~ The World TV Premiere on Star Gold emerges as the biggest non-franchise premiere of 2025 ~
After conquering the box office with a staggering collection of ₹800+ crores, Vicky Kaushal’s magnum opus Chhaava has now created a storm on TV, delivering another record-breaking milestone with its World TV Premiere on Star Gold on 17th August. With a TVR of 3.12, the film reached 39.2 million* viewers across India, making it the biggest non-franchise movie premiere of 2025. The film's TVR in Maharashtra was 6.64.
Timed around Independence Day, the premiere became a cultural celebration. For the very first time, Chhaava was simulcast in both Hindi and Marathi allowing television audiences to experience the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj not just as a cinematic spectacle, but also in the language of its land and legacy. Star Gold further enhanced the premiere with a special Roundtable featuring Vicky Kaushal, Vineet Kumar Singh, Divya Dutta, and director Laxman Utekar, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the historical saga. Fans were also treated to unseen deleted scenes, making the premiere a memorable event.
Expressing his excitement about the film's success on TV Vicky Kaushal stated, “I’m overwhelmed by the love Chhaava continues to receive. To see the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj reach every home in the country is truly special. It's a testament to the hard work of the entire team and the visionary direction of Laxman Sir, and I’m grateful to Star Gold for creating such a memorable celebration around it.”
Dinesh Vijan (CEO/Founder, Maddock Films): “Every film we create at Maddock Films is a new endeavor, and with Chhaava, we are thrilled to have brought to life a powerful historical epic that has resonated with audiences. Its success, first in theaters and now on TV, truly highlights its universal appeal. We’re thrilled that our long-standing partnership with Star Gold has led to yet another milestone for Chhaava. Their ability to bring this film to a wider audience and achieve record-breaking viewership is a testament to how deeply this powerful story has connected with our audiences.”
Director Laxman Utekar reacted to the success of the TV premiere by saying, “The journey of Chhaava has been truly incredible, and to see it resonate with such a massive television audience is immensely gratifying. This record-breaking premiere proves that audiences are eager for powerful, rooted stories. The collaboration with Star Gold has been phenomenal, and their ability to bring this film to homes across India has created a truly special event.”
JioStar Spokesperson said, “The premiere on Star Gold gave families across India the chance to come together for a shared entertainment experience. The overwhelming response reaffirms that television, especially a destination like Star Gold, continues to be where stories truly find their widest audience and deepest impact.”
Divya Dutta shared, “It's an amazing feeling to know that our film has touched so many people. To be a part of a story that has been so well-received, both theatrically and on its television premiere, is truly rewarding. The record-breaking numbers are a testament to the power of a good story and the audience's love for historical dramas. I am so thankful for all the love and support."
Vineet Kumar Singh added "I am beyond happy to be a part of a film that has broken so many records and found a place in the hearts of so many viewers. The success of Chhaava's TV premiere on Star Gold is overwhelming, and it proves that hard work and a compelling story will always find its audience. I am grateful to Laxman Sir, Dinesh Vijan Sir and the entire team for giving me this opportunity and also to the audience for their incredible love."
The film, starring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, and Vineet Kumar Singh, Divya Dutta and directed by Laxman Utekar, is produced by Maddock Films. It’s phenomenal success on TV further cements its status as one of the most significant and beloved films of the year.
Kriti Sanon is UNFPA India’s New Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality
Press Release
Kriti Sanon is UNFPA India’s New Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality
calendar_today01 September 2025
Conferment of Kriti Sanon as UNFPA India Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality
As Honorary Ambassador, Kriti pledges to advance Women’s Empowerment, Well-being and Safety
Mumbai, 1st September 2025 – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India announced the appointment of acclaimed actor, producer and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon as its Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality today. The announcement was made at an event in Mumbai, underscoring their joint commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls across India. In her new role, Ms. Sanon will advocate for the rights and well-being of women and girls, extending her support to addressing critical issues such as empowerment, education, ending gender-based violence and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Before the event, Ms. Sanon joined four bold young gender equality changemakers pledging to lend her voice to dismantling barriers to equality - such as child marriage, son preference, and violence against women and girls.
While progress is evident with more women than ever before in education, leadership, and the workforce, harmful social norms continue to limit opportunities for women and girls in India and around the world. As UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality, Kriti Sanon will work with partners to champion solutions that help women and girls learn, lead, and thrive.
Key Facts on Gender Equality in India
Gender-biased sex selection: One of the starkest markers of inequality, rooted in deeply entrenched discrimination and the persistent preference for sons.
Economic potential: Closing the gender gap in the workforce could boost India’s GDP by 27% by 2030.
Gender-based violence: Almost one in three women face physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, a human rights crisis that demands stronger prevention and support systems.
Child marriage: Despite progress, 23% of women aged 20–24 are still married before the age of 182, depriving millions of girls of education, health, and opportunity.
Speaking at the event, Kriti Sanon expressed her commitment to her new role, saying, “I am deeply honored to join UNFPA India as their Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. This role provides an incredible platform to advocate for the rights and choices of women and girls, ensuring they have the freedom to make their own decisions, pursue their dreams, and live free from violence and discrimination. I am deeply passionate about empowering every woman and girl, helping amplify their voices, tell their stories, and inspire collective action towards a more equal and just society. I look forward to working closely with UNFPA India to make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, welcomed Ms. Sanon, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Kriti Sanon as our Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. Her powerful voice, passion, and widespread influence will be instrumental in amplifying our message and reaching a broader audience, especially young people. Kriti’s dedication to advancing the rights, opportunities, and safety of women and girls aligns perfectly with UNFPA’s vision of an equal and just society. We are confident that her efforts will inspire meaningful change and accelerate progress towards ensuring that every woman and girl can live with dignity and fulfil her potential.”
Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, extended his congratulations, adding, “Kriti Sanon’s appointment as UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality is a powerful and significant milestone in our pursuit of the full and equal rights of all women and girls. Her influence extends far beyond India, and her voice will resonate across the Asia-Pacific region, where millions are striving for equal rights and opportunities. By championing their aspirations, Kriti will amplify the call for gender equality, inspire young people and help accelerate progress towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive.”
As Honorary Ambassador, Kriti Sanon’s two-year engagement plan with UNFPA India includes a series of impactful activities designed to further the cause of women and girls. These initiatives will involve field visits to UNFPA programme sites, allowing her to directly engage with communities. She will raise awareness through campaigns and opinion pieces, and join UNFPA events and advocacy efforts nationally and internationally to champion the empowerment of women and girls.
For over five decades, UNFPA India has partnered with the Government of India and civil society to advance gender equality, eliminate gender-based violence, and expand opportunities for women and girls. Together with Ms. Sanon, UNFPA will continue to work towards a future where every woman and girl in India can live with dignity, make her own choices, and fulfil her potential.
UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. UNFPA's mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA calls for the realization of reproductive rights for all and supports access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services, including voluntary family planning, quality maternal health care and comprehensive sexuality education. Visit us at - https://india.unfpa.org/en
Kriti Sanon is UNFPA India’s New Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality
Press Release
Kriti Sanon is UNFPA India’s New Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality
calendar_today01 September 2025
Conferment of Kriti Sanon as UNFPA India Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality
As Honorary Ambassador, Kriti pledges to advance Women’s Empowerment, Well-being and Safety
Mumbai, 1st September 2025 – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India announced the appointment of acclaimed actor, producer and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon as its Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality today. The announcement was made at an event in Mumbai, underscoring their joint commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls across India. In her new role, Ms. Sanon will advocate for the rights and well-being of women and girls, extending her support to addressing critical issues such as empowerment, education, ending gender-based violence and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Before the event, Ms. Sanon joined four bold young gender equality changemakers pledging to lend her voice to dismantling barriers to equality - such as child marriage, son preference, and violence against women and girls.
While progress is evident with more women than ever before in education, leadership, and the workforce, harmful social norms continue to limit opportunities for women and girls in India and around the world. As UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality, Kriti Sanon will work with partners to champion solutions that help women and girls learn, lead, and thrive.
Key Facts on Gender Equality in India
Gender-biased sex selection: One of the starkest markers of inequality, rooted in deeply entrenched discrimination and the persistent preference for sons.
Economic potential: Closing the gender gap in the workforce could boost India’s GDP by 27% by 2030.
Gender-based violence: Almost one in three women face physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, a human rights crisis that demands stronger prevention and support systems.
Child marriage: Despite progress, 23% of women aged 20–24 are still married before the age of 182, depriving millions of girls of education, health, and opportunity.
Speaking at the event, Kriti Sanon expressed her commitment to her new role, saying, “I am deeply honored to join UNFPA India as their Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. This role provides an incredible platform to advocate for the rights and choices of women and girls, ensuring they have the freedom to make their own decisions, pursue their dreams, and live free from violence and discrimination. I am deeply passionate about empowering every woman and girl, helping amplify their voices, tell their stories, and inspire collective action towards a more equal and just society. I look forward to working closely with UNFPA India to make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, welcomed Ms. Sanon, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Kriti Sanon as our Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. Her powerful voice, passion, and widespread influence will be instrumental in amplifying our message and reaching a broader audience, especially young people. Kriti’s dedication to advancing the rights, opportunities, and safety of women and girls aligns perfectly with UNFPA’s vision of an equal and just society. We are confident that her efforts will inspire meaningful change and accelerate progress towards ensuring that every woman and girl can live with dignity and fulfil her potential.”
Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, extended his congratulations, adding, “Kriti Sanon’s appointment as UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality is a powerful and significant milestone in our pursuit of the full and equal rights of all women and girls. Her influence extends far beyond India, and her voice will resonate across the Asia-Pacific region, where millions are striving for equal rights and opportunities. By championing their aspirations, Kriti will amplify the call for gender equality, inspire young people and help accelerate progress towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive.”
As Honorary Ambassador, Kriti Sanon’s two-year engagement plan with UNFPA India includes a series of impactful activities designed to further the cause of women and girls. These initiatives will involve field visits to UNFPA programme sites, allowing her to directly engage with communities. She will raise awareness through campaigns and opinion pieces, and join UNFPA events and advocacy efforts nationally and internationally to champion the empowerment of women and girls.
For over five decades, UNFPA India has partnered with the Government of India and civil society to advance gender equality, eliminate gender-based violence, and expand opportunities for women and girls. Together with Ms. Sanon, UNFPA will continue to work towards a future where every woman and girl in India can live with dignity, make her own choices, and fulfil her potential.
UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. UNFPA's mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA calls for the realization of reproductive rights for all and supports access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services, including voluntary family planning, quality maternal health care and comprehensive sexuality education. Visit us at - https://india.unfpa.org/en
