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Animal Planet Intl announces new programming initiatives
MUMBAI: A search for the next great wildlife filmmaker, an eco-reality series with WWF and a three-part natural history documentary are among the new programming initiatives recently announced by Animal Planet International.
One show is called Unearthed. It will follow six contestants on a training course as they learn the skills of natural history filmmaking from Lyndal Davies and Andrew Barron. It will be filmed at the Shamwari Game Reserve in South Africa this July and launches on Animal Planet throughout Asia, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa early next year. Animal Planet International will also broadcast the winning documentary, to be judged by a panel of experts.
Meanwhile Planet Action is being co-produced with WWF. It launches next month on Animal Planet in Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa. The series follows an international team of amateur environmentalists as they are immersed in six different conservation projects. “Animal Planet entertains people by celebrating animals, and we can think of no better way to celebrate animals than by doing our part to help protect them,” said Gibson.
The documentary Great Savannah Race follows 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra as they fight for survival over 500 miles of plains and grassland. The series was filmed over a period of 18 months, and rolls out on Animal Planet International this summer.
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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.
