MUMBAI: Bengali television viewers have delivered a startling verdict on STAR Ananda, according to the latest TAM ratings. The Channel has bested all except ETV Bangla amongst the General Entertainment Channels, while leaving news channels trailing far behind, an unprecedented feat in television viewing!

In Kolkata, STAR Ananda delivered a reach of 2,460,000 as compared to ETV Bangla's 2,797,000 and ahead of Aakaash Bangla at 2,423,000 (TG: CS 15+; TAM Wk 13 - 26th Mar - 1st Apr 2006). Closest news competitor Tara News achieved a reach of only 1,492,000. In all of West Bengal, STAR Ananda meanwhile notched an impressive reach of 3,404,000 behind only ETV Bangla. Meanwhile, Tara Newz languished far behind at 2,089,000 amongst the news channels.

STAR Ananda's election-related programming has also been well received, with its array of special programmes for the West Bengal State Assembly Elections receiving the thumbs up from viewers. Bolun Bidhayak - STAR Ananda's live on-ground debates pitting the bidhayaks against the electorate - provided exciting numbers grabbing 49% marketshare in the 9 pm to pm slot and 58% in the 1.30 pm to 2.30 slots amongst all news channels. Meanwhile, Jot, Ghot, Vote - STAR Ananda's election-specific bulletin - captured 57% in the 5.30 to 6 pm slot and 56% marketshare in the 8.30 to9 pm slot (Mon-Sat).

This record showing for STAR Ananda comes on the heels of an impressive TAM Week 12 for the Channel where it garnered 50% marketshare in Kolkata and 48% in the Rest of West Bengal and featured all 40 of the top 40 programmes, and 49 of the top 50 programmes in the Rest of West Bengal.

STAR Ananda has constantly scored with its programming, positioning and packaging, bravely showcasing the people's point of view. The recent ratings are merely a huge endorsement of its stand to empower viewers. Having introduced a paradigm shift in news broadcasting, this unambiguous success of STAR Ananda will leave much to be desired from other Channels.