The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed a remarkable 40% surge in television viewership since 2018, underscoring its escalating prominence in India’s entertainment landscape. Sanjog Gupta, CEO of JioStar Sports, highlighted this significant growth during a recent conversation on the inaugural episode of “Bombay Sport Exchange” with K Shriniwas Rao, Head of Content (Sports) at Times Internet.
Unprecedented Growth in a Mature Market
Reflecting on the journey since 2018, Gupta remarked, “Since 2018, which is when we acquired the rights to IPL for Star at that time, on television viewership, it has grown close to 40%. Now for an evolved, mature property that the IPL already was in 2018, to grow as significantly as that shows two things.”
He elaborated that this growth indicates the IPL’s inherent potential to achieve unprecedented heights and highlights the vast opportunities within the Indian market for properties willing to reimagine possibilities. Gupta emphasized that the IPL’s trajectory showcases the immense headroom for growth in the market when innovative approaches are embraced.
JioStar’s Ambitious Vision for IPL 2025
Following the merger of Viacom18 and Disney’s Star India into JioStar, the company has set an ambitious target for the 2025 IPL season. Gupta stated, “Now it continues with JioStar where again the ambition is to continue on the growth trajectory and reach a billion viewers this year, duplicated.” This goal encompasses reaching audiences across television, mobile, and connected devices, reflecting JioStar’s commitment to expanding the IPL’s reach.
Enhancing the Viewing Experience
JioStar is dedicated to enhancing the viewer experience by offering diverse and inclusive content. The 2025 IPL broadcast features over 170 experts, more than 25 feeds, and coverage in 12 languages. Innovations such as the inclusion of Indian Sign Language feeds and the integration of AI technology aim to make the broadcasts more accessible and engaging for a broader audience. These initiatives have been met with positive responses, fostering a more inclusive viewing experience.
The Cultural Significance of IPL
The IPL has evolved into more than just a cricket league; it has become a cultural phenomenon deeply embedded in the lives of millions of fans. The tournament’s ability to captivate audiences for over two months each year underscores its significance in India’s entertainment landscape. The substantial growth in viewership reflects fans’ unwavering support and love for the IPL on television.
Future Prospects
With the IPL’s viewership on an upward trajectory, the future looks promising for both the league and its broadcasting partners. The collaboration between JioStar and the IPL signifies a new era in sports broadcasting, with aspirations to reach unprecedented audience numbers. As the IPL continues to innovate and expand its reach, it remains poised to set new benchmarks in the global sports arena.
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