ITV

Category: Factual

  • Pet Tales with Dentsu Aegis’ Ashish Bhasin

    Pet Tales with Dentsu Aegis’ Ashish Bhasin

    What’s your favourite pet movie?

    101 Dalmatians

    What does a typical day with your pet look like?

    Simba is more of my daughter’s pet as she insisted on getting him. When we decided to bring him home, I wasn’t a big pet person and so wasn’t in the favour of it. But over a period of time, he just grew on us. He is up and around when I’m up early in the morning. When I come back in the evening and take off my shoes, he comes up to me and wants me to pet him. He tends to turn on his back and wants me to rub his belly. Whenever I am free, he wants me to throw him a bone or a ball and he goes running to fetch it. He really enjoys free space and when we go to our villa in Lonavala, he loves to play till he is completely exhausted.

    What prompted you to have a pet? Do you feel having a pet changes your perspective?

    I wasn’t prompted but literally forced because of the commitment that I made to my daughter! She is an animal lover and very fond of them. I wasn’t very keen on having a pet but she insisted and forced us all but in hindsight, it turned out to be a brilliant decision and now everybody is very happy and attached to him.

    I do think that having a pet changes your perspective about a lot of things as they become a part of the family. Once you have a pet at home, it’s like having a child that never grows old. In many ways, you have to follow similar principles of parenting where you have to be strict and disciplinary when needed and indulgent and playful as well. It’s pretty much like parenting in that case.

    Do you think public places within India are pet friendly? If not, what can be done to improve this?

    I don’t think a lot of places are that pet friendly in India, and the ones that are, tend to be fairly expensive and upmarket. The old Moshe’s restaurant/cafe had a pet corner where you could have a doggie treat. There is a need for more education and awareness about pets. Most people in Mumbai live in housing societies and they have contradictory points of view where some residents don’t want pets. Besides the public places being friendly, there needs to be more friendliness in the minds of people and a little more acceptance. There also has to be responsibility taken by pet owners to make sure that pets aren’t causing any damage or dirtying public places.

    What’s been your favourite campaign/ad that involving animals?

    All Vodafone ads that involved those little pugs have been my most favourite.

    Has adoption of strays really increased today because of media and increased awareness?

    I think it has marginally increased but it has a long way to go. I am sure a lot more can be done to make sure it increases even further.

  • TLC’s ‘Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua’ garners huge traction from advertisers

    TLC’s ‘Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua’ garners huge traction from advertisers

    MUMBAI: TLC’s India production ‘Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua’ has garnered huge traction from marquee advertisers. The on-air broadcast of the show is Co-Presented by L’Oreal Paris Extraordinary Clay & Veeba and Co-Powered by TTK Prestige and Fogg while Flipkart has logged-in as the Associate Sponsor. The first episode of the show, which premiers Monday, September 17 at 20:00 hrs, will have Mallika Dua as Shalishka getting into interesting, relaxing and deeply emotional 2 AM conversations with celebrities from different walks of life. The 10-episode series features luminaries such as Badshah (Rapper), Rajkummar Rao, Radhika Apte, Tanmay Bhat, Vicky Kaushal, Huma Qureshi, Vishal Dadlani, Kaneez Surka, Sumukhi Suresh, Bhuvan Bam and Sanya Malhotra.

    In each episode of Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua, Shalishka (Mallika) and one of her celebrity friends will began their adventure armed with whatever they muster from the fridge. Shalishka will develop new recipes; mixing never before mixed ingredients followed by cooking; gossip, healthy conversations and a good face stuffing session over comfort food. 

    Vikram Tanna, VP, Head of Advertising Sales and Business Head of Regional Clusters, Discovery Communications India, said, “The show’s unique construct of delayering never seen before side of prominent influencers is well positioned to engage with TLC’s super fans. Further, we have created thought-through opportunities for partner brands to engage with their target audiences in impactful ways.”

    “Veeba is keen to associate with creativity in Indian kitchen making us a natural partner of a grand show like Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua. We want to capture the excitement of creating something new and ‘empower’ young Indians to be creative and experiment every day with new recipes much like what Mallika as the host does with celebrity guests in TLC’s new show,” said, Viraj Bahl, Founder & MD, Veeba.

    “We believe that cooking is an expression of love, and the kitchen is where conversations and moments are created and treasured.  We love the format of the show from the word go as it offers us a strong opportunity to further strengthen connect with our core target audience,” said Mr. Dinesh Garg, Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing, TTK Prestige LTD.

  • Pet Tales with Mindshare’s Ruchi Mathur

    Pet Tales with Mindshare’s Ruchi Mathur

    What’s your favorite pet movie?

    I don't really have a favourite pet story as I avoid watching movies involving pets as they are very emotional and they break my heart.

    What does a typical day with your pet look like?

    Having a pet is a non-stop adventure and its like having a baby in the house. The only difference is that the baby grows up after few years but your four legged baby will never grow up and that’s the beauty of it. They are full of energy and right from the moment I get up in the morning, Lego comes up to me to lick and cuddle me. That's the only time when he is lazy and laid back and allows me to cuddle him. The rest of the day, he is hyper active and runs around the house. I love my morning walks with him and its just wonderful to see the way they explore the world. The one rule that I violate completely is feeding them under the table. Every morning when I have my breakfast, he looks at me with him little puppy eyes and I land up feeding him which I hide from my family. At the end of the day, no matter how hard my day has been, it all goes away as soon as I come home to my daughter and Lego.

    What  prompted you to have a pet? Do you feel having a pet changes your perspective?

    I don't think it changes your perspective, but it changes your life! Right from the moment when Lego came to our house 18 months ago to date, life has not been the same. It has been absolutely amazing and I think every person should grow up with an animal around them as it makes them more humble and a better person. When I go to the Vet and see other people with their pets there, its so amazing to see CEOs, Mid level executive or a junior level executive, they are committed to their pets and at that moment, the board meetings, clients, pictures, all takes a back seat. I genuinely feel that those who have pets are better people. Nobody is bound to take time off from their precious Sunday but there are people who park outside the Vet clinic for hours and wait patiently only because they want to make sure that their four legged buddies are doing well.

    Do you think public places within India are pet friendly? If not, what can be done to improve this?

    I am afraid it is not as the tolerance of society towards pet is very low. A little tolerance and understanding with an open mind is needed and to make that happen, the owner is equally on the pet parents. I do not allow Lego to roam around the building without a leash, if he reliefs himself in the building then it is my responsibly to clean that and If I enter the lift and I see someone is uncomfortable with a dog in the lift, I volunteer and take the next lift.

    Where I live, there is extreme resistance to me walking Lego in the building. The society says there are elderly walking and children playing but it is my responsibility and I have successfully managed to prove my point after many many many conflicts with the society. The issues were raised in the board meeting and the society even put up a notice in the building in our name saying that it will not be allowed to walk pets in the building. But I absolutely refused to comply to that and stood my ground. It was a long battle and our laws clearly state that a legal action can be taken against people who harness pets and pet parents. I wish a lot could be done to allow dogs to come to parks and other public places.

    What’s been your favourite campaign/ad that involving animals?

    I will be a little bias here but the VIVO V9 ad where Aamir Khan clicks picture of his dog and cat is one of my most favorite. That is simply because the dog in the ad is Beagle breed and reminds me of Lego.

    Has adoption of strays really increased today because of media and increased awareness?

    I think there is an increased awareness but when I talk to like-minded people and my friends, I still think breed is always a preference. People still don't want to adopt mixed breeds or stay dogs. Yes, there is a lot of awareness about taking care of the environment in which strays are but a lot of room for more.

  • Chitrangda Singh to be seen in an all new food show

    Chitrangda Singh to be seen in an all new food show

    MUMBAI: Acclaimed actor Chitrangda Singh has been roped in by English GEC channel, AXN, to be a part of a unique food-based show scheduled to air next month. Marriott International, the largest hospitality chain in the world, and AXN India, destination to the best English entertainment shows, have joined hands for a one-of-its kind association to create a unique culinary show that promises to enthral viewers.

    Chitrangda’s college degree in food and nutrition and her versatility as an actor, charm and glamour made her an authentic choice for the show. The association will also be Chitrangda’s first appearance in the English GEC space.

    Chitrangda Singh, Actor and Producer

    “Food is central in most of our lives and the chefs of Marriott are artists who create magic with ingredients. I have always been curious about cuisines and cultures and my travels across the world have given me the opportunity to try a variety of food. This project with Marriott and AXN is a great opportunity to taste some of the finest dishes in world cuisine. Who says work can’t be fun and delicious!”

    Watch the glamorous star create magic on the small screen.  Marriott International and AXN will reveal more details on the show at the official press conference in October 2018.

  • EPIC LAUNCHES TWO NEW SHOWS CELEBRATING THE HISTORY AND WILDLIFE OF INDIA

    EPIC LAUNCHES TWO NEW SHOWS CELEBRATING THE HISTORY AND WILDLIFE OF INDIA

    Mumbai, 3rd September 2018: After the successful launch of the much acclaimed series – Regiment Diaries that profiles the various regiments that constitute the Indian Army, EPIC channel, India’s only Hindi infotainment channel, has announced the launch of two series- ‘Wilderness Days’- based on India’s diverse and rich wildlife, and ‘Kissa Currency Ka’- that explores the coins minted by kings and empires in India’s long history.

    Wilderness Days has been shot in India’s greatest wildlife landmarks including Corbett Tiger Reserve, Rajaji National Park, Pauri, Valley of Flowers, Choti Haldwani, Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Mandu and Ranthambore National Park to name a few. The series will give viewers exclusive inside access to these breathtaking locales and tell stories of animals, nature and human interaction with the wild, in an incredible journey through the country’s treasured wildlife reserves and sanctuaries.
    The show will be hosted by veteran Indian actor and theatre stalwart, the late Tom Alter. Known for his strong narrative style, Alter is sorely missed and this series is a great chance for audiences to reconnect with the impeccable presentation and strong screen persona that Alter exuded.
    In the same week, EPIC is also launching an animated mini-series series titled ‘Kissa Currency Ka’ that explores currency and its evolution over 2000 years.
    Through the coins and currency minted by the various sovereigns that ruled the several kingdoms of the Indian subcontinent across the ages, Kissa Currency Ka tells explores the system of money and monetary transaction, while telling stories and interesting factoids of the life and times of kingdoms and empires.
    Kissa Currency Ka is a 13-episode series, all set to launch on 05th September 2018 and Wilderness Days is a 26 episode series that begins on 07th September 2018.
    Akul Tripathi, Programming Head- EPIC Channel, said “At EPIC, we are constantly looking to diversify the genre and presentation of our content while striving to tell stories in the most engaging and appealing way possible. We have had a slew of successful shows across a variety of genres and by adding more variety in content, treatment and visuals, we are looking at consolidating our hold on the infotainment space”

  • Discovery Network intensifies focus on India centric shows this festive season

    Discovery Network intensifies focus on India centric shows this festive season

    MUMBAI: Discovery Communications India, country’s leading infotainment player, has intensified focus on India centric programming in the lead-up to the festive season.  The network, which is devoted to creating highest quality purposeful entertainment, will showcase an unprecedented 8 India centric shows over the next 4 months on Discovery Channel, Animal Planet and TLC. The India specials will be in addition to the premiere of staggering 20 + global IPs on the 3 network channels.

    “We are excited with the growth that we have been able to garner this year. All our core channels – Discovery, Animal Planet and TLC –  are now undisputed leaders in their respective genres while Discovery Kids has emerged as the fastest growing channel in the kids genre. Our aim is to further build on it and accelerate the growth over the next 4 months,” said, Karan Bajaj, General Manager, Discovery Communications India. “It is a conscious strategy to increase India centric pipeline with original production or programming acquisitions.  With the unmatched line-up of Indian and Global IPs till the end of the year, we are confident to deepen our local connection while further extending the lead over competition for all of our network channels.”

    This year Discovery has already showcased a line-up of impactful India led programming including Breaking Point: The Indian Submarines, Breaking Point: Air Force Academy. Over the next 3 months, Discovery channel will showcase 5 new India centric shows including Women Fighter Pilots (Premiers August 24),  a new Military tentpole High Altitude Warfare School (October), India’s Citizen Squad (November) and Moon Bound (November) – a special about Team Indus’s attempt as a part of Google Lunar XPrize and a special documentary on Sunny Leone’s life Mostly Sunny (December).  TLC, which has shown huge resurgence since January 2018, will showcase an Indian original production which has shaken the digital space with its promise of a TLC travel scholarship – The Calling (October). Animal Planet, India’s leading wildlife channel, is currently showcasing an anthology of shows ‘The Red List: Save The Wild’ which focuses on the trials and tribulations of endangered species in India and across the world. The channel will showcase Mission Big Cat – an anthology focused on Big Cats including Lions, Leopards and Tigers in the month of October celebrating World Animal Day.

    Discovery India is working overtime to reduce the time-gap between global and Indian premiers. On the anvil is a mouthwatering palate of global premiers on Discovery Channel including Shark Week, Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Challenge S3, American Chopper and Running Wild With Bear Grylls Season 4 featuring celebrities such as tennis legend Roger Federer, Scott Eastwood, Don Cheadle, Lena Headey, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Uzo Aduba. TLC’s is getting revamped with the introduction of Scripps led content including blockbuster IPs like Chopped, Cup Cake Wars, Extreme Homes, Bizarre Foods, Extreme Chefs and Giada in Italy and global tentpoles like American Beauty Star.

    Animal Planet as a part of new brand philosophy ‘Humans Like Us’ will sharpen focus on stories linked to animal conservation as it aims to awaken viewers to the need for animal welfare and conservation.  The channel has lined-up number of global IPs for Indian audiences. The family of Steve Irwin, the much-loved wildlife expert who created a distinctive new style of wildlife documentary, returns to Animal Planet with – The Irwins-   a special show focused on Steve Irwin’s zoo in Australia.

    Discovery Network is the undisputed leader in the infotainment category with 48% share. Discovery channel with 24%* share in the leading channel followed by Animal Planet which is at no 2 position with 16%* share.   Infact, 7 out of the top 10 shows* in infotainment genre are from Discovery. TLC is now ranked no 1 in the lifestyle category with 33% share*.  TLC has grown share by 7% over last year when it was placed at the second spot with 30% share. Infact, 7 out of top 10 shows in the Lifestyle Genre are from TLC. Discovery Kids has leap-frogged to 4th position from 9th position in the beginning of the year. The ratings of Discovery Kids have grown by 426% since the start of the year.

  • Watch the winds of change blow with Discovery’s new show – Women Fighter Pilots

    Watch the winds of change blow with Discovery’s new show – Women Fighter Pilots

    MUMBAI: Discovery, India’s leading infotainment channel, will give an all-access pass to the viewers to delve deep into the lives of India’s first generation of female combat aircraft pilots with its new series – Women Fighter Pilots.  It is a fascinating story of 3 women – Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh – pioneers of our time, fighting the odds and changing mindsets.

    The 2-part series premiers August 24 at 21:00 hrs on Discovery Channel and Discovery World HD. Veer by Discovery, India’s leading dedicated military channel on YouTube, will also showcase short stories on Women Fighter Pilots. The on-air broadcast of the show is Co-Presented by Flipkart while Kirloskar and Airtel have come on board as Co Powered by Sponsors.

    Till 2015, the flight cadets of the Air Force Academy were given a choice between three flying streams – Helicopters, Transport and Fighters.  Fighter flying being the only stream reserved for men. Then, the Indian Air Force made a landmark decision to open the fighter flying program for its female cadets on an experimental basis for a period of five years.  Creating history, the first batch of three women fighter pilots — Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh were inducted in Indian Air Force fighter squadron.  A significant milestone for the Indian Air Force, as this marked the first time it permitted women in combat roles.

    “The women fighters have become a modern symbol of women empowerment – they have broken the last of all barriers by becoming a fighter pilot.  We are excited to showcase this amazing story to our viewers. Such purpose led content excites us,” said, Zulfia Waris, Vice President – Premium & Digital Networks, Discovery Communications India. “These Women Fighter Pilots have given wings to the ambitions of Indian Women who want to don the G-Suit and defend the country as a part of Indian Air Force. We have explored this captivating human story of ambition, of not saying no, in a manner that has not been done before.” 

    The Women Fighter Pilot series captures the emotions of the 3 pilots, their families, colleagues in their squadron et al to delayer all aspects of their life. During the show, the 3 Fighter Pilots discuss about whether the media glare that followed them has created extra pressure. Bhawana Kanth, says, “I don’t think that there is pressure. I am doing my job; something which I have always wanted to do – serving the nation as a fighter pilot. If people are getting inspired; why should I feel any pressure, I am still doing my thing.”

    Mohana Singh, adds, “I won’t say that it is about pressure, but yes, it is about performing in such a way that you can justify the people who are looking up to you. The development of Women opting for the Fighter stream has been highlighted to create awareness and to inspire more women to join the forces.”

    Avani Chaturvedi says, “Being famous made it a little difficult to adjust in the squadron initially.  This popularity and over appreciation of things was a little difficult for us, because fauj (army) is all about working in a team. So, if entire team is not getting highlighted then why only three of us?”

    The telecast of a special series on Women Fighter Pilots follows the successful premier of the Breaking Point series on Air Force Academy and Indian Submariners earlier this year. In the past, Discovery has given viewers a never seen before glimpse of the intense, gruelling training programs of the Indian Armed Forces through shows such as Breaking Point: Commando School Belgaum (2017), ‘India’s Paratroopers – Earning the Badge’ (2016) and ‘Revealed: National Defence Academy’ (2014). ‘Revealed Siachen’ (2016) shared the story of Siachen Glacier and the challenges faced by the Indian soldiers while on duty there.  ‘1965: India’s Battles and Heroes’ (2015) commemorated the 50th anniversary of the India-Pakistan war. Discovery’s crew traversed along with select officers of Indian Army during the Himalaya expedition for ‘Indian Army Women’s Expedition’ (2013).

  • Travelxp announces five-part series ‘10 Days Cyprus’

    Travelxp announces five-part series ‘10 Days Cyprus’

    Mumbai, 9th August, 2018: Travelxp, the world’s leading travel channel reaching more than 91 million homes globally and renowned for mainstream travel shows filmed on the latest 4K technology, has launched a new show, “10 Days Cyprus”, encompassing stunning beaches and uncovering beautiful nature trails.
    The show, “10 days Cyprus” is presented by Travelxp anchor Sabrina Chakici, who is a popular British television presenter and travel expert. She recently hosted live from the red carpet at The British Fashion Awards and The Golden globes interviewing Lady Gaga and Christopher Bailey. Sabrina has also presented on a number of Sky Channels and is a recognizable radio voice over artist for brands like Boots, Glossy Box and Lego; as well as well-known for hosting the breakfast show for Vibe 197.6 FM.
    Sabrina will take travel buffs and foodies on an expedition to explore the Mediterranean island nation. Viewers will be able to explore a unique and rewarding experience to ancient cities steeped in Greek myths and will cherish local cuisines to understand the region’s rich culture.

    Nisha Chothani, Director – Travelxp, said, “I am delighted to announce the launch of our latest show, 10 Days Cyprus, showcasing this unique and extraordinary Mediterranean island nation. The show has been created with 100% original travel content shot in exquisite 4K and HD. We are launching the show on 12th August in India. The show will telecast on channel Travelxp. Through this new show, we want our audience to experience the history and archeology of these ancient cities soaked in Greek myths, the pristine beaches and the rich culture that Cyprus has to offer its viewers. ”
    H.E. Mr. Agis Loizou., Ambassador – High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus stated, “We are delighted that Travelxp has filmed an entire television show in our beautiful Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Through this show, I am confident viewers will get a wonderful tour of this picturesque traveler’s hot-spot and will certainly like to visit and experience it’s amazing beauty and vibrant lifestyle. I urge you all to watch 10 Days Cyprus on Travelxp and get immersed in exciting Cyprus.”
    10 days Cyprus will be showcased in five parts and “Larnaca” shall comprise the first part of it, wherein viewers can catch a glimpse of the city of Lazarus with ten thousand years of history, and one of the world’s twenty most ancient, continuously inhabited cities for the last 4000 years.

    In the second part “Nicosia”, Travelxp will unfold the largest city of Cyprus. This city for the past 1100 years served as the nation’s capital and travel to the medieval village of Fikardou, visiting Troodos ranges.
    “Khirokitia” which is its third part will showcase the road leading to Troodos ranges and UNESCO village churches. It will showcase the Greek culture and uncover the history and beautiful beaches of Paphos.
    In the fifth part of the show, “Paphos” will present the discovery of the myths of Greek and Roman philosophies and unravel the stories at Paphos Archaeological Park. It will help travelers explore the historic town of Limassol and top it with fun-filled kite surfing on Mediterranean.
    In the final leg, the show will unravel “Akamas National Park” which is known for its Biodiversity. It will also show donkey farms to learn about its significance and dine on traditional Cypriot dishes.

  • EPIC Channel Brings to TV – Real Heroes and Inside Stories of India’s Valiant Army Regiments in a series titled

    EPIC Channel Brings to TV – Real Heroes and Inside Stories of India’s Valiant Army Regiments in a series titled

    MUMBAI: EPIC Channel’s upcoming original series will take you behind the heavily guarded gates of army regimental centres. The regiment is a soldiers’ second family and each regiment has its own illustrious history, and glorious traditions. The show provides insights into their training, lineage, legacy and all that goes into turning a civilian into a soldier.

    Regiment Diaries, which will air from August 16th, is a tribute to the valiant men that make these regiments, and who honour the simplest thing in life – love for the motherland, above all else. Each episode is a showcase of brave tales that warm the heart, moisten the eye, and leave you in even greater awe of the bravest children of India.

    Though several documentaries and movies have been made about the Indian army in the past, this is the first time that an entire series of this scale is filmed inside real regimental centres, with real army men – serving, and retired – speaking about their life and experience as soldiers of India in times of peace and war.

    EPIC has worked closely with ADG-PI, the public information wing of the Indian Army and the individual regiment centres, doggedly pursuing the show through every procedure and permission, to make a deserving re-telling of our nation’s brave hearts.

    Akul Tripathi, Content and Programming head, EPIC Channel said, “We have it as our mission to celebrate every aspect of India and the celebration was always incomplete until we celebrated the Indian Army. In many ways, this show is special for us; it is also our personal mark of gratitude and pride for the army. Every person who has worked on the show, has gone that extra mile for this particular series and had only this much to say for it – ‘ itna toh banta hai’.”

    The weekly series will be telecast every Thursday at 10 pm. Episodes feature stories of various battles from India’s history, and the regiment’s contributions in it along with anecdotes of both battle, and the preparations that go into making men ready for battle. Each episode also explores the specific traditions and culture within each regiment and how they each add colour and character to the fabric of the Indian army.

    The show will be flagged off with an episode on the Madras Engineers Group regiment, followed by episodes on other regiments including Rajputana Rifles, Sikh Regiment, Jat Regiment, Maratha Light Infantry amongst others.

    On Independence Day, EPIC will release a 4-min trailer of Regiment Diaries that embodies the soul of the show. This will be part of a specially curated day-long programming line-up that includes episodes from its popular shows, riveting documentaries on historic battles of independent India by Maj. Gen. G.D Bakshi and a revisiting of historic moments through a compilation of iconic speeches by Indian leaders, which changed the course of Indian politics and society, from their show ‘Bharat Ki Awaaz.’

  • Display of Best Discipline and Skills: The Hon’ble President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind on National Geographic’s documentary on The President’s Bodyguard

    Display of Best Discipline and Skills: The Hon’ble President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind on National Geographic’s documentary on The President’s Bodyguard

    MUMBAI: National Geographic, a brand that has a rich legacy of 130 years of telling the most inspiring and spectacular stories, announced an exclusive documentary on one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army, The President’s Bodyguard. The film, which will definitely hit the patriotic chord with the viewers, is set to premiere on the channel on the 72st Independence Day at 9 pm.

    Commenting on National Geographic documentary, the Hon’ble President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, said, “Ceremonial occasions like the Republic Day parade, the President’s address to Parliament, oath-taking ceremony of a new President, or receiving a visiting head of state, are watched keenly in India and abroad. The President’s Bodyguard displays the best traditions of discipline and skills of our Armed Forces. Their flawless turn-out and impressive bearing speak for the heritage of our country, and our Armed Forces. But behind their skills, while standing erect or on horse-back, is years of hard work and the relentless pursuit of perfection. These are untiring, dedicated and brave soldiers – as good as the best in the world. I am very proud of them.”

    A special screening of National Geographic’s The President’s Bodyguard will take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 14, 2018. The event will be graced by The Hon’ble President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and will be attended by representatives from several ministries and forces.

    Uday Shankar, President of 21st Century Fox, Asia; and Chairman & CEO of Star India, said, “The President’s Bodyguard is the story of India’s historic and heritage cavalry unit, and one of the senior most regiments of the Indian army. Its glorious history of service to the nation and pursuit of excellence makes it unique and we are incredibly proud of bringing its story to our viewers. National Geographic, over many years, has showcased history, science, geography and cultures around the world and is the only platform which can do justice to the rich legacy of these untiring, dedicated and brave soldiers and their military traditions.”

    The President’s Bodyguard is narrated by Amitabh Bachchan, whose voice strings the film together. Complementing National Geographic’s spectacular storytelling, Amitabh Bachchan’s powerful narration will bring the story of the regiment’s legacy and tradition to life.

    Says Mr. Amitabh Bachchan ‘As a nation of diverse cultures, patriotism is a very strong term that resonates with every single person living in the country. The love for patriotism is at its peak on many occasions, out of which the Independence Day remains one. I feel National Geographic’s film is a complete package which brings forth the stories of some selfless men who have put national duties above any other interests. The film will surely take the viewers a step closer to the history and heritage of one of the oldest cavalry units of our homeland.”

    It was way back in 2003, when National Geographic established itself as a pioneer in the Indian television industry, by partnering with various branches of the Indian Armed Forces, to bring to viewers, access to the forces like they had never seen before. In that year, National Geographic’s ‘Mission Everest’, that featured the Indian Army was India’s first televised reality-adventure, and it marked 50 years of Mt Everest’s ascent. That was just the beginning of National Geographic’s legacy of bringing the most exclusive content on Indian Armed Forces to the viewers. The brand went further and brought some of the most inspiring stories from all three forces – Indian Air Force, Indian Navy & Indian Army. However, along with giving viewers an exclusive access to these forces, National Geographic also told their stories in the most powerful and cinematic manner, giving viewers a completely immersive storytelling experience. An experience that has not only moved them with emotions but also made them connect with our nation’s bravest men and women. A testament to this was when National Geographic’s exclusive documentary ‘BSF – India’s First Line of Defence’ broke viewership records, and premiered as the most watched show of the Infotainment genre.

    With this rich heritage of creating the most powerful storytelling of the Indian Forces, National Geographic is all set to once again give its viewers an unprecedented access by taking them inside the world of the President’s Bodyguard. The President’s Bodyguard is the oldest surviving mounted unit and is one of the senior most regiments of the Indian Army. The regiment, which has 245 years old legacy, and is made up of almost 200 soldiers, represents supreme and selfless service. Be it the Republic Day Parade or the President’s swearing-in ceremony, these men have upheld important traditions which have been passed on to generations, many times over the last two hundred years.

    The President’s Bodyguard will premiere on National Geographic at 9 pm, on August 15, 2018. The documentary will also be available on Hotstar.