GECs
Ministry of Culture marks ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ on National Geographic for Independence Day
Mumbai: This Independence Day, the ministry of culture, in collaboration with National Geographic, celebrates ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ with two patriotic and captivating short films, ‘India On a Mission’ and ‘India: The Land Of Timeless Culture.’ Premiering on 13 August at 8.30 pm, the films aim to take the viewers on an inspiring journey highlighting the marvels of our beloved country.
The two ten-minute films bring to light the remarkable journey of us as a nation, with ‘India On a Mission’ exploring the most rapid and striking advancements in creating intricate technology ecosystems within the country. It narrates the stories of innovation in space technology, deep ocean exploration and defence technology and its manufacturing. While the film ‘India: The Land Of Timeless Culture’ traces the ancient roots of many iconic Indian living traditions like classical music and dance, modern medicine, and geo-surveying methodologies. Together, the stories highlight our nation’s contributions to the world through several branches of science as well as architectural and engineering marvels.
“At National Geographic, we harness the power of insightful storytelling that can inspire, inform, and educate viewers. It is a matter of pride to witness the remarkable growth of our nation, which is emerging as a prominent player in the world economy today. Through these films, we are celebrating the uniqueness of India across multiple spheres, which is bound to instill a sense of pride among Indians across the world,” said a spokesperson from National Geographic.
“We take immense pride in India’s remarkable progress, embracing its diverse culture and unparalleled accomplishments in space, defence, and wellness. We are elated to have collaborated with a credible brand like National Geographic, which has beautifully captured the very essence of the achievements and growth since Independence. Through this, the masses will witness our extraordinary journey and gain a profound appreciation for what it truly means to be Indian”, said a ministry official.
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav films will premiere on National Geographic in India at 8:30 PM on 13 August 2023.
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.
