Factual
Epic to reposition as an infotainment channel; Sehwag show announced
MUMBAI: It’s making an epic shift. Epic TV which saw the departure of its founder and MD Mahesh Samat for Disney last year, is now positioning itself as an infotainment channel, broadening its programming from just mythology and history and adding a wide array of original content across various genres.
Promoted by Samat along with investments from Anand Mahindra and Mukesh Ambani, the channel began by showcasing some of the most well produced programmes in India. But it failed to get commercial traction courtesy distribution issues and the fact that a mass of Indians prefer soaps and drama series as compared to the Hindi GECs a compared to the original and unique Indian programming it offered.
Aditya Pittie – one of the largest distributors for the Patanjali group – came in to manage and run the channel as a director last year and has since been working on its relaunch.
Says Pittie: “The infotainment genre is a content driven destination colonized by international players and syndicated programming with infrequent home-grown shows available. There is an evident and growing discrepancy in what is available and what popular sentiment demands. In this divide is the opportunity that Epic is best positioned to capitalise on.”
Pittie has been in conversation with various producers to shore up the content on the Epic. Viewers can expect programming bouquet to be expanded to include a mix of non-fiction content that aspires to imbibe the diversity of India. And a regular calendar of commissioned programmes that that explore, discover and inspire pride are slated to be rolled out.
Amongst the first includes a show hosted by the swashbuckling former Indian opening batsman Virender Sehwag, who continues his form through social media and cricket commentary.
“This is the first TV show that Sehwag is hosting and he is a perfect fit for the Epic brand,” explains Aditya. “We Indians, as people, are very emotional. So, instead of treading the predictable path of logic-driven sterilised content, the content showcased on Epic is just like India – an honest portrayal of the passions and emotions that make us who we are.”
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.
