Factual
Discovery channel hunts for citizen heroes
MUMBAI: Discovery Channel, a destination for factual entertainment, has started the search for citizen heroes who want to change India for the better. The channel has brought on board ex-military specialists who will shortlist and train 10 citizen heroes, aka change agents of the society.
The shortlisted citizen heroes will feature in an atypical military based show India’s Citizen Squad to be aired in the month of November 2018.
Discovery Communications India VP- premium and digital networks Zulfia Waris said, “There are citizens, who have the courage, the strength to take a stand for what is right. Those, who don’t want to be another dim face in a silent crowd. We are looking for such heroes. The aim is to train them and make them stronger physically, mentally so that they become the change agents of the society. We need to be the change, to make the change.”
Guided by ex-military specialists, India’s Citizen Squad, comprising of 10 ordinary citizens, will under-go ultimate endurance boot camp – a series of intense physical and mental challenges pushing the limits of their body and mind. This is not your typical elimination driven reality show, it is a test against self to see if the mind has the will and strength to push the body to complete the challenges. The chosen India’s citizen squad will have to accomplish a new dare-devil mission in each episode of the show.
Major Vivek Jacob (retd), para (special forces), Indian army, who will play a key role in training India’s Citizen Squad, said, “Special forces is about focus, grit, will, intelligence, balance, strength, endurance and a whole lot of heart. The ability to bring all of that together and focus it on one point – your dream. To choose, focus, walk and achieve what most people don’t even dare to dream about. We are going to test you – physically, emotionally and mentally to see if you’ve got what it takes to get through a week of what we do over a lifetime.”
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.
