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National Geographic’s ‘The Great Indian Election’ to air on the country’s 73rd Independence Day
MUMBAI: National Geographic, a 131-year-old brand driven by its rich legacy of showcasing the most inspiring and spectacular stories, today announced that its upcoming documentary on the untold story of India’s biggest democratic exercise titled, ‘The Great Indian Election’ shot across 37 locations will premiere on August 15, 2019. The exclusive Independence Day film will also bring to the forefront rarely told human stories of the people behind this mammoth event. The film will bring to life a festive celebration of democracy on a day that is all about India.
The documentary will uncover the entire planning process of this exercise of epic proportions involving 11 million poll officials, over 900 million electorate and 8000 candidates across one million polling stations. Starting right from the announcement of election phases to India’s 15th Prime Minister’s swearing in ceremony, the epic 6 month, multi crew production is shot across the length and breadth of the country. The documentary showcases a holistic view of the Elections process, right from the intricate planning process to the people behind this exercise. The film features a diverse set of people involved, from top ranking officers at the Election Commission, booth level officers (BLOs), topmost political leaders to 100-year old voters. The brand in the form of interviews and through unprecedented access to lesser known areas, showcases the challenges and complexities faced by election commission personal in managing elections in some power constituencies. Some of the names featured include 23rd Chief Election Commissioner of India – Sunil Arora, District Election Officer – Varanasi, Surendra Singh (I.A.S.), first female collector of Salem district – Rohini R Bhajibhakare, amongst others.
The cameras of National Geographic have also followed some high profile leaders such as Narendra Modi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Sachin Pilot, Rahul Gandhi, and Nitin Gadkari. Standing tall to its commitment of scratching beneath the surface to bring out the unheard and unseen, the brand will give viewers an outlook in the campaigning of these influential leaders.
From the highest echelons of the Election Commission of India to the booth level officers (BLOs), from the topmost political leaders to ground level party workers, from first-time voters to 100-year-old voters, there is absolutely nothing that National Geographic’s cameras have not covered to bring the story of the world’s largest elections that has the entire world enthralled.
‘The Great Indian Election’ will premiere on August 15, 2019 on National Geographic. The documentary will be available on Hotstar as well.
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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.
