Factual
Rai Bahadur M.S. Oberoi Media Awards to honour media excellence in exposing corruption in India
MUMBAI: Transparency International India is pleased to announce the first ever M.S. Oberoi Gold Awards for excellence in exposing the corruption through the media to Mr. Varghese K. George of the Indian Express and Mr. Rohit Khanna of Sit, CNN-IBN.
The Silver Awards are shared by Mr. M.L. Narsimha Reddy of the Telugu Daily Eenadu and Mr. Samudra Gupta Kashyap of the Indian Express in the Print category and by Mr. Saurabh Shukla of Aaj Tak and Mr. Sidhartha Gautam of SIT, CNN-IBN in the Electronic category.
Transparency International India, an International Non Government Organization committed to combating corruption with support from the Oberoi Group has instituted these Journalism Awards aimed at recognizing and rewarding journalists for outstanding stories exposing corruption in India.
The jury comprised of personalities from the fields of journalism, law, industry: Mr. B. G. Verghese, Mr. Harsh Mander, Justice Leila Seth, Mr. Vinod K. Bakshi and Mr. Arun Duggal.
Speaking on behalf of the Jury, Mr. B.G. Verghese, Chairperson, said, “While shortlisting the entries and selecting the winners, the jury has given weightage to stories that have direct and significant effect on development, progress, human rights violation or public interest.
Also the impact and significance of such disclosures and the risks and challenges countered by the journalist in breaking the story were among the factors taken into consideration in making the final decision.”
The Gold Award carries a cash prize of Rs. 2 Lakhs, a medallion and citation and the Silver Award carries a cash prize of Rs. 50,000, a medallion and citation.
Announcing the awards, Admiral Tahiliani (Retd.), Chairman of Transparency International India said, “These Awards epitomize integrity, determination and excellence, which undoubtedly are a fitting tribute to Rai Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi, whose life was an illustration of these principles”.
He added, “Transparency International aims to increase the level of accountability and transparency of government institutions, elected representatives and the government.
In a democratic society all citizens need to take a stand against corruption and must therefore be well informed. The electronic and print media have played a vital role in generating awareness through their reach”.
Explaining the rationale for the awards Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi, Chairman, The Oberoi Group said, “Journalists, who often at substantial personal risk, investigate and expose corrupt practices deserve applause, recognition and encouragement.
The Rai Bahadur M.S. Oberoi Media Awards are an effort to demonstrate our admiration for these compelling tales of courage, character and integrity. I would like to congratulate the winners for their exemplary zeal, which if relentlessly pursued by all of us, has the potential of making India a better place to live in and do business with”.
The presentations will be made on January 11, 2007 in New Delhi.
Factual
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.
