GECs
Maniesh Paul delves into the misfortunes of Lakhpat in the upcoming episode of ‘History Hunter’
Mumbai: Maniesh Paul continues to unearth mysteries of India’s greatest legends and tales in Warner Bros. Discovery’s ‘History Hunter’. The upcoming episode will unravel facts of how the city of Lakhpat which was considered to be a financial hub in the early 18 century went on to become a barren land. Located in Kutch, Gujarat, Lakhpat is situated near Kori Creek and is surrounded by a 7 km long wall along its shore.
The regions nearby Lakhpat were used to cultivate rice, cotton, and ghee, amongst other items that were exported to Sri Lanka, and other Southeast Asian countries. Agriculture was the main source of revenue for the city. It was also the hub for international business with African & Gulf countries as well. The city was way ahead of its time with the concepts of credit and insurance back then which was facilitated with the use of paper. Legends say that even Guru Nanak Ji had visited the city as well before adjourning on one of his journeys. The famous Gaus Mohammad Kubo Dargah is also located in the city and is visited by pilgrims from across the world. However, Saint Ghaus Mohammad only entered the city, 20 years after its downfall.
Many theories surface on the scenario that led to the misfortune of the city of Lakhpat. From jealousy of other kings that led to war to a desire for a royal love story and natural calamities, the city withstood a lot of events and eventually crumbled to ill fate.
Acquaint yourself with the history of Lakhpat City, once India’s financial hub, only on the upcoming episode of History Hunter, 18 December 2023 at 9 PM on Discovery Channel and discovery+.
GECs
Asianet Television Awards 2026 celebrates women power in Malayalam TV
“She is the Colour” theme honours icons as ceremony airs on March 14 and 15 at 7 PM.
MUMBAI: If television lights up living rooms, this year Asianet decided to let women provide the colour. The Asianet Television Awards 2026 turned the spotlight firmly on women empowerment with the theme “She is the Colour”, celebrating the strength, resilience and achievements of women who continue to shape society and the Malayalam entertainment industry.
The ceremony honoured several distinguished personalities whose journeys have left a lasting cultural imprint. Among them was legendary playback singer Vimala Varma, widely recognised as the first Malayalam playback singer. The evening also paid tribute to Padma Shri awardees Devaki Amma and Vimala Menon for their exceptional contributions in their respective fields.
Leading women from the Malayalam film industry were also recognised during the event, including actor Shweta Menon, who currently serves as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, and National Award winning actor Surabhi Lakshmi.
The awards ceremony brought together a glittering lineup of actors and industry figures, including Jayasurya, Vijay Babu, Asha Sarath, Lena, Esther Anil, Anumol, Akhila Bhargavan, Sarayu Mohan, Prajod Kalabhavan, Gayathri Suresh, Sabumon Abdusamad, Swasika, Tini Tom, Sijoy Varghese, Kailash, Veena Nandakumar, Sabareesh Varma, Ansiba Hassan and Dinesh Prabhakar. Kishan Kumar, executive vice president Malayalam at JioStar, was also present at the event.
Beyond individual recognitions, the awards celebrated excellence across Malayalam television, acknowledging artists and technicians whose work continues to drive the industry forward.
The evening also offered plenty of spectacle, with elaborate dance performances, stunt acts and comedy skits performed by popular television and film personalities, turning the ceremony into a full fledged entertainment showcase.
Viewers will get to watch the celebrations when the Asianet Television Awards 2026 air on Asianet on March 14 and 15, Saturday and Sunday, from 7 pm onwards, bringing the star studded tribute to homes across Kerala and beyond.
