Factual
Animal Planet looking to cross 20 mn distribution mark by year end
MUMBAI: Using the strengths of the One Alliance bouquet, Discovery has been making a concerted effort at strengthening the distribution of sister channel Animal Planet.
The results are starting to show. The reach of the channel is expected to cross 20 million by the end of the year.
Speaking to Indiantelevision.com on Wednesday at a media briefing, Discovery Communications India marketing director Aditya A Tripathi said that that in the past six months the channel had added 4 million homes on the distribution front. Right now Animal is available in 18 million households, Tripathi said.
As already reported on Indiantelevision.com, the channel’s global head Peter Weil came to Bangalore recently to announce a partnership with the Bannerghatta national park reserve. He expects to “witness explosive growth” in India.
The channel is currently doing a series of on ground events in the Garden City. If the feedback is great then the initiatives will spread to other centres across the country. Motorcyles have been travelling around the garden city distributing literature on the channel. Kiosks have been set up which have been cut out to resemble animals. On Radio City a contest is being run asking listeners questions about animals.
As far as Discovery is concerned as reported earlier by indiantelevision.com it will show the documentary The Indian Cowboy, One In A Billion. As far as other programmes are concerned Tripathi added, “We have had success earlier this year with Who Killed Alexander The Great? Later this year we will be airing more specials on Alexander in order to coincide with the release of the movie.”
Tripathi added that a unique show that would kick off on the channel next month was Monster House. Here a home is designed according to the passion of the owner. For example if a person loves cars then his bed is put on wheels.
As far as marketing and promotional activities are concerned he added, “We will be rolling out an integrated marketing campaign for the channel next month. The details of this are still being worked out.
On the ad revenue front we are looking to grow at 25 per cent this year. As far as ground events are concerned we are aiming to have a series of them in
the last quarter of the year.”
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.
