MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Network India’s English entertainment channel AXN has partnered with Marriott International, one of the largest hospitality chains in the world, for a unique culinary show ‘AXN Ultimate Cook-Off – The Marriott Challenge’. This show is one-of-its kind as the channel will exclusively premiere it on 12 October with a single 45-minute long episode. The show is produced by Foodlooking’s Ashraf Abbas and directed by Bibartan Ghosh. The production house specializes in food-based shows.
The channel will have its second cookery-based show Top Chef, which is currently in its 14th season. Marriott International will also be the presenting sponsor for Top Chef Season 14, scheduled to air this month on AXN - Monday-Friday 9 pm.
SPN India business head English cluster Tushar Shah said: “English entertainment and movie genres are growing as the entire measurement base is increasing. We have seen 8 per cent growth from FY16-17 to FY17-18. In both the genres, there is no specific prime-time because the viewership by nature of the channel doesn’t happen with appointments, unless there is a big premiere that is coming.”
Marriott International area VP South Asia Neeraj Govil said, “At Marriott International Inc., we aspire to be leaders in every aspect. Culinary experiences always have and will continue to drive focus for us. This association gives us yet another platform to showcase our cooking styles, abilities and innovations in the F&B domain, while offering diverse, culinary experiences of the highest standards and celebrating the progressive culinary talent of our chefs across Marriott.”
Marriott International and AXN’s partnership will bring to life innovative content as well as memorable guest experiences. Viewers will also get to know five celebrated Marriott chefs through vignettes aired on AXN showcasing their expertise and passion for food.
“The time spent and the reach on both the genres has been extremely good. With 32 channels in our network and with digital footprints of 5.5 to 6 million we will utilize all these platforms. Not only the show is going to air on AXN but it will be streamed on SonyLiv around the same time,” Shah added.
Marriott International senior culinary director Asia Pacific chef Toine Hoeksel who leads more than 30 brands under the Marriott family, visited India to judge the cook- off. Other judges included chef Himanshu Taneja, Culinary Director, India, Marriott International and famed actor-cum-producer, Chitrangda Singh.
The show will be a head-to-head face off between four celebrated chefs from various brands within the Marriott portfolio. The contestants will display their skills through different culinary challenges and will be scored on their versatility, proficiency and creativity. The winning dish will make it to the menu of more than 100 Marriott International hotels across India.
