Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is set to launch its Tamil entertainment channel, Sony VIZHA, on October 19. With the brand promise ‘Ithu Namma Vibe’, the channel will offer a mix of music, cooking shows, dramas, movies and sports content for the audiences.

According to a Sony Pictures Networks India press release, the line-up includes ‘Tamil Idol’ and ‘Celebrity MasterChef Tamil’. ‘Tamil Idol’ will feature A R Rahman as the super judge, with Andrea Jeremiah, Karthik and Benny Dayal as judges. Vikkals Vikram and Pooja Venkat will host the singing show.

‘Celebrity MasterChef Tamil’ will feature Samantha Ruth Prabhu as the celebrity judge, alongside chefs Venkatesh Bhat, Sashi Cheliah and Shreeya Adka. RJ Vijay will host the cooking competition.

Other shows include ‘Notebook 90’s – Kadhal Flashback’, a drama set in 1990s Trichy that follows friendship, first crushes and young love. ‘Crime Patrol – Kutrangal Tharum Echarikkai’will focus on crime investigations and awareness, while ‘Madam Police – Naanga Irukka Bayamen’ follows an all-women police team as they handle cases.

The movie line-up includes ‘Anbil Avan’, ‘Asareeri’, ‘Sardar 2’, ‘Mandaadi’, ‘Rajan Vagaiyara’and ‘Meesaya Murukku 2’.

Sony VIZHA will also feature Tamil commentary by R. Ashwin for all five T20 International matches in the upcoming India-New Zealand bilateral series.

The channel aims to bring together global entertainment formats and content rooted in Tamil culture.