(rephrasing para one)

New Delhi, Nov 28 (UNI) In a step towards launch of an entertainment channel, NDTV today announced its partnership with leading film maker, Karan Johar's production company, Dharma Productions.

Under the agreement, Dharma Productions will work exclusively with NDTV to achieve new levels of excellence in entertainment programming.

Mr Johar will help originate concepts and new programming ideas for the channel and will be an ambassador for the NDTV entertainment brand, while his production house will produce shows for NDTV's entertainment channel.

Karan Johar will be on the board of NDTV's Entertainment company, and his company Dharma productions will hold an equity stake in it.

''We have enormous respect for Karan's brilliance and creativity. He is constantly breaking new ground in quality and transforming Indian movies to world class standards,'' NDTV's Chairman Dr Prannoy Roy said.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Karan Johar said the partnership is not just a professional association but a family bonding.

The NDTV entertainment channel is being launched as part of NDTV's expansion beyond the news.

UNI DKS SRS RN2036