Eros launches two new channels in HBO collaboration

Indian film production and distribution company Eros International has teamed up with HBO Asia, a regional pay TV provider, to launch two premium advertising-free channels in India.

The channels, HBO DEFINED and HBO HITS, have claimed they want to "redefine" what they call the "pay TV film space" in India.

The alliance will further provide for the development of both HBO's existing formats for India as well as the creation of original content for the Indian television market and international distribution.

Kishore Lulla, Executive Chairman of Eros International said: "I am very excited about building the Eros brand in Premium Pay Television, particularly with an industry leader such as HBO Asia. There are few global companies that have mastered the premium film and TV space like HBO and their global success says it all. We look forward to cultivating new spaces together in India and especially the development of HBO content for TV and online."

Jonathan Spink, Chief Executive Officer of HBO Asia, said: "We will aim to deliver a first class cinema experience in the comfort of your home 100% advertising free. We are equally excited to work with Eros in developing compelling original content for the Indian audience. We look forward to more good things to come."

Shares in EROS rose 3.85% to 242.50p at 12:37 on Thursday.

MF