Factual
Discovery India launches travelogue promoting Uttar Pradesh
Mumbai: Discovery Communications India, in association with the Uttar Pradesh government, is all set to launch an exclusive travelogue “Heritage Trails, One District, One Product.”
Releasing on Discovery channel and discovery+ on 25 September, the documentary highlights the states’ rich culture, diversity, and the plan to ensure livelihood to the MSME sectors and accelerate economic development under ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) – a vital scheme set up by the government to preserve the indigenous crafts and artisans and boost the MSME economy.
“When we speak of culture and legacy, the one word that comes to mind is India. Being a diverse and secular country, every part of India including Uttar Pradesh oozes tradition in numerous forms and it is important to protect it in every way possible,” said Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath. “Our association with the Discovery for ODOP initiative is a step towards spreading awareness, protecting, and propagating the rich heritage of our country and generating self-employment.”
The documentary is hosted by popular TV actor Gaurav Chopra who takes the audience to cities like Agra and Varanasi and gives them an immersive experience as he learns about and makes the products with the local artisans, and understands how these crafts are related to their livelihood and welfare. The documentary will reveal the true indigenous side of Uttar Pradesh while elaborating on the government’s efforts to promote and rescale its local crafts and products that give the state its identity. It also highlights crafts like Gulabi Meenakari and Marble Inlay work that is exclusive to the state.
“We at Discovery, are delighted to partner with the government of Uttar Pradesh for this one-of-a-kind documentary which beautifully captures encouraging stories and puts a spotlight on the state’s art and rich culture,” said Discovery Inc managing director for South Asia Megha Tata. “We can’t emphasise enough on this commendable programme by the government which not just provides livelihood to the district but also showcases India’s culture and art forms in the global market. Hoping our viewers find it equally enlightening and empowering.”
Viewers can watch the documentary on Discovery Turbo and Discovery Science as well.
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.
