21st Century Fox deal to fast forward Walt Disney's India fortunes

Disney will also pick up the 20% stake that Murdoch has in DTH operator Tata Sky

Walt Disney Co’s acquisition of Rupert Murdoch’s 21st Century Fox Inc, except for some businesses, on Thursday will fundamentally change India’s TV broadcast landscape. 

As part of the deal, the entire business of Star India, including entertainment and sports channels as well as the digital over-the-top channel Hotstar, will be transferred to Disney. Disney will also pick up the 20 per cent stake that Murdoch has in DTH operator Tata Sky. 

The move will catapult Disney, currently a small player known primarily for its kids’ channels and distribution of Hollywood films, as the country’s largest media and entertainment broadcaster, with