In the heart of Manipur, a digital transformation is underway. Dustin Thangjam, an entrepreneur with a deep passion for the cultural richness of his homeland, founded Purpled TV (under Purpur Media Private Limited) with a clear mission: to create a dedicated OTT platform for the entertainment content of Northeast India.
When it came time to scale, Dustin found a strategic partner in StartupLanes. Recognizing the high potential of niche regional content in a market dominated by generic global giants, StartupLanes stepped in as the lead facilitator. The investment has provided Purpled TV with the essential capital and strategic mentorship to expand its reach and improve its technical infrastructure.
The Problem: The Invisibility of Regional Art
Before Purpled TV, the vibrant Manipuri and Northeastern entertainment industry lacked a centralized home. Talented filmmakers, musicians, and creators struggled with:
Piracy: Lack of secure platforms led to widespread unauthorized distribution.
Accessibility: Older classic Manipuri films and music videos were becoming lost to time.
Monetization: There was no reliable subscription model for regional creators to earn fairly from their work.
The Purpled TV Solution: A Cultural Directory
Purpled TV solves these challenges through a "Super-App" model tailored for the region:
Secure OTT Platform: A highly sophisticated app designed with maximum data security to control piracy.
Multilingual Accessibility: Introducing subtitling and dubbing to allow cross-community viewing of Northeastern culture.
Beta to Premium: Starting as a free service in its Beta version, the platform is transitioning to a subscription-based model to ensure sustainable growth for creators.
Smooth Streaming: Optimized to work even at low internet speeds, ensuring connectivity in remote hilly areas.
The Impact of StartupLanes Funding
With the support of the StartupLanes Angel Network, Purpled TV is now:
Expanding Libraries: Continuously uploading classic and new Manipuri content to act as a digital archive.
iOS & Full Version Launch: Moving beyond Android to reach a wider premium audience.
Community Empowerment: Directly supporting the Manipuri entertainment ecosystem by providing a transparent revenue-sharing platform.