Bangladesh’s television landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation since the 1990s. Once dominated by the state-run BTV, the market now boasts a vibrant array of channels catering to diverse interests, from news and entertainment to sports and educational content. Today, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular TV channels in Bangladesh, each offering a unique blend of programming that keeps viewers engaged.

1. Channel I

Launch Date: October 1, 1999
Owner: Impress Group
Motto: “Hridoye Bangladesh” (Bangladesh in Heart)

Channel I, established by the Impress Group, quickly became a household name with its focus on agricultural issues through shows like “Hridoye Mati O Manush.” It also pioneered the agriculture bulletin in Bangladesh and features the political talk show “Tritio Mattra,” which brings together politicians for lively debates. Its programs reach audiences both in South Asia and North America.

2. ATN Bangla

Launch Date: 1997
Owner: Multimedia Production Company
Slogan: “Obiram Banglar Mukh” (The Enduring Face of Bangla)

ATN Bangla was Bangladesh’s first satellite-based TV channel, broadening the scope of broadcasting in the region. Known for its diverse programming, including news, movies, and dramas, it gained international recognition in 2004 with an EMMY award for its children’s program “Amrao Pari.” The channel’s reach extends across South Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

3. NTV

Launch Date: July 3, 2003
Founder: Alhaj Mohammad Mosaddek Ali
Motto: “Shomoyer Sathe Agamir Pothe”

NTV is celebrated for its automation-based approach and comprehensive news coverage. It offers a range of programs including documentaries, sports, and talk shows. The channel gained fame with the reality show “Close-up One” and continues to be a significant player in Bangladesh’s media landscape, holding an ISO 9001:2008 certification.

4. Independent TV

Launch Date: 2010
Owner: Beximco
Chairman: Salman F Rahman

Independent TV focuses primarily on news, including entertainment, sports, and international affairs. Its notable programs include “Taalash,” which highlights societal issues, and “Joto Khela,” a popular sports show. The channel leverages the Bangabandhu 1 satellite for its broadcasts.

5. Somoy TV

Launch Date: 2011
Owner: Somoy Media Limited
Chairman: Mr. Fazlur Rahman

Somoy TV stands out as a dedicated news channel with a strong focus on timely updates and investigative journalism. It has an extensive network of reporters across Bangladesh and is known for shows like “Somoy Songlap” and “Somoy TV Bulletin.” Its programming reaches audiences in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

6. Gazi TV (GTV)

Launch Date: 2012
Owner: Gazi Satellite Television Limited
Director: Golam Dosotogir Gazi

Gazi TV is renowned for its sports coverage, particularly cricket. As the official broadcaster for the Bangladesh Cricket Board and various premier leagues, GTV is the go-to channel for cricket enthusiasts. The channel also features a mix of dramas, movies, and talk shows.

7. Ekushey Television (ETV)

Launch Date: 2000 (Resumed in 2005)
Chairman: Md. Saiful Alam

Ekushey Television was the first private TV channel in Bangladesh and has been a staple of Bangladeshi media for over two decades. Its diverse programming includes talk shows, dramas, and cultural documentaries. The channel also has a significant international presence, catering to Bangladeshi expatriates.

8. RTV

Launch Date: 2005
Owner: Bangla Television Corporation Ltd
CEO: Syed Ashik Rahman

RTV offers a broad range of programming including news, dramas, and entertainment. Its video-on-demand service, RTV Plus, provides viewers with access to a vast library of Bangla content, from live TV to movies and web series. RTV is noted for its contributions to autism awareness.

9. Bangla Vision

Launch Date: March 31, 2016
Owner: Shamol Bangla Media Ltd
Chairman: Abdul Haque

Bangla Vision is known for its emphasis on Bengali culture and drama. With popular shows like “Sundorjer Kotha” and “Amer Ami,” the channel offers a mix of entertainment and cultural programming. It aims to connect audiences with Bengali heritage and is broadcast via the Apstar 7 satellite.

10. Maasranga TV

Launch Date: 2011
Owner: Square Group
Chairman: Mr. Samuel S Chowdhury

Maasranga TV provides a mix of entertainment and news content, including popular Indian animated shows. It has gained recognition for its programming and global reach, broadcasting in regions including Australia, Asia, and Europe. Maasranga also collaborates with UNICEF for children’s programming.

Final Thoughts

The evolution of television in Bangladesh reflects a dynamic media landscape that offers viewers a wide range of content. From pioneering channels like BTV to the diverse offerings of newer entrants, Bangladeshi TV channels continue to enrich the viewing experience with their varied and engaging programs. As technology and media continue to advance, it will be exciting to see how these channels evolve and new players emerge in the industry.