ITV

Category: Documentary

  • Five reasons to watch ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ on Discovery Channel

    Five reasons to watch ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ on Discovery Channel

    Mumbai: Gautama Buddha’s teachings have stood the test of time, shaping the spiritual heritage of countless individuals across the globe. The allure of his wisdom is further explored in the latest addition to the ‘Secrets’ franchise – ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics.’ Set to premiere on 26 February 2024, at 9:00 pm on Discovery Channel, this documentary – created by showrunner Neeraj Pandey, hosted by acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee, and directed by Raghav Jairath – promises an intriguing journey into the historical and cultural significance of Buddha’s relics. Here are five compelling reasons why you should mark your calendars for this enlightening experience:

    1.  Journey towards enlightenment: Gautama Buddha’s final days

    Have you ever wondered how Gautama Buddha spent his Final days and how he laid the foundation for his teachings to be spread worldwide through his relics? ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ answers just that through a comprehensive telling of the history of relics and the mystical stories behind their origins.

    2.  The classification and significance of Buddha Relics

    The documentary skillfully presents a clear picture of the classification and significance of Buddha relics. It showcases various sites where Buddha relics are enshrined and venerated, such as Stupas like Piprahwa and Vaishali. It also illustrates how, after Buddha’s passing, the distribution of his relics among kingdoms ignited a powder keg of tension.

    3.   A stellar lineup of experts

    Embarking on a captivating journey ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ brings together a diverse panel of experts, including scholars, practitioners of Buddhism, historians, and archaeologists. With insights from renowned spokespersons such as filmmaker Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi, Dr. B. R. Mani, and Dr. Tishyarakshita Bhargav, among others, on the final days of Buddha, the distribution of his relics, Buddha’s last journey, and the locations of the relics, the documentary unveils the intricate tapestry of historical and mythological narratives intertwined with these relics.

    4.   Gautama Buddha’s last meal

    Buddha’s last meal has been the subject of countless speculations and is shrouded in mystery. Various theories paint a vivid picture of Buddha’s final meal. ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ examines the significance of this event through various accounts and historical evidence. Amidst these enthralling narratives, one prevailing belief emerges, portraying Buddha savoring a delectable delicacy called Sukara-maddava, which could be related to pork, mushroom, or truffle.

    5.   Relevance of Buddha relics

    The documentary also emphasizes the significance of Buddha relics in the modern world and how they serve as potent symbols of enlightenment and peace. It also underscores how they have safeguarded and unified Buddha’s followers and how they have endured despite foreign invasions in the past.

    Unlock the secrets of enlightenment. Don’t miss the premiere of Secrets of the Buddha Relics on Discovery Channel on Monday 26 Feb 2024 at 9 pm, also available on discovery+.

  • HistoryTV18’s docuseries: Marvels & Mysteries with William Dalrymple returns

    HistoryTV18’s docuseries: Marvels & Mysteries with William Dalrymple returns

    Mumbai: History TV18’s award-winning docuseries, India: Marvels & Mysteries returns in a brand new season, with noted Indophile and author William Dalrymple. The quest to uncover forgotten facts, revisit centuries-old stories lost to time, begins anew. The show explores historical sites, revisits cold trails and shines the light on unanswered questions about India’s incredible past and her many wonders, like never before. It also offers new perspectives on mighty empires, characters from Indian history, our ancestors, and their knowledge of complex phenomena. The series comprises half-hour thematic episodes, each with multiple stories that traverse the length and breadth of India, spanning millennia. India: Marvels & Mysteries with William Dalrymple starts on the 4t January, 2024 with new episodes every Thursday and Friday at 9 PM, exclusively on History TV18.

    The show will take audiences on an immersive exploration of India. Each episode in the seven-part series promises an unforgettable experience. Dramatic recreations with actors in period costumes bring to life amazing stories and untold histories behind India’s enigmatic structures – from jaw-dropping marvels and celebrated monuments to relatively little-known sites, across dynasties and periods. The stories engage, inform and entertain, with brilliant visuals filmed all over the country, illustrative graphics and archival images. The fact-rich storytelling strives to distinguish between legend and legacy, supported by a stellar cast of expert commentators, led by historian and world-famous author, William Dalrymple. The show’s ambition is to transport a new generation of viewers into the richness and diversity of India’s past, inspiring a renewed appreciation for the sites, structures and marvels that are India’s incredible heritage.

    Speaking ahead of the show’s launch, William Dalrymple commented, “History provides a road map by which we can understand where we stand in the present and how we got here. Without it we are lost. It was a huge pleasure to work with HistoryTV18 on this beautifully shot series and I can’t wait to hear people’s astonished reactions to some of the forgotten treasures we’ve dug up.”

    Travelling across the country, the show gives an account of some of the country’s grandest architectural wonders, as well as of historical locations whose past is shrouded in mystery. Expert insights provide the context and the modern-day significance of each story and the historical figures in them, while the dramatisations are sure to keep audiences engaged.

    Speaking about the docuseries Arun Thapar president – AETN18 content & communication says, “We are absolutely thrilled to have William Dalrymple on the show. His perspectives and insights have been invaluable. Our association with a writer of Dalrymple’s calibre and renown, epitomises HistoryTV18’s commitment to great storytelling and world class content produced in India.”

    The show promises a wondrous trip through time, in what is possibly the oldest and most diverse country in the world, whose enduring legacy has been shaped by the confluence of cultures, know-how, and artistic traditions. From India’s temples and forts to entire medieval cities and even structures from prehistory, the show packs in a lot.

    Temples for instance have played a central role in the cultural, social, religious and economic life of communities and regions across India, for all of recorded history. The series makes some noteworthy inclusions. The grandeur and complexity of some of these sacred structures is a testament to their significance. It also points to the surprising level of knowledge that existed in the ancient times in which these were built. The show explores what is known and more interestingly, what is not.

    Prepare to be enthralled by the ethereal beauty of the Chaturmukh Jain Temple at Ranakpur, an unrivalled architectural marvel adorned with over a thousand pillars and sculptures. Witness the stunning collection of sculptures from the 16 and 17 centuries in a little-known temple in Thirukurungudi, Tamil Nadu. Be transported to the world’s largest monolithic structure crafted from a hill to create a temple. Experience the mystical power of Gods carved into a rock face in remote Tripura. All this and a lot more is on offer in HistoryTV18’s one-of-a-kind original series.  

    Enter the world of two of India’s charismatic women rulers and the iconic structures they built – Rani Udaymati’s stepwell in Gujarat and the elegant mausoleum built by mughal empress Noor Jahan.

    Time travel to mighty Mewar, with its warrior king and its exceptional citadel and then further south into the Deccan under a tyrant, to encounter tales of tragedy and horror that serve as reminders of the murderous ways of medieval times. Visit Bijapur, once seat of a surprising sultan and home to one of the world’s largest domes. Pass through the highest gateway and lose yourself in the tales of two medieval cities. These were once the crown jewels of the dynasties they served, but now they are abandoned and part of world heritage. Venture into the unknown to unearth the stories behind mysterious Hire Bennakal and Narthiang, whose origins have been lost to time and whose secrets may endure forever.

    The seven-part documentary series promises viewers an unparalleled experience. Merging re-enactments, authentic storytelling, an exploration of legends and popular narratives, along with an examination of known facts, the show breathes new life into historic places, as never before.

    Arun Thapar adds, “India: Marvels and Mysteries with William Dalrymple is a selection of compelling stories about the creative genius of ancient and medieval India, her great wealth of knowledge and the many wonders that have endured into the present. The show delves into history across empires and dynasties, peopled with remarkable characters who played a part in shaping the story of India.”

    India: Marvels and Mysteries, Premieres 4 January 2024 9 PM,

    Every Thursday-Friday, only on History TV18

  • Sony BBC Earth launches Earth Champions

    Sony BBC Earth launches Earth Champions

    Mumbai: In a momentous stride towards captivating storytelling, Sony BBC Earth has announced the launch of its marquee property ‘Earth Champions’. Earth Champions which began as an Instagram live session, will now inspire viewers as interesting three-minute capsules, whisking them away on an extraordinary voyage through nature’s kaleidoscope. The property will go live on the channel on 6 November 2023.

    Narrating stories of nature enthusiasts to ordinary citizens from all walks of life, ‘Earth Champions’ intends to shed light on the tremendous power of individual actions that collectively become a force of positive change. Sony BBC Earth aims to honour and celebrate real-life heroes each month addressing issues of forest restoration, waste management, water, and air purification, etc. at a personal, household, or community level.

    Packaged as an on-air property with promotions across social media, Sony BBC Earth’s Earth Champions has undergone a quirky makeover with a gripping script intertwined with befitting music. The inaugural episode of Earth Champions will feature ‘Mr. Jadav Payeng’, also known as the Forest Man of India. Hailing from Assam, Payeng has transformed the barren lands into a thriving man-made forest. He is also the proud recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award for his selfless and tireless efforts.

    Sony BBC Earth, through its landmark shows such as Blue Planet II, Climate Change: The Facts, and A Perfect Planet has united viewers from around the nation, instilling a profound connection with the natural world. The channel has been raising awareness about the imperative of sustainability and building a community of loyalists through its various initiatives.

    Sony AATH business operations head and Sony Pictures Networks India Head – marketing & insights, English cluster Rohan Jain:

    “With Earth Champions, we aim to embark on a mission to empower individuals and communities to showcase the profound impact of their eco-friendly actions. Through this extraordinary initiative, we invite people from across the nation to join us on an exhilarating journey toward a greener and more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference and create a legacy for generations to come.”

    Reforestation hero and Padma Shri awardee, the remarkable ‘Forest Man of India’ Jadav Payeng:

    “I am deeply honored to be a part of Sony BBC Earth’s Earth Champions. It is a great initiative that inspires people and evokes a sense of eco-consciousness in them. It fills my heart with joy and gratitude to witness the power of collective action creating a lasting impact that benefits our planet.”

  • Mukul Madhav Foundation addresses child labour in a short film ‘Baitullah’

    Mukul Madhav Foundation addresses child labour in a short film ‘Baitullah’

    Mumbai: Finolex Industries’ corporate social responsibility arm, the Mukul Madhav Foundation, has released a short movie, Baitullah. addressing child labour. The award winning short film is sure to open your eyes. The picture, picturing a little boy named Baitullah working at a tea stall in the city, poses the question to the viewer.

    Directed, written and produced by Jitendra Rai (M/S Matheno Films), the main protagonist is played by child artist Om Kanojiya, supported by Ishtiyak Khan and Vipin Sharma. The film has been nominated and selected at 85+ international and national film festivals and has already won 26 awards.

    “What does this child need to do to become like you?” is a question that is met with awkward silence in the film but hopes to ignite a conversation amongst viewers and the more fortunate.

    Millions of children across the world, and especially in India, are exploited and denied their childhood every day. They are kept out of classrooms and forced to work as touts or earn a daily wage for their families due to poverty, lack of awareness, or just plain neglect and apathy. Most are hidden away in sweatshops making shoes, jewelry, and firecrackers. But some are in plain sight. ‘Chottu’ at your friendly neighbourhood tea stall or lunch place.

    Speaking on the evolution of the film, the director Jitendra Rai said, “As a filmmaker, I look at the world around me with my eyes wide open. I couldn’t ignore the child labour I saw around me, but I was also left with a sense of helplessness. As a filmmaker, I chose to capture this helplessness, the silent appeal these children have in their eyes when they look at people better-off than them.”

    Rai added, “This helplessness turned into hope, when I saw the work that is being done by organisations like the Mukul Madhav Foundation. I am also grateful for their support of this film.”

    Mukul Madhav Foundation managing trustee Ritu Chhabria said, “This film asks a question that started us on our journey working with marginalised and vulnerable children: how could each child enjoy the things we take for granted in our lives? We set out to put things in place, one small block at a time.”

    Established in 1999, the Mukul Madhav Foundation works with communities across India, uplifting the less fortunate with hope and dignity. Their work with children, especially those vulnerable to exploitation, assault, and trafficking, is slowly tilting the scale at the grassroots. Supporting children with initiatives in education, nutrition, and mental health. Offering a helpline, counsellors, and legal aid for children. Rescuing and rehabilitating exploited children and then reintegrating them back into the mainstream. But even more importantly, strengthening the community. Giving parents and youth access to healthcare, sanitation, skill development, and employment. Giving each of them a sense of dignity. With the belief that in order for children to be safe, their community must first feel financially and emotionally secure.

  • Harbour Rights bolsters summer content lineup with new titles

    Harbour Rights bolsters summer content lineup with new titles

    Mumbai: Hong Kong-based TV distribution company Harbour Rights has licensed three new wildlife titles to Canal+ Myanmar, including “Wild Caribbean,” “A Wild Quest In Scotland,” and “Becoming Butterfly.” The first episode of the collection focuses on the world of insects and bugs with the upcoming episodes that include “Realm of the Ants” and “Black Bees: Season 4.”

    Tokyovision acquired its social investigation “China, My Wife Has Social Credit” which unveils the newly introduced social credit system in China and how it affects intimate and social relationships, as well as “Oriental Express: The Ultimate Train Experience,” which is about a luxurious journey from Bangkok to Singapore on one of the most beautiful trains in the world. Both titles will be part of the special Nippon TV show “World Greatest TV.”

    NATV in Korea was interested in the development of civilisations that reflect on the evolution of nature and humanity throughout the world and acquiring “The Path of Men.”

    Just before French president Emmanuel Macron won his second term in office this week, newly launched Taiwan Plus acquired Macron’s “Road To Elysee” and “Brigitte Macron, A French Saga.”

    The former tells the inside story of how Macron came to power without the backing of a traditional political party in 2016, the latter reviews the secret side of France’s first lady, that made a name for herself in the political world.

  • Nippon TV inks licensing deal with Netflix

    Nippon TV inks licensing deal with Netflix

    Mumbai: Nippon TV, Japan’s multiplatform entertainment company, has partnered with Netflix for the first time to make 30 of its biggest drama series and entertainment shows available outside Japan, all across Asia.

    The first 15 titles have just started to stream in October. Titles include its mega-hit 2011 drama series “I’m Mita,” “Your Housekeeper,” whose last episode broke records with a 40 per cent viewer rating in Japan and has also been successful as a scripted format and licensed to Korea; “Death Note,” which is a live-action drama based on its widely popular comic series, and “Tokyo Tarareba Girls,” which is also remade from the hit comic series that saw over 1.8 million copies printed throughout Japan.

    From December, another 15 titles will be added, including the 2019 award-winning drama series “Mr Hiiragi’s Homeroom,” “Your Turn to Kill,” and “Life’s Punchline,” which was broadcast this year with almost 14 million total views to date on TVer, a VOD streaming service in Japan. 

    Entertainment shows as part of this deal include the highly popular adventure variety show “The Quest,” and the contest show “Masquerade,” which is one of Nippon TV’s longest-running programs with its over 40 years history.

    “We are very pleased to announce that Netflix will be offering our content to its audience across Asia,” stated Nippon TV head of finished program sales, international business development Keisuke Miyata. “This region is a key part of our continued growth, and now coupled with Netflix’s strength as one of the world’s leading streaming platforms, we are confident that Nippon TV’s titles will be well received by viewers in this prominent new territory for us.”

  • Discovery Network launches The Man Who Walked Around the World

    Discovery Network launches The Man Who Walked Around the World

    MUMBAI: Discovery has launched The Man Who Walked Around the World, award-winning director Anthony Wonke’s new feature documentary about Scotch whisky brand Johnnie Walker.

    The independent film, created by Something Originals and produced by multi-award-winning production company Partizan, tells a powerful story of positivity and resilience – exploring how, over two centuries, the brand navigated floods, flu pandemics and World Wars, while making a stand on racial and gender inequality along the way.

    “This is the story of Johnnie Walker but it’s more than just a story about whisky, it’s about culture and the universal need to be able to look to the future with hope. That’s what makes it so powerful – it’s not a history lesson, it’s a story for where we are today and what we need to go forward”, says Wonke.

    The Academy Award-nominated, Emmy and BAFTA-winning director/producer, whose previous documentary subjects include Cristiano Ronaldo, Star Wars and AP McCoy, has spent a large part of his time in lockdown uncovering previously untold stories and perspectives on how Johnnie Walker has constantly overcome adversity with optimism, to cement its place in culture as a global icon.

    Among a vast roster of contributors is actor, activist and brand ambassador Sophia Bush: “People don’t just want new products that impact their lives; they want brands that impact the world positively. Johnnie Walker has recognised that and continually acted on it through impactful campaigns and programs. They are prepared to tug at the arc of history and help push culture forward and I am deeply proud to have been on this journey with them in support of their gender equality efforts in particular.”

    Bush is joined by the likes of Wu-Tang Clan’s Cappadonna, rock musician Zakk Wylde, 88rising’s Sean Miyashiro, advertising legend Sir John Hegarty and many more as we see the brand’s cultural impact from Myanmar to Brazil, from India to Iraq.

    Discovery VP Content Sourcing and Acquisitions Myriam Lopez-Otazu said: “We’re thrilled to be premiering The Man Who Walked Around the World on Discovery platforms and services this November. It’s a fascinating story and, given where we are in the world right now, a really timely one.”

    Diageo Global Scotch director John Williams added, “Our story is one we’re immensely proud of. We stand for something in Johnnie Walker and that something is progress – we’re always looking to move forward, to make the next day better than the one before. Over two centuries we’ve learned that progress needs resilience and optimism, those are the ideals that lie behind our Keep Walking philosophy and I can’t imagine a time when that philosophy could be any more relevant.”

    Something Originals managing partner Andy Hewitt said, “Imagining, filming and editing this documentary in the context of a global pandemic, with all of the tensions that this year has brought to the surface, gives this story a profound contemporary relevance that I don’t think anybody could have fully appreciated when we first came up with the idea for the documentary. We couldn’t be prouder of the finished product.”

    You can watch the trailer for The Man Who Walked Around the World here: https://youtube.com/channel/UCKdI6o1Rx9BcFaQ1Ul5Xx6A  

    The full film will be broadcast on Discovery’s portfolio of brands and services from 12 November. For more information visit https://themanwho.film

  • COVID-19: SWA suspends offline script registration till 31 March

    COVID-19: SWA suspends offline script registration till 31 March

    MUMBAI: Script registration (offline) and new admission procedure at Screen Writers Association (SWA) office will remain closed for two weeks, from 16 to 31 March, 2020 as a precautionary measure against the spread of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), according to a press release. 

    During this period, SWA's Legal Officer will not be available for appointments as well, but shall provide consultation on email. In case the situation demands further preventive actions, the SWA will update accordingly, said the release.

    In the meanwhile, Online Script Registration at SWA website www.swaindia.org will be active 24 by 7. 

     

  • Screenwriters Association organizes Screenwriting Workshop for the first time in Indore

    Screenwriters Association organizes Screenwriting Workshop for the first time in Indore

    MUMBAI: Screenwriters Association comprising lyricists and writers of Indian films, television and Digital media is completing 60 years of its incorporation in 2020. On this special occasion many events and programs are planned for the benefit of writers. One such initiative is screenwriting workshops in select cities of India.

    Until now, the association has been supporting and partnering with workshops organised by few reputed organisations. Now, for the first time, SWA is conducting such workshops on its own and in this series the first workshop will be held at Indore from 7 to 9 February 2020 at Kunti Mathur Sabhagrah inside the Anand Mohan Mathur Sabhagrah situated at M.R. 10 near Vijay Nagar.

    The three-day workshop will be focusing on the art of screenwriting for films and digital content. The participants will be able to understand the elements and structure of a screenplay, character building, scene design, dialogue writing, presentation , and copyright protection.  

    The workshop at Indore will be mentored by renowned writers of the film industry Robin Bhatt, Abhijeet Deshpande and Niren Bhat and will be moderated by Sunil Salgia and Rajesh Dubey. Robin Bhatt is the current president of SWA and is one of the most successful screenwriters today having written blockbusters like Baazigar, Koi Mil Gaya, Aashiqui, Omkara and Krrish among about 80 films to his credit.

    FTII alumni and executive committee member Abhijeet Deshpande is an actor, writer and director of Hindi and Marathi films. He is known for writing movies like Shaitan, Shootout at Wadala, Wazir, Table No. 21, Amazon series Breathe (Season 1) and the Marathi hit Natsamrat and Me Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy among others. His directorial debut film ‘Ani..Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar was a huge success at the box office.

    Niren Bhatt, an executive committee member, who is a known for his recent releases Bala and Made in China besides All is well, Loveyatri, Gujarati film Ventilator and the famous TV show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah among others.

    The moderators Sunil Salgia and Rajesh Dubey are among the few who have emerged from the theatre movement of the eighties in Indore. They have inspired many others from the city to follow their dreams. SWA current general secretary and PFTI Kolkata former dean Sunil Salgia is known as a director, editor & writer. He has been associated with some of the path breaking shows on Indian television like Rajani, Dekh bhai Dekh, Aan, Sabse bada Rupaiya, Udaan and many others.

    SWA vice president Rajesh Dubey has written successful TV shows like Balika Vadhu, Saat Phere, Sasural Simar Ka, Jyoti, Sarkar and many more.

  • Vettri Theatres first in India to deploy Christie CP4325-RGB RealLaser cinema projector

    Vettri Theatres first in India to deploy Christie CP4325-RGB RealLaser cinema projector

    MUMBAI: Christie®, a leader in creating and delivering the world’s best visual and audio experiences, is proud to announce that Vettri Theatres has become the first cinema in India to be equipped with Christie’s next-generation CP4325-RGB RealLaser™ cinema projector.

    Located in Chennai, Vettri Theatres is the most prominent cinema in the city’s Chrompet district with a single-screen auditorium featuring ergonomic cushion seats, three-way stage speakers and eye-catching interiors. The massive auditorium has a capacity of 776 seats and is highly popular among students, working professionals and residents in and around Chrompet district.

    “As a forward-looking exhibitor in Chennai, we’ve always thinking of new ways to elevate the movie-viewing experience and introducing state-of-the-art cinema technologies to our patrons,” said Rakesh Gowthaman, Managing Director, Vettri Theatres. “The Christie CP4325-RGB, with its compact, all-in-one form factor, 25,000 lumens and unmatched cinematic performance in 4K resolution, is exactly what we need to deliver the best cinematic visuals to our discerning audiences. We’re proud to embrace RGB pure laser projection and be the first cinema in India to deploy the CP4325-RGB.”

    Rajesh Patkar, Deputy General Manager, Cinemas Sales, Christie India, added, “We are delighted that Vettri Theatres has selected our CP4325-RGB RealLaser cinema projector for its flagship auditorium. This is a validation of Christie’s technological leadership in the cinema market and the confidence that exhibitors have in our direct-coupled RGB pure laser projector, which is DCI-compliant and brings low cost of ownership and unrivaled cinematic performance to mainstream auditoriums.”

    Christie’s RealLaser family of projectors, which includes the CP4325-RGB, offers all the advantages of a high-performance laser projector in a compact ‘all-in-one’ form factor that eliminates the need for sub-ambient external cooling, while providing a low cost of ownership, excelling in image quality and posting an impressive operational lifetime of over 30,000 hours of theater operation without lamp changes. RealLaser delivers superior and more consistent brightness levels, meeting DCI standards, throughout the entire lifetime of the projector.