Factual
BBC promises thought provoking ‘The Talk Show’
MUMBAI: In order to provide an in-depth perspective of the current issues affecting our lives, BBC World will debut The Talk Show from 5 June.
This is a series of thought-provoking discussion programmes on the big ideas and issues of the moment. Guests on the programme will debate the world economy; the role of empires in the present day; the future for Islamic women; the rise of Al Qaeda; and whether scientific progress will end up destroying humanity in the 21st century.
During the first three weeks, Charles Wheeler will present the shows and during the next two show, Jonathan Freedland will be the host presenter. In the first week, the show tackles the issue Reviving the world economy. Joseph Stiglitz, the Nobel prize winner and controversial former World Bank chief economist, discusses President Bush’s impact on the United States of America and the world economy.
The subsequent week will look at women, democracy and Islam. This will examine whether reconstruction in Afghanistan and Iraq bring opportunities for women. Or will fundamentalists keep women sidelined in Islamic countries? These questions will be answered by Isobel Coleman and Deniz Kandiyoti.
MUMBAI: India’s most famous hot seat is about to welcome an unlikely first-timer. For the first time on Hindi general entertainment television, industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla will appear on Kaun Banega Crorepati, the iconic quiz show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan.
The special episode marks a rare meeting point of boardroom heft and prime-time television, bringing one of India’s most influential business leaders face to face with the country’s most enduring screen legend. It is a crossover that blends intellect, leadership and popular culture, all under KBC’s familiar spotlight.
Birla’s appearance dovetails neatly with the show’s current theme, Jahaan Akal Hai, Wahan Akad Hai, which celebrates the confidence that comes from clarity of thought and knowledge. His presence lends weight to the idea that sharp thinking and conviction are as vital in life as they are in the quiz chair.
In a thoughtful conversation with Bachchan, Birla shared an upbeat view of India’s economic journey, pointing to the nation’s rapid growth and the scale of opportunity opening up across industries and communities. He spoke of momentum, ambition and a future shaped by enterprise and ideas.
The episode is not all serious talk. In lighter moments, Birla confessed his long-standing admiration for Bachchan, calling him his favourite actor and admitting to a touch of nervousness at answering questions in front of the Shahenshah himself. The candour adds a human touch to a man more often seen in headlines than on television sets.
The special episode airs on Monday, 29 December at 9.00 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.
