ZEE5 Global, the world’s largest streaming platform for South Asian content, has partnered with Stage, India’s regional streaming platform known for its dialect-based programming. This collaboration brings Stage’s rich and diverse cultural narratives to ZEE5’s add-on service in the U.S., further strengthening ZEE5’s leadership in the South Asian entertainment space.
Stage, which gained prominence after being featured on Shark Tank India Season 2, offers content in regional Indian dialects. The platform will debut on ZEE5 Global with Haryanvi and Rajasthani programming, with plans to expand to Bhojpuri, Awadhi, and Maithili dialects. Available to U.S. subscribers for $2.99 per month, Stage joins a robust lineup of regional platforms on ZEE5, such as Chaupal, Oho Gujarati, NammaFlix, Simply South, and iStream.
A Milestone for Regional Storytelling
The partnership exemplifies the growing global demand for authentic, regional stories. “ZEE5 Global is transforming the South Asian entertainment landscape globally by embracing innovation and cultural diversity,” said Manish Kalra, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5. “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.”
Stage’s co-founder and CEO, Vinay Singhal, echoed this sentiment: “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.”
Stage’s Journey and Vision
Stage, launched as an evolution of WittyFeed (once considered India’s answer to BuzzFeed), has carved a niche in India’s entertainment sector by celebrating regional dialects and cultures. The platform attracted significant investment from Olympic gold medalist and world champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. “Supporting platforms like Stage highlights my belief in the power of authentic storytelling to inspire and connect,” said Chopra. “The partnership between Stage and ZEE5 Global is a significant step towards celebrating the depth of our cultural narratives on a global scale.”
Reaching a Global Audience
For ZEE5 Global, which operates in over 190 countries and boasts nearly 200,000 hours of content in 20 languages, the addition of Stage aligns with its ambition to become the top aggregator of South Asian content in the U.S. By integrating Stage into its Add-Ons suite, ZEE5 continues to redefine entertainment by making India’s regional dialects and cultural stories accessible to audiences worldwide.
“This partnership showcases how regional content can bridge cultural gaps and foster a sense of identity for audiences thousands of miles away,” said Kalra. As ZEE5 integrates Stage’s programming, it reinforces the platform’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and celebrating the richness of Indian heritage globally.
