Hughes Communications India, Ltd (HCIL), a subsidiary of Hughes Network Systems, LLC (Hughes), the world leader in broadband satellite networks and services, has bagger a contracted from Prasad Film Laboratories, pioneers in post-production services for the cinema industry, to implement a broadband satellite network to distribute digital cinema content to 1000 sites across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.

Leveraging a powerful Hughes satellite IP-based delivery platform, Prasad Film Laboratories’ digital cinema division (PXD) will not only bring down the delivery cost per site, but will also enhance quality of transmission while reducing the cost per print, speeding the time to market, and increasing its penetration in the country. In addition, the Hughes solution via satellite bypasses the terrestrial network, with enhanced security to effectively control piracy which is the biggest threat for digital cinema service providers.

Ajeesh GK, vice president of Projects at Prasad Group said, “Over the years, the Prasad Group has become synonymous with commitment to quality, trust, and dependability in the film world. Prasad Group's commitment to technology is reflected in its state-of-the-art equipment, focus on constant upgrades, and keeping abreast of the latest developments. We selected Hughes over others on basis of a successful pilot conducted over many months and unmatched expertise in running digital cinema networks.”

Shivaji Chatterjee, vice president at Hughes India said, “We are extremely privileged that Prasad Labs has chosen Hughes Communications for this important project. Digital cinema is changing the Indian moviegoer’s experience, promising superior digital quality versus traditional celluloid formats. Our leading-edge satellite technology will be implemented using industry best practices to ensure the highest quality and most secure solution protected from piracy.”