Factual
Discovery Channel to document Lee Kuan Yew’s life
MUMBAI: 23 March, 2015 marked the end of an era for Singapore, with the passing of former Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.
Discovery Channel will pay a tribute to the man, who is regarded as the founding father of modern Singapore in Father of a Nation: Lee Kuan Yew, a one-hour special that will celebrate his life and chronicles some of his greatest achievements. The programme will premiere on 24 March at 8 pm on Discovery Channel.
In a matter of decades, Singapore emerged from a rural backwater island and evolved into a bustling economic powerhouse. Despite its lack of natural resources, the country now stands proud as one of Asia’s Tigers and this leap from third world to first can be attributed to one man – Lee Kuan Yew.
Lee Kuan Yew was the first prime minister of Singapore, governing for three decades. He is also one of history’s longest-serving ministers, holding successive ministerial positions spanning more than 50 years. Known for his foresight and leadership, the eloquent and outspoken politician is hailed as one of Asia’s most influential figures and has been praised by other world leaders such as former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and US president Barack Obama.
Father of a Nation: Lee Kuan Yew documents the story of how one man survived World War 2, took on the British Empire, struggled for independence and fought for the people and country that he loved
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.
