ZEE5 Global, the world’s largest streaming platform for South Asian content announces the addition of Indian streaming platform STAGE, India’s entertainment platform for regional cultures, to its Aggregator OTT service ZEE5 Add-Ons in the US.
ZEE5 Global’s partnership with STAGE, a platform that has been featured on Shark Tank India Season 2, is a powerful example of how stories in our native dialects can bridge cultural gaps and foster a sense of identity, even for audiences thousands of miles away. This strategic collaboration underscores ZEE5 Global’s commitment to offering diverse, culturally rich content to audiences in the US market while further consolidating its leadership in the entertainment content space.
As part of this partnership, ZEE5 Global will integrate STAGE’s distinctive dialect-based programming, starting with content in Haryanvi and Rajasthani, with plans to expand into additional dialects such as Bhojpuri, Awadhi, and Maithili. This initiative aligns with ZEE5 Global’s mission to redefine entertainment by celebrating linguistic and cultural diversity and making it accessible to a global audience. STAGE will be available on ZEE5 Global in the US at a monthly price of $2.99.
Manish Kalra, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5, said, “ZEE5 Global is transforming the South Asian entertainment landscape globally by embracing innovation and cultural diversity. This collaboration with STAGE reflects our focus on going deeper into Indian sub-cultures and giving them a broader platform to connect with diaspora audiences through stories that reflect their unique identities. By bringing this heartland content to viewers in the U.S., we are not only celebrating the richness and diversity of Haryanvi and Rajasthani dialects, but also meeting the increasing demand for more inclusive and relatable narratives.”
“We’re thrilled to partner with ZEE5 Global to bring the vibrant and authentic stories of Haryana and Rajasthan to a global audience. This collaboration is a testament to the power of regional content to transcend borders and connect with diverse audiences. By showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of India, we hope to foster greater understanding and appreciation for our heritage,” says Vinay Singhal, CEO and co-founder, STAGE.
Olympic Gold Medalist and world champion Neeraj Chopra, also an investor in STAGE, added, “Supporting platforms like STAGE highlights my belief in the power of authentic storytelling to inspire and connect. The partnership between STAGE and ZEE5 Global is a significant step towards celebrating the depth of our cultural narratives on a global scale. It’s inspiring to see ZEE5 Global champion diverse voices, giving audiences worldwide an opportunity to engage with stories that are both meaningful and deeply rooted in tradition.”
ZEE5 Global, the most preferred destination for South Asian entertainment globally, is available in 190+ countries with content in 18+ languages. The platform underscores the increasing demand for Indian language content among diaspora audiences, a trend it has embraced by creating a robust library of South Asian films, series, and originals.