Factual
EPIC channel to launch docu-series ‘Emerald Forest’ on 21 March
MUMBAI: Continuing its endeavors in creating innovative premium content around the country’s wildlife and biodiversity, EPIC Channel launches a two-part original docu-series Emerald Forest. The series will be aired at 12 noon and 8 pm on 21 March 2020, which is globally recognized as World Forest Day, an annual day earmarked by the United Nations to raise awareness and highlight the significance of forests in the world.
From zero tigers in 2009 to now over 50, the story of Emerald Forest brings to fore the extraordinary efforts of a small team of dedicated forest officers who reintroduced tigers in Panna National Park, spread across a vast expanse of 542.67 sq. km. in Madhya Pradesh. Through conversations with IFS officer Sreenivasa Murthy, who initiated the Panna Tiger Reintroduction program in 2009, we hear the unique story of implementing this mammoth task, the risks involved and get an inside look into the transformational journey of Pardhi community members, from poachers to conservationists. The original docu-series tells an inspiring tale of success in tiger revival unlike any around the world.
Speaking about the series, EPIC Channel Content & Programming head Tasneem Lokhandwala said, “It’s truly incredible that a group of people reversed an alarming situation of tigers in Panna National Park. Such stories need to be shared far and wide, and with Emerald Forest our attempt is to bring this remarkable tale of conservation in the spotlight. The efforts of Panna National Park should serve as a source of inspiration for all of us to take corrective steps to turn around the current ecological crisis.”
Shot exclusively in 4k, the series also captures the beauty of the lush jungle and the rich biodiversity of Panna National Park, along with introducing to its diverse inhabitants – from tigers, leopards, wolves, hyenas, sloth to white necked storks, bar-headed geese, honey buzzards, king vultures, and the vast range of varied flora species. Emerald Forests also talks about the early settlers, the Gond tribe, who live in unison with the animals in the jungle.
The two-part docu-series will be repeat telecast at 8:30 pm on 22 March 2020. EPIC Channel is available across operators including Tata Sky, Airtel TV, Dish TV, Sun TV, Hathway, Videocon D2H, GTPL, Siti Networks, Fast Way, In Digital, DEN, and as LIVE TV on EPIC On, MX Player and ZEE5.
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.
