Category: Factual

  • Catch Richard Gere’s return to television with the BBC First drama MotherFatherSon

    Catch Richard Gere’s return to television with the BBC First drama MotherFatherSon

    MUMBAI: If you are expecting the everyday decorum that an elegant media dynasty story has to offer, think again. Beneath the steely performance of Richard Gere marking his much-awaited return on television after 30 years, MotherFatherSon offers twists and turns with a quirky sense of glee. The drama revolves around Max, who is at the helm of a mammoth media empire and his son Caden who is seen crumbling under pressure. Tensions are rife in this not-so-conventional story as Caden knows secrets that could bring Max’s empire crashing down. This is a fight for family, a fight for truth – a fight for the heart of the nation.

    Watch MotherFatherSon only on Zee Café from 16th August at 10 PM.

    Highlights of the show:

    A complex interplay of a media mogul’s fractured family and a country at the brink of a change
    Family, media, politics and the intense drama that ensues in the life of the troubled business titan Max
    An enthralling drama that marks Richard Gere’s return to television after 30 years
    From bestselling author and Emmy-nominated writer Tom Rob Smith.

  • This Independence Day, celebrate the indians who Make India Special

    This Independence Day, celebrate the indians who Make India Special

    MUMBAI: On India’s 73rd Independence Day, EPIC Channel celebrates the Indians who personify the spirit that unites us as a country. From freedom fighters to free-thinking individuals; this year, India Ka Apna Infotainment, focusses its lens on the iconic men and women who embody the fierce independence, self-determination, and integrity that defines our nation.

    Premiering on Independence Day, is a special feature, titled ‘Cyber Yoddha’ hosted by the versatile actor Ashutosh Rana, who introduces audiences to Trishneet Arora, a cyber-security expert who is at the front lines of global cyber defence.

    Akul Tripathi, Head – Content and Programming, at EPIC Channel said, “As a channel that celebrates India, Independence Day is definitely special. Our extraordinary country is made on the backs of the extraordinary people who make it so. This year, we celebrate them, their achievements, their dedication, and their genius; which continues to inspire generations of young Indians.”

    The special programming line-up goes on to include high-achieving Indians from all walks of life. The series ‘Bharat Ki Awaaz: Great Indian Speeches’ – will showcase the ideas and concepts espoused by India’s most influential leaders. The series features, amongst others, Indira Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Lal Bahadur Shastri, and brings alive the moments that are cornerstones in India’s history.

    ‘Pehli’, another series in the line-up, features inspirational figures – women trail-blazer who paved the way for women into traditionally male-dominated fields, from astronomy to weightlifting. 

  • This Independence Day, Zee English Cluster encourages viewers to live free with ‘1947’ on &flix and ‘Privé Rise Up’ on &PrivéHD

    This Independence Day, Zee English Cluster encourages viewers to live free with ‘1947’ on &flix and ‘Privé Rise Up’ on &PrivéHD

    MUMBAI: “For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others,” Nelson Mandela’s hard-hitting words still hold relevance. As the nation commemorates its victory over slavery with the 73rd Year of Independence, Zee English Cluster paints our television screens in patriotism. &flix brings to you a special week-long property ‘1947’ starting Monday, August 12, weeknights at 9PM and &PrivéHD has a day-long block – ‘Privé Rise Up’ on Thursday, August 15, 11AM onwards.

    How far are you willing to go to protect what’s yours? What price are you willing to pay to seek the truth? With ‘1947’ on &flix, prepare to leap forth into the fierce battlegrounds with a power-packed line-up of movies which includes award-winning films such as Gods Of Egypt, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, Fury, and The Patriot among others.

    From drug lords and international terror organizations to espionage and deadly missions; witness the action with ultimate heroes of Hollywood like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt Channing Tatum and many more. One of the most acclaimed American war films, Fury is the story of ‘Wardaddy’ (Brad Pitt), together with his five-man crew, as they embark on a life-threatening mission to attack the Nazi army. An action-spy film from the most successful franchise series, Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation depicts Ethan (Tom Cruise) on a chase to take down Syndicate – a terror organization before their next attack. The exciting line-up for ‘1947’ features all of this and much more!

    Bringing stories of courage and compassion, victory and valour and the footsteps to glory – Privé Rise Up on &PrivéHD promises to leave you with a rush of inspiration. Meet the great men who fought relentlessly to free the society of all evils and feel the other side of their stories with a promising line-up of award-winning movies.

    A film set against the canvas of First World War, Steven Spielberg’s six-time Academy Award nominee, War Horse, as part of Privé Rise, depicts the unbreakable bond and loyalty between Albert and his horse Joey. Another one of Spielberg’s masterpieces, Lincoln, which depicts the quest of the greatest President in American history Abraham Lincoln to abolish slavery, bagged two Academy Awards among other nominations. The line-up also includes two other Academy Award winning movies namely Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained based on the journey of a freed slave and Mandela: A long Walk to Freedom that chronicles the life of the greatest leader in his fight against Apartheid – Nelson Mandela.

    &flix offers some of the choicest Hollywood movies and the maximum number of television premieres and is available in the Zee Prime English Pack that includes 4 premium channels – &flix, Zee Café, LF and WION at a very attractive price of Rs 15/- per month only. For those who appreciate nuanced cinema, &PrivéHD brings riveting and award-winning films that stimulate the minds and bring alive the other side of cinema with Zee Prime English HD Pack comprising – &PrivéHD, Zee Café HD, &flix HD, LF HD is priced at Rs 25/-.

  • Embark on a never seen before adventure with PM Narendra Modi and Bear Grylls in Discovery’s iconic and hugely popular franchise ‘Man Vs Wild’

    Embark on a never seen before adventure with PM Narendra Modi and Bear Grylls in Discovery’s iconic and hugely popular franchise ‘Man Vs Wild’

    MUMBAI: Bear Grylls uncovers PM Modi’s adventurous side on Discovery’s Exclusive show, ‘Man Vs Wild with Bear Grylls & Prime Minister Modi’ as they take an off-track journey across India’s Jim Corbett National Park situated in the state of Uttarakhand. Select excerpts of the show: –

    The adventurous Indian Prime Minister: 

    Through the episode viewers will get a glimpse of the Indian Prime Minister’s love for the environment, as in freewheeling chat, he shares little known childhood incidents spent amidst nature. Some interesting anecdotes revealed through the episode include how he used to create bathing salts from dew as a child, or his encounters with wildlife in his childhood, or the simple yet profound reason behind sending postcards across the country to celebrate the first rains!PM Modi’s keen interest in environmental conservation and values of respecting nature, is sure to inspire generations of Indians to do the same.

    The Indian Prime Minister also shines spotlight on important issues like the need to preserve and embrace nature. Responding to Bear, when he points out evident dangers lurking in their vicinity (on account of wild animals), PM Modi fearlessly says, “We should not take this place as a danger zone. When we go against nature then everything becomes dangerous; human beings too become dangerous. On the other hand, if we co-operate with nature, then she also co-operates with us.”

    This fearlessness was also observed when Bear Grylls gives PM Modi an improvised version of a spear as a safeguard against potential attack from a Tiger. To which, PM Modi replies, “My upbringing does not allow me to take a life. However, I will hold on it (the spear) since you insist!” 

    When asked by Bear Grylls about the need and efforts towards cleanliness of India, the Prime Minister, said, “Someone from outside cannot clean my India, the people of India make India clean. Personal hygiene is in the culture of the Indian people. We need to develop the habit of social hygiene. Mahatma Gandhi has done lot of work on it and recently we are getting good success in this. I believe India will succeed in this very soon.”

    Bear Grylls shared an interesting anecdote about his Mount Everest expedition, “I stood on the top of Mount Everest; when I got home, I showed my mother the photo. You know what she said? ‘Why did you not comb your hair? Mothers. Mothers. It's the same all over the 

    world, eh? Mothers.” To which PM Modi smiled and nodded wholeheartedly, perhaps thinking of his own mother. 

  • Two successful lives, two friends, and yet a bunch of regret on the table. Watch the premiere of Youth only on &PrivéHD

    Two successful lives, two friends, and yet a bunch of regret on the table. Watch the premiere of Youth only on &PrivéHD

    MUMBAI: You will always come across people who have achieved everything in life and yet regret decisions made in the past. &PrivéHD, premium destination of nuanced cinema brings to you a delightful story of a retired orchestra conductor as they come across series of repent in spite of a successful life. Watch the Academy Award Nominee movie, Youth as it premieres on Saturday, August 10, at 1 PM and 9 PM.

    Directed by BAFTA award winner Paolo Sorrentino, the movie features the Academy Award Winning stars like Michael Canine, Rachel Weisz, and Jane Fonda who essays the roles of Fred Ballinger, Lena Ballinger and Brenda Morel respectively. Amongst the stars, Academy Award Nominee Harvey Keitel dawns the role of Mick Boyle. Two old friends, Fred Ballinger and Mick Boyle visit a hotel at the foot of the Alps for a vacation with their family. Mick entertains the guests while he gathers upon his thought to finish the screenplay for what he imagines to be his last movie. Fred has no intention of resuming his musical career, but someone wants at all costs to hear him conduct again.

    For those who appreciate nuanced cinema, &PrivéHD brings riveting and award-winning films that stimulate the minds and bring alive the other side of cinema with Zee Prime English HD Pack comprising – &PrivéHD, Zee Café HD, &flix HD, LF HD is priced at Rs 25/-.

  • Animal Planet shines light on Snake Squad; a group of youngsters who have dedicated their lives to mitigating human-snake conflict  They save people from snakes and snakes from people

    Animal Planet shines light on Snake Squad; a group of youngsters who have dedicated their lives to mitigating human-snake conflict They save people from snakes and snakes from people

    MUMBAI: The expanding cities have intensified human-snake conflict like never before. As cities grow both vertically and horizontally, residential complexes have risen where once there was wilderness and wildlife. Hurt and homeless, snakes are turning up everywhere— homes, schools, offices, temples and even refrigerators! Animal Planet’s new 10-part series Snake Squad, which premiers on August 15 at 9:00 pm focuses on unsung heroes of the urban landscapes who are dedicating their lives to mitigating human-snake conflict and saving both people from snakes and snakes from people.

    Snakes – an integral part of India

    No civilization, country or society in the world is as inseparably linked to snakes as India has been. Snakes are friends, foe and God, and loved, feared, hated and worshipped in equal measures. They, in brief, are an integral part of India — culturally, economically and mythologically! On the other hand, they are also the cause of the worst man vs wild-animal conflict in the world. Conservative estimates put the human death toll of snakebites at 50,000 every year. Many experts and field workers, however, feel that the real number could be double that. Close to half a million human lives get destroyed through long-term disabilities. The casualties on the snakes’ side is even worse.

    The Snake Squad

    Traditional snake charmers have disappeared from modern India. Enter the young Snake Squad, a group of young men and women, often highly qualified and educated, driven by a passion for wildlife. They are dedicating their lives to mitigating this conflict and saving both people from snakes and snakes from people. Every major city in India has its own emerging, young squad. It has turned into a phenomenon. These squads are saving hundreds of thousands lives year after year.

    Two years in making

    It took almost two years for Optimum Television to put the inaugural series in place. Executive Producer and Director, Upma Bhatnagar met some of the best-known scientists and experts at Oxford University, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and even in Costa Rica. She also travelled to many parts of India on an exhaustive recee schedule.

    Upma Bhatnagar, says, “I always wanted to tell the story of the Indian snake. Nothing comes anywhere close to the majesty of a King Cobra when it stands with its hood on full display. But, like most Indian stories, this too is highly, highly complicated. On the one hand, so many people are dying to snakebites every year. But, on the other, snakes happen to be the best pest controllers that nature has to offer. Remove them from the scene and you run the risk of being overtaken by rats and other pests in no time. Plus, lest we forget, snakes also happen to be God in India. It’s almost impossible to separate these two living entities from each other. We, therefore, decided to

    tell this complex story through the eyes of the many young men and women I met during my journeys. How we found these amazing people in various parts of India is another story. We wanted to include those heroes who are passionate and ethical. I can assure you, it is not easy.”

  • Rabindranath Tagore’s 78th death anniversary: EPIC celebrates his genius

    Rabindranath Tagore’s 78th death anniversary: EPIC celebrates his genius

    MUMBAI: Seventy eight years ago, one of India’s favourite sons breathed his last. Rabindranath Tagore, a polymath of exceptional ability and deserved worldwide stature, is a celebrated writer, poet, philosopher and artist, who played a large part in reshaping Bengali literature, music, and art.

    To commemorate his 78th death anniversary, EPIC On, EPIC Channel’s OTT platform, will be releasing its critically acclaimed show, ‘Stories By Rabindranath Tagore’, in Bengali. Directed by Anurag Basu, and featuring Radhika Apte, Amrita Puri, and Sumeet Vyas, amongst others, the 26-part series is an anthology of the Nobel laureate’s stories, including some of the most popular ones like Chokher Bali, Athithi, Detective, and Kabuliwala.

    Also premiering on EPIC On is ‘The Art of Shantiniketan – Masters in the footsteps of Tagore’, a documentary film created by Anita Gurnani and Selina Sen. Winner of multiple awards, this film is a tribute to the legend, tracing the Tagore family’s efforts in setting up Vishwa Bharti, for incorporating nationalist sentiments and to acquaint the Indian youth with their culture and heritage, during the time of colonial rule.

    Akul Tripathi, Head – Content & Programming, EPIC Channel, said, “It is our endeavour to showcase the best of India’s incredible heritage; and any depiction of India is incomplete without Tagore. His stories are already available in Hindi, English, and Tamil on EPIC On, and we are proud to have it in Bengali too. His work, as timeless as his vision of India, is beautifully depicted in ‘The Art of Shantiniketan’.”

    Anita Gurnani, Producer, of The Art of Shantiniketan – Masters in the footsteps of Tagore said, “Shantiniketan means the abode of peace and was established by Tagore and his family as a way of educating India’s youth in a time of turmoil. This haven of the arts was a way for people to get in touch with their country’s culture when constant efforts to erode it were being carried out. We aim to present this symbol of hope and the art it holds to Indians today, as an attempt to display the timelessness of expressions in their art. We hope the viewers of EPIC Channel and EPIC ON enjoy the fruits of our labour and the generation of today will be able to appreciate the culture of Bengal, the ethos of Shantiniketan and Kala Bhavan.”

  • ‘ShowBox’ – a new place for desi music and musical entertainment now available across india

    ‘ShowBox’ – a new place for desi music and musical entertainment now available across india

    MUMBAI: IN10 Media, a network with diverse offerings in the media and entertainment sector, including EPIC TV, DocuBay, EPIC On, and Juggernaut Productions, announced the successful airing of its latest venture – ShowBox – a youth centric, 24 hour music channel, that offers quality music content in Hindi, Punjabi, Haryanvi, and other Indian languages.

    In line with its brand proposition of 'Apna Music Apna Swag', that resonates with the idea of celebrating India’s ‘Desi Swag’; ShowBox aims to reinvigorate the current music scenario with a range of innovative programming, along with providing a platform for local music and independent musicians. Available on all major distribution channels including Airtel Digital TV, TATA Sky, Dish TV, and Videocon DTH, it offers quality music content in Hindi, Punjabi, Haryanvi, and other Indian languages.

    Commenting on the vision for ShowBox, Aditya Pittie, Managing Director, IN10 Media said, “The demand for differentiated content in every genre and platform in the country has exploded and we are confident that the content-centric approach to music, and music entertainment designed by Rajiee and her team, will create new milestones.”

    Speaking about the unique offerings of the channel, Rajiee M Shinde, CEO, ShowBox said, "ShowBox has been designed to cater to the evolving and versatile choices of the audience. Taking into consideration the diversified interest, it was imperative to provide a unified platform that does not just address the musical needs of the youth, but also help them showcase their talent."

    Approaching music and music entertainment holistically, ShowBox has lined up a formidable slate of original programming. The Projection Room’ hosted by renowned film critic Mayank Shekhar and Nitesh Singh will review new films, songs, and shows in Hindi, Marathi, Punjabi, and English; ‘Swag In The City’, a musical chat show hosted by television personality and comedian Suresh Menon; ‘Music Box Office’, a half hour weekly show in which the host will review the music videos, albums, film songs released in the week; ‘Superhits With Drama Queen Swati’, featuring compilation of super-hit songs anchored by popular Red FM 93.5 RJ Swati; and ‘Swag Star’, a chat show featuring celebrities from the nation discussing their latest projects. The channel will also feature a daily, and a weekly 30 minute show titled ‘The Entertainment Show’, and ‘The Weekend Show’ respectively, giving updates on the entertainment industry and latest releases of the week.

    The channel and its offerings are backed by Channel Partners ITC Limited’s "ENGAGE", Johnson & Johnson India’s "Clean & Clear and Digital Partner Liqvd Asia. Additionally, ShowBox airs playlists of curated music videos slots featuring well-known artists, and rising stars composers.  The list comprises of ‘Chakvi Beat Te Wakhra Swag’, a compilation of latest Punjabi Hits; ‘Dhinchak Jhakaas’, featuring regional and Indie hit songs; ‘Ek Se Baje Do’, a collection of soothing and melodious tracks; ‘Kadak Dj’ a special list for party lovers featuring best of dancing songs from India; ‘Tau Ki Playlis’, a compilation of Hit Haryanvi songs; ‘Zabardast Boom’, an ad free slot featuring hit peppy numbers.

    Tune-in to ShowBox now to enjoy a desi swag of music, celebrity shows, and conversations.

  • EPIC Channel brings exceptional stories of real India with ‘EPIC Specials’

    EPIC Channel brings exceptional stories of real India with ‘EPIC Specials’

    MUMBAI: EPIC Channel – India Ka Apna Infotainment, has revealed the line-up for ‘EPIC Specials’, its popular property that showcases extraordinary stories from India. The property will air stories every alternate Saturday, at 12:00 noon, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 10:00 PM.

    The line-up includes amongst others, The Pad Piper, that brings to light the story of the man synonymous with changing the face of menstrual hygiene for women across the country- Arunachalam Muruganantham, and A tent, a truck & talkies, which tells the tale of showman, exhibitor, and genius projector mechanic Anup Jagdale.

    The origins of yoga, and the Kumbh Mela will be explored in Naga, The Eternal Yogi, while Malegaon Ka Superman explores the no-budget film-making industry in Malegaon. EPIC Specials will also feature The Elephant Whisperer and Maya Memsaab that provides a peek into the elephant society in Kaziranga, Assam; and brings to light the unique relationship between man and animal. Also part of this impressive line-up is Rupa’s Boutique, which profiles the bravery and persistence of acid attack victims, and their never dying spirit.

    Some of the popular EPIC Specials, Jungle Ke Bahubali, Air Battle of Srinagar, Rampath, Nandadevi, Brands of India – Royal Enfield, Ekaant Sarhad Par, and Janani, will also continue to be part of the line-up.

    EPIC Channel Head – Content & Programming Akul Tripathi said, “Every little lane of our country is home to exceptional stories that have the potential to capture the nations imagination. EPIC has always aspired to be a platform for showcasing such little known gems, and the viewers response to EPIC Specials has enthused us to curate more such stories.”

  • PM Narendra Modi to feature in Discovery’s iconic and hugely popular franchise ‘Man Vs Wild’ with world renowned survivalist and adventurer Bear Grylls

    PM Narendra Modi to feature in Discovery’s iconic and hugely popular franchise ‘Man Vs Wild’ with world renowned survivalist and adventurer Bear Grylls

    MUMBAI: The energetic Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy, plus a fearless and renowned adventurer and India’s oldest National Park situated in the lush green forests of India’s Uttarakhand, where wild animals roam free…Sounds interesting?
    This is what the world will watch during the historic Discovery Exclusive, ‘Man Vs Wild with Bear Grylls & PM Modi.’ 
    This special episode, which has been shot in the Jim Corbett National Park, will be a frank and freewheeling journey, throws light on wildlife conservation, highlighting issues related to environmental change. The adventurous pair even have to make a raft & cross a jungle river together! 

    Intimate and interesting:

    One of the most unmissable parts of the programme is the Indian Prime Minister talking at length about his own experiences of living in the midst of nature and demonstrating his adventurous side.

    Speaking about the show, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said, “For years, I have lived among nature, in the mountains and the forests. These years have a lasting impact on my life. So when I was asked about a special programme focussing on life beyond politics and that too in the midst of nature I was both intrigued and inclined to take part in it. For me, this show presents a great opportunity to showcase to the world India’s rich environmental heritage and stress on the importance of environment conservation and living in harmony with nature. It was a great experience spending time in the jungle once again, this time with Bear, who is blessed with indefatigable energy and quest to experience nature at its purest.”

    Privilege to take PM Modi on an adventure:

    “It is such a privilege to be taking Prime Minister Modi on an adventure into the Indian wilderness and I feel truly honoured to get to spend time with this remarkable world leader. The wild reminds us that we need each other and that together we are stronger. I am so excited to spend time with the PM and to get to know the man who leads this great nation,” said, Bear Grylls.

    12th August, 9 PM: 

    Man Vs Wild With Bear Grylls and PM Modi will premiere simultaneously on 12 Discovery channels in India including Discovery Channel, Discovery HD World, Animal Planet, Animal Planet HD World, TLC, TLC HD World, JEET Prime, JEET Prime HD, Discovery Science, Discovery Turbo, Discovery Kids and DTamil on Monday, August 12, 2019 at 21:00 hrs. The premiere on Discovery and Discovery HD World will be available in 5 languages including English, Bengali, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. 
    This special episode will be showcased in more than 180 countries across the world on Discovery network of channels.

    Megha Tata, Managing Director – South Asia, Discovery Communications India, said, “We are honored to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi in this historic episode of ‘Man Vs Wild’. We hope that by harnessing the power of the Prime Minister and the global premier on Discovery, the show will create awareness about India’s rich biodiversity and sensitise people about the importance of conservation of wild animal species.”

    Man Vs Wild With Bear Grylls and PM Modi is produced for Discovery Communications India by Bear Grylls Ventures & Electus a Propagate company, where Bear Grylls, Delbert Shoopman, Rob Buchta and Elizabeth Schulze are executive producers and Ben Simms is co-executive producer.