| MUMBAI: Bengali television viewers have delivered
a startling verdict on STAR Ananda, according to the latest TAM ratings.
The Channel has bested all except ETV Bangla amongst the General Entertainment
Channels, while leaving news channels trailing far behind, an unprecedented
feat in television viewing!
In Kolkata, STAR Ananda delivered a reach of 2,460,000 as compared
to ETV Bangla's 2,797,000 and ahead of Aakaash Bangla at 2,423,000
(TG: CS 15+; TAM Wk 13 - 26th Mar - 1st Apr 2006). Closest news
competitor Tara News achieved a reach of only 1,492,000. In all
of West Bengal, STAR Ananda meanwhile notched an impressive reach
of 3,404,000 behind only ETV Bangla. Meanwhile, Tara Newz languished
far behind at 2,089,000 amongst the news channels.
STAR Ananda's election-related programming has also been well received,
with its array of special programmes for the West Bengal State Assembly
Elections receiving the thumbs up from viewers. Bolun Bidhayak -
STAR Ananda's live on-ground debates pitting the bidhayaks against
the electorate - provided exciting numbers grabbing 49% marketshare
in the 9 pm to pm slot and 58% in the 1.30 pm to 2.30 slots amongst
all news channels. Meanwhile, Jot, Ghot, Vote - STAR Ananda's election-specific
bulletin - captured 57% in the 5.30 to 6 pm slot and 56% marketshare
in the 8.30 to9 pm slot (Mon-Sat).
This record showing for STAR Ananda comes on the heels of an impressive
TAM Week 12 for the Channel where it garnered 50% marketshare in
Kolkata and 48% in the Rest of West Bengal and featured all 40 of
the top 40 programmes, and 49 of the top 50 programmes in the Rest
of West Bengal.
STAR Ananda has constantly scored with its programming, positioning
and packaging, bravely showcasing the people's point of view. The
recent ratings are merely a huge endorsement of its stand to empower
viewers. Having introduced a paradigm shift in news broadcasting,
this unambiguous success of STAR Ananda will leave much to be desired
from other Channels.
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