Nickelodeon is addressing the need for new characters and immersive stories with the launch of its 11th homegrown animated IP Chikoo aur Bunty, the upcoming animated series that touches on the sweet and sour relationship between siblings.

Growing from strength to strength with a robust programming strategy, Nickelodeon has successfully identified white spaces and created path-breaking localized content appealing to children in India. With local home-grown Nicktoons such as Happy & Pinaki –The Bhoot Bandhus, Ting Tong, Golmaal Jr., Motu Patlu, Shiva and Rudra to name a few, Nickelodeon has introduced kids to new genres of entertainment.  

The last IP launched by Nickelodeon, Happy & Pinaki – The Bhoot Bandhus was also a runaway hit amongst kids with the show consistently appearing in the top 10 highest rated slots of the category every week since its launch. With 700+ hours of local content, the franchise, today, dominates the kids’ space with winning IPs and has established itself as an undisputed category leader.

Adding to the brand’s diverse content portfolio, Chikoo aur Bunty will bring forth the sibling rivalry between two brothers. A story of every household, the show is set in a middle-class home where the duo lives with their parents and a playful and intelligent dog named Barfi. The 11-minute series will bring alive the fun, sometimes sweet and sometimes sour banter, while avoiding being reprimanded by their parents for all their mischiefs at home.

Nina Elavia Jaipuria, Head, Hindi Mass Entertainment and Kids TV Network, Viacom18 said, “Nickelodeon has always stayed ahead of the curve by introducing kids to characters that are loved and adored. We have consistently catered to our young viewers’ evolving preferences with innovative entertainment and immersive storytelling and enhanced engagement experiences. Continuing to lead the dynamic kids’ space is a testimony of our thought-through business and content strategies. With the launch of Chikoo aur Bunty, we will add further width and depth to our portfolio of ‘Made in India IPs’ and provide impetus to our mission of entertaining kids and creating an evolved kids ecosystem.”

Anu Sikka, Head—Creative, Content & Research, Kids TV Network, Viacom18 added, “At Nickelodeon, our journey with local content kicked off almost a decade ago. We have always introduced our young viewers to storylines and characters that are relatable, engaging and clutter breaking. The success of our past IPs reinforces our commitment and drive to serve our young audience with content that continues to raise the bar. The launch of our new IP, Chikoo aur Bunty will showcase a realistic representation of the relationship between two siblings who compete for the smallest of things but love each other equally. We look forward to enthralling kids with this unique concept of sibling rivalry and unlimited dose of comedy.”

During the media roundtable for Chikoo aur Bunty, Nina and Any unveiled a multi-touchpoint marketing plan that will draw attention from both brands and kids. For starters, the series’ music video with lyrics written by Gulzaar Saab, will bring to life the fun-filled relationship between the sibling duo. 

Aiming to capture kids’ imagination across the entire franchise, Nickelodeon also has unique and creative promise across platforms on GEC’s, Music, and Regional TV channels, through interaction on popular OTT apps as well as curated content on Short From Content apps. 

Driving interactivity will be a Sibling Squad of popular Influencers from across India with dance challenges and a lot more. A Virtual Watch Party along with influencers with a whole lot of fun games and interactions is also in store. In addition, customised Chikoo aur Bunty digital games and exciting activities on all social media platforms will surely engage the youngsters. Ensuring maximum excitement, a Chikoo aur Bunty AR filter will also be available on social media platforms in addition to Chikoo aur Bunty GIFs and Stickers.  

Taking the overall marketing initiative, a step forward, Nickelodeon has partnered with Belgian Waffles, Smoking Joe’s and New York Burrito Company to celebrate the unique and everlasting relationship between siblings. While the partnership with Belgian Waffles will allow users to order a Chikoo and Bunty combo pack, the partnership with Smoking Joe’s will allow users to order a special Chikoo Bunty Pizza combo. Additionally, one can order a specially curated Chikoo and Bunty meal as well from the New York Burrito Company.

Airing on 18 October from Monday to Friday at 10:00 a.m., Chikoo aur Bunty is powered by Phillips, in association with Pediasure and Flipkart shopsy.