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The Karnataka High Court on Thursday granted interim bail to four officials linked to Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) IPL victory event, arrested in connection with the June 4 stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

As per the media reports, Justice S.R. Krishna Kumar while granting bail, observed "prima facie impermissible arrest influenced by political directives", referring to the Chief Minister’s public statement on June 5 that preceded the arrests. The four accused, Nikhil Sosale (RCSPL), Sunil Mathew, Kiran Kumar S and Shamant NP (DNA Networks), were taken into custody on June 6, despite not being named in the FIRs or held criminally liable at the time.

The court criticised the 10–11 hour delay in furnishing grounds of arrest, noting that the city police only communicated the grounds at 2:30 pm on June 6, much later than required by law. While the police denied this, the court said a signed acknowledgment by the accused confirmed the delay.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/rcb-marketing-head-alleges-selective-arrest-in-chinnaswamy-stampede-blames-cm-pressure-69661.htm">RCB marketing head alleges selective arrest in Chinnaswamy stampede, blames CM pressure</a>

The order underlined the lack of any direct or vicarious criminal liability on part of the individuals arrested, particularly since the FIRs did not name them, nor was there evidence of personal involvement in mismanagement. The HC also pointed to vague and evasive denials by the police when asked to clarify whether the arrests were influenced by the Chief Minister’s public comments. The petitioners had submitted media reports suggesting that their arrests were a consequence of political pressure rather than legal merit.

While granting interim relief, the court asked the accused to deposit their passports, remain within court jurisdiction, avoid witness tampering and cooperate with the ongoing criminal and magisterial probes. A personal bond of Rs 1 lakh with two sureties each was mandated.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/bengaluru-stampede-bcci-rcb-invited-the-whole-world-karnataka-govt-tells-hc-69854.htm">Bengaluru stampede: BCCI, RCB 'invited the whole world', Karnataka govt tells HC</a>

Karnataka HC grants interim bail to RCB marketing head in stampede case

The global spirits conglomerate Diageo is exploring stake sale options in Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), as per a report by Bloomberg. The company, which holds the team through its Indian subsidiary United Spirits Ltd, is in early discussions with potential advisers about the possibilities to sell a part or all of the franchise, the report claims. 
 
<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/business-of-belief-what-rcbs-ipl-win-means-for-sports-branding-68758.htm">Read more: Business of belief: What RCB’s IPL win means for sports branding</a>

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/diageo-is-underleveraging-rcb-suhel-seth-on-royal-challengers-bengalurus-ipl-win-and-owners-branding-blind-spot-68786.htm">Read more: 'Diageo is underleveraging RCB': Suhel Seth on Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL win and owner's branding blind-spot</a>

At present, Diageo owns the team through its Indian unit United Spirits, and might seek a valuation of as much as $2 billion for RCB, according to the report. Diageo and United Spirits have not issued any public statements regarding the potential divestment.

Read more:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/special-coverage/court-weighs-role-of-rcb-tweets-in-deadly-stampede-at-chinnaswamy-stadium-69558.htm"> Court weighs role of RCB tweets in deadly stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium</a>

Initially, RCB was purchased by Vijay Mallya in 2008 — under the banner of his liquor empire, United Spirits Limited (USL). After Mallya’s exit in 2016 amid legal and financial troubles, Diageo assumed control via its majority stake in USL. While the day-to-day management remains with USL, ultimate corporate control now rests with Diageo.

The news of the potential stake sell comes a week after RCB lifted the IPL trophy for the first time in 18 years and the franchise's value continues to soar. The move also comes at a time when Diageo is facing mounting regulatory pressure from the Union Health Ministry to curb indirect advertising of alcohol during major sporting events like the IPL. 

Read more:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/special-coverage/rcb-owner-moves-karnataka-hc-to-quash-criminal-case-over-stampede-69459.htm"> RCB owner moves Karnataka HC to quash criminal case over stampede</a>

Diageo mulls options for stake sale in RCB after IPL win

In a major development following the tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations on June 4, the Bengaluru police on Friday arrested Nikhil Sosale, the marketing head and revenue of RCB from Diageo India. The stampede, which occurred outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, claimed 11 lives and left 64 others injured.

Sosale, who according to his LinkedIn profile leads the design, strategy, and business delivery for RCB's marketing program, was arrested after mounting pressure from the Karnataka government. He also worked at United Breweries overlooking its sports marketing business. His close social connections to celebrities such as Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma—both of whom follow his private Instagram account—have also drawn public attention.

The arrest follows Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s directive on Thursday to take stringent action against RCB, the event organiser DNA Entertainment Networks Pvt. Ltd., and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). The FIR, registered by a police inspector at the Cubbon Park station, invoked serious charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita under sections 115 (Voluntarily causing hurt), 118 (Causing hurt or grievous hurt using dangerous means),121(Deterring a public servant from duty), 190 (Unlawful assembly)

Police also detained three staff members of DNA Entertainment Networks for questioning. Meanwhile, key KSCA officials, including its secretary and treasurer, are reported to be absconding.

Bengaluru police claimed that RCB’s management had not coordinated with the police prior to announcing their victory parade on social media. Their tweet—promoting the celebration—went viral, garnering over a million views. It was only after the post gained traction that RCB approached the police for formal permission, which was denied due to crowd safety concerns. Despite the refusal, the event drew a massive crowd, overwhelming arrangements and resulting in chaos.

In the wake of the incident, the Karnataka government suspended top police officials, including Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda, citing serious lapses in crowd management and public safety. The administration’s handling of the incident has come under severe criticism, with opposition leaders from the BJP calling for the resignation of both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar.

To probe the circumstances surrounding the stampede, the state government has constituted a one-man judicial commission led by retired Karnataka High Court judge Justice Michael D’Cunha. The commission has been asked to submit its findings within 30 days.

Meanwhile, RCB announced on Thursday that it would provide financial assistance to the families of all 11 victims and support 33 injured individuals through a newly established relief fund titled ‘RCB Cares.’

RCB marketing head Nikhil Sosale arrested over Bengaluru stampede tragedy

India’s live event industry is on a remarkable growth trajectory, but the tragic death of 11 cricket fans during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebration has cast a stark spotlight on the urgent need for better infrastructure and planning. Experts warn that the nation’s capacity to host world-class events is being outpaced by its readiness to manage them.

The celebrations, held at short notice outside Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium after RCB clinched its first Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy in 18 years, turned into chaos as thousands of fans thronged the area. The resulting stampede led to multiple fatalities and raised uncomfortable questions about administrative preparedness.

While the Karnataka government claimed the felicitation event was a last-minute affair and the crowd turnout was underestimated, many believe this tragedy was avoidable.

At the same time, the sector is experiencing record growth. According to a recent EY report, India’s live events market surpassed ₹12,000 crore in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19% over the next three years. High-profile concerts, such as Coldplay’s performance in Ahmedabad, have demonstrated the country’s ability to host large-scale, global-standard shows while also stimulating local economies.

Yet these successes remain marred by logistical breakdowns and inconsistent planning. “The incident which took place in Bengaluru is extremely disappointing and saddening,” said Nishant Kini, Founder & Director of The Nishe & Co, and a veteran who has worked with top event firms like Wizcraft and Percept. “The sports and concert economy in India is growing, but this requires constant infrastructure support. The stadiums, transport, single-window clearance among local administration support must be strengthened to make any state a successful place for experiential events.”

Kini further emphasized, “It is very important that organizers are in sync with state governments to provide adequate support for transport, safety and well-being of attendees. There is an utmost need for better infrastructure in the country for the growth of the experiential, live sporting, and concert industry.”

The growing popularity of live experiences has not only bolstered allied industries like tourism, food services, and transportation but also positioned India as a potential global hub for entertainment. However, event cancellations and safety lapses paint a more complicated picture. The NH7 Weekender festival in Pune, for instance, was recently cancelled after Pimpri Chinchwad police denied permission due to anticipated law and order and traffic issues.

According to Cauvery Adiga, COO of NEB Sports Entertainment Private Limited, meticulous planning and strong coordination between all stakeholders are essential for successful event execution.

“Organizing a high-volume event requires meticulous planning and seamless coordination among various stakeholders—organizers, police, local administration, medical services, and more,” Adiga said. “Clear and timely communication with participants is equally critical to ensure safety, crowd control, and a positive experience for all involved.”

Adiga also underscored the importance of local authorities. “The local administration brings invaluable insight into the region’s operational dynamics, including infrastructure, traffic flow, and emergency services. Their role is essential in assessing potential impacts, planning execution, and ensuring smooth functioning.”

While praising the Bengaluru Police for their effectiveness in managing large crowds, she acknowledged that the RCB celebrations were hindered by the lack of preparation. “The RCB victory celebrations were announced at very short notice, leaving little time for structured planning and coordination. Additionally, the rapid spread of information via social media channels led to overcrowding and confusion, further complicating the situation.”

Viraf Sutaria, mentor of the Bengaluru Midnight Marathon (BMM), echoed the need for uncompromising standards. “There should be no compromise in aspects such as the holding capacity of a venue and professionals must be roped in for executing such events. Adequate coordination with police personnel, traffic, and law and order departments is critical, and they must be briefed and taken around the entire area.”

Sutaria outlined the rigorous process followed at BMM to prevent mishaps. “Proper permissions are obtained, and most importantly, traffic is organized and diverted in a manner that the public is not overly inconvenienced. We do not want road rage to spoil a good event,” he said.

“In addition, we have our own security guards and volunteers, who are trained to guide and maintain calm at all times. Route marshals are professionals who have managed many marathons. All permissions for music, DJ, food, metro rail, BBMP, waste management etc. are taken well in advance. The entire area is spic and span and back to normal within two hours of the event closing.”

As India races ahead in the live event space, the tragedy in Bengaluru serves as a grim reminder that enthusiasm must be matched with planning. Without robust infrastructure, clear regulations, and close cooperation among authorities, the promise of India’s entertainment future may come at an unthinkable cost.

From Concerts to Cricket: Bengaluru tragedy a wake-up call for India’s live events industry

What began as a jubilant celebration over Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) first IPL title win in 18 years ended in tragedy on Wednesday, as stampedes at two major locations in the city left at least 11 people feared dead and several others injured.

The chaos erupted outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where a felicitation event for the RCB squad was being organised by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). Thousands had gathered to celebrate the team's victory, but overcrowding quickly spiraled out of control.

Two additional deaths were reported from the Vidhana Soudha premises, where the RCB team met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah after landing in the city. The players had proceeded directly from the airport, and large crowds had amassed to witness the ceremony.

Disturbing visuals showed police and emergency responders carrying unconscious and injured individuals to ambulances. Many fainted amid the crush, with some metro stations in the vicinity also overwhelmed by surging crowds.

Speaking to the media, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar acknowledged the lapses. “The crowd was uncontrollable. I apologise for the overcrowding. We had arranged over 5,000 personnel, but it was a young, vibrant crowd—we couldn’t use force on them,” he said.

Shivakumar added that the programme had to be shortened due to the overwhelming turnout. “Lakhs of people came. We ended the felicitation in 10 minutes. I have spoken to the Police Commissioner and will visit the hospital later,” he stated, urging the public to remain calm.

At Bowring Hospital, ambulances continued to bring in the injured well into the evening. Eyewitnesses said people climbed trees and stood on walls and stairways for a glimpse of the players, further complicating crowd control.

Amid mounting criticism, the Karnataka government defended its decision to cancel a planned victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to the stadium, citing security concerns. However, the damage had already been done.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi sharply criticised the state’s handling of the event. “It’s heartbreaking to see such loss due to poor planning and mismanagement. Celebrations are welcome, but without involving emergency services and proper preparation, this was a disaster waiting to happen. Accountability must be fixed,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Earlier in the day, Shivakumar welcomed the RCB team at the airport, personally greeting each player with a bouquet. He presented star batsman Virat Kohli with both the RCB and Kannada flags, a symbolic gesture that preceded the day’s tragic turn.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with investigations likely into the lapses in crowd management and emergency preparedness.

RCB victory celebrations marred by stampede in Bengaluru; 11 feared dead

The official commentary panel for IPL 2025 was announced on Friday, and the name of former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan—who has been a regular in the past—was notably absent. Pathan was excluded following complaints from several Indian cricketers who believe his critical remarks about them are personally motivated.

One player reportedly even blocked Pathan’s number on his phone, upset over comments Pathan made about him during the Australia series.

"Otherwise, his (Pathan’s) name would have been there. This has been happening for the past two years because he was pushing personal agendas against certain players, which didn’t sit well with the system," a source was quoted as saying by the website.

Pathan is not the first high-profile commentator to face repercussions following player complaints. In the past, Sanjay Manjrekar and Harsha Bhogle have also lost commentary roles due to Indian cricketers being unhappy with their on-air opinions.

In 2020, Manjrekar was reportedly dropped from the BCCI commentary panel for India’s ODI series against South Africa. The decision followed a series of controversial incidents in 2019, including a dispute with fellow commentator Bhogle, a dig at Sourav Ganguly, and referring to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja as a “bits and pieces player.”

“I have always considered commentary a great privilege, but never an entitlement. It is up to my employers whether they choose to have me or not, and I will always respect that. Maybe BCCI has not been happy with my performance lately. I accept that as a professional," Manjrekar posted on X after the decision.

Just days before the start of IPL 2016, Bhogle was removed from the commentary team without explanation.

“I still don’t know why I am not doing the IPL. I can accept the fact that people don’t like me. But I genuinely hope it isn’t because cricketers have complained about what I have to say," Bhogle wrote on his Facebook page following the development.

IPL 2025: Irfan Pathan dropped from commentary team over alleged bias

The country's overall advertising expenditure (adex) is likely to be affected in the short term in the wake of the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) probe into advertising firms. 

CCI raid, which reportedly ended on Wednesday morning (March 19), with CEOs of the firm also being questioned for two days straight, focused on unearthing emails, pricing agreements, internal meeting records, and coordinated rate cards that suggested anti-competitive behavior.

With operations coming to a complete halt for many, the business hasn't been usual.
 

Read more: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/groupm-ipg-publicis-dentsu-ibdf-may-face-penalties-up-to-10-of-annual-turnover-if-found-guilty-in-cci-investigation-59466.htm">GroupM, IPG, Publicis, Dentsu, Madison may face penalties up to 10% of annual turnover if found guilty in CCI investigation</a>



The recent investigations into top ad firms (GroupM, Madison, IPG, Publicis, and dentsu) have caused massive disruption in the way the media buying ecosystem functions. Allegations of anti-competitive practices, if proven, could result in severe penalties— up to 10% of annual turnover— setting a strong precedent for transparency and fair play in advertising.

"The immediate impact is disruptive. Such investigations create uncertainty for clients, potentially delaying campaigns and affecting business continuity", said a media executive.

Additionally, if penalties are imposed, agencies may pass on the financial burden to clients, leading to higher advertising costs. It also raises concerns about regulatory overreach— whether such scrutiny could deter global firms from investing in India’s advertising sector, added a media planner.


Read more: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/cci-raids-at-dentsu-groupm-ipg-madison-publicis-fuel-unrest-stakeholders-demand-fair-probe-59490.htm">CCI raids at dentsu, GroupM, IPG, Madison, Publicis fuel unrest; stakeholders demand fair probe</a>



"...any negative impact on adex would likely stem from reduced confidence among advertisers, potentially leading them to withhold spending amid uncertainty. Historically, similar investigations have led to temporary reductions in adex as the market adjusts to new compliance and transparency standards. For context, India’s advertising industry is expected to grow by 15% in 2025. Any impact would need to be assessed against this growth trajectory," explained a Yasin Hamidani of Media Care Brand Solutions.

The raids are the culmination of a months-long covert investigation into allegations that top ad agencies conspired to fix advertisement rates, eliminating fair discounts and rigging the market. The CCI had been silently gathering intelligence, monitoring irregularities, and waiting for the right moment to strike. The tip off which connected the dots from a GST probe at a leading media agency.

Executives of industry bodies Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF), the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI), and the Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA) were caught off guard as investigators swiftly sealed office premises, confiscated mobile phones, and began combing through emails, financial records, and internal communications.


Read more: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/cci-raids-at-top-firms-could-leave-media-agencies-grappling-with-massive-trust-deficit-feel-experts-59494.htm">CCI raids at top firms could leave media agencies grappling with massive trust deficit, feel experts</a>



"I believe the immediate impact will be hesitation in spending and increased caution from both agencies and clients. Whenever there’s uncertainty at this scale, advertisers tend to slow down decision-making, reassess budgets, and push for stricter compliance in media buying."

Adex will likely see a short-term contraction as brands and agencies reevaluate procurement practices and financial governance. Ambika Sharma,founder and chief strategist, Pulp Strategy, adds that the biggest impact may be seen in traditional media, where high-value transactions and bulk media buys are more susceptible to scrutiny.

Industry experts caution that ad spending on marquee properties like the Indian Premier League could also take a hit, potentially impacting up to 30-40% of deals.

IPL remains an indispensable property for advertisers and will kick off in two days (on March 22), at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The tournament has already secured 20% more sponsorship revenue compared to previous seasons. IPL adex is expected to rise by 15-20% this year, as per industry observers.

In fact, according to a recent report by the Integral Ad Science media measurement platform, IPL's advertising revenue is expected between Rs 6,000 crore and Rs 7,000 crore. Team sponsorships are also at an all-time high; Punjab Kings has over 20 sponsors, Kolkata Knight Riders has 25 and Gujarat Titans has around 32 sponsors already on board.


Read more: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/agency-news/cci-raids-indian-media-agencies-isa-aaai-and-ibdf-insights-from-a-senior-leader-who-was-questioned-59646.htm">CCI raids Indian media agencies, ISA, AAAI, and IBDF – Insights from a senior leader who was questioned</a>



IPL 2025 is more than just a sporting event—it’s a high-stakes marketing battleground. However, the timing of the CCI's investigation could throw a wrench in the plans of some ad agencies and clients.

"...If things are suspended for a while longer and electronic gadgets and documents are not returned to the advertising agencies, IPL AdEx will be impacted by around 30- 40%, because many of the deals are done at the very last minute. 

Even if the deals were secured way before, the servicing happens later. So as the matches start, the servicing will start happening which can suffer very badly," shared a media planner, on condition of anonymity. 

Another media executive added, “…immediate spending and properties like IPL will take a hit, the country’s overall ad spend is expected to remain unaffected. The agencies involved are major players with high-profile clients who understand the business dynamics and are unlikely to be deterred. Everyone is well aware of how price fixing operates.”

India AdEx set for short-term hit if CCI probe and seizures continue at top ad firms

India is setting a stage to become a growing Licensing and Merchandising (L&M) industry. Whether through celebrity-led licensing deals or sports intellectual properties (IP) boosting IPL franchise fandom via merchandise, the sector is growing rapidly. Experts estimate L&M sales in India at approximately $2 billion this year, compared to $356 billion globally. 

Despite higher inflation and slowing retail growth worldwide, the L&M industry grew by 4.6% in 2023 and is projected to maintain a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% through 2032. Platforms like FanCode have sold over 140,000 units of sports merchandise, with more than 85% of sales comprising licensed apparel.

A report by Maximize Market Research valued India’s sports merchandising market at $673.34 million in 2022, projecting growth to $1.93 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 16.2% from 2023 to 2029.

Dhiraj Vats, a seasoned brand licensing professional, highlighted Location-Based Experiences (LBE) as a key growth sector, integrating experiential and direct consumer interactions across character brands, sports franchises, entertainment stars, and influencers. Despite challenges from inflation, Vats noted that L&M strategies have bolstered Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and services, overcoming geographic and economic barriers.

Celebrity Licensing 

Both Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities have extended their brands across various categories. Indian examples include Virat Kohli's Wrogn, Katrina Kaif's Kay Beauty, Salman Khan's Being Human, and Hrithik Roshan's HRX. Globally, Rihanna’s Fenty, Kylie Jenner’s Kylie Cosmetics, and Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS serve as benchmarks.

Sandeep Dahiya, Founder and CEO of Branquila Brand Ventures, emphasized that licensing in India is still perceived as brand marketing rather than a revenue model. He compared merchandising revenues, citing that while Manchester United earns over $100 million, top IPL teams generate only $2–3 million. Dahiya also pointed to Netflix’s L&M strategy, which expanded into over 10 categories, and noted a shift in India’s L&M sector from a focus on children to engaging adult audiences.

According to the 2023 Licensing International study, the global licensing industry grew by 8.02% in 2022, with the South Asia/Pacific region achieving 12.4% growth. Globally, entertainment and character licensing contribute 41% of revenue, while in India, this figure is only 26%.

Blockbuster Indian films like Bahubali and Pushpa demonstrate the potential for movie-centric L&M, akin to Hollywood franchises such as Marvel, Star Wars, and The Godfather. Vats believes Bollywood is just beginning to explore this trend.

Experiential Licensing and IP Innovation

Today, multiple brands are leveraging on the popularity of Intellectual Properties (IPs) such as concerts, sports leagues, amusement parts and licensed immersive experiences. From brand launches to integrations, multiple FMCG, automotive and apparel brands are connecting with GenZs to enhance their reach and fandom. 

Theia Enterprise India Private Limited the exclusive licensee of Da Vinci Genius in India recently launched multiple merchandises of Mona Lisa and the Last Supper, Tabish F Khan, Founder and Director at Theia Enterprise India Pvt. Ltd said, “The immersive experience that we create around Da Vinci has been widely being acknowledged by brands. Multiple brands plan their launch at our immersive experience venue.” 

Khan said, “Brands in the apparel or stationary sectors are creating cool stuff around Mona Lisa. This innovation that we have brought to India is exceptional and this is an IP that is not only creative but is now being explored widely by brands.” 

Sports Merchandising Growth

The global licensed sports merchandise market, valued at $30.8 billion in 2021, is expected to grow to $52.04 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 6%. FanCode, a major player in India, has partnered with international sports organizations such as FIFA, ICC, NBA, and MotoGP. The company has grown fivefold over three years and aims to double its subscriber base this year, tapping into India’s 600 million sports fans, 136 million of whom are avid followers.

In 2024, Mumbai Indians collaborated with innovative hemp brands like Ecentric and cutting-edge gaming accessory providers like Cybeart, among others. The full spectrum of licensees now encompasses a wide range of categories, including replica apparel from PlayR, Suditi (Apparel), Fancode (Apparel), Ecentric (Apparel), Celio (Apparel), Skechers (Apparel), EUME (Backpacks and Travel accessories), Cybeart (Gaming chairs), Parksons (Playing Cards), CrunchBox (Popcorn), Chupps (Footwear Sliders), Boldfit (Training Gear), and Dudeme (JIT Apparel), further enhancing the experience of fans.

Dahiya noted the need for greater creativity and imagination in driving brand extensions and collaborations in India. He also emphasized the importance of stronger IP laws to protect licensors and licensees.

The 2023 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy (the Notorious Markets List), released by the US Trade Representatives, identified 39 online and 33 physical markets. The report included three Indian markets in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, as well as three online markets reportedly involved in substantial trademark counterfeiting or copyright piracy.

A survey conducted by the Authentication Solution Providers' Association (ASPA) and the Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited (CRISIL) revealed that consumer perception suggests counterfeiting affects 25-30 percent of the market, higher than general industry expectations. Counterfeiting is particularly prevalent in the FMCG, apparel, and agro-chemical sectors, accounting for approximately 30 percent.

From Pushpa swag to IPL drip, India's growing craze for merchandise

The mega auction for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season will be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25, as announced by the BCCI. Player registration closed on Monday, with a total of 1,574 cricketers (1,165 Indian and 409 overseas) registering for the event. The auction coincides with days three and four of the first Test match between India and Australia in Perth, which starts on November 22.

Each franchise will be able to form a squad of up to 25 players (including retained players), with a total of 204 slots available. This player pool comprises 320 capped players, 1,224 uncapped players, and 30 players from Associate Nations.

Among the capped players, 48 are from India, while 965 Indian uncapped players will also be available in the auction. High-profile Indian stars like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and Arshdeep Singh are expected to be part of this year’s event.

The 10 franchises collectively have around ₹641.5 crore available for the 204 slots, of which 70 are reserved for overseas players. Currently, 46 players have been retained by the 10 franchises at a total expense of ₹558.5 crore.

Each franchise was initially allocated ₹120 crore for building their squads. Following the retention process announced on October 31, the Punjab Kings have the largest remaining budget at ₹110.5 crore, having retained only two uncapped players, Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh, for ₹9.5 crore.

The Rajasthan Royals, led by Sanju Samson, have the smallest purse at ₹41 crore after retaining six players. The Kolkata Knight Riders have also retained six players, leaving them with a budget of ₹51 crore.

Mega IPL auction to take place in Saudi Arabia on Nov 24 and 25

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) published the 48-page detailed order approving the mega media merger of Reliance Industries and Walt Disney, entailing various conditions, including divestment of seven TV channels. Reliance expects to complete merger with Disney's India business in Q3. 

As part of seeking the regulator's approval, the parties have voluntarily agreed that they will not bundle TV ad slots for IPL, ICC and BCCI cricketing rights till the end of existing rights. Also, the parties will sell seven TV channels, including Hungama and Super Hungama.

Among other conditions, the companies have voluntarily agreed that they will not bundle together the TV ad slot sales for all three cricketing rights available with them — IPL, ICC and BCCI — for the remaining tenure of the existing rights.

"The parties will not bundle together OTT ad slot sales for all three cricketing rights available with the parties i.e. IPL, ICC and BCCI for the balance tenure of the existing rights," the 48-page order said.

The parties have given an undertaking that they will not increase the advertisement rates to an unreasonable level on their TV and streaming platforms for the ICC and IPL events till the current rights are held by them.

On August 28, CCI said it had approved the merger of media assets of Reliance Industries and The Walt Disney Co to create the country's largest media empire worth over ₹70,000 crore.

The deal, announced earlier this year, had faced scrutiny by the anti-trust regulator, and the approval has come after the parties proposed certain modifications to the original transaction structure.

Reliance is all set to control over 60 per cent of the new combined unit — 16 per cent directly and 47 per cent via the Viacom18 Media business it largely owns — while 37 per cent goes to Disney. The combined entity will hold two streaming services and 120 television channels. Reliance owns Viacom18 Media and Digital18, and Disney controls Star India and Star Television.
