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26 films competing at Toonz animation’s competition
TRIVANDRUM: As many as 26 films from production houses such as Channel V and MTV are competing for top honours at the fourth Week With The Masters Animation Celebration’s Film Competition. The contest is being hosted by Toonz Animation India in Trivandrum next month.
Films were selected from over 300 entries in the student, Independent and Commercial categories. They feature film makers from India, Singapore, Japan and Korea among other countries. An official release indicates that a hot favourite to bag the top honours in the commercial category is India’s n Vaibhav Kumaresh whose five productions for star’s Channel (V) have made it to the finals. Kumaresh’s commercials that will be screened at the competitions include Field Setting, Popstars 2003, Popstars Girls.
The release adds that productions by students of the National Institute of Design (NID) Ahmedabad, dominate the student category this year. NID productions include Pudchyavarshi Iavkarya , Dhak-Drum , Master Minds.. The last title explores the many complexities of human behaviour set against the backdrop of terrorism
The longest film at this year’s competition is the half-hour Raju & I by Mumbai’s Gayathri Rao. This highlights the childs right to education. Other films jostling for top honours in this category include Kapporopitta- Let’s have a meal together’ by Mai Matsumura of Japan. This film deals with how a child’s aversion for food is changed by his meeting with three little monsters.
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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.
