ITV

Category: Documentary

  • WION’s special series celebrated the transformative power of yoga and ayurveda

    WION’s special series celebrated the transformative power of yoga and ayurveda

    Mumbai: As the world observed International Yoga Day, WION, India’s first and only international news channel, introduced a compelling episode series titled ‘Yoga: Celebrating India’s Gift to Mankind’. Bringing harmony between mind and body, this special series of episodes explored the science of healthy living and has been encouraging certain lifestyle interventions and natural therapies. It celebrated India’s gift of Yoga and Ayurveda to the world through its episodes and continued to inspire the globe.

    WION embarked on a journey to unite the world through India’s two rising soft powers; Yoga and Ayurveda. This visionary initiative highlighted India’s profound cultural heritage, showcasing the transformative power of Yoga and Ayurveda on a global scale. Since its debut, the episode series successfully captivated audiences worldwide, highlighting the convergence of ancient wisdom and modern science in promoting holistic well-being. Each episode engaged the wide-spread viewers in the core principles of Yoga and Ayurveda, exploring their profound impact on physical vitality, and mental clarity, and how the modern world has incorporated these gifts into our lifestyle.

    The impactful series has also garnered acclaim for its insightful episodes covering a range of topics including Yoga’s emergence as a global phenomenon, Ayurveda’s adaptation in modern healthcare, and India’s burgeoning wellness tourism industry, particularly in destinations such as Rishikesh and Kerala. Highlights also include exclusive visits to renowned Yoga academies, interviews with esteemed Ayurvedic practitioners, and discussions on integrating technological advancements with traditional practices. Continuing its commitment to inform and empower, WION also premiered an insightful episode on 21st June at 7:30 PM celebrating International Yoga Day.

    Zee Media Corp Ltd chief revenue officer Mona Jain emphasised the impact of the episode series and said   “At WION, we recognize the intrinsic value of Yoga and Ayurveda in fostering a harmonious balance between mind, body, and spirit.’Yoga: Celebrating India’s Gift to Mankind’ served as a platform to showcase India’s cultural treasures and their universal appeal. This initiative transcends cultural boundaries; it catalyzed global conversations on holistic living.  Through this series, we endeavoured to ignite conversations on wellness and resilience, urging viewers to explore the transformative potential of these ancient disciplines in today’s fast-paced world.”

    Johan Castell, the Showrunner of the series, highlighted further, “Through compelling storytelling and educational content, ‘Yoga: Celebrating India’s Gift to mankind’ aimed to build bridges and foster inclusivity. This series invited audiences from diverse backgrounds to join a global conversation on wellness, promoting shared values of health, harmony, and cultural exchange.”

    WION’s ‘Yoga: Celebrating India’s Gift to Mankind’ has been able to capture profound insights into Yoga and Ayurveda’s transformative potential, reaffirming their pivotal role in enhancing global quality of life.

  • Dive into ‘The Last Secrets of Humankind’ in Ancient Asia

    Dive into ‘The Last Secrets of Humankind’ in Ancient Asia

    Mumbai: Dive into the mysteries of prehistoric Asia with ‘The Last Secrets of Humankind’, which premieres on discovery+ and airing Mondays on Discovery Channel on 24 June 2024. This docu-drama offers a rare and insightful glimpse into the Asian jungle and the relationship of human ancestors with nature. The 90-minute, two-part docu-drama is set to captivate Indian audiences with Hindi narration by renowned actor Nawazuddin Siddique and Tamil narration in the invigorating voice of popular actor Ashok Selvan.

    Expressing his excitement, Nawazuddin Siddique, remarked, ‘Narrating ‘The Last Secrets of Humankind’ has been a deeply enriching experience, delving into the depths of Asia’s ancient origins and bringing this story to life through my narration. It was an incredible opportunity to highlight the latest scientific discoveries in Asian prehistory, still unknown to the wider public, and to unravel the extraordinary tapestry of this era, revealing secrets that redefine our understanding of human history.”

    A Franco-Chinese co-production supported by UNESCO, the show highlights spectacular scientific discoveries from nearly 800,000 years ago. Directed by Jacques Malaterre, renowned for the acclaimed A Species Odyssey, and featuring the final work of esteemed paleontologist Yves Coppens, this docu-drama recreates the Zhoukoudian fauna using state-of-the-art CGI and 3D production.

    Ashok Selvan added, “I am excited about my role in ‘The Last Secrets of Humankind,’ a project that delves into the captivating history of our ancestors. It’s incredibly rewarding to see this docuseries reach Tamil-speaking audiences through its translation. Narrating this journey in Tamil has been a truly enriching experience for me, and I’m honored to play a part in bringing this fascinating story to life.

    Shot by an all-Chinese crew, this series unearths stories from East Asia based on the latest scientific discoveries with dramatized recreations.

    Don’t miss the premiere of “The Last Secrets of Humankind” as discovery+ and Discovery Channel takes you on a captivating journey through ancient history on 24 June 2024.

  • ‘Love Kills: Shabnam Aur Saleem – Amroha Hatyakand’ premieres on 9 June on Discovery Channel!

    ‘Love Kills: Shabnam Aur Saleem – Amroha Hatyakand’ premieres on 9 June on Discovery Channel!

    Mumbai: The gripping discovery+ original series “Love Kills: Shabnam Aur Saleem Amroha Hatyakand” is set to premiere on Discovery Channel starting 9 June 2024 every Sunday at 10 pm. This hard-hitting investigative documentary delves into the notorious Amroha murder case of 2008, unraveling the chilling events that shocked India. Through a detailed exploration of the brutal crime, the series examines the deadly combination of revenge, jealousy, and greed. Viewers will witness the shocking story of Shabnam, a teacher, who, along with her lover Saleem, orchestrated the murder of seven members of her own family.

    ‘Love Kills: Shabnam Aur Saleem – Amroha Hatyakand offers an in-depth look at the darker side of human emotions and the devastating consequences that follow. The docu-series offers a window into the police’s investigation process. Through interviews with former officials, it sheds light on their method of empathizing with Shabnam’s perspective to grasp the events of the tragic night.

    Don’t miss “Love Kills: Shabnam Aur Saleem – Amroha Hatyakand” on Discovery Channel to witness a true story of a deadly affair and a shocking murder. Catch the first episode on Sunday, 9 June at 10 pm. The show is also available for streaming on discovery+.

  • Discovery Channel celebrates Buddha Purnima with ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ Re-Run

    Discovery Channel celebrates Buddha Purnima with ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ Re-Run

    Mumbai: Warner Bros. Discovery India is delighted to announce the re-run of the critically acclaimed docuseries “Secrets of the Buddha Relics” in commemoration of Buddha Purnima on 23 May 2024 at 9:10 pm IST. This enlightening series delves deeply into the untold stories surrounding the sacred relics of the Buddha, providing viewers with an unparalleled glimpse into the life and legacy of one of history’s most revered figures.

    Gautama Buddha’s eternal wisdom has resonated with countless generations, transcending the boundaries of time and echoing through the ages. The series unravels the ancient legends surrounding the final days of Gautama Buddha and the relics that form the very centre of Buddhism. By examining these relics, the series provides a comprehensive look at their spiritual significance and the profound impact they have had on Buddhism and beyond.

    Actor Manoj Bajpayee, reflecting on his experience with “Secrets of The Buddha Relics, , said “Working alongside Neeraj Pandey is always a rewarding experience with insightful takeaways that contribute to shaping the documentary. Seeing the ‘Secrets’ series become extremely popular has been incredibly exciting. It’s amazing to see the love viewers have showered on the franchise, and it shows how interested they are when history is brought alive in a fascinating way on-screen. ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ promises to transport viewers to the time of the Buddha, delving into the historical period that witnessed his life and teachings. It aims to connect audiences with profound stories that have played a pivotal role in shaping our spiritual heritage.”

    Warner Bros. Discovery head of factual & lifestyle cluster- South Asia Sai Abishek said “We are delighted to announce the re-airing of “Secrets of the Buddha Relics” on the Discovery Channel, timed perfectly with the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima. Our collaboration with pioneering storytellers Neeraj Pandey and Manoj Bajpayee underscores our dedication to delivering captivating narratives. The success of the ‘Secrets’ franchise has unveiled remarkable potential, inspiring us to further expand our history genre and continue offering compelling and engaging stories to our audience.”

    Originally aired in January 2024, “Secrets of the Buddha Relics” received widespread acclaim for its detailed research and engaging storytelling. The series has since become a favourite among viewers, resonating with audiences worldwide due to its insightful content and respectful portrayal of religious history.

    Unlock the secrets of enlightenment. Don’t miss the re-run of Secrets of the Buddha Relics on Discovery Channel on Thursday 23rd May 2024 at 9:10 PM, also available on discovery+ 

  • ABP News launches ‘Narendra Bhai’ docu-series

    ABP News launches ‘Narendra Bhai’ docu-series

    Mumbai: ABP News, a Hindi news channel, is set to launch an exceptional documentary series titled “Narendra Bhai”, offering an unparalleled dive into the life of India’s prime minister Narendra Modi. Scheduled to premiere on 11 May, the series will comprise five episodes airing every Saturday at 9 pm, with repeat broadcasts on Sundays at 10 pm.

    “Narendra Bhai” promises to bring unheard stories and untold tales from people you haven’t met before, shedding light on the Prime Minister’s youth, adulthood, and the unwavering spirit that has driven him throughout his life’s journey. From the humble streets of Vadnagar to the corridors of power in New Delhi, the series aims to capture the essence of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s story, a perfect mix of purpose, perseverance, an unending love for the country and a fire to fight for better change. The show will be hosted by the renowned actor and voice-over artist Sharad Kelkar.

    The making of ‘Narendra Bhai’ signifies a significant achievement, presenting a distinctive portrayal of the Prime Minister’s life. The documentary-series offers perspectives from those intimately familiar with his journey, illuminating narratives of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to the nation.

    ABP News has consistently excelled in delivering content that not only educates but also motivates, spotlighting the trajectories of visionary leaders who influence the nation’s story. With an ongoing dedication to innovative content and programming, ABP News seeks to inspire viewers, instilling a profound sense of empowerment and motivation to contribute positively to the nation’s advancement.

  • “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” bonus episode drops on discovery+ on 26 April

    “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” bonus episode drops on discovery+ on 26 April

    Mumbai: “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV,” a groundbreaking docu-series has shook audiences with its revelations of behind-the-scenes chaos within iconic Nickelodeon programs helmed by Dan Schneider. ‘Drake & Josh’ star Drake Bell and ‘Zoey 101’ fame Alexa Nikolas are among the many former child actors who opened up in Quiet on Set. With ‘Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV’ emerging as an overnight sensation, anticipation mounts for its fifth episode, exclusively available on discovery+ for Indian viewers.

    The highly anticipated fifth bonus episode  ‘Breaking the Silence’ will drop on discovery+ starting on 26 April. This episode includes never-before-seen footage and discussions with Drake Bell, Giovonnie Samuels, Bryan Christopher Hearne, Shane Lyons and other key figures, shedding light on the darker aspects of children’s television. Drake Bell, who courageously shared his experience of sexual abuse by his former dialogue coach, Brian Peck, for the first time in ‘Quiet on Set,’ will return to talk more about the dark side of the time period at Nickelodeon as his own personal journey of triumph over adversity continues.

    Since its premiere on 27 March, Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV has attracted over 16 million viewers worldwide. Indian viewers can dive into the thrilling world of ‘Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV’ exclusively on discovery+, igniting a fervent quest to unveil the untold truths behind beloved childhood classics.

    Don’t miss the fifth episode ‘Breaking the Silence’, as it premieres for streaming exclusively on discovery+ on 26 April.

  • ‘Money Mafia’ season three premieres on Discovery Channel on 7 April

    ‘Money Mafia’ season three premieres on Discovery Channel on 7 April

    Mumbai: Brace yourselves for another thrilling exploration into the depths of organized crime as Discovery Channel gears up for the highly anticipated premiere of “Money Mafia” season three. Following the success of its previous seasons on discovery+, this gripping investigative docu-series is set to premiere on Discovery Channel on 7 April 2024, offering viewers an unprecedented glimpse into the inner workings of Mumbai’s notorious crime syndicates.

    In season three, the first episode, “Pay-up or Else,” exposes the extortion nexus between businessmen, police, and the mafia. The second episode, “Gold Blooded,” delves into the history of gold smuggling, including strategies used from the 1960s to present day and routes used during the 1993 bomb blasts. The third episode “The Thugs of Drugs” examines the rise of the drug “Meow-Meow” in Mumbai, showcasing the shift from addict to peddler and the confrontations with authorities. The final episode, “Cleaning Dirty Money,” sheds light on money laundering through diamond trade, banks, UPI, and cryptocurrency, and its ties to Indian politics.

    The series is amongst the highest rated shows on discovery+ and has previously showcased scams across the spectrum, ranging from Identity Theft, CryptoCurrency Cons, The Stock Market Manipulation Scam by Ketan Parekh and The 2003 Stamp Pamper Scam by Abdul Karim Telgi, amongst others. This season is produced by Vice Studios.

    Don’t miss “Money Mafia” on Discovery Channel to witness the infamous crime syndicates in the city of dreams. Catch the first episode on Sunday, 7 April at 10 pm.

  • Akshay Kumar presents the story of ‘World’s Tallest Statue’ in History TV18’s upcoming documentary

    Akshay Kumar presents the story of ‘World’s Tallest Statue’ in History TV18’s upcoming documentary

    Mumbai: History TV18 has announced the premiere of its new documentary, ‘Statue of Unity: Ekta Ka Prateek’ on 8 March at 8 p.m. Presented by actor Akshay Kumar, the 40-minute documentary celebrates the spirit of unity that binds the nation together and pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of united India, who led the integration of 562 fragmented princely states into one nation post-independence.

    The documentary also features insights from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, had envisioned this project.

    The documentary follows a step-by-step journey of the making of the Statue of Unity. From 2013, when the then chief minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi announced his intention to honour Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and laid the foundation stone in Kevadia (Gujarat), to completing the tallest statue in the world at 182 meters, a number that represented total constituencies in Gujarat’s State Legislative Assembly.

    Among other lesser-known facts revealed in the documentary, PM Narendra Modi shares a unique initiative he undertook to procure iron for the statue, where over six lakh villages donated an old iron farming tool each, echoing Sardar Patel’s call to farmers during the fight for independence. Soil from all parts of the country was similarly used to bring the statue together, symbolizing unity in its creation.

    As the film progresses, the team behind the Statue of Unity takes the audience on an awe-inspiring journey. They delve into its ideation, construction, and the opportunities it created for the locals, as Kevadia transformed into Ekta Nagar.

    The documentary features success and upliftment stories of locals who have benefitted from the project, with their town becoming a major tourist destination.

    The documentary progresses with a tour of some remarkable tourist attractions in the vicinity of the Statue of Unity, adorned with the beauty of flora and fauna. With stunning visuals, sleek graphics and never-heard-before stories, the documentary puts the focus on the bustling tourist destination that has seen footfalls up to 50,000 in a single day, becoming a beacon of light for the locals and a modern marvel of pride for New India.

    “Being part of ‘Statue of Unity: Ekta Ka Prateek’ has been an incredibly humbling experience for me. It’s about honouring the great spirit of unity that resonates within every Indian. Sardar Patel’s vision and leadership continue to inspire us, reminding us of the strength that comes from our unity as a nation. I hope this documentary serves as a reminder of our shared heritage and the power of coming together for a common purpose,” says Actor Akshay Kumar, the presenter of the documentary.

    Aanand L Rai, the director of the documentary adds, “Revolutions are created by people when they come together for a bigger purpose, guided by visionaries who lead and inspire. Sardar Patel was one such visionary who advocated the significance of unity in the process of nation-building. The film reflects on the legacy of the pioneer of united India and showcases the inspiring transformation of Gujarat’s humble Kevadia into an international tourist destination.”

    ‘Statue of Unity: Ekta Ka Prateek’ premieres on History TV18 on 8 March 2024 at 8 p.m. It will also be made available on the factual entertainment leader’s YouTube channel.

  • National Geographic’s documentary ‘FIH Men’s World Cup 2023 Hockey Odisha Bhubaneswar-Rourkela’ to premiere on 24 February

    National Geographic’s documentary ‘FIH Men’s World Cup 2023 Hockey Odisha Bhubaneswar-Rourkela’ to premiere on 24 February

    Mumbai: Introduced by the British, Hockey bestowed a distinctive identity upon India even before gaining independence. The inception of the first hockey club in India in 1885 marked the beginning of the national sport’s enduring presence in the country’s legacy. With eight Olympics golds, one World Cup win, and several golds in women’s hockey across tournaments, the Indian hockey team has continued to stand out, boosting the immense pride and hockey fervour amongst the fans. For the very first time, India hosted a dual-city Men’s Hockey World Cup in Odisha, at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Rourkela and Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar. The Birsa Munda Stadium holds the Guinness Book of World Record for being the largest fully seated Hockey stadium in the world with a capacity of 20,011 spectators.  Post the success of ‘Superstructures: Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Rourkela’ in collaboration with the Government of Odisha which unravelled the journey behind the making of the world’s largest hockey stadium, National Geographic India is all set to premiere yet another docu-film titled ‘FIH Men’s World Cup 2023 Hockey Odisha Bhubaneswar-Rourkela’.

    Premiering on 24 February, at 9 pm, the film will give viewers a behind-the-scenes preview into the conceptualization, planning, and challenges of hosting and conducting India’s first dual-city Men’s Hockey World Cup. With Odisha being a revered global hub for hockey, the film brings forth India’s ambitious vision and commitment to restoring the former glory of Indian Hockey. The film not only captures the pivotal role of Odisha in shaping the destiny of the Indian Hockey Team but also highlights the collective victory of everyone who worked hard to make the world’s biggest hockey tournament a runaway success with sold-out tickets, creating a lifetime memory for hockey fans. The documentary offers a unique perspective into the intricacies of managing the operations and logistics of 16 teams between Bhubaneswar and Rourkela and how the World Cup proved to be a growth enabler, especially for the latter city which had never hosted an international match. Rourkela saw huge developments to match the standard of a World Cup hosting city. From mesmerizing street art, beautifully lit high streets to DotFest featuring special live performances by national and international artists, the entire event was celebrated as a grand festival. Spotlighting the state’s robust grassroots initiatives, world-class sports infrastructure, and continuous efforts to nurture emerging talent, the film promises to take viewers on a captivating journey, reigniting their passion and affection for Indian hockey.  

    “At National Geographic, we harness the power of innovative and insightful storytelling through thought-provoking and compelling narratives, providing viewers up-close access to enriching stories that educate, motivate, and inspire them. Viewers will learn about how infrastructural innovation is catalysing the growth and development of our nation. Moreover, with this film, we aim to instil a sense of pride amongst the viewers as India proves its readiness to host international tournaments, solidifying its position as a global sporting destination.” said National Geographic India spokesperson.

    National Geographic’s first film on Birsa Munda delved deep into the making of the world’s largest hockey stadium by seating capacity and was viewed by over 800k plus viewers on YouTube and garnered over nine million impressions.

    ‘FIH Men’s World Cup 2023 Hockey Odisha Bhubaneswar-Rourkela’ will premiere on 24 February at 9 pm on National Geographic Channel in India.

  • Sony BBC Earth names Uma Mani as Earth Champion for the month

    Sony BBC Earth names Uma Mani as Earth Champion for the month

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth, one of the most loved factual entertainment channels, proudly presents Uma Mani as the Earth Champion for the month. Known as the Coral Woman of India, an artist and PADI-certified scuba diver, Uma, exemplifies the fusion of passion and action towards the conservation of coral reefs.

    Uma Mani’s journey to becoming the Coral Woman of India began on the vibrant streets of Dindugul, Tamil Nadu. Taking an unexpected turn at the age of 49, she decided to become a PADI-certified scuba diver. This transformative decision was not just about exploring the underwater world but a commitment to safeguarding the delicate ecosystems beneath the surface. Uma’s dual passion for painting and scuba diving converged into a symphony of art. The canvas became her medium, and the ocean, her muse. Each stroke captured the essence of an underwater world. Uma has been using her artistic expression to spark meaningful conversations about the threats faced by coral reefs, including bleaching, pollution, and global warming.

     

     

    Earth Champions is a monthly property of Sony BBC Earth that is committed to honouring real-life heroes making a substantial impact on our planet. The channel showcases the work done by the Earth Champions in a short-form content format with befitting music. The video is telecasted on the channel and promoted on network channels apart from the online medium.

    Comments:

    Sony Pictures Networks India business operations head – Sony AATH and gead – marketing & insights, English Cluster, Rohan Jain.

    “Uma Mani’s commitment to coral reef conservation serves as a true inspiration for all of us. Uma’s journey mirrors her dedication driven by a deep-rooted passion for nurturing our planet. Sony BBC Earth takes immense pride in announcing her as our next Earth Champion. We hope it encourages people to reflect upon their actions and make sustainable choices.”

    Uma Mani, an artist, and PADI-certified scuba diver with coral reef conservator, recognised as “The Coral Woman of India,”

    “I believe that art is a very powerful and an effective tool of communication. It has helped me in raising awareness towards the need for coral preservation. Earth Champions is a great initiative by Sony BBC Earth. I hope these stories inspire more and more people to take green steps towards the planet.”