Tata Play CTV Locks Out Sony Channels As Festive Showdown Heats Up

What happened

Tata Play Smart connected TV app carries over 500 channels but none from Sony Pictures Networks India, extending the DTH distribution dispute into the CTV domain.

Why it matters

Tata Play subscribers on connected screens cannot access Sony entertainment or sports channels during peak festive viewing without switching back to DTH or buying separate packages.

Remember this

The Tata Play-Sony war has crossed into CTV territory, leaving viewers and advertisers in the lurch ahead of Diwali.

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More context & who is affected

Tata Play's Smart connected TV app lists over 500 live channels but excludes every Sony channel, extending the broadcaster's distribution standoff from satellite DTH to the connected TV space.

The dispute dates to May 2025 when Tata Play removed 25 Sony channels from its DTH packs. TDSAT has ordered Tata Play to deposit 40 crore rupees and stayed execution of a 128.42 crore demand notice from Sony's Culver Max arm.

Sony MD Gaurav Banerjee expressed hope the festive season could end the deadlock, but the next TDSAT hearing is not until October 30. Tata Play told the tribunal it has paid roughly 4,000 crore to Sony over the past decade.

CTV channels available: 500+ Tata Play Smart app offers 500+ channels but excludes SonyExchange4media
Next TDSAT hearing: Oct 30 2026 Tribunal hearing on the distribution disputeExchange4media
Court-ordered deposit: 40 crore rupees TDSAT ordered Tata Play to deposit this amountExchange4media

How the standoff began

The dispute began in May 2025 when Tata Play removed 25 Sony channels from its DTH packs. TDSAT ordered Tata Play to deposit 40 crore rupees and stayed the 128.42 crore demand notice, with the next hearing set for October 30.