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Tag: documentary

  • News9 Plus’ investigative documentary reveals Indian Diplomat Ravindra Mhatre’s killer 40 years after murder

    News9 Plus’ investigative documentary reveals Indian Diplomat Ravindra Mhatre’s killer 40 years after murder

    Mumbai: In what could be termed as the biggest revelation of 2023, News9Plus Investigation has tracked the murderer of Indian diplomat Ravindra Mhatre nearly 40 years after his brutal killing in Birmingham of United Kingdom.

    Ravindra Mhatre was an Assistant Commissioner in India’s Consulate at Birmingham. On 3 February 1984, four terrorists abducted him from outside his office. The next morning, an unknown group called Kashmir Liberation Army (KLA), claimed responsibility for the abduction.

    The abductors demanded the release of terrorist Maqbool Butt from New Delhi’s Tihar Jail and nine others, along with one million pounds as ransom. On the evening of 5 February, a motorist found Mhatre’s body with two gunshot wounds on his head. Fearing that their plan could fail any moment, the abductors had assassinated Mhatre in cold blood.

    “Both the UK and India failed to bring the killer of Ravindra Mhatre to justice. That is the reason we had to step in and do their job, even if four decades later,” said Aditya Raj Kaul.

    News9Plus investigation traced the killer of Ravindra Mhatre, identified as Malik Massarat, in Kotli of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

    “Our investigation hit a lot of roadblocks but finally we were able to corroborate from multiple sources location and present state of the terrorist Malik Massarat who lives a shadowy life in Kotli of PoK since last 40 years. He fears even today that he would be arrested or killed for the killing he committed in 1984. Yet now that UK and Indian Government have the names, witnesses, evidence and location, the ball is in their court to act or remain a mute spectator as before”, Aditya Raj Kaul who interviewed two witnesses added.

    “I can confirm that the order to kill Ravindra Mhatre was given by Amanullah Khan. He was the Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF). Khan felt that Police would be able to arrest the arrest the kidnappers and that would disgrace the JKLF, hence a new identity of KLF was given to the kidnappers”, said JKLF former secretary general Shabir Chaudhary in an interview from UK.

    “Masarat Iqbal was involved in this abduction. He was Amnullah Khan’s tenant. He called Amanullah Khan and told him that Police could be reaching them soon, what should we do? Amanullah Khan told him in front of me, ‘Shoot him Dead and dispose off the body’. I opposed Amanullah and told him not to kill this innocent man”, revealed Hashim Qureshi, a close associate of Amanullah Khan and India’s first hijacker of the Ganga Aircraft in 1971.

    For the last few months, Indian diplomats in the United States and Canada have been receiving death threats from designated Khalistani terrorists. Death threats to our envoys cannot be taken lightly. The ongoing investigation of News9Plus began tracking the trail of intimidation. It led us to the sensational and yet unsolved murder of an Indian diplomat in the United Kingdom 40 years ago.

    External affairs minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar had denounced the “atmosphere of intimidation” against Indian diplomats in Canada.

    News9 Plus investigation spread across months also revealed a failed attempt to assassinate a former Indian Prime Minister in the UK and a conspiracy to kill a former Indian ambassador to France in 1985-86.

    “This is a story that we should all feel touched by because what happened to him could have happened to anybody. It happened to an Indian diplomat, and it happened in this country. When people think that this was just one incident, I want them to remember that this has a grave implication for the way diplomats are treated and looked after worldwide,” said Vikram Doraiswami, India’s High Commissioner to the UK.

    Ravindra Mhatre’s daughter Asha D’souza wants the killers to be brought to justice. “I wouldn’t advocate killing anybody, but have a trial, and then convict that person so that people know what they’ve done.”

    Watch the two-part documentary here: https://www.news9plus.com/webseries/murder-of-an-indian-diplomat

  • HistoryTV18 to air making-of documentary ‘Modern Marvel: Atal Tunnel’

    HistoryTV18 to air making-of documentary ‘Modern Marvel: Atal Tunnel’

    Mumbai: The most recent documentary on HistoryTV18, Modern Marvel: Atal Tunnel, tells the amazing tale of the resilient human spirit and the marvels of contemporary engineering. A never-before-seen account of a record-breaking achievement that was accomplished under extremely difficult circumstances. HistoryTV18 is premiering the making of a documentary on 20 October at 9 p.m.

    Speaking about the programme, Network18 Broadcast CEO and A+E Networks managing director Avinash Kaul said, “With Modern Marvel: Atal Tunnel the team at HistoryTV18 continues to deliver riveting originals, with top-notch production values and exemplary storytelling that bring to life India’s stories that are as important historically as they are entertaining and engaging. The Atal Tunnel is undoubtedly one of the great modern marvels of 21st-century India, in its making we have witnessed the making of history. We’re proud to have had the opportunity to tell its remarkable story.”

    The action-packed half-hour documentary on HistoryTV18 reveals little-known information, sheds light on the scope and complexity of the undertaking, and provides a step-by-step explanation of the difficulties and what it takes to complete the mission. The performance vividly depicts how the never-say-die attitude triumphed on this amazing Himalayan trip.

    The documentary was partially shot throughout the winter to show the harsh weather that prevails then. The story highlights the difficulties and failures that the project’s 750 officers, engineers, geologists, seismologists, drilling specialists, and more than 3,000 labourers overcome to make the idea a reality.

    Speaking about the importance of the tunnel, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “Strategically and for its national importance, the tunnel is a blessing for our country. Along with its economic benefits, the tunnel also has great importance from a social perspective.”

    The documentary also features Defence Secretary, Ajay Kumar, and BRO Director General, Lt. Gen. Rajeev Chaudhry, who provide valuable insights. The Atal Tunnel project’s chief engineer, KP Purushothaman, shares a first-person account of what transpired hundreds of metres inside the mountain.

    Archival images and footage from the construction site enrich the storytelling, while aerial shots of the mesmerising snow peaks, filmed in 4K and high definition, provide the daunting backdrop against which the story unfolds.

    India’s newest man-made wonder, which pierces through the Pir Panjal range in the Western Himalayas, was dedicated to the country on 3 October 2020. It is the world’s longest high-altitude highway tunnel. The 9.02 kilometre long tunnel and road link, which connects Leh, in the strategically important region of Ladakh, with Manali via Keylong in Himachal Pradesh, is located at an altitude of more than 10,000 feet. Access to areas beyond the perilous Rohtang Pass was restricted for about seven months of the year due to severe snowfall. The residents of Himachal’s Lahaul and Spiti now have much-needed connectivity thanks to the all-weather route made possible by tunnelling through the pass.

    A meeting between Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the prime minister at the time, and his childhood friend, Arjun Gopal, a resident of Lahaul, led to the conception of the tunnel. But it would be many years before the project began, only picking up steam under the Modi government, which gave it a much-needed boost by speeding up construction by five times what it had been under prior administrations.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the tunnel, prime minister Narendra Modi underlined his commitment to fast-tracking projects of national interest, “When one wants to move on the path of development at a rapid pace and there is a strong desire for the development of the people of the country, then the speed has to be increased.”

    It was not only ambitious but had never been done before, anywhere in the world, to tunnel 10,000 feet below in the Himalayas while enduring blizzards, avalanches, and nature’s great fury. But the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a specialist branch of the Indian Armed Forces, was established to carry out precisely that kind of task. The BRO has been in charge of linking India’s farthest frontiers and remote areas since 1960. Its role is essential given India’s expanding national security concerns and defence requirements.

  • National Geographic India to feature Dr. Pawan Munjal on its show ‘Mega Icons’

    National Geographic India to feature Dr. Pawan Munjal on its show ‘Mega Icons’

    Mumbai: The extraordinary journey of Hero MotoCorp CEO Dr. Pawan Munjal will be featured in National Geographic India’s award-winning series Mega Icons.

    The documentary “Mega Icons: Dr. Pawan Munjal,” which has its world premiere on 6 October at 8.30 p.m. on National Geographic Channel, delves into the history of Dr. Munjal’s Hero MotoCorp, one of the companies that helped revolutionise the mobility industry. It also explains the brand’s many achievements over the years and how it still leads the industry.

    The 22-minute documentary follows Dr. Munjal as he grows from a small hamlet in Punjab to one of India’s most renowned businesspeople and offers an inside look at the success of the largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturer in the world.

    A National Geographic spokesperson said, “With Mega Icons, it has been our endeavour to bring forth inspiring and insightful stories of successful personalities, motivating and guiding our audiences to follow their path of success. With this special edition, we extracted the exciting and impactful moments from the life journey of Dr. Munjal and combined them with our rich storytelling of National Geographic with the aim of empowering and enlightening our viewers while also celebrating the journey of Hero MotoCorp.”

    The company’s ambitions to introduce a number of electric and future-ready vehicles will also be made clear, including how it intends to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and explore alternatives like hydrogen, solar power, and wind power.

    From dominating the bicycle industry to becoming the biggest maker of motorbikes and scooters in the world, Hero has carved out its own niche in the cutthroat automotive industry. This process of embracing emerging technologies and achieving new milestones is highlighted in the movie. The movie depicts Hero MotoCorp’s strategy for creating an electric, collaborative, and modular future.

  • National Geographic India to showcase docu-series ‘Postcards from Jharkhand’ with Rasika Dugal

    National Geographic India to showcase docu-series ‘Postcards from Jharkhand’ with Rasika Dugal

    Mumbai: National Geographic India with actor Rasika Dugal launched a new documentary film titled “Postcards from Jharkhand” for the viewers to step into the state’s rich scenic views, mosaic art & culture, and discover some of the unique experiences exclusive to the wondrous place. National Geographic India will premiere the film starting 23 July 2022.

    Rasika will walk the viewers down a nostalgia lane to discover and reconnect with the land from where she belongs. 

    The series will shed light on Jharkhand’s cultural landscape, starting from prehistoric rock art caves to the magnificent heritage temples and ancient monuments. With breath-taking cinematography showcasing captivating, lush forests, spectacular wildlife, pristine hill stations, and heart-thumping adventures, Rasika, through an immersive National Geographic style of storytelling, will share her spiritual and wondrous journey while exploring the varied destinations spread across the state. 

    Rasika will also introduce the viewers to the diverse tribal traditions in Jharkhand along with tribal dance forms, Sohrai painting, local cuisines, and the architectural marvels of the state. From highlighting destinations like McCluskieganj, Nakta Pahad, Netarhat, the exotic range of Dalma Hills, Lodh Falls, Hundru Falls, and Betla National Park to unique temples like Deori Mandir, Sun Temple, and Baidyanath Dham, amongst others. Viewers will get a glimpse of the simplicity and serenity the state has to offer,  through this series.

    National Geographic spokesperson commented, “At National Geographic, we strive to entertain and enlighten our viewers with powerful narrative and innovative visual-storytelling that push the boundaries of exploration. With this series, we have captured the unparalleled beauty of Jharkhand to give our viewers an opportunity to explore, understand and appreciate the wonders of the state. We are happy to have Rasika Dugal, who as a local, will make the experience even more authentic and enriching for our viewers.”

    Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren said, “Jharkhand is a hidden treasure house of nature, culture, and sustainable living. From traces of ancient human civilization to its picturesque natural beauty, charismatic heritage and deep-rooted indigenous traditions and communities it’s a place you will feel at home. I am happy that in collaboration with the government of Jharkhand, National Geographic India has captured the story of Jharkhand through their unique lens in the most innovative way. Having someone like Rasika onboard, who hails from Jamshedpur, we are quite pleased to present an unseen Jharkhand like never before and welcome all the nature lovers and other travellers to visit and explore Jharkhand.”

    “Jamesdhpur and Jharkhand hold a very special place in my heart. And now, this exciting collaboration with National Geographic and Jharkhand Tourism, has given me a chance to embark on an adventure to explore and reconnect with my home state. The breathtaking views, incredible tribal community, art, culture, and, most importantly, the charm of this place has taken me back to my childhood days, making this journey even more memorable for me,” added actor Rasika Dugal.

  • HISTORY TV18 to premiere documentary ‘The Death of Bruce Lee’

    HISTORY TV18 to premiere documentary ‘The Death of Bruce Lee’

    Mumbai: On the 49th Death Anniversary of martial arts superstar and director Bruce Lee, HistoryTV18 announced the premiere of documentary “The Death of Bruce Lee.” Watch an in-depth investigation, hosted and narrated by Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award winner Laurence Fishburne, that unfolded the mysterious circumstances of his death in Hong Kong at the age of 32, on Wednesday, 20 July at 9 p.m.

    “Enter the Dragon” was the first time a Chinese American male actor was in a starring role in a Hollywood movie. In 1973, a month before the release of this iconic blockbuster that catapulted Lee to global stardom,

    That evening, he complained of a headache, took a painkiller, went for a nap, and never woke up. A myriad of rumours and conspiracy theories surrounded his sudden demise, shocking and capturing the attention of the world. Bruce’s brother, Robert Lee, remained unsatisfied with the official cause of death – a fatal reaction to aspirin. But could something as ordinary as this widely used drug send an extraordinary person to his deathbed?

    In an attempt to find the truth and lay bare what or who dealt the final blow to a man known for his exceptional strength, speed and skill, the show investigates every possible angle to get to the bottom of the truth. From renowned rooftop fights and challenges posed on his movie sets, to feuds with alleged Triad mobsters who ran Hong Kong’s shadowy underworld, the documentary uncovers the surprising life of the man, the myth, the legend – Bruce Lee.

    If foul play was involved, what was the motive, and who might want to hurt him? The documentary reconstructs the events of that fatal night and searches for a possible explanation by scrutinising previously unseen documents like his autopsy reports, toxicology report and statements from witnesses. There are also interviews with police officers, medical experts, those in the inner circles of show business and the mafia.

    Was Bruce Lee’s untimely death a tragic accident, conspired murder or culmination of a life spent flirting with danger? Is fact stranger than fiction? Discover the answer in an investigative special narrated by Fishburne.

    TV18 president – content & communication, A+E Networks Arun Thapar commented, “At HISTORY TV18, we strive to bring OUR viewers the very best of international content. With this two-hour special, we offer a riveting investigative special that aims to unravel an enduring mystery. Shows like this are in line with our brand promise of delivering gripping, high quality features with A-list talent to a discerning and upscale urban audience.”

  • David Beckham’s documentary series coming soon, and Netflix to produce it

    David Beckham’s documentary series coming soon, and Netflix to produce it

    Mumbai: OTT platform Netflix is in the production of a documentary series about global football star David Beckham. The multi-part series will go beyond the shine of stardom to explore Beckham’s humble working-class beginnings in East London, and the drive & determination that led him to become one of the most recognisable and scrutinised athletes of all time.
     
    It will feature a mixture of never-before-seen personal archive footage from the last 40 years and interviews with David Beckham, his family and friends, and key figures who have been part of his journey both on and off the pitch.
     
    The project is helmed by Academy Award-winner Fisher Stevens (PALMER, And We Go Green, The Cove) who serves as director and executive producer, along with Academy Award and Emmy Award-winning producer John Battsek (One Day in September, Searching for Sugar Man, Winter on Fire).
     
    The production companies are Studio 99 in association with Ventureland.

  • Wion announces new docu-series ‘Inside Xi’s China’

    Wion announces new docu-series ‘Inside Xi’s China’

    Mumbai: International news channel Wion has announced the launch of ten-episode documentary series Inside Xi’s China, which charts the rise of China as a global superpower. Each of the 30-minute episodes is a visual journey of the global aspirations, its flourishing economy, lifestyle changes of its population, the world’s perception of China, etc. The teaser of the upcoming docu-series is live on Youtube.

    Inside Xi’s China will be accessible on linear as well as digital platforms. Each of the episodes is written keeping in mind the dictatorship pattern and the historic relevance of The People’s Republic of China and aims to become a reliable source of facts. It will allow viewers to experience the journey of China from the times of Mao Zedong to China in modern terms. This well-researched approach will boost the curiosity amongst trade unions, potential stakeholders as well as viewers spread across the globe. 

    The docu-series is being promoted across Wion’s electronics channel, print, social and digital platforms. 

    Speaking of the launch of this unique documentary series with a fact-led approach, Wion CEO & editor in chief Sudhir Chaudhary said, “Wion has been neutral and non-biased towards the reportage of politics and other relevant news across the globe. As our audience looks up to us as a trustworthy news source partner, we aim to present the facts of China’s struggle and economic success through a visual series that could cater to all age groups.“ 

    WION managing editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, “The news consumption and communication patterns have been evolving with time. We, at WION, strongly believe that facts can be presented by adopting a new innovative approach, which can further be an eye-opener to the end consumers. This visual journey divided into 10 episodes will help in ensuring the right information reaches a wider range of audiences who are unaware of the reality of China.” 

  • DocuBay gets into Xmas mood; launches 14 days free trial

    DocuBay gets into Xmas mood; launches 14 days free trial

    MUMBAI: Xmas – it's the season to give. And the Aditya Pittie run In10 Media has announced a 14 day free trial for its documentary OTT/app  DocuBay. Launched earlier this year, with fanfare, DocuBay has been gaining traction slowly but surely. The media firm has released a slate of new titles worldwide in tune with the holiday season. The trial period is for December and available for both Android and iOS devices.  

    Says DocuBay’s chief executive officer Akul Tripathi: "DocuBay thrives on creating various avenues to engage with audiences on a regular basis. The 14-Day Free Trial is an opportunity for us to interact with different types of viewers and for them to sample our premium content library.” 

    DocuBay has added an exclusive ‘ChristmasBay’ for viewers to trace the origin of the holiday and discover the story behind the birth of Jesus Christ. It features a number of documentaries that cover places mentioned in the Bible and the rise of Christianity.

    Tripathi said, “We highlight and launch films from topics that are trending globally and relevant to a specific region. A lot of research and user behaviour trends are worked upon to provide content that resonates irrespective of the time and place across age groups. ChristmasBay is yet another exclusive offering for our global audience.”

    According to a press statement, the new ‘OneTribe’ DocuBay members will have access to the platform’s premium library of international documentaries from 100+ countries, spanning a variety of categories, encompassing diverse human experiences, opinions, and narratives.

    The platform’s user-friendly, intuitive interface makes the discovery of films easy through specially-curated categories called ‘Bays,' including NatureBay, AdventureBay, TravelBay, CultureBay, ScienceBay and more.

    The titles take viewers on a tour of key biblical monuments like Wedding Church of Cana, Ashdod Citadel, The Dormition, and many such revered sites that have stood the test of time and witness events that changed the course of history. The premium catalogue also comprises of select titles in 4K.

    Along with the all-new ChristmasBay, members can watch one new documentary every day as well as some of DocuBay’s most popular films including Himalayan Gold Rush, Red Light Green Light, Trump Russia, Zoo Lovers, Diana: The Royal Truth, The People's Girls, Omo Child, Inside Facebook, Smile Pinki, The Man Who Skied Down Everest, and more.

  • National Geographic to air documentary “Counting Tigers” on 7 August

    National Geographic to air documentary “Counting Tigers” on 7 August

    MUMBAI: National Geographic’s upcoming documentary Counting Tigers which closely follows India’s tiger census and gives viewers rare access to the operations behind this momentous exercise to premiere on 7 August. The documentary will also stream on Hotstar.

    The documentary showcases the efforts of officers and forest guards involved in the process of tracking and counting tigers, including the never before in-depth tiger profiling. It also encapsulates the use of advanced technology and efficacious methods deployed in order to up the ante on accuracy of this tiger census. Interesting to know that nearly 15,000 camera traps were used for capturing tiger images and recording their unique stripe pattern with the help of a dedicated software.

    Riding on the spirit of authentic and trustworthy storytelling, National Geographic, through this documentary, elaborates on the current habitat and situation of tigers in India. It celebrates those officials and biologists who have taken the responsibility to conserve the tiger population and work round the clock to ensure so.

    Commenting on the announcement, a Nat Geo spokesperson said, "As the world battles to save its most charismatic animal, Counting Tigers showcases the intricacies of monitoring and tracking tigers and deep dives into the existing challenges that are a threat to the tiger population. Through this film, for the first time, viewers will get to understand how the Indian jungles are positively impacting the global tiger population. We are delighted to be a part of this year’s census estimation and to be able to share this incredible story with every viewer."

  • BBC News invests in VR documentary series

    BBC News invests in VR documentary series

    MUMBAI: Hotly tipped as one of the digital trends to look out for in 2018, virtual reality (VR) has made significant steps towards becoming a more integrated offering from BBC News. The BBC is investing in bringing its award-winning journalism to audiences seeking new experiences by launching a VR documentary series.

    Produced by BBC News and the BBC VR Hub, Damming the Nile comprises a two-part VR documentary, a half-hour programme on BBC World News and a radio documentary on BBC World Service, as well as video and text on BBC.com. BBC VR Hub is a studio spearheading the VR production at the BBC and exploring how VR can create real audience impact.

    With VR at the heart of the production, the documentary follows BBC Africa Correspondent, Alastair Leithead, on a captivating journey along the Nile, exploring the politics and potential impact of Ethiopia’s $4.7 billion hydroelectric dam. Audiences are put in a correspondent’s shoes – through Ethiopia and Sudan, coming to an end at the mouth of the river Nile in Egypt – provoking an unmatched, emotional experience.

    To support the viewing of Damming the Nile, the BBC has launched an app on the Oculus Store, where Samsung Gear VR users can access an array of BBC VR content across news, factual and entertainment.

    BBC News digital development director James Montgomery said, “We’re committed to looking at ways in which to engage audiences with news, and – for the right project – VR can be an impactful and memorable way of doing our journalism. As an international broadcaster, it’s important for us to develop our storytelling and editing expertise to keep abreast of these rapidly improving technologies.” 

    Leithead said, “Damming the Nile is a fascinating series exploring the geopolitical struggle for regional power and influence surrounding the world’s longest river. It shows that virtual reality can be used to give a new perspective on world affairs and engage new audiences with world-class BBC News reporting. There’s nothing more exciting than taking the audience on an immersive journey with you.”

    The VR series allows audiences to fly high above the river Nile and its waterfalls, explore ancient Sudanese pyramids and take in the spectacular views of Egyptian temples from a hot air balloon before coming back down to earth in chaotic Cairo. Damming the Nile allows audiences to gain a whole new perspective on the conflict surrounding the world’s longest river.

    Damming the Nile will be available on the BBC VR Oculus app, bbc.com, BBC News Facebook and BBC News YouTube from 21 February.