TV was available on Asian Television Network International (ATN), but not as a 24 hour channel. ATN, which also has rival network STAR India's content, had decided not to renew the licensing agreement with Zee TV for the Hindi programming after the deal was to expires on January 31.

Post announcement, ZEE's American subsidiary today said that Zee TV Canada will be available to Canadian viewers as a 24/7 service for the first time on platforms like Rogers, Bell and Telus starting from February 1.

Earlier, Shan Chandrasekar, president and CEO of ATN had said, "We felt that with programming content from both STAR Plus and from Zee TV, we had a situation where we were unable to do justice to either one and from sheer lack of air time, had to miss out some very compelling programming contents.”

ZEE, however, said today that its relationship with ATN has been a happy one. In Canada, however ZEE has outgrown the relationship and felt the need to address the immediate and ever-growing consumer need for more top notch ZEE content,the company said in a statement.

Suresh Bala, CEO ZEE Americas,  said the impact and growing importance of the South Asian diaspora in Canada cannot be overstated. And with the launch of ZEE TV Canada, we are now in a position to address this significant opportunity.

ZEE has and continues to remain the leading South Asian media brand globally. 650 million viewers in 169 countries around the world are testament to its popularity. We are fortunate to have found an energetic and progressive partner in ECG and we are confident that this partnership will help us to exponentially grow our business in Canada

ZEE now has six channels in Canada catering to the diverse group of viewers. ETC Punjabi, Zing, ZEE Salaam, ZEE Tamizh and ZEE Cinema apart from ZEE TV Canada.