Orchard Toys Announces Licensing Agreement in India

Safe Harbor Development, in collaboration with Kingsmen Xperience and under license from games, IP, and toy company Hasbro, has announced The Play District: Powered by Hasbro, a new immersive entertainment destination planned for the Smoky Mountains. Designed as a multi-attraction family experience, the project will bring several of Hasbro’s well-known brands into a dedicated physical entertainment environment.

Scheduled to open in summer 2027, the destination will feature three themed attraction zones built around interactive and family-focused experiences.

One of the headline attractions will be NERF Action Xperience, an activity-led zone where visitors can take part in skill-based challenges, arcade experiences, laser tag, themed rides, and additional interactive elements inspired by the NERF universe.

The second area, Peppa Pig Playtime, will recreate settings inspired by the popular preschool series, allowing families to engage in play-driven experiences based around Peppa’s world and familiar environments from the show.

The third destination, Planet Playskool, is being developed as an interactive space encouraging creativity and exploration. The attraction will feature experiences inspired by brands including Play-Doh, Transformers, PJ Masks, Mouse Trap, and other Hasbro properties.

Darby Campbell, Founder and Chairman, Safe Harbor Development said, "At Safe Harbor Development, we've always believed the best experiences are measured by how people feel when they leave. The Play District: Powered by Hasbro is more than an entertainment venue – it's a reimagined family destination designed to create happy places and smiling faces. By combining iconic brands with immersive, interactive attractions, we're creating a place where families can connect, spark their imaginations and make lasting memories together. If families leave smiling and feeling closer than when they arrived, then we've done our job."

Located within one of the Southeast’s rapidly expanding tourism markets, The Play District is expected to complement existing attractions in the region while introducing a year-round indoor entertainment offering. The project represents an initial investment of $50 million in the Pigeon Forge community and is being developed by Safe Harbor Development through its affiliate, Indoor Entertainment, which will operate the venue.

Matt Proulx, Senior Vice President, Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music, Hasbro said, "This collaboration between Safe Harbor Development, Kingsmen Xperience, and Hasbro allows us to extend our brands beyond the toy aisle and into real-world experiences. The Play District will give families the opportunity to step into the worlds they already love to create unforgettable memories."

Beyond themed attractions, the approximately 50,000-square-foot venue will include dedicated areas for birthday celebrations, school and camp visits, group events, and team-building experiences. Visitors will also have access to food and beverage offerings along with on-site retail featuring exclusive merchandise.

Corey Redmond, Senior Executive Vice President, Kingsmen Xperience, said, "Darby Campbell and Safe Harbor Development are renowned for their expertise and success in property development and providing exceptional guest experiences. Our partnership with them, along with Kingmen Xperience's design and project management expertise, will realize our long-awaited plan to bring world-class Hasbro attractions and iconic brands to Pigeon Forge."

Construction on the destination is currently underway, with additional details regarding ticketing, opening schedules, and further experiences expected to be announced in the coming months.

Safe Harbor Development, in collaboration with Kingsmen Xperience and under license from games, IP, and toy company Hasbro, has announced The Play District: Powered by Hasbro, a new immersive entertainment destination planned for the Smoky Mountains. Designed as a multi-attraction family experience, the project will bring several of Hasbro’s well-known brands into a dedicated physical entertainment environment.

Scheduled to open in summer 2027, the destination will feature three themed attraction zones built around interactive and family-focused experiences.

One of the headline attractions will be NERF Action Xperience, an activity-led zone where visitors can take part in skill-based challenges, arcade experiences, laser tag, themed rides, and additional interactive elements inspired by the NERF universe.

The second area, Peppa Pig Playtime, will recreate settings inspired by the popular preschool series, allowing families to engage in play-driven experiences based around Peppa’s world and familiar environments from the show.

The third destination, Planet Playskool, is being developed as an interactive space encouraging creativity and exploration. The attraction will feature experiences inspired by brands including Play-Doh, Transformers, PJ Masks, Mouse Trap, and other Hasbro properties.

Darby Campbell, Founder and Chairman, Safe Harbor Development said, "At Safe Harbor Development, we've always believed the best experiences are measured by how people feel when they leave. The Play District: Powered by Hasbro is more than an entertainment venue – it's a reimagined family destination designed to create happy places and smiling faces. By combining iconic brands with immersive, interactive attractions, we're creating a place where families can connect, spark their imaginations and make lasting memories together. If families leave smiling and feeling closer than when they arrived, then we've done our job."

Located within one of the Southeast’s rapidly expanding tourism markets, The Play District is expected to complement existing attractions in the region while introducing a year-round indoor entertainment offering. The project represents an initial investment of $50 million in the Pigeon Forge community and is being developed by Safe Harbor Development through its affiliate, Indoor Entertainment, which will operate the venue.

Matt Proulx, Senior Vice President, Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music, Hasbro said, "This collaboration between Safe Harbor Development, Kingsmen Xperience, and Hasbro allows us to extend our brands beyond the toy aisle and into real-world experiences. The Play District will give families the opportunity to step into the worlds they already love to create unforgettable memories."

Beyond themed attractions, the approximately 50,000-square-foot venue will include dedicated areas for birthday celebrations, school and camp visits, group events, and team-building experiences. Visitors will also have access to food and beverage offerings along with on-site retail featuring exclusive merchandise.

Corey Redmond, Senior Executive Vice President, Kingsmen Xperience, said, "Darby Campbell and Safe Harbor Development are renowned for their expertise and success in property development and providing exceptional guest experiences. Our partnership with them, along with Kingmen Xperience's design and project management expertise, will realize our long-awaited plan to bring world-class Hasbro attractions and iconic brands to Pigeon Forge."

Construction on the destination is currently underway, with additional details regarding ticketing, opening schedules, and further experiences expected to be announced in the coming months.

Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America is expanding the Godzilla universe with the introduction of two new collectible lines—Godziburst and Godzilla Scramble—offering fans fresh and interactive ways to engage with the iconic monster franchise.

Created to appeal to both long-time Godzilla enthusiasts and younger audiences, Godziburst introduces a customisable figure concept that allows fans to mix, match, and personalise their favourite kaiju characters. The collection combines vivid colour palettes, enhanced visual effects, and interchangeable elements to encourage imaginative play and collectability.

The Godziburst range features 3.5-inch figures inspired by classic Godzilla characters and includes interchangeable limbs, effects, and weapon accessories. The figures are designed with detailed sculpting, recognisable character aesthetics, and five to seven points of articulation to support posing and dynamic play experiences.

Beyond physical collectibles, the line extends into digital storytelling through a series of original animated short episodes designed to build the Godziburst universe. Each product package includes a QR code that provides access to an online stop-motion series featuring monster-themed battles and character-driven narratives.

Alongside this launch, Bandai is also introducing Godzilla Scramble, a collectible figure series that adds a playful transformation element to the franchise. The figures convert from an egg-shaped form into kaiju characters and can transform back again.

The Godzilla Scramble assortment includes seven collectible designs featuring creative themes such as zebra, ice cream, and hamburger-inspired versions, as well as a rare 1/36 Chase Godzilla variant intended as a surprise collectible for fans. Once transformed, the figures stand at approximately 4.5 inches tall and can be displayed in either form.

Tomoaki Ishikawa, senior vice president, brand toy department, Bandai Namco, said, "Godzilla has captivated fans for generations, and with Godziburst and Godzilla Scramble, we're introducing fresh new ways to experience these iconic monsters. Whether fans are customizing epic kaiju battles with interchangeable Godziburst figures or discovering the fun surprises and transformations of Godzilla Scramble, these new lines encourage creativity, collectability, and imaginative play while celebrating the larger-than-life world of Godzilla."

adidas and mobile gaming title Brawl Stars have entered into a multi-stage partnership that blends digital gaming experiences with physical fan engagement initiatives. Announced on June 18, the collaboration spans in-game activations, exclusive merchandise, and live consumer experiences.

As part of the partnership, the adidas Starr Cup event is being hosted within Brawl Stars from June 18 to July 2. The tournament introduces Super Ball, a refreshed version of the game’s existing Brawl Ball mode. Participants select teams and compete in daily matchups while advancing through ranked rounds leading up to semi-finals and the championship stage. Gameplay incorporates TRIONDA, the official match ball of the FIFA World Cup 26.

The updated Super Ball format brings several new features to gameplay, including Keeper Bots designed to defend goals and block attempts, Charged Shot mechanics that enable players to build stronger strikes, and Timed Passes, which increase power through consecutive passing sequences.

The event also introduces exclusive adidas-themed skins for Brawlers, representing the first time Brawl Stars has collaborated with an apparel brand for in-game character customisation.

Additionally, members of adiClub can unlock and redeem digital rewards through the adidas app during the campaign period, including in-game pins, icons, and sprays.

Expanding beyond gaming, adidas Originals and Brawl Stars will launch the Starr Drop Unlocked apparel and footwear collection on August 1 across selected adidas stores and online channels. Designed in junior sizing, the collection features inspiration from game characters including Spike, Leon, Edgar, and Nita. The assortment will include t-shirts, hoodies, Adibreak track pants, track jackets, and footwear silhouettes such as the Samba and Superstar. The companies have also confirmed a second collection planned for 2027.

To further extend the collaboration into real-world experiences, Brawl Stars participated in the adidas Home of Soccer fan event held in Brooklyn, New York, on June 20–21. Hosted at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the activation featured an interactive gaming zone where visitors could take part in penalty kick challenges using the Robo Keeper experience.

adidas and mobile gaming title Brawl Stars have entered into a multi-stage partnership that blends digital gaming experiences with physical fan engagement initiatives. Announced on June 18, the collaboration spans in-game activations, exclusive merchandise, and live consumer experiences.

As part of the partnership, the adidas Starr Cup event is being hosted within Brawl Stars from June 18 to July 2. The tournament introduces Super Ball, a refreshed version of the game’s existing Brawl Ball mode. Participants select teams and compete in daily matchups while advancing through ranked rounds leading up to semi-finals and the championship stage. Gameplay incorporates TRIONDA, the official match ball of the FIFA World Cup 26.

The updated Super Ball format brings several new features to gameplay, including Keeper Bots designed to defend goals and block attempts, Charged Shot mechanics that enable players to build stronger strikes, and Timed Passes, which increase power through consecutive passing sequences.

The event also introduces exclusive adidas-themed skins for Brawlers, representing the first time Brawl Stars has collaborated with an apparel brand for in-game character customisation.

Additionally, members of adiClub can unlock and redeem digital rewards through the adidas app during the campaign period, including in-game pins, icons, and sprays.

Expanding beyond gaming, adidas Originals and Brawl Stars will launch the Starr Drop Unlocked apparel and footwear collection on August 1 across selected adidas stores and online channels. Designed in junior sizing, the collection features inspiration from game characters including Spike, Leon, Edgar, and Nita. The assortment will include t-shirts, hoodies, Adibreak track pants, track jackets, and footwear silhouettes such as the Samba and Superstar. The companies have also confirmed a second collection planned for 2027.

To further extend the collaboration into real-world experiences, Brawl Stars participated in the adidas Home of Soccer fan event held in Brooklyn, New York, on June 20–21. Hosted at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the activation featured an interactive gaming zone where visitors could take part in penalty kick challenges using the Robo Keeper experience.

Quick-service restaurant brand Chinese Wok has entered into a partnership with the upcoming Bollywood film Welcome to the Jungle as its official brand partner, launching an integrated marketing campaign across its network of more than 270 outlets across India.

As part of the collaboration, Chinese Wok will introduce film-inspired branding across stores alongside a series of consumer engagement initiatives. The campaign includes social media contests offering movie vouchers, exclusive digital content featuring actors Arshad Warsi and Jacqueline Fernandez, and promotional activities across the brand’s digital channels.

The initiative is designed to create stronger consumer interaction by combining entertainment-led experiences with the brand’s retail presence and online engagement efforts.

Vikas Iyer, Head of Marketing, Lenexis Foodworks shared, "Entertainment today is one of the biggest passion points for Gen Z and millennials, making it a powerful platform for brands to create meaningful engagement. Our collaboration with Welcome to the Jungle brings together a much-loved brand and one of the year's biggest Bollywood entertainers to deliver an experience that goes beyond food, combining cinema, digital engagement and in-store activations into a campaign that consumers can actively participate in."

According to Chinese Wok, the partnership aligns with its larger marketing approach of leveraging film, OTT, and music-led collaborations to strengthen connections with younger audiences and create more immersive consumer experiences.

Outright Games, in collaboration with Hasbro, has unveiled Hasbro Games Junior Collection, a new digital gaming title scheduled to launch on November 6. The collection combines three well-known board game franchises—Monopoly Junior, Clue Junior, and Game of Life Junior—into a single interactive experience designed to engage players across age groups.

Created with younger audiences in mind while remaining accessible to existing fans of the original games, the collection adapts the classic board game formats into a digital environment featuring interactive gameplay elements, rewards, and visually vibrant settings. The experience also introduces streamlined mechanics and simplified rules to make gameplay more intuitive.

Players will be able to personalise their in-game avatars, unlock costume options, and advance through all three titles included in the collection. The game additionally supports local multiplayer functionality for up to four participants.

Each title within the collection delivers a distinct gameplay experience. In Monopoly Junior, players move around the board, acquire properties, and compete to progress ahead of others. Clue Junior focuses on solving mysteries by gathering and interpreting clues, while Game of Life Junior encourages exploration and star collection through spin-based gameplay.

Robin Flodin, chief executive officer, Outright Games Group, said, "Hasbro's rich history of cultivating treasured family moments aligns strongly with our mission. We're excited to open this new chapter with one of the world's most renowned board games publishers and to bring in a new era of family games nights. Through Hasbro Games Junior Collection, we look forward to helping families to create new, exciting experiences and continue the legacy of Hasbro's iconic games."

The Hasbro Games Junior Collection will be available across multiple gaming platforms, including Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Outright Games has partnered with Hasbro to introduce the Hasbro Games Junior Collection, a new digital gaming title that brings together three of Hasbro's popular family board games in a single interactive experience. The collection is scheduled for release on November 6 across multiple gaming platforms.

The upcoming title combines Monopoly Junior, Clue Junior, and Game of Life Junior, transforming the classic board games into a digital format designed for players of all ages. The game features simplified mechanics, interactive challenges, unlockable rewards, and colourful environments, making it accessible to younger audiences while retaining elements familiar to long-time fans.

Players will be able to customise their in-game avatars, unlock costumes, and progress through each of the three games. The collection also supports local multiplayer for up to four players, allowing families and friends to play together on a single device.

Each title in the collection offers a distinct gameplay experience. Monopoly Junior focuses on buying properties and moving around the game board, Clue Junior challenges players to solve mysteries by following clues, while Game of Life Junior encourages players to spin the wheel, explore different paths, and collect stars throughout their journey.

Robin Flodin, Chief Executive Officer, Outright Games Group shared, "Hasbro's rich history of cultivating treasured family moments aligns strongly with our mission. We're excited to open this new chapter with one of the world's most renowned board games publishers and to bring in a new era of family games nights. Through Hasbro Games Junior Collection, we look forward to helping families to create new, exciting experiences and continue the legacy of Hasbro's iconic games."

The Hasbro Games Junior Collection will be available on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC when it launches later this year.

Disney Consumer Products is celebrating 626 Day on June 26 with a series of product launches, retail activations, and digital content releases across multiple international markets. The annual event is inspired by Stitch's designation as Experiment 626 in the Lilo & Stitch franchise and has evolved into a key global retail and licensing initiative for the company.

Amanda Dhalluin, Vice President, Global Brand Commercialization, Disney Consumer Products said, "Stitch continues to be one of our most dynamic global franchises, with enduring fan affinity that spans generations and categories. That strength creates meaningful opportunities for our licensees and retailers to translate the character into products that resonate locally and globally. 626 Day has become a signature moment within that ecosystem – an annual celebration that channels the fandom's energy into fresh, creative expressions that fans can collect, wear, share, and play with."

As part of this year's celebration, Disney has introduced several new licensed products and collaborations. These include a new Stitch-themed footwear collaboration with adidas, featuring cleats in both adult and children's sizes, and the Happy Haul collection from Just Play, which debuted earlier this week.

The company has also expanded its merchandise portfolio through recent launches from brands including Topps, Funko, LEGO, JAKKS Pacific, Pandora, Citizen, BoxLunch, and Vera Bradley. The product lineup spans multiple categories such as apparel, accessories, toys, collectibles, and publishing.

Alongside merchandise launches, Disney is hosting retail experiences across several countries. In the United States, Fashion Island in Newport Beach, California, is organising a Beach Bash pop-up featuring new Stitch merchandise, themed activities, and interactive photo opportunities.

In Portugal, Disney has partnered with Procter & Gamble's Oral-B to introduce the Ohana Brushing Club at FNAC stores, offering interactive experiences centered around Stitch-themed electric toothbrushes. Meanwhile, London's Soho district is hosting a Disney YuYus Boutique pop-up, giving fans early access to upcoming collections.

Asian markets are also part of the celebration. Shanghai's Zhang Yuan is hosting a Stitch-themed pop-up with exclusive merchandise, themed food, and immersive retail experiences. In Japan, Shibuya 109 in Tokyo is showcasing exclusive Y2K gyaru-inspired Stitch merchandise through a dedicated pop-up and mall-wide installations. Taiwan is marking the occasion with its 626 Summer Pop-Up Series, combining night market-inspired experiences with limited-edition merchandise.

To complement its retail initiatives, Disney has also released new entertainment content tied to the celebration. Angel's Glitter Glide music video premiered on Disney+ on June 26, while Disney Channel is running a dedicated 626 Day programming takeover. Disney Kids YouTube recently launched a new animated short, and two full episodes from the Lilo & Stitch television series became available globally in multiple languages on June 25.

The annual 626 Day celebration continues to serve as a platform for Disney Consumer Products to expand the global presence of the Lilo & Stitch franchise through licensed merchandise, retail collaborations, and fan-focused experiences.

Avvatar, the sports nutrition brand owned by Parag Milk Foods, has partnered with the digital entertainment show India’s Got Latent as its official sponsor, aiming to strengthen its connect with younger audiences through digital content.

The association is part of the brand’s broader marketing strategy as demand for protein-based nutrition products continues to grow among a wider consumer base beyond fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes.

The campaign has been conceptualised and executed by Django, Avvatar’s creative and strategic agency partner. It will feature integrated brand placements and content-led activations across digital platforms to enhance audience engagement.

Commenting on the partnership, Akshali Shah, Executive Director, Parag Milk Foods said, "At Avvatar, our vision is to build India's leading sports nutrition brand by consistently delivering high-quality products and engaging meaningfully with consumers.

As the category continues to evolve and become increasingly mainstream, we need to be present on platforms that command attention and connect with large audiences. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to building a strong consumer brand that remains relevant, visible, and connected with the aspirations of modern India."

Shivang Shah, founder, Django shared, "The objective was to identify a platform that reflects the changing media consumption habits of young India. India's Got Latent has built a highly engaged audience and emerged as a significant cultural property in the digital ecosystem. For Avvatar, this association provides an opportunity to strengthen brand salience, expand consumer reach and reinforce its leadership ambitions in one of India's fastest-growing nutrition categories."

With this partnership, Avvatar aims to increase brand visibility among digitally engaged consumers while reinforcing its position in India's expanding sports nutrition segment through targeted content and entertainment-led marketing initiatives.

Netflix is expanding the brand licensing footprint of KPop Demon Hunters as the animated title completes its first anniversary, with a global rollout of licensed merchandise across multiple product categories.

The anniversary programme includes collaborations with several global brands spanning footwear, toys, collectibles, accessories, skincare, and fan experiences, reflecting the growing popularity of the franchise.

As part of the rollout, Vans will introduce a new Golden-inspired collection later this summer. Mattel will begin early sales of its KPop Demon Hunters fashion and singing dolls from June 22 through participating retailers worldwide, including Amazon, Target.com, and Walmart.com in the United States, with the complete range scheduled to launch in stores and online in August.

Hasbro will also release KPop Demon Hunters Furblets featuring Demon Saja and Derpy Tiger. Early online purchases begin on June 22 through participating global retailers, including Amazon and Walmart.com in the United States, while the complete product line is expected to arrive in stores and online in late July and early August.

Jazwares is set to launch KPop Demon Hunters Squishmallows and Derpy Tiger plush toys. Fans will be able to pre-order the products online from June 22 through participating retailers worldwide, with the full collection becoming available from August 1.

Global fandom company Bemyfriends is marking the anniversary with a second official KPop Demon Hunters merchandise pop-up tour that will continue across multiple cities for the rest of the year. The pop-up stores are scheduled for locations including Seoul, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Taipei, Frankfurt, Dubai, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and additional cities. Actors Kevin Woo and Ken Jeong recently visited the Seoul pop-up.

As part of an expanded collaboration, Korean skincare brand AUNA will launch its Gonna Be Glowin' campaign, accompanied by a music video showcasing its latest KPop Demon Hunters-branded skincare collection.

Lifestyle accessories brand Loungefly, owned by Funko, has also unveiled a new collection inspired by the franchise. The range includes a Saja Boys mini backpack, crossbody bags, a Derpy-themed crossbody bag, and mystery mini backpack charms.

Adding to the licensing expansion, a LEGO set featuring Derpy Tiger and Sussie Bird has also been announced, further broadening the franchise's consumer products portfolio.

Sony MAX is set to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Aamir Khan Productions with a special day-long programming schedule on June 28, featuring some of the production house's most notable films from the past two and a half decades.

The curated line-up will include Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, Secret Superstar, and Sitaare Zameen Par, highlighting the banner's contribution to Indian cinema over the last 25 years.

As part of the celebration, Sony MAX has also unveiled a new brand film titled Match Made in Heaven, featuring Aamir Khan. The campaign reflects the long-standing association between the actor's films and the television channel.

Aamir Khan, Director and Founder, Aamir Khan Productions said, “As we celebrate 25 years of Aamir Khan Productions, I am deeply grateful for the love our films have received over the years. Cinema has the power to entertain, inspire and bring people together, and I am delighted that all our films are on Sony MAX. They have been wonderful partners in taking these stories to audiences across every corner of India.”

According to the channel, the special programming initiative and the release of the Match Made in Heaven brand film are part of its efforts to commemorate the 25-year journey of Aamir Khan Productions and showcase films that have resonated with audiences over the years.

OREO has officially introduced its limited-edition OREO x BTS Korean Sweet Pancake Cookies in India with a fan-focused launch event held in Mumbai. The celebration brought together Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff, digital creators, and BTS fans to mark the arrival of the collaboration in the country.

The launch follows weeks of anticipation after OREO announced its partnership with global music group BTS. The collaboration generated significant buzz across social media, with fan communities sharing countdowns, discussions, and posts ahead of the product's India debut.

To celebrate the launch, OREO hosted an immersive experience inspired by BTS and Korean pop culture. The event recreated the atmosphere of a South Korean Night Market with interactive engagement zones, themed photo opportunities, product experiences, and an Easter Egg Hunt based on the collaboration. Guests also got an early opportunity to try the new OREO x BTS Korean Sweet Pancake Cookies, inspired by hotteok, the traditional Korean sweet pancake.

Tiger Shroff commented, “The energy at the event was electric. It was truly special to experience the passion and excitement fans have for this collaboration firsthand. I love how these limited-edition OREO Korean Sweet Pancake Cookies beautifully bring together flavour, fandom, and a sense of discovery. Inspired by Korean street food culture, this unique flavour gives fans an exciting OREO twist while celebrating BTS’ incredible journey and their deep, global connection with fans.”

As part of the campaign, fans attending the event wrote messages to BTS in support of OREO's initiative to create what it describes as the world's largest love letter to the band. Consumers across India can also participate by scanning the QR code available on the limited-edition OREO x BTS packs or by visiting the campaign website.

To mark BTS' 13th anniversary, the limited-edition cookies feature 13 unique embossments inspired by the band's members, fan symbols, and hidden design elements. According to the company, three of the cookie designs can be combined to reveal a secret message, adding an interactive element to the collection.

The limited-edition OREO x BTS Korean Sweet Pancake Cookies are now available for a limited period through leading retail stores and e-commerce platforms across India.

Eros Innovation has launched Eros Music Worlds, an AI-powered music platform aimed at creating and distributing content across multiple music genres. Alongside the launch, the company announced a partnership with the family of legendary playback singer Mohammed Rafi to develop new projects under a dedicated initiative called Eros Legacy Voices.

The platform will focus on a range of music categories, including character-led music franchises, non-film music, devotional content, folk and sufi music, legacy artist projects, and live entertainment experiences.

As part of its debut, Eros Music Worlds has introduced seven AI-native artists inspired by characters from the company's film library. The initial lineup includes Jordan and Tanu, while characters such as Munna, Langda Tyagi, and Mudit will be rolled out in phases. The company said the platform is powered by its proprietary Large Cultural Models (LCMs), trained on licensed and rights-cleared content.

A major component of the launch is the collaboration with the Mohammed Rafi family. Under the Eros Legacy Voices initiative, the partnership will feature new recordings, a live concert format, and the establishment of the Mohammed Rafi Academy. The first album from the collaboration is scheduled to be released on July 31, marking Mohammed Rafi’s birth anniversary.

Ridhima Lulla, Co-founder and Co-president, Eros Innovation said, “The characters in Eros Music Worlds are larger-than-life figures audiences have followed for years. What the new Eros LCM model gives us is the ability to hear them sing for the first time — not as AI-generated voices, but as performances of human compositions, directed by human creative leads, in the cultural and emotional code each character belongs to. And alongside them, with the estate partnership signed with the Mohammed Rafi family, we are bringing his legacy — ethically, and through new recordings, live performance, and the Mohammed Rafi Academy — to a new generation. The technology is the instrument. The artistry is human.”

Kumar Ahuja, Chief Executive Officer, Eros Music Worlds shared, “Eros Music Worlds is not being built as a conventional music label. We are building an entirely new music ecosystem where iconic film characters evolve into long-term entertainment franchises and legendary artists are reintroduced to new generations through immersive technology. What we are launching today is not simply new music, but a completely new framework for how music intellectual property can be created, experienced and monetized in the future.”

Uzma Memon, Head of Music Strategy & Partnerships, Eros Music Worlds stated, “Traditional music labels have largely focused on building artists or acquiring catalogue. At Eros Music Worlds, we are taking a very different approach by building a diversified music ecosystem. Bringing the Mohammed Rafi estate into this vision has been especially meaningful, as it shows how technology, when used responsibly and with the right partnerships, can preserve artistic legacy while creating entirely new possibilities for future generations. We are building a music company where culture, creativity and innovation exist together.”

Shahid Rafi Commented, “My father lived his life singing for the people, and he was happiest on the stage. To bring his music back to the stage for a new generation, and to establish an academy in his name that will train the singers of tomorrow, is something we have considered carefully and welcome with both pride and care. This partnership, built on respect, on the right consents, and on a meaningful place for our family, honours both who he was and what he gave to others. We thank Eros Innovation for approaching this with the dignity my father always brought to his work.”

Cipla Health’s pain relief brand Omnigel has announced a partnership with Peddi, the upcoming sports-themed film starring Ram Charan and produced by Mythri Movie Makers.

The collaboration was facilitated by MMM Media Works. According to the companies, the association aligns with the film’s sports-focused storyline and Omnigel’s positioning in the pain relief segment.

Peddi follows the journey of athletes, highlighting the challenges, injuries, and setbacks they encounter in sports. The narrative forms the foundation of the partnership, reflecting themes of perseverance, recovery, and resilience.

Rishit Bhatt (Associate Director- Marketing) from Cipla Health’s Omnigel said, “Omnigel has always stood for being a reliable ally in moments of pain and recovery, helping individuals get back on their feet and continue doing what they love.

Our association with Peddi is a natural extension of that belief, as the film beautifully captures the grit, determination and resilience that define every athlete’s journey. We are proud to be part of a story that goes beyond victories and celebrates the strength it takes to recover, rebuild and rise again after every setback, truly reflecting the spirit of every comeback.”

K. R. Siddharth, CEO and co-founder, MMM Media Works, said, “The strongest partnerships are built on authentic stories. Cipla Health’s Omnigel and Peddi come together through a shared spirit of resilience, making this a meaningful association that goes beyond conventional brand integration.”

The partnership brings together a healthcare brand and a sports-centric film through a common theme of overcoming challenges and returning stronger after setbacks.

Artist Romero Britto has unveiled a new Fine Art Collection developed in collaboration with Hasbro, bringing together some of the toy and entertainment company’s most recognizable brand imagery with Britto’s signature artistic style.

The latest collection expands the partnership through a curated range of collectible fine art prints, with plans to introduce fine art sculptures in the future. The collection is aimed at collectors, art enthusiasts, and pop culture fans globally.

Inspired by the world of Monopoly, the newly launched collection features a series of limited-edition artworks that reinterpret elements of the iconic board game through Britto’s colorful visual language. The collection includes works titled "Flowers of Joy," "Golden Era," "Road to Success," "Making a Fortune," "Love My Life," "Billionaire's Club," "Cash Flow" and "King of The Town." Each piece combines themes of ambition, imagination, achievement, and celebration with imagery associated with the Monopoly brand.

Britto said, “This collection represents a celebration of creativity, nostalgia, and happiness. Collaborating with Hasbro allows us to transform beloved cultural icons into elevated fine art experiences that connect emotionally with collectors around the world.”

The collection is currently available through ShopBritto.com, Romero Britto Fine Art Galleries, and select Britto Stores worldwide.

Alongside the current launch, Britto has also announced plans to broaden the collaboration with Hasbro into additional product categories. The next phase is expected to include a range of fine art 3D sculptures, collectibles, apparel, accessories, and school supplies, which are scheduled to debut in late 2026.

The expansion reflects the growing trend of brand collaborations that bring together art, entertainment, and consumer products to create new collectible experiences for global audiences.

The official trailer of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, an upcoming animated feature film based on Lord Jagannath, was unveiled during a large-scale event in Cuttack, Odisha. The trailer was launched by spiritual speaker Pujya Shri Indresh Upadhyay Maharaj Ji during his ongoing Shrimad Bhagwat Katha and was showcased before an audience of more than 10,000 devotees.

The launch event witnessed enthusiastic participation from attendees, with chants of "Jai Jagannath" filling the venue as the trailer was screened. According to the makers, the event marked one of the largest physical trailer launches for an animated film in India.

Positioned as a pan-India animated theatrical film on Lord Jagannath, Mahaprabhu Jagannath aims to present the deity's story to younger audiences through animation. The trailer highlights themes of devotion, faith, and unity while depicting the relationship between Lord Jagannath and his devotees through a visual narrative designed for children and families.

Durga Prasad Dalai, Producer and Founder of Ele Animations Pvt. Ltd., said, "To see ten thousand hearts beating together in devotion while watching our trailer is an experience I cannot put into words. This spectacular reception proves that when you wrap our rich Indian heritage in world-class animation, it deeply moves both the youngest child and the eldest member of the family. We created this film to keep our roots alive for the next generation in a format that is thrilling, vibrant, and visually spectacular. We are ready to take this divine energy from the holy pavilions, straight to the big screens across India."

The film is produced by Durga Prasad Dalai under the banner of Ele Animations Pvt. Ltd., the studio behind the television series Jay Jagannath, which aired on Pogo. The project is directed by Shripad Warkhedkar, while Pallavi Sharma has written the screenplay and dialogues. The music for the film has been composed by Aviral Kumar.

Following the trailer launch, Mahaprabhu Jagannath is scheduled to release in cinemas across India on July 10. The film will be available in Hindi, Odia, and Telugu languages.

Element has partnered with Concept One Accessories to introduce a new product collection inspired by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," which is scheduled to hit theatres on July 31.

The collaboration brings together the skate-inspired heritage of Element and one of Marvel’s most iconic superheroes through a range of accessories designed for fans and consumers across multiple retail channels.

Launching on June 25, the collection will include backpacks and headwear that will be available through BoxLunch, as well as specialty and family footwear retailers across the United States. Drawing inspiration from the film’s visual themes, the products feature design elements linked to Peter Parker’s latest suit, Spider-Man imagery, and Element’s signature branding.

Sam Hafif, Chief Executive Officer, Concept One said, "We're very excited to announce this amazing collaboration between Element and Disney. We recognize the loyal base of Marvel fans within the skate community and want to feed the specialty channel with great product that they will love"

The collection is aimed at connecting with both Spider-Man enthusiasts and the skateboarding community, a segment where Element has maintained a strong presence over the years.

Matthew Salter, Executive Vice President, partnership, marketing, Authentic, owner of the Element brand, highlighted the alignment between the two brands and the broader cultural appeal of the project, "Element has always stood at the intersection of culture and creativity, making this collaboration with Disney a natural fit. Spider-Man is one of the most recognizable superheroes in the world, and this collection brings together his energy with Element's core roots to create something that feels authentic to Element's community while creating something fresh for fans everywhere."

The launch reflects the continued demand for entertainment-led consumer products and licensed merchandise, with brands increasingly leveraging major film releases to engage fans through apparel and accessories. The Element x Spider-Man: Brand New Day collection is expected to reach consumers ahead of the movie’s theatrical debut later this summer.

Mattel has announced the global expansion of its UNO Social Clubs initiative, extending the experiential gaming format to new markets following the success of its inaugural events last year. The move includes a five-city tour across the United States and the launch of events in nine international cities, as the company looks to deepen engagement with fans of the iconic card game.

The expansion is part of Mattel's broader strategy to evolve the UNO brand beyond traditional gameplay and create community-driven experiences that bring players together through live events, competition, and social interaction.

Katie Buford, Vice President and Global Head of Mattel Games said, "At the heart of UNO is a simple truth: play brings people together. After an incredible first year, we're excited to launch UNO Social Clubs in even more cities around the world. The enthusiasm from fans has been incredible, and their passion continues to inspire us. We look forward to welcoming even more players to the table."

As part of the U.S. tour, UNO Social Clubs will visit Philadelphia, Brooklyn, Miami, Houston, and Los Angeles. The selection of cities follows strong demand from fans and reflects the brand's efforts to expand its reach through localized experiences.

Alongside the U.S. rollout, Mattel will take UNO Social Clubs international for the first time. The global tour will include stops in Barcelona, Berlin, London, Mexico City, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, Tokyo, and Toronto, bringing the initiative to key entertainment, lifestyle, and cultural hubs across multiple regions.

Each UNO Social Club event will feature classic gameplay experiences while incorporating locally inspired entertainment elements. Mattel said the events will include DJs and MCs to create a city-specific atmosphere, offering participants a social environment that extends beyond the traditional card game format.

The company also plans to introduce interactive elements and friendly competition at each location, with attendees having opportunities to win exclusive prizes, branded merchandise, and UNO product packs.

Originally launched as an experiential extension of the UNO brand, the Social Clubs initiative is designed to strengthen consumer engagement by transforming a familiar tabletop game into a live, community-based experience. The concept reflects a growing trend among entertainment and consumer brands to create immersive, event-led experiences that foster direct interaction with fans.

With a history spanning more than five decades, UNO remains one of Mattel's most recognized gaming brands. Through initiatives such as UNO Social Clubs, the company continues to explore new ways of connecting with consumers while maintaining the social and interactive nature that has defined the game for generations.

SEGA has expanded the Sonic the Hedgehog brand through new collaborations with The Woobles and Dr. Squatch, introducing limited-edition products inspired by the iconic video game character.

The partnership with The Woobles marks the first collaboration between the crochet kit company and Sonic the Hedgehog. The collection features three crochet kits based on popular characters from the franchise, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Tails, and Knuckles. In addition, the range includes a special mystery accessory kit designed to offer fans an added element of surprise and creativity.

The collaboration aims to bring Sonic-themed crafting experiences to consumers, combining the growing popularity of DIY hobbies with one of gaming's most recognizable franchises.

SEGA has also partnered with personal care brand Dr. Squatch for a limited-edition collection celebrating 35 years of Sonic the Hedgehog. Inspired by the character's speed and energy, the collection introduces themed grooming products designed for fans of the franchise.

The range includes the Sonic Speed Bar Soap, described as a light-grit cleansing bar featuring bright citrus notes of bergamot and mandarin, complemented by lavender and grounded with violet leaf, vetiver, patchouli, and amber. The collection also includes Sonic Speed Deodorant, a citrus-forward blend combined with lavender and warm base notes.

The latest collaborations reflect the continued expansion of Sonic the Hedgehog into lifestyle and consumer product categories beyond gaming. Character licensing remains a key growth area for entertainment brands as companies look to engage audiences through products spanning fashion, personal care, collectibles, and hobby-based categories.

Both the The Woobles and Dr. Squatch Sonic the Hedgehog collections are now available to consumers.