Kaun Banayega - literally 'who will make' - is the name of a new initiative to encourage readership and counter fake news.

Times of India Group Bennett, Coleman & Co and Dainik Bhaskar have teamed in the project under which a series of films to educate readers is to be made.

In an Exchange4media.com report, BCCL revenue president Sivakumar Sundaram described fake news as "a modern-day malaise brought on by social media".

"It ranges from the silly to grave 'forwards' having repercussions that affect the social, economic and cultural fabric of nations.

"As gatekeepers of the truth and as a leading newspaper company, The Times of India takes on the responsibility of educating people on the need to follow real news and not forwards."

He said this was being done in an "engaging and humorous manner" through the films titled Kaun Banega, Kaun Banayega.

Dainik Bhaskar Group promoter-director Girish Agarwal says the companies - two of the largest media houses in the country - share a common responsibility.

"We have decided to come together to spread awareness on the menace of fake news, and will continue to work together on this issue and others of citizen and national importance."