Bengaluru: The Kannada television industry continues to witness impressive growth, fueled by a strong lineup of culturally resonant entertainment and increasingly popular regional sports content. According to the latest viewership data for the 2+ target group (TG) in Karnataka, Zee Kannada has emerged as the undisputed leader among Kannada-language channels, setting a benchmark for others in the regional broadcasting landscape.
Zee Kannada Leads with Unmatched Numbers
Topping the charts with a commanding weekly Average Minute Audience (AMA) of 1432.3 (in thousands), Zee Kannada has solidified its position at the forefront of Kannada television. This staggering number places the channel miles ahead of its competitors, with a lead of over 770 AMA points from the second-ranked channel. Zee Kannada’s enduring popularity stems from its winning mix of serial dramas, high-energy reality shows, and culturally rooted programming that resonates deeply with viewers across Karnataka.
Colors Kannada Holds Steady at Second Place
In the second spot, Colors Kannada posted a weekly AMA of 657.82, maintaining a strong and stable presence in the market. The channel continues to captivate a wide-ranging demographic with its family dramas and engaging weekend reality shows. While the gap between Colors Kannada and Zee Kannada is significant, Colors’ consistency ensures it remains a key player in the Kannada GEC (General Entertainment Channel) space.
Star Suvarna Gains Ground in Close Competition
Star Suvarna takes the third position with a weekly AMA of 549.7, showcasing a steady and growing connection with Kannada audiences. The channel’s strategy of offering a diverse mix of serials, comedy programs, and lifestyle shows has helped it close in on Colors Kannada, hinting at an evolving rivalry for the second spot in the weeks ahead.
Udaya TV Retains Loyal Viewership
At number four is Udaya TV, a legacy brand in Kannada entertainment, with an AMA of 379.83. Despite intensifying competition, Udaya continues to draw a dedicated viewership base, thanks to its nostalgic programming and strong brand recall among older audiences. Its continued relevance is a testament to its enduring content strategy.
Regional Sports on the Rise with Star Sports 1 Kannada
Rounding out the top five is Star Sports 1 Kannada, notching a weekly AMA of 317.16. Its presence in this elite list marks a significant shift in viewer preferences, with regional sports—especially cricket—capturing the attention of Kannada-speaking audiences. The channel’s localized commentary and coverage of marquee events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Karnataka Premier League (KPL) are major contributors to its growing popularity.
The latest data underscores the dynamic nature of Kannada television, where both entertainment and sports content are driving viewership. Zee Kannada’s dominance highlights the power of culturally aligned programming, while the rise of regional sports channels like Star Sports 1 Kannada indicates a broadening horizon for content consumption in Karnataka.
