AXN Beyond channel to be launched in india

Sony Pictures Entertainment plans to launch a second channel in India, AXN Beyond.

AXN Beyond TV channel in India

The new channel, AXN Beyond, will have programmes with sci-fi, suspense, horror, mystery, fantasy, paranormal and supernatural undertones unlike the action-adventure and lifestyle reality shows that have been the mainstay of AXN.

Earlier in 2008, AXN Beyond was launched in the Philippines, Singapore, and Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, shows like Lost and Supernatural were migrated to AXN Beyond. AXN Beyond also airs Pushing Daisies,  Andromed, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Hex, Night Stalker, Northern Mysteries, The Dresden Files in Philippines, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Rohit Bhandari, AXN’s new Country Head, India, has said that considering high costs of entry and operation in India, AXN is on the lookout for the best time to launch AXN Beyond in India.  AXN has said that the company is following CAS and other modes of distribution to find the optimal solution.

AXN has more plans for India. afaqs! has quoted Bhandari as saying that AXN is still finalising a few reality series formats and weighing them. “Currently, most general entertainment channels (GECs) have the song and dance reality shows which are predominantly talent based. We will bring in shows that are based on adventure and thrill,?Bhandari said.

AXN has said that with AXN Beyond and its India-specific reality shows it wants to capture a larger audience in India. The programming of AXN Beyond will target action and adventure enthusiasts in the age group of 25-45 years. AXN will put its muscle behind shows and ground event that will involve audiences.

The shows will not be aired in the 10 pm – 12 pm slot as that may affect the premium shows.