Rohit Sharma, Ajay Devgn, Madhuri Dixit headline Sony's new content slate

A Star-Studded Festive Lineup

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has pulled out all stops for the upcoming festive season. The network unveiled a content slate that brings together cricket, crime, and classic quiz entertainment, with some of the biggest names in Indian entertainment attached to new projects.

Cricketer Rohit Sharma is set to make his debut as a show host, while actor Ajay Devgn will step into the anchor's chair for a new season of the long-running crime series. Meanwhile, Madhuri Dixit Nene is slated to appear in the Marathi version of Kaun Banega Crorepati.

Rohit Sharma's New Avataar

Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team captain, will be seen in a brand-new show on Sony. Details about the format remain under wraps, but the network has confirmed that the cricketer will headline the project as part of its push to blend sports and entertainment.

This marks a significant move for Sharma, who has largely stayed away from television hosting duties despite his massive popularity. The show is expected to leverage his on-screen charisma and connect with audiences beyond the cricket field.

Ajay Devgn Takes Over Crime Patrol

Ajay Devgn, known for his intense performances in films like Singham and Drishyam, will host Crime Patrol. The show, which has been a staple of Indian television for years, is set to get a fresh lease of life with Devgn at the helm.

His deep, authoritative voice and stern screen presence could add a new layer of gravitas to the crime anthology format. The network is betting on Devgn's star power to draw in viewers who may have drifted away from the genre.

Madhuri Dixit on KBC Marathi

Madhuri Dixit Nene, one of Bollywood's most beloved actresses, will be part of KBC Marathi. The regional adaptation of the quiz show has been a ratings driver for Sony in Maharashtra, and Dixit's presence is expected to boost its appeal further.

While her exact role—whether as a guest or in a recurring capacity—has not been officially detailed, sources indicate she will feature prominently in the show's upcoming episodes. The move underscores Sony's focus on regional language content as a key growth area.

SPNI's Broader Strategy

The announcements come as SPNI says it is "encouraged" by early results of its new streaming and TV strategy. The network has been doubling down on a multi-platform approach, combining traditional broadcast with its digital streaming service.

Industry observers note that the festive slate is a calculated attempt to capture maximum viewer attention during a period when television consumption typically peaks. With cricket, crime, and quiz formats, Sony is covering a wide demographic swathe—from sports fans to family audiences.

The slate also includes projects involving music composer A.R. Rahman, though specifics of his involvement have not been fully disclosed. The Economic Times reported that the lineup spans Hindi, regional entertainment, and sports, indicating a comprehensive push across genres and languages.

What to Watch For

As the festive season approaches, all eyes will be on how these shows perform in the ratings. Sony's bet on celebrity hosts and regional content will be tested in the coming months. The network is expected to reveal more details about launch dates and formats in the weeks ahead.