ITV

Category: TV Shows

  • Seven shows to watch on Sony BBC Earth as the channel turns seven

    Seven shows to watch on Sony BBC Earth as the channel turns seven

    Mumbai: Sony BBC Earth is one of the most loved factual entertainment channels that makes viewers feel alive through its breathtaking shows and world-class documentaries. With a content library that ranges from natural history to science and engineering, travel and adventure to people and culture, the channel has something in store for everyone. As Sony BBC Earth celebrates its seventh anniversary, we bring to you a list of must-watch shows on the channel.

    Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure: The show takes viewers on a culinary voyage with actor Joanna Lumley as she unravels the mysteries of staple spices. From the remote Banda Islands to the picturesque landscapes of Jordan, Lumley’s journey delves into the rich history and cultural significance of spices that have shaped civilizations for centuries.

    Chasing Monsters: Watch fishing enthusiast and adventurer Cyril Chauquet seek out dangerous creatures in remote corners of the planet.

    Lonely Planet – Stressbuster: Amidst the chaos of modern life, Lonely Planet’s exploration of unconventional stress-relief methods across Asia brings in solace. From adrenaline-pumping activities to serene retreats, it highlights unique ways to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.

    Deadly 60: Steve Backshall takes on a thrilling quest to uncover the world’s deadliest creatures. Across six continents, the extraordinary diversity of wildlife is portrayed as Backshall navigates through treacherous landscapes in pursuit of nature’s most formidable predators.

    One Cup, A Thousand Stories: Delve into the captivating tale of tea, from its humble origins in China to its global influence on culture and sustainability. Through stunning visuals and gripping narratives, people can explore the landscapes and traditions that define the world’s favorite beverage.

    Planet Earth II: Captured with ultra-high-definition detail, Planet Earth II takes viewers through the jungles, mountains, deserts, islands, grasslands and cities of the world. It uncovers the extreme forces that shape life in each of these iconic landscapes and the extraordinary survival techniques.

    Earth’s Great Rivers: The show takes viewers on an epic river voyage down the Amazon, Nile, and Mississippi, uncovering the hidden treasures and astonishing wildlife. Through cutting-edge technology and breathtaking cinematography, they can experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of these legendary waterways.

    So, what are you waiting for? Tune in to Sony BBC Earth for a captivating lineup of adventures to ignite your imagination and inspire your sense of wonder.

  • 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.

  • Women’s Day special: Distinguished female characters that are redefining Indian television

    Women’s Day special: Distinguished female characters that are redefining Indian television

    Mumbai: In a landscape where women were often portrayed as dependent and helpless, television brings forth a new wave of inspiration through its empowering female characters. From Pushpa’s resilience to Vandana’s strength, from Yuvika’s bold leadership to Nandini’s fearless spirit, or be it Kavya’s resolve to balance her professional and personal life and excel in both, these women are more than just characters, inspiring us with their tales of determination and bravery.

    On the occasion of Women’s Day, here’s a look at their compelling narratives as they challenge stereotypes, break barriers, and pave the way for a new era of empowerment on our television screens.

    Pushpa, played by Karuna Pandey in Sony SAB’s ‘Pushpa Impossible’

    Pushpa is a guiding force for women, standing up for their respect and dignity. She’s extremely committed to her work life and juggles her family and job smoothly. She’s a role model, showing how to chase dreams while staying true to yourself. Despite many problems, Pushpa’s journey proves that women can manage both work and family and succeed in all parts of life.

    Vandana, played by Pariva Pranati in Sony SAB’s ‘Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey’

    Vandana inspires women to confront social challenges and maintain family harmony. Her courage sets her apart, serving as a pillar of support for her loved ones. She exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity, offering strength and stability to her family. Vandana stands as a strength of hope, showing that with determination, women can navigate life’s obstacles while nurturing those around them.

    Yuvika, played by Anjali Tatrari in Sony SAB’s ‘Vanshaj’

    Yuvika is a young leader who inspires women with her capability and respect for elders, building confidence and inner strength to make her place in a male-dominated family business. She breaks the stereotypes and proves that women can run family businesses as well, with her strong beliefs in life, leaving a lasting impact on society.

    Nandini, played by Meera Deosthale on Sony Entertainment Television’s ‘Kuch Reet Jagat Ki Aisi Hai’

    Nandini is a kind-hearted girl, who cherishes her family, culture, and traditions. Yet, what truly sets her apart is her strong stand against customs that disrespect women and their self-respect, and she will be seen raising her voice against the dowry system, prevalent in the country. Fearlessly, she challenges this kureet, making her an empowering character for other women.

    Kavya, played by Sumbul Touqeer Khan on Sony Entertainment Television’s ‘Kavya – Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon’

    Kavya, an IAS officer, adeptly juggles her professional duties with her personal life, all while managing the affairs of the country. As a woman in this position, she encounters unique challenges but navigates them gracefully and with determination. Demonstrating an exceptional ability to balance her work and personal responsibilities, Kavya showcases strength and resilience; her journey serves as an inspiration to women in leadership roles.

  • Animax now available on Tata Play Binge

    Animax now available on Tata Play Binge

    Mumbai: Anime fans now have a new destination to access popular Japanese anime content with Tata Play Binge’s latest partnership with Asia’s leading Japanese anime network, Animax. This comes at an opportune time when India’s palette has been growing for anime content, where viewers are not only emerging as a vibrant fan community but are also showcasing increased interest in Japanese culture and cuisine. Tata Play Binge subscribers will now be enjoying anime content at the touch of a button, through this partnership.

    Animax is currently one of the best destination for the best anime content from Japan and features world-class animated content including web series, movies, and much more for viewers to discover and explore. Animax will take viewers on an unparalleled journey into the world of anime with new and popular titles. Additionally, they will get to enjoy fan favorite anime blockbusters like Kuroko’s Basketball, Yashahime: Half Demon Princess, Black Clover, Naruto, Haikyu!! and others. Titles loved by Tweens like Y School Heroes will also be available to reach across different age groups.

    Subscribers also get to explore exclusive titles like Fruits Basket, Rent-a-Girlfriend, Orient, Black Clover, Naruto and numerous others. The platform will bring multiple hours of fresh programming to global anime enthusiasts’ providing access to the most exciting content.  

    Commenting on the new partnership, Tata Play’s chief commercial and content officer, Pallavi Puri, said, “The growing affinity of Indian viewers towards newer content genres, like K-dramas, sports, gaming and others is reassuring, as it opens up many opportunities for content curators like us. With Animax’s support, we are adding another genre to our growing bouquet of content spread – anime. Tata Play Binge viewers will now have a huge selection of popular anime content available to them at one place. With its vast mix of popular OTT apps and a wide range of content offerings, Tata Play Binge ensures that viewers derive maximum value from their subscription.”

    Talking about this partnership, KC Global Media co-founder, CEO and president George Chien, which owns the Animax network said, “We are thrilled to announce another strategic launch in India, working with Tata Play to launch Animax for the legion of passion anime fans. With its broad scope and all-embracing approach to content delivery, Tata Play is an ideal partner for us to expand and connect our worldwide archive of Japanese anime tiles to more anime fans across their platform, while sharing this beloved genre to new viewers as well.”

    Animax will join other popular OTT platforms on Tata Play Binge like Disney+ Hotstar, Apple TV+, ZEE5, Fuse+, Hallmark, MX Player, PTC Play, Lionsgate Play, Aha, VROTT, STAGE, Sun NXT, ReelDrama, Chaupal, Namma Flix, Planet Marathi, manoramaMAX, iStream, Tarang Plus, Hungama Play, FanCode, ShemarooMe, Curiosity Stream, EPIC ON, Travelxp, DocuBay, ShortsTV, Playflix, KliKK along with Gaming. Content from all these platforms is available to the viewers of Tata Play Binge through a single subscription and a single user interface.

    Additionally, Netflix can be availed as a combo pack with DTH channels for all Tata Play DTH subscriber whereas Amazon Prime Video content can be accessed as an add-on by all Tata Play Binge subscribers, who also have the DTH connection. Viewers can enjoy all 30 apps on smartphones, large-screen connected devices through LG, Samsung and Android smart TV’s, desktop, laptop, Tablets, Tata Play edition of the Amazon FireTV Stick and www.TataplayBinge.com.
     

  • Discover the top five must-see science shows on National Science Day with discovery+

    Discover the top five must-see science shows on National Science Day with discovery+

    Mumbai: National Science Day is celebrated in India on 28 February each year to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by the Indian physicist Sir C.V. Raman in 1928. This discovery earned Raman the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Asian to receive this prestigious honour. This National Science Day, seize the opportunity to enrich your mind and explore the wonders of the universe by tuning in to the captivating shows on discovery+. As we commemorate the groundbreaking discoveries that have shaped our understanding of the world, there’s no better way to celebrate than by immersing yourself in the realm of science, technology, and exploration. Whether you’re intrigued by the mysteries of space in “India’s Space Odyssey” or captivated by the future in “India 2050,” discovery+ offers an unparalleled lineup of shows to satisfy your curiosity and ignite your sense of wonder. So, gather your family and friends, embrace the spirit of discovery, and embark on a journey of knowledge and enlightenment this National Science Day with discovery+

    Here are five shows for you to watch on discovery+ on National Science Day

    Space / Adventure

    1   Gaganyaan: Bharat Ki Antariksh Udaan

    The series follows India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission through compelling storytelling and real-life footage, the show documents India’s quest to send astronauts into space, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey. From the rigorous training of astronauts to the intricacies of spacecraft development, “Gaganyaan: Bharat Ki Antariksh Udaan” provides a fascinating glimpse into the scientific and technological advancements driving India’s space program forward.

    2   Indian Space Odyssey

    Narrated by R. Madhavan, “India’s Space Odyssey” (available on Discovery+) takes viewers on a captivating journey through India’s six-decade-long space exploration program. From its humble beginnings under Dr Vikram Sarabhai and Dr Homi Bhabha to groundbreaking missions like Mangalyaan (Mars) and Chandrayaan (Moon), the documentary celebrates India’s achievements while showcasing the dedication and ingenuity that propelled the nation to become a leader in space exploration.

    Big Science

    3   Covid-19 India’s war against the virus

    “COVID-19: India’s War Against the Virus,” available on Discovery+, dives into the documentary realm, exploring India’s fight against the pandemic through the eyes of frontline workers and everyday citizens. It captures their challenges, resilience, and personal stories, offering a unique perspective on this unprecedented event.

    Climate Change

    4   India 2050

    “India 2050,” paints a stark picture of India’s potential future shaped by unaddressed climate change. It uses fact-based predictions to depict a world ravaged by rising temperatures, water scarcity, and ecological devastation, urging viewers to consider the consequences of inaction and inspire change.

    Adventure / Military

    5   Breaking Point: Indian Submarine

    Breaking Point: Indian Submariners (TV Series 2018) – IMDb

    “Breaking Point: Indian Submarines” is an enthralling documentary series that delves into the world of India’s submarine forces. Through gripping narratives and exclusive access, the show unveils the challenges, triumphs, and strategic importance of Indian submarines. From covert missions to technological innovations, “Breaking Point: Indian Submarines” offers a rare insight into the high-stakes world beneath the waves, highlighting the critical role submarines play in India’s national security and defence strategy.

  • Zee Cine Awards 2024 press conference shines bright!

    Zee Cine Awards 2024 press conference shines bright!

    Mumbai: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, a prominent name in India’s television, media, and entertainment landscape, is gearing up to revive the grand celebration of Bollywood with the return of the ‘Maruti Suzuki Arena Presents 22nd Zee Cine Awards 2024.’ Against the vibrant backdrop of an exhilarating 2023, a year marked by the resounding success of Indian cinema with blockbuster hits, the awards ceremony promises an evening of honoring the industry’s finest achievements. This March, Mumbai will once again transform into the epicenter of Bollywood glamor, welcoming a constellation of stars including actors, directors, producers, and technicians for this eagerly awaited gala.

    In an atmosphere exuding glamor, Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt, alongside Maruti Suzuki India’s CMO & senior executive officer Shashank Srivastava and ZEEL’s chief growth officer – advertising revenue Ashish Sehgal, unveiled the elegant trophy for the prestigious ‘Maruti Suzuki Arena Presents 22nd Zee Cine Awards 2024’. The press conference was a nostalgic journey as actors Bobby Deol, Aparshakti Khurana, and Mouni Roy fondly reminisced about anecdotes and cherished moments from previous editions of this esteemed awards gala.

    The kick-off event set pulses racing with the announcement of the performances by some of the most revered figures in the film fraternity, including Bhatt, Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Ananya Panday, Bobby Deol, Ayushmann Khurrana, Mouni Roy, Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat Kaur, and more. Adding to the allure, the evening will be gracefully hosted by the charismatic duo of Ayushmann Khurrana and Aparshakti Khurana, with the irrepressibly witty Sunil Grover injecting moments of levity with his humor.

    However, the crescendo of excitement reached its zenith when the curtain was lifted on the biggest surprise of the kickoff meet – the return of actor Shah Rukh Khan, who is poised to grace the Zee Cine Awards stage after a hiatus of nine long years.

    Amidst the fervor of the event, Indiantelevision.com on the sidelines of the event, seized the opportunity to engage with.

    Ashish Sehgal, Chief Growth Officer, Ad Revenue, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited and Ruchir Tiwari, Chief Cluster Officer, Hindi Movies, ZEE. During the interaction, they provided illuminating insights into the award show and beyond.

    Edited excerpts

    On Zee TV integrating digital platforms to maximize the reach and impact of Zee Cine Awards

    Sehgal: Today we are very focused on how we are trying to build our reach not only in linear television, but also in the digital space. If you see social media, the entire meta ecosystem we had almost 150 million reach and almost 60 million followers across all our pages. That’s a humongous amount of viewership, which no broadcaster had till date. However, we feel that there are many platforms like Meta, YouTube, etc, we know don’t see them as competition, but more like our platforms. So the idea is how we can take our content to our consumers as much as possible? Hence, we have a proper strategy behind building viewership amongst all the platforms, whether it is telcos, whether it is YouTube ecosystem, or whether it is like a Meta ecosystem. So our digital presence is going to be quite formidable.

    On the landscape of Hindi cinema influencing the execution of Zee Cine Awards

    Tiwari: The Cinema cluster at ZEE holds a strategic commitment to recognizing and applauding exceptional cinema. Over our three-decade legacy, we have positioned ourselves as adept aggregators of quality films, spanning 8 languages across 17 channels. The Zee Cine Awards stands tall as our iconic initiative, dedicated to honouring the finest performances of the year.

    Celebrating its 22nd edition, this year holds special significance against the backdrop of the uncertainties that loomed over Hindi cinema, following the challenges posed by Covid. It started with Pathaan, then came Gadar 2, Jawaan, and now Animal. Apart from these mega successes, there were incredible stories like  ’12th Fail’ , Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway and Sam Bahadur. This cinematic journey in 2023 has proven to be a transformative one, marked by a resurgence of joy as the industry got back its confidence and garnered a renewed appreciation and so much love from the audiences.

    The narrative of 2023 unfolds as a narrative of comebacks, symbolizing the resurgence of Hindi cinema, the return of Shahrukh Khan, and the revival of the Deols. This thematic underpinning is integral to our presentation, encapsulated by our tagline, ‘Cinema Zindabaad’. It reflects our commitment to not only acknowledging excellence but also embracing the triumphs and resurgences that have defined the cinematic landscape this year.

    On the strategies Zee TV employs to ensure sponsors receive tangible returns on their investment to the award show

    Sehgal: Zee Cine Award is not just a one day event like how normally people perceive it. For us it’s a festival for almost two and a half three months. We showcase the show across all our channels, and also various Hindi speaking markets whether it is Bhojpuri, whether it is Bangla, Marathi apart from all the Hindi channels and the free-to-air channels as well,  so that maximum reach happens on the show and the content is curated before and after also for the show. While there will be one day of the awards, prior to that we start building a lot of content which will be in promoting but at the same time facilitating or you know kind of showcasing what you are going to see during that one day. So Zee Cine Award is always a culmination of the award. Now having said that, how does it help the sponsors? Sponsors do get mileage across these three months, so they can actually build their whole campaigns around this show. Secondly, these sponsors do not just run their inventory there, we create a lot of content for the sponsors within the show. There is a lot of customisation of the brand’s energy along with our shows . We create moments within the show and before the show, which helps advertisers build their message within that. It’s a 360 degree, where they get a lot of mileage in ground presence and for Maruti we do dealer visits with our stars who would go and promote the listing in the dealership etc.

    On Zee Cinema envisioning the future of award shows in the era of digital platforms

    Tiwari: Content is always platform-agnostic, it inherently transcends platforms, seamlessly adapting to both linear broadcasting and OTT channels. The beauty lies in its universal accessibility, reaching audiences regardless of the medium. The overarching objective is to maximize viewership.

    Sehgal: TV gives you the highest reach. But at the same time digital will become an engagement partner for us before the show. As I said, we will use your social media for engaging, remoting bytes of the stars when they’re coming, then the whole content will be also showcased on digital platforms like our Zee5 and later on to YouTube etc. So we use platforms now to take the content to as many people as possible. We are creating content which is platform agnostic.

    Tiwari: Few properties exhibit a natural compatibility across all mediums. Notably, in non-fiction and event categories, award functions exemplify the synergy between digital and linear domains. They thrive in the digital realm, presenting a seamless blend that resonates well with audiences on both fronts.

  • Zee Cine Awards continues its association with Maruti Suzuki Arena for its 22nd Edition

    Zee Cine Awards continues its association with Maruti Suzuki Arena for its 22nd Edition

    Mumbai: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, India’s leading television, media and entertainment powerhouse, is bringing back the biggest celebration of Bollywood – ‘Maruti Suzuki Arena Presents 22nd Zee Cine Awards 2024.’ Set against the backdrop of a spectacular 2023 – a year when Indian movies made a roaring comeback with record-breaking blockbusters and it felt almost as if a chant of ‘CINEMA ZINDABAD’ was echoing within the walls of the theatres, the awards ceremony promises to be an evening of recognition for some of the finest work by the film industry. This March, once again, Mumbai will play host to Bollywood’s crème de la crème, actors, directors, producers and film technicians as they come together for this much anticipated star-studded extravaganza.  

    At a chic and glamorous affair, Bollywood superstar Alia Bhatt, alongside Maruti Suzuki India CMO & senior executive officer Shashank Srivastava and ZEEL chief growth officer – advertising revenue Ashish Sehgal, unveiled the sleek trophy for the ‘Maruti Suzuki Arena Presents 22nd Zee Cine Awards 2024’. At the press conference, actors Bobby Deol, Aparshakti Khurana and Mouni Roy walked down memory lane and recounted anecdotes and special moments from the previous editions of the esteemed awards show. The kick-off meet announced an exciting line-up of performances by some of the most popular faces of the film fraternity including Bhatt, Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Ananya Panday, Bobby Deol, Ayushmann Khurrana, Mouni Roy, Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat Kaur amongst others. The evening will be hosted by the charming Ayushmann Khurrana and Aparshakti Khurana while the witty Sunil Grover will take over for a few fun segments. Excitement hit the roof when the big surprise of the kick-off meet was finally revealed – The Baadshah of Bollywood – Shah Rukh Khan is all set to perform at Zee Cine Awards after nine long years!

    Bhatt said, “I always look forward to performing LIVE on stage! Last year’s performance at Zee Cine Awards was one of the most memorable one for me, I’m even more excited to be performing second year in a row for them. It’ll again be a very very special act and truly dedicated for my audiences. Zee Cine Awards have a legacy of their own and it’s been a long-standing relationship with the Zee team that has only become stronger in the years. The thrill and energy of a live performance is unbeatable and I can’t wait to get onto the Zee Cine stage!”

    Deol said, “Privileged to announce the Maruti Suzuki Arena Presents 22nd Zee Cine Awards 2024. After having attended the ceremony regularly over the years, I’m thrilled to perform this time. Brace yourselves for a night of excitement, as Abrar will have everyone dancing to ‘Jamal Kudu’ and some delightful surprises.”

    Srivastava said, “This association is continuation of our exciting partnership between India’s largest automotive channel Maruti Suzuki Arena and one of biggest celebration of Bollywood – Zee Cine awards, to celebrate the magical and extravagant world of Bollywood. Maruti Suzuki believes in bringing the Joy of mobility to all and creating exciting new experiences. Maruti Suzuki Arena is bringing this vision to reality with future ready products like The All New HOT & TECHY Brezza that goes above and beyond your expectations. And Zee Cine brings alive the world of entertainment, top notch experiences and much more and truly we found our match to reach out to our audiences.”

    Sehgal said, “The year 2023 has been a stellar chapter for Indian cinema, with box office records shattered and a slew of blockbuster hits captivating audiences worldwide. We aim to take the entertainment quotient to a whole new level through the presence of some of the most sought-after faces of the fraternity and exciting performances at the ‘Maruti Suzuki Arena Presents 22nd Zee Cine Awards 2024.’ We have an excellent lineup including Shah Rukh Khan who’s performing with us after 9 years, Alia Bhatt, Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Ananya Panday, Bobby Deol, Ayushmann Khurrana, Mouni Roy, Utkarsh Sharma, Simrat Kaur and we’re committed to making it an evening to remember. Cinema buffs who wish to experience the thrill of watching their favorite stars perform LIVE and win accolades at the ground event in Mumbai on 10th March can buy their passes via BookMyShow!”

  • COLORS Mangal Lakshmi traces two sisters’ journey of securing respect for each other

    COLORS Mangal Lakshmi traces two sisters’ journey of securing respect for each other

    Mumbai: For ages, women have silently borne the weight of trials and passed down lessons of resilience and patience to the younger generation women. Defying the vicious cycle of tolerating lack of respect in marriage COLORS’ Mangal Lakshmi, a determined homemaker and her younger sister courageously redefine the essence of love and marriage: respect. Together, the sisters seize this fundamental pillar of relationships – #chutki bhar sammaan, refusing to settle for anything less for each other. In this endearing tale of sisterhood, the elder sister Mangal is on a mission to light the path toward a better life for her younger sister, Lakshmi by seeking her, a union built on respect. Meanwhile, Lakshmi will also be a constant support to her elder sister. Starring Deepika Singh, Sanika Amit and Naman Shaw in the roles of Mangal, Lakshmi and Adit respectively, and produced by Suzana Ghai’s Panorama Entertainment, Mangal Lakshmi premieres on the 27 of February and airs every day at 9:00 pm only on COLORS.

    Set in Delhi, Mangal Lakshmi is a heartwarming story of love and sacrifice, capturing the journey of two sisters, who claim respect for each other. Mangal is the epitome of every Indian woman who flawlessly manages her household duties while fiercely loving her family, especially her sister. Wise beyond her age, Mangal’s Lakshmi runs her father’s garment shop after the demise of her parents, deprived of affection from her extended family. Determined to shield her beloved sister Lakshmi, Mangal is more than ready to pull all strings to find her sister a soulmate, who will honour her as an equal. Simultaneously, Lakshmi urges Mangal to speak out against the disregard she puts up with in her marriage, encouraging her to demand the respect she advocates for her sister. Will Mangal succeed in finding her younger sister a worthy match while tackling the problems of her marriage?

    Popular TV actor, Deepika Singh who plays the role of Mangal, said, “As an actor, I have always aimed to portray characters that resonate with our viewers, especially with women across India. I’m honoured to be joining COLORS after a long break for a story revolving around two women, who are very relatable and whose aspirations are simple. The most exciting part for me is that when viewers watch the show, they will understand the depth and sensitivity with which women handle every situation.  I know many Mangals in my life and I cannot rave enough about the kind of strength they have to stand up for another woman. I dedicate my performance to all those inspiring Mangals of our lives.”

    Sanika Amit who will be seen essaying the role of Lakshmi, says, “I am absolutely thrilled to be foraying into the television industry with an amazing show and character on COLORS. I never imagined that I would get to essay the titular role in my debut television project, especially alongside such versatile co-stars. For me, the most special thing about Mangal Lakshmi is that it tells an engaging story led by two women, whose journeys are inspirational. Not to mention, it’s the kind of story I would enjoy watching on television, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring it to viewers.”

    Talking about essaying the role of Adit, Naman Shaw shared, “I am grateful for the opportunity to portray Adit, a multifaceted character with grey shades. I hope that viewers will not only be entertained but also encouraged to reflect on their relationships and the roles of women in their families. Through Adit’s character, I aim to shed light on the destructive situations that arise between married couples due to a lack of respect. I will consider it a job well done if viewers dislike my character.”

    Get ready for a heartfelt family drama Mangal Lakshmi premiering at 9:00 pm on the 27 February 2024 and airing every day only on COLORS.

  • 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.”