Factual
Star likely to have several partners for news venture
NEW DELHI: Star India is looking at forming a new company with multiple Indian partners, whose shareholding would total up to 74 per cent, in a bid
to continue uplinking news content for Star News from India.
The Rupert Murdoch company is said to be about 10 days away before the final structure emerges. The new entity would then seek fresh government clearances for uplinking, ahead of a 90-day deadline given by the government in the third week of March.
The capital base of the company is also being sought to be kept within Rs 100 million limit.
India-registered Television Eighteen Ltd. today announced a restructuring vis-?-vis foreign partner’s shareholding to comply with Indian government rules.
According to sources in the broadcast industry and in the world of finance, Star is looking at atleast seven Indian partners. This way, no single individual Indian shareholder would hold more than 26 per cent equity stake that Star is allowed to hold as per the Indian government stipulations in cases regarding news channels desirous of uplinking from the country.
One of the prospective Indian partners is AV Birla group, which reportedly has been offered up to 25 per cent stake in the proposed company for news.
The sources said that there would be another outfit that is likely to be given up to 25 per cent equity stake, while another 24 per cent stake may be divided amongst several Indians. Star would hold 26 per cent stake.
DSP Merrill Lynch has been mandated by Star India to hunt for prospective partners.
There is also a likelihood that people who are made shareholders of the remaining 24 per cent stake include Indian friends and associates of Star, the number of that is sizeable, including some of those who make programmes for Star.
Though Star India CEO Peter Mukerjea refused to comment on Star News’ restructuring and shareholding pattern, he did admit that they are “not very far off from completing the whole exercise.”
Meanwhile, the AV Birla group that, according to a newspaper report, has been offered up to 25 per cent stake in the news venture has not denied the report that said it is up to the diversified Indian group to take a decision after consulting its board members.
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.
