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Discovery to premiere ‘Taking Fire – Live from Afghanistan’ from 2 Feb
MUMBAI: Experienced a war like a solider? With its new series “Taking Fire – Live from Afghanistan” will bring viewers into the hearts and minds of soldiers, a captivating experience like nothing ever seen on film. For the first-time ever audience with an inside-look at the Afghanistan War from the perspective of four members of the 101st Airborne deployed to Combat Outpost Michigan. The series uses footage taken directly from the soldiers’ helmet and body cameras. Discovery’s five-part series will air one episode per week. It will premiere Thursday February 2 at 10 pm.
“Taking Fire – Live from Afghanistan” is the story of a band of brothers deployed to defend one of the United States’ farthest flung outposts at the gateway to one of the deadliest places on earth: the mouth of the Taliban-held Korengal Valley in Northeast Afghanistan. Told by the men who fought on the frontlines themselves and illustrated with real combat footage shot on helmet cameras and handy cams, this material never-before-seen on television takes viewers along for a visceral experience not witnessed in news reports or traditional documentary portrayals of war.
Commenting on the series, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific – Real World Entertainment VP Sameer Rao said, “Taking Fire – Live from Afghanistan” is a war as never seen before. The footage these soldiers brought back, charts an extraordinary first-eye view of modern warfare in one of the deadliest places on earth.”
It is not simply a series of war stories, but a character-driven serial, showing the impact of war on a handful of men during the course of their year on the frontlines. Presented through the eyes of four American soldiers, Kyle Boucher, J.J. McCool, Kyle Petry and Ken Shriver, their unmediated rushes reveal personal struggles with the dilemmas, confusions, joys and sorrows of war. The men leave the United States seeking adventure, inspired to serve their country. What they experience in Afghanistan changes them forever. In flashes forward to their lives six years on, the men reflect on their year in the Korengal. Now, with their partners who waited anxiously for the safe return of their sweethearts, these soldiers reunite. For some, it’s their chance to lay old ghosts to rest.
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National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
